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In this tour guide, we will be opening you up to some of the best countries to visit in Africa. Those looking for the promise of an adventure and the best mother nature has to offer can expect the trip of a lifetime in Africa. From the Blue Nile and Victoria Falls to the ancient ruins and impressive UNESCO heritage, these African countries will leave you culturally-inspired on your first trip. But before you talk yourself out of visiting this magnificent continent, keep reading to discover the 15 best countries to travel in Africa that should be on your bucket list in 2020.
There is something for everyone in every African destination. While some getaways may be suited for those looking for the ultimate rest and relaxation and life as a local, other African destinations guarantee a non-stop adrenaline rush for the adventure seekers.
Whatever your reason might be, traveling to Africa guarantees an experience like no other. Are you still unsure of the best places to visit in Africa? Here are the top 15 best African vacations we recommend for your next trip.
Top 3 Best African Countries to Visit
South Africa
South Africa is perhaps the most extraordinary African destination because some parts of it look like just another place in the US or Europe. Yet, the country has everything you would expect from a typical African country and more.
Nature is unparalleled thanks to iconic natural wonders like Table Mountain, while the wildlife in Kruger National Park is considered one of the richest in the continent. Its major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg are the most cosmopolitan in Africa, while the towns can come across as unbelievably rural. Overall, the country is a bucket-list destination for so many reasons.
Egypt
As the meeting point of Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East, Egyptās significance in the history of mankind is undeniable. Many prehistoric kingdoms once occupied the area, so it is possible to find their traces all around the country. The UNESCO world heritage site of the iconic pyramids is just one example.
Besides the unique historic background, Egypt is one of the top diving destinations in Africa due to its coastline along the Red Sea. You do not have to worry about applying for your visa in advance since Egypt has a visa on arrival for visitors.
Ethiopia
While many African destinations are becoming brimming with tourists, Ethiopia remains unspoiled even today. Its landscape has elements of both tranquility and adventure.
Erta Ale is an active volcano, which is one of the few left in the world. Witnessing the boiling lava spurt out of its crater is an experience you can never forget. Besides Erta Ale, the country offers a journey in history through monolithic churches, ancient obelisks, and Lake Tana that sources the Blue Nile.
Once you visit Ethiopia, you will see why it is one of the best African countries for your vacation.
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Tanzania
Tanzania always takes the top spot in many tourism-related lists. Its beach destinations like Zanzibar and Pemba are among the best beach and diving spots in the world. Serengeti National Park is often considered the best safari destination in Africa since it witnesses a mass wildebeest migration from surrounding parks.
While Tanzaniaās landscape is unparalleled, some of the rewarding views can only be reached after long climbs. For instance, Mount Kilimanjaro has the highest peak in Africa at nearly 6000 meters, so climbing its summit can take months of preparation and planning, but it will be well worth it.
Madagascar
Madagascar is one of the most peaceful countries in Africa. Surrounded by the coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, it is a prime diving destination full of world-class diving facilities and luxurious resorts. Once you leave the touristy areas, you will come across quaint fishing towns, baobab trees lined up for kilometers, and national parks abundant in lemurs.
US and UK passport holders need a visa to visit Madagascar. Get your visa hassle-free from iVisa.
Malawi
Although Malawi is a landlocked country, it is one of the most popular diving and beach destinations in Africa. The country owes it to the grand Lake Malawi that comprises diverse fresh-water marine life. Various beach towns around the lake offer activities like watersports, diving, fishing, and hiking.
The lake is also a great water source for wildlife, particularly leopards and antelopes. In addition, the country is known to have the friendliest people in the world, which will make your trip even more enjoyable.
Uganda
Mountain gorillas have become endangered over the past few decades; luckily, Ugandaās nature still provides them with the ideal habitat of the tropical forest. Owing to the source of the River Nile Uganda has a large amount of water, which is vital for the gorillas along with various other mammals and birds.
The country also offers a broad range of activities like traditional art festivals, volcano hikes, kayaking, and rafting.
