Over the past few decades, Africa has become a beacon for travel and tourism. People who take on the journeys, fall in love with the vast landscapes, diverse cultures, booming ecosystems, and friendly people.
With 54 countries on the continent, Africa has an endless list of places to visit and things to do. I, and so many others, would love to visit the hundreds of beautiful sites but for now, that is going to be challenging. So instead, I have compiled a list of the top ten locations that should be a priority for one of your next holidays.
(quarantine requirements info is for those travelling out from Kenya but probably applies to others too)
Botswana
Being one of the top safari destinations in Southern Africa, Botswana may feel like a home away from home for Kenyans. The Okavango Delta offers incredible sunsets, swimming elephants and leopards brushing through papyrus reeds, making it one of the most extraordinary places on the planet. Unsurprisingly the delta is not only listed as the 1000th UNESCO World Heritage Site but is also one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders.
COVID-19 rules: not currently open to tourism, but keep your fingers crossed to visit soon.
Egypt
Egypt has captured the hearts of travellers for centuries. Home to incredible temples, tombs and historical treasures, the nation is a history enthusiasts’ dream. Of course, if there is only one thing you do, is explore the Pyramids of Giza, which are the oldest of the Seven Wonder of the Ancient World and are the only ones still in existence. Even if you don’t go inside, they are something to marvel at from the outside too.
COVID-19 rules: everyone will be required to complete a monitoring card with personal details and provide confirmation of a valid health insurance policy to airport authorities.
Madagascar
The fourth-largest island in the world boasts lush rainforests with winding hiking trails, curious lemurs, a variety of cultures influenced by surrounding countries of the Indian Ocean, and the towering Avenue of the Baobab. The baobab trees are a legacy of a dense tropical forest that once thrived in the area. Over the years, the forest was cleared for agriculture, leaving only the baobab trees, which the locals preserved due to their food source and building material. Despite this sad history, it is still a striking sight.
COVID-19 rules: mainland Madagascar closed to tourists until further notice, visitors will be welcomed to Nosy Be from October. All travellers must present a valid negative COVID-19 certificate.
Mauritius
The tropical island is the ideal place to disconnect from the rest of world, especially when you explore the Seven Coloured Earths, a group of sand dunes in seven distinct colours (red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple, yellow) created by volcanic activity.
COVID-19 rules: reopens in October with all travellers having to take a COVID test 5 days before travel.
Morocco
The destination has been one to enchant visitors, especially writers, artists and filmmakers due to the landscapes and colourful markets. The Sahara Desert is breath-taking and a must-see African site.
COVID-19 rules: all travellers must present a valid negative COVID-19 certificate.
Namibia
This is one of the best places in the world to go on a road trip, particularly if it involves visiting the famous Skeleton Coast. Here the Atlantic Ocean meets the Namibian desert, and despite the somewhat morbid history of stranded whales and shipwrecks, it is an important location to discover.
COVID-19 rules: open to internationals from September but only through Hosea Kutako International Airport, all travellers must present a valid negative COVID-19 certificate.
Seychelles
The Seychelles Islands are a tropical paradise full of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, nature reserves, lush jungles and thriving coral reefs. The best way to explore is through island hopping and if there is one thing you have to see is the Coco De Mer. Translating to “coconut of the sea” it produces the largest and heaviest fruit known to man.
COVID-19 rules: borders are open to low-risk countries, all travellers must present a valid negative COVID-19 certificate.
South Africa
The southernmost country on the continent is a nation of beauty and wonder. While there is much to explore due to its deep history and diverse culture, one thing that everyone has to see during their trip is Cape Agulhas. This is the southern tip of Africa and the beginning of the dividing line between the Atlantic and Indian oceans.
COVID-19 rules: all travellers must present a valid negative COVID-19 certificate.
Tanzania
Our neighbouring country is a top safari destination and home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. If you are searching for a thrill, consider climbing Kilimanjaro for adventure and panoramic views.
COVID-19 rules: all travellers must present a valid negative COVID-19 certificate.
Zambia
Zambia is the birthplace of the legendary African walking safari and the spectacular Victoria Falls which connect to the Zambezi river. Most Kenyans (and non-Kenyans) want to see the falls at least once in their lifetime, and you should definitely be a part of this large group.
COVID-19 rules: all travellers must present a valid negative COVID-19 certificate.
Follow @goplacesdigital and my personal blog, @trailingpages, on Instagram for more ideas on where to travel and the best locations to discover our beautiful continent.
Happy travelling!
Article by Sanika Shah
