Africa is a continent of extraordinary wonder. Its rich cultures, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes don’t exist anywhere else on the planet. Maybe you’ve dreamed about going on an African safari, but it didn’t seem realistic. Let’s dispel your reservations and show you 10 destinations in Africa that’ll motivate you to book a flight.
Table Mountain National Park (South Africa)
Located near Cape Town, South Africa, Table Mountain gets its name from its distinctive shape. The mountain, estimated to be 240 million years old, is one of the oldest mountains in the world. It offers sweeping views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can take a 15-minute cable car ride up to the top and climb to the highest point to see an 1865 cairn called Maclear’s Beacon. Additionally, the surrounding area, which is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, includes species exclusive to the region.
Kruger National Park (South Africa)
Located approximately 4 to 6 hours’ drive from Johannesburg, Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa. The roughly 7,500-square-mile area spans from grassland to forest and is home to hundreds of animal species. The reserve was first established as Sabi Park in 1898 and was later named after South Africa’s president in 1926. Evidence of human occupation dates back 1.5 million years. Now about a million tourists visit Kruger National Park each year.
Victoria Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe)
At a width of 5,604 feet and a height of 354 feet, Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. The local Botonga people called it “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” meaning “smoke that thunders.” However, a Scottish missionary and explorer named it after Queen Victoria in 1855. The falls lie on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border, on the Zambezi River. In addition to its incredible size, the waterfall is known for its spectacular display of moonbows, which are rainbows caused by a full moon.
Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
Imagine seeing some of Africa’s most magnificent mammals—zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles. At Serengeti National Park, it could be a reality. The name originates from the Maasai word “siringret,” meaning “endless plains,” and it is home to one of the oldest and most diverse ecosystems on the planet. Every year, millions of animals traverse the region as part of the Great Migration in search of food. It’s a true natural phenomenon.
Maasai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
The Maasai Mara National Reserve shares a border with Tanzania and the Serengeti National Park. From July to October, wildlife that is a part of the Great Migration travels through the region. The river crossings make for some spectacular scenes. Tourists can expect to see the “big five,” which includes lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. The Great Migration, with its vast herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle, is often regarded as one of the natural wonders of the world.
Zanzibar (Tanzania)
Smell the alluring aroma of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon when you visit Zanzibar, also known as “Spice Island.” Visitors can tour the numerous spice farms and learn about the cultivation process of these spices. Travel outward and be amazed by the island’s pristine beaches, with turquoise water and soft white sand. Go sailing or snorkeling at the nearby coral reefs to see colorful fish and a diverse ecosystem. Adventure in Zanzibar awaits!
Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)
Snow? In Africa? Yes, snow covers the continent’s mountain peaks, including Mount Kilimanjaro—the tallest mountain in Africa. Its peak reaches 19,341 feet and is the highest point on the continent. Its cone-like shape makes it look like a volcano, which it is, though luckily a dormant one. Book a tour and experience the remarkable ecosystem change—rainforest on the bottom, arctic peak on top.
Okavango Delta (Botswana)
The Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta. Water levels fluctuate seasonally in response to rainfall and the flow of the Okavango River. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including buffalo, lions, leopards, giraffes, hippos, zebras, and numerous bird species. Tourists can paddle through the lush landscape in canoe-like boats, traditionally known as mokoros. The best time to go is during the dry season, May to November. However, you’ll see colorful migratory birds during the wet season.
Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania)
The Ngorongoro Crater is a massive depression of land that’s about 2,000 feet deep and about 12 miles in diameter. It was formed approximately 2.5 million years ago after a volcano erupted and subsequently collapsed. The area has since become fertile and home to a surprisingly dense amount of animals and species, including “the big five” and the endangered Black Rhino. Explore the area and be amazed by the striking juxtaposition of wildlife and massive walls. June to October, during the dry season, is typically the best time to go.
Garden Route (South Africa)
The last African adventure is the Garden Route, an incredible 180-mile road that stretches along the southern coast from Mossel Bay to Storms River. Tourists often drive and take in the impeccable scenery, including beautiful beaches, lush forests, and breathtaking mountains. Luckily, the weather remains mild throughout the year, allowing you to enjoy the diverse geological and biological features.