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Botswana
Botswana has a long-established reputation for having the most stable economy in Africa, which consequently makes it one of the safest in the continent. It is also a prime safari destination with a large area of land dedicated to wildlife.
The semi-arid Kalahari region and Makgadikgadi Pans are occupied by various antelopes and predators that have long adapted to dry climate. In contrast, the north of the country has a more subtropical climate with an abundance of water sources in Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta. Overall, the country has a huge variety of wildlife due to the diverse climate and vegetation and is one of the best countries to visit in Africa.
Zambia
Victoria Falls has been proclaimed as one of the 7 natural wonders of the world for having the largest mass of free-falling water. Because of the political dispute in Zimbabwe, tourists have shifted their focus towards Zambia that also borders the falls.
The nearby town of Livingstone provides several affordable accommodation options for travelers. Aside from Victoria Falls, Zambia attracts tourists to its safari parks and nature reserves that are known for having some of the densest wildlife populations in Southern Africa.
Morocco
Blending in Mediterranean and Arabic cultures, this northern African country has a different vibe than the rest of Africa. Nestled between the Sahara Desert in the east and the Atlantic Ocean in the west, the country offers authentic attractions combining the desert, the ocean, and the cities.
Morocco has the best cities in Africa to visit; Marrakesh and Casablanca are vibrant and chaotic, while small cities like Fez and Chefchaouen have eccentric architecture and crafts scene. Making her one of the best countries to visit in Africa.
#11-15 Best Countries to Visit in Africa
Ghana
Ghana is a country that was born from its ashes. It was under British rule for a long time as the Gold Coast, followed by years of military rule. Today, the gold resources made Ghana the economic power of West Africa. The colonial architecture is still prominent with iconic castles and forts.
The country also has extensive ruins of the ancient Ashanti Kingdom, surrounded by rainforests, lakes, mountains, and sandy beaches. A tourist visa is required for most visitors and is valid for up to 90 days. iVisa can save you time and help you expedite your visa application process.
Kenya
Along with Tanzaniaās Serengeti, Masai Mara National Park in Kenya witnesses a mass animals congregating and migration of wildebeest, which makes it a phenomenal safari destination in East Africa. Yet, Masai Mara is only one of the 60 national parks in the country.
Besides these parks, the wonders of Kenya range from pristine beaches on the Swahili Coast to historic forts and mosques in cities like Mombasa. Whether you are into history or nature, Kenya has it all in one package and is usually considered the best country in Africa.
Senegal
With a small but developing tourism industry, Senegal is one of the best-kept secrets of Africa. It is also home to a thought-provoking slave-trade history, which everyone should find out to learn from past mistakes. Goree Island was once renowned as a major slave-trade fort, although it is now an area full of museums and colonial remains.
Besides the tragic history, Senegal is the heart of wildlife in West Africa with national parks that support ecotourism. These parks are home to rare mangrove and baobab trees, as well as endangered species like the West African lions.
Namibia
The sheer size of Namibia has much to be desired from the untamed wilderness and rich wildlife of this beautiful country. Unique attractions include large dunes, iconic salt pans like Sossusvlei and Etosha, desert-adapted wildlife, and the Fish River Canyon, which is the largest in Africa.
Although the small cities like Windhoek and Swakopmund might seem deprived of activities at first look, they have a surprisingly rich German colonial architecture. Namibia is one of the African countries to visit without a visa if you are a US or UK citizen.
Cape Verde
Cape Verde is a small archipelago in Northwest Africa. Thanks to Portuguese influence, vibrant beach towns, and volcanic landscapes, Cape Verde is considered the Brazil of Africa. The prominent ecotourism scene provides visitors with lots of hiking and water sports.
The capital Sao Vicente hosts a carnival in February, which is nothing short of Brazilās Rio Carnival and it is the best time of year to travel to Africa since it is the cooler part of the year. Psst! Cape Verde is a foodieās paradise!
Conclusion: The Best African Countries for Vacation
The best countries to visit in Africa are not limited to these 15; the continent is full of unexplored regions. In this article, we tried to highlight countries from every geographical region of Africa, offering a diverse selection of unique activities in Africa.
