As the second largest continent on the globe with over 54 countries, Africa has so much to offer. From crawling cities to majestic desert dunes, there’s no shortage of things to do in Africa. If you’re a first-time traveler, you’re in for an amazing experience.

We cover seven travel destinations in Africa that can help inspire you for your next trip. You can always choose your own course and go off the beaten path, but these places are definitely worth putting on your bucket list.

Read on to discover the best African destinations in this travel guide.

1. Egypt

Egypt is one of the most iconic travel destinations in Africa, home to the great pyramids and the Sphinx. Looking at old middle school textbooks, it may not look like much. However, the great pyramids are a marvel to see in person.

Cairo offers full-day tours covering the Saqqara, Memphis, the Sphinx, and the Giza Pyramids. You can also opt for a private night cruise and enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner. If you’re partial to all things skincare and cosmetics, don’t leave without buying a few perfume oils.

These perfume oils make the perfect souvenir for yourself and your loved ones back home. Of course, a trip to Egypt isn’t complete without visiting the river Nile. The Nile is the longest river in Africa and the whole world.

It cuts through 11 countries, so booking a cruise is a great way to experience Africa’s greatest hits.

2. Tanzania

Tanzania is home to Africa’s most famous natural wonder, Mount Kilimanjaro. Standing at 19,340 feet, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest peak in Africa. This is a dormant volcano with over six hiking trails, each with varying difficulties.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is not for the faint of heart or inexperienced. It requires careful planning and commitment. Once you complete the hike, you can rejuvenate yourself in the Kikuletwa Chemka hot springs.

Tanzania is also home to the Serengeti, one of the most beautiful safaris in Africa and the best place to see native wildlife. A safari night drive can give you some insight into the nightlife of African wildlife. The Serengeti spans over 30,000 square kilometers and blends into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve.

If you want to witness the Great Migration, book your trip between December and July. Conclude your Tanzanian expedition with a trip to Zanzibar. It is one of the most popular places in Tanzania due to its white sand beaches.

3. Botswana

Botswana is a small country but is one of the most developed nations in Africa. The Okavango Delta is its most popular tourist destination. Many call it Africa’s last Eden.

The Okavango Delta remains one of the few inland deltas on the entire globe. Every year between April and May, the river bursts and fans out across the Kalahari Desert. This seasonal flood has been crucial in preserving its biodiversity and life.

If you’re lucky to visit during the peak of the flood, you’ll see over 8,500 square miles of marshes, forests, and lush plains. To see the African wilderness in Botswana, you must book a tour on a traditional dugout canoe. Stay a few nights at one of the Delta’s islands and listen to the calls of Africa’s endangered wild dogs.

4. Morocco

Morocco has four imperial cities, rich in North Africa’s unique history and culture. Marrakech is a beautiful amalgamation of museums, mosques, tombs, and palaces. Here, you can find the Saadian Tombs, the final resting place of Saadian rulers.

If you want an authentic Marrakech experience, take a stroll through the walled city. The medina is a maze of narrow streets, crawling with stalls of everything from spices, fabric, stained glass, and jewelry. From Marrakech, you can book a full-day trip to the Atlas Mountains.

Zagora is another awesome destination, as it offers an access point to the Sahara dunes. This small town is more desolate, which can be an alternative if you want to avoid crowds.

Accompanied by a tour guide, you take a camel safari and venture into the dunes. Camp out for the night and watch the stars as local Saharawi men share their songs around the campfire.

5. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is home to one of the natural wonders of not only Africa, but the world. Many travelers go to Africa to witness Victoria Falls in all its glory. Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall, with over 300,000 gallons of water spilling over the edges during peak season.

The waterfall covers the borders of Zambia and Zimbabwe and takes a 354-foot plunge into the Zambezi River. The falls earned the name Mosi-oa-Tunya, which you can translate to the Smoke That Thunders. The name comes from its magnificent curtain of sprays, which you can view from over 30 miles away.

If you reach the edge of the falls, we dare you to take a dip in the Devil’s Pool.

6. Rwanda

Kigali, Rwanda, is the political and geographical center of Africa. Rwanda offers a nice breather between exploring forests, mountains, and safaris. This capital offers a vibrant night scene, with various cafes, restaurants, and galleries.

When you’re ready to put on your hiking boots once more, visit the Volcanoes National Park just outside the capital. It is the oldest national park in Africa and is home to golden monkeys and mountain gorillas.

7. Madagascar

Madagascar is a must-go destination if you’ve always wanted to see lemurs. Madagascar is the perfect destination for beach lovers. Nosy Be remains Africa’s most popular island due to its vast stretch of beautiful, pearly white sand.

You can even island hop around the main island to discover more stunning beaches. Feast your eyes on the coral reef structures near Nosy Tanikely by snorkeling and scuba diving. Between September and December, you can even swim with whale sharks.

Best Travel Destinations in Africa

Now you know some of the best travel destinations in Africa. From fierce wildlife and sprawling forests to bustling cities and shopping districts, Africa has it all! Don’t forget to include some of these destinations when you book a trip to Africa.

Are you looking for more travel tips? Check out our other blog posts and plan a family trip with your loved ones today.