You just might be consumed by wanderlust after your first adventure travel to our motherland. No matter which attraction appeals to you the most, visiting Africa is truly an eye-opening experience. Donāt be put off by your fears (or what you see on tv) and start planning today!
The FAQās for the Best Countries to Travel in Africa
According to the 2019 Peace Index, the three most peaceful countries in Africa are Mauritius, Botswana, and Malawi. Using this information as a guide, these countries are safe to visit. For a comprehensive list of the safest countries in Africa read this guide the 15 safest African countries to visit.
The best African countries to visit depends on what you are expecting from your trip. For those interested in wildlife, the ideal destinations are Botswana, Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa. However, Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius in southeast Africa are renowned for marine life. West Africa is known for its distinct colonial architecture.
Many countries in Africa are ideal to visit all-year-round; however, most of them experience distinct dry and mild winter months, followed by hot and rainy summers. June to September is often the best time to visit for wildlife viewing because animals tend to congregate around water sources, which makes them easier to spot.
Countries in Central and East Africa still struggle with civil wars and political disputes. Somali, South Sudan, Central African Republic, and Congo might not be safe to visit especially during political turmoil, ongoing violence and threats of terrorism.
What about Madagascar??
Author
Hello Noela, Madagascar is one of those countries we tend to forget since itās not on the mainland. However, I completely agree with you! It will be a great addition to the list! Weāll be sure to do that when we update the post.
Love, Lydia
You forget to mention the smiling coast of Africa the Gambia. Beautiful country, friendly people nice beaches
Gambia is one of the safest and peaceful country in Africa
Author
Hello Gagum,
I have heard many great things about The Gambia ā the food, the beaches, and the people, plus itās affordable. Iāve added it to our list when we visit West Africa. Weāll definitely include it in our post once we update it.
Love, Lydia
You state that Namibia is a country that āleaves plenty to be desired.ā But the statement of leaving plenty (or, alternatively, much) to be desired is used to express that something is lacking; itās insufficient. It needs work. Did you mean to say it HAS much to be desired? That would make far more sense in relation to your recitation of the variety of offerings the country brings.
Author
Hi Brian, thanks for catching that. Iāve just updated the post. I really appreciate you taking the time to drop a comment.
Your comment about Namibia; namely, āthe sheer size of Namibia leaves plenty to be desired from the untamed wilderness and rich wildlife of this beautiful country,ā was surely meant as a compliment but the phrase āleaving plenty (or alternatively, much) to be desiredā is really an expression that something is inadequate, insufficient; lacking. Itās a soft insult to express something needs improvement rather than stated that something is flawed, but it is by no means a laudatory statement.
Author
Hi Brian, thanks for catching that. Iāve just updated the post. I really appreciate you taking the time to drop a comment.
GREAT information! My husband and I would love to travel to Africa with our two kids (16 yr old & 10 yr old). We want to experience all of it, the culture, the safari, the beach, sightseeing, and shopping. What do you suggest?
Author
Hello KG, thanks for reaching out! If this is your first time visiting Africa, then Iāll recommend either South Africa, Kenya, or Zanzibar for two reasons:
Tips: I recommend having only your must-have activities planned out, so you have some flexibility when you get there.
Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Love, Lydia
I am located in California US ā¦ and I am planing a family trip of 6 adult and 4 kids to Africa ā¦ never been that far from home and I was doing research on the best place to go ā¦ Africa is so big and I want us especially the kids to experience the culture ā¦ your article was very help but Iām still unsure how to plan a great and safe trip ā¦ can you tell me about Ghana ā¦ I want a safari but I also want the interact with the locals and shopping.
Author
Hello AJ, thanks for reaching out! Iām glad you find out post helpful. I have not personally visited Ghana but my sister has so am sure I can get the information you need from her and share it with you. Ghana is great for experiencing the real African culture. However, it doesnāt have the best safari experience. East and Southern Africa have the best safari on the continent with Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, and Zimbabwe taking the lead in those regions.
So, it really depends on what you want to do. If going on a safari is on your must-do list and you want some culture, I would recommend Kenya or Botswana. Youāll be able to get both for the price of one. If you have any other questions, please feel free to respond to the comments here. We can also take the conversation via email or over the phone. Just say the word! š
Try Gambia, peaceful and relaxing. Friendly people..check out on YouTube the BAG FAMILY in the Gambia or blaxit
Author
The Gambia is great! However, keeps in mind itās a small country, so if you plan to spend more than a week, you may run out of activities to do with the kids.
Love, Lydia
Proudly Kenyan!ā¦ we love visitors and are very hospitable. Najivunia!
Author
Hello Najivunia, I couldnāt agree more! We got back from our East African trip a few days ago and enjoyed our stay in Kenya. You are very hospital people, and I loved the food and activities. I gained 20 lbs in 6 weeks!!! Now, I have to hit the gym, but it was well worth it.
P.S. ā Youāll have to watch your back because your sister country, Tanzania, is really upping their game. But they have a ways to go. BTW, the view of Mt. Kilimanjaro is still better from Kenya š
Nigeria should surely be on this list?
Author
Hello Dr. Peter, I respectfully disagree. This is the third comment Iāve received about adding Nigeria to the list so I want to list a few reasons why Nigeria didnāt make the cut:
So, the next time someone else says āNigeria should be on the list,ā please provide 3 reasons why itās better than the other counties on this list. Thanks!
I really like Kenya and Tanzania, others like Morocco, Egypt, Madagascar, Ethiopia and Cape Verde look super cool too, but yes so many beautiful countries, the great lakes region looks awesome as well, itās unfortunate that some countries have political and economic issues as Iāve known many great people from countries like Somalia, Eritrea, Sudan, and others, i think Kenya would be my 1st pick to visit
Author
Hello Troy, thanks for your comment! I completely agree with you. We just came back from our East African trip literally 6 days ago, and Kenya was one of the countries we visited. We went hiking, snorkeling, and the usual tourist activities. It was very easy lovely.
Kenya is a great choice but if you plan to work from Kenya while youāre visiting, consider the time difference. We live on the West Coast, and it was brutal for us to work from Kenya (using PST time zone) because we had an extended trip (6 weeks). For that reason, I would recommend people go to Morocco instead if theyāll be working on their trip. The time difference will work in your favor.
Great article guys! Iām glad to see my country, Ethiopia in the listš. Iāve also always wanted to visit other countries in Africa and this article was very helpful.
Meski
Author
Thanks, Meski. Glad you found this article helpful.
I made a promise to my 78 year old mother that I would take her to Africa before she or I died. Iām 59 & sheās 78, this will be our first time traveling to the Mother Land from New Orleans Louisiana. Your article provided me with pertinent details about each area of the continent has to offer its tourist. Due to both of our physical mobility issues I am lending more towards Ghana. With the historical slave trade documented evidence I think this would be the best choice for my family.
Author
Hi Cheryl, Iām so glad you found this article helpful. Please keep us updated on your trip to Ghana. Weād love to hear your feedback.
Hi Lydia, I just saw your article and I love it. Weldone .Please what about Nigeria?
Author
Iām glad you like our content, Conny. Please see my previous comment about Nigeria. Thanks!
What about Nigeria???šš
Author
Hello James, Nigeria is not one of the easiest or safest African countries so I wouldnāt recommend it to most people only if you have a trusted family member that can help you with all the quirks before and after your arrival.
South Africa is on another level believe me!
Author
I couldnāt agree more, Noel!
Love,
Lydia
Very cool! You guys do a great job with your selections, pictures, and information.
Do you also post on Instagram?
Thanks!
James
Author
Hello James,
Weāre glad you enjoyed our post. Hereās our Instagram account. Weāre still working on posting consistently. Thanks for the friendly reminder. Weāll be sure to do that in March when weāre on our trip to Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda.
Love,
Lydia
Guys, I just came across your site and article. Absolutely LOVE all that youāve shared š Weād like to visit the continent in 2021 and really canāt decide where to go to given whatās going on around the worldā¦ You article has given us a lot of excitement though š
Author
Hello Ken,
Thanks for sharing your thought! Yeah, we love traveling around the world and also experiencing other countriesā cultures. However, Africa is in its own class since there are so many things to do, so thereās always something for everyone.
If youāll enjoy a safari, any of the Southern African countries is the way to go. I would go with Botswana since itās safe and is ranked one of Africaās best safari places.
If you like the beach, then Eastern Africa is where you should look. Tanzania and Kenya have great beaches; however, my first choice will be Zanzibar in Tanzania. It will take tour breath away.
If you enjoy culture, then youāre looking at West Africa. Thereās a lot to learn about colonization and the slave trade, and a more exciting part of history. Ghana and the Gambia are great choices, but Ghana is the way to go!
If you like the outdoors, then youāll enjoy North Africa. Morocco is a good first place to visit. You can do dunes bugging, which is a lot of fun, and walk around the street markets.
I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Cheers,
Lydia
Hello,
Please note that the Picture under Egypt is for the Pyramids of Giza, not the Karnak Temple. Please fix it.
Great article though.
Author
OMG! Thanks for catching this. Fixed now š
what about algeria?
Author
Hello Mohamed,
We havenāt personally been to Algeria yet, however, due to the current usability of the region, we wouldnāt be adding it to our list of best African countries to visit at this time. Please let us know if you have any other questions.
Love,
Lydia
This is a great article. I love your website. I have a question. Which country would you recommend for someone who is visiting Africa for the first time? We are not keen on North Africa nor Wildlife. Senegal? Ethiopia? Someplace which is more cultural and where we can get the real African motherland vibe? Thank you š
Author
Hello Gopi,
If youāre visiting Africa for the first time, I recommend you visit a place thatās safe, has good transportation, and reliable internet. Most African countries are full of culture so you canāt go wrong there. If it was my first time and I donāt know a local in that country, Iāll go to Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, or Cape Town. Hope this helps! Please us know if you have any other questions.
Weāre about to plan a trip to Eastern Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda) in early March so weāll have some more updated information.
Love,
Lydia
Hi what of Nigeria
Author
Hello Enny, please see my previous comments about Nigeria. Thanks!
Thank you
Author
Weāre glad you enjoyed the read Odusanya! Please let us know how we can enhance your travel experience.
Hello
Am justice
Author
Hello Justice, itās nice to meet you! How can we be of help or assistance?
Tunisia should be in this list. Even in Top 5.
I was there in January 2020.
Have beautiful places like Tunis, carthage, el-kef, tabatka, ain dirham, sousse, hammamat.
And the food is just so tasty.
Not to mention the wonderful people who are so friendly and helpful.
Author
Hello Jasem,
I completely agree with you. Tunisia is beautiful and it has very friendly people like most places in Africa since thatās the culture. Weāll be sure to include it as one of the additional places when we expand to the top 20 best African countries to visit. Keep the feedback coming.
Love,
Lydia
Please what is your cost then
Author
Hello Okafor,
Can you please expand on your question for clarity? I want to make sure Iām providing you with the most accurate information.
Love,
Lydia
I absolutely loved Zimbabwe, and from there you can take a tour to Botswana for safaris near the border, best time of my life, the border also takes you to Zambia, the problem is Zimbabwe requires visas for most countries and itās difficult to obtain, Also enjoyed Southafrica, but as you say itās more a western city. Democratic Republic of Congo was plagued by war but original.
Africa is the best destination trip you can take, congrats on the very accurate comments you make.
Author
Thanks for the comment, Ciervo! Iām glad you enjoyed your trip to Zimbabwe and you had a trip of a lifetime! Thatās a great tip about visiting Botswana when youāre in Zimbabwe. We did the same thing from South Africa and the Botswana visa on arrival was easy, the country is clean, and they are a zero-free corruption country. We enjoyed ourselves when we visited so I highly recommend it. Whatās your next African vacation destination?