Summer holidays are the best time to explore new territories and plunge into foreign cultures. With its diverse landscapes, rich past and vibrant cultures, Africa provides limitless opportunities for both adventure and relaxation. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, a history enthusiast or just someone who wants to unwind in the arms of nature, Africa can meet your needs. The following is a list of things that will help you get the most out of your summer vacation in Africa.
Image Credit: PANAGIOTIS LAMPRAKIS, Dmitry Bogdanov, RASimon, and espiegle
Exploring Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Wildlife safaris bring up thoughts about Serengeti National Park. Look at the Great Migration which involves millions of wildebeests, zebras and gazelles annually crossing the grassy plains in search of green pasture. In addition, there are also lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants and Cape buffalo among many other animals found within this park.
Highlights:
Guided game drives; hot air balloon safaris.
Camping underneath sky filled with stars inside luxurious tents.
Visiting Maasai villages to learn about their culture as well as traditions they hold onto.
Discovering Cape Town in South Africa
A trip to Cape Town cannot be overlooked due to its beautiful scenic lands and lively culture it possesses. Starting from the iconic Table Mountain up to the lively V&A Waterfronts makes it natural beauty mixed with urban sophistication city.
Highlights:
Hiking or taking cable car ride up Table Mountain.
Touring Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned before he became president.
Spending time on Clifton and Camp bays sandy beaches.
Indulging in some world class wines at Stellenbosch and Franschhoek nearby locations
Rediscovering Egypt’s Pyramids
The Pyramids of Giza make part of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and they are a testimony to Egypt’s great history. The ancient structures including the Sphinx reveal how advanced engineering and cultural superiority was in ancient Egypt.
Highlights:
Great Pyramid of Khufu exploration.
Visiting the sphinx as well as Pyramid of Khafre.
Egyptian Museum in Cairo tour to see Tutankhamun’s treasures.
Kyewaga Island Retreat, Uganda
Zanzibar is often referred to as ‘Spice Island’ because of its clean beaches, turquoise waters and rich cultural heritage. Ensure it is on your travel itinerary if you need to relax while getting some tropical vibes.
Highlights:
Walking around UNESCO Stone town with historic value.
Snorkeling or diving into reefs of Mnemba Atoll.
Going for a spice tour to see how cloves, nutmegs or cinnamon are grown locally.
Visiting Namibia’s Namib Desert
The Namib Desert is one of the oldest deserts on earth and offers otherworldly landscapes that grants unique experiences. From gigantic sand dunes to eerie Deadvlei, this desert is heaven for photographers.
Highlights:
Scaling Dune 45 or towering Big Daddy dune.
Exploring ghost town Kolmanskop.
Sossusvlei and Deadvlei incredible desert views can also be visited.
Victoria Falls Visit
Victoria Falls locally called ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ which means “The Smoke That Thunders” is one of the biggest waterfalls in terms of volume falling over an abyss thus providing fascinating sightseeing experience.
Highlights:
Viewing falls from both Zambia and Zimbabwe through different points in each country.
Having breathtaking helicopter ride over the falls.
Find oneself at Devil’s Pool – natural infinity pool located on top of the waterfall scarp line Rafting on Zambezi River for adrenaline.
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a city full of vibrant colors, busy souks and beautiful architecture. It offers an opportunity for cultural tourism due to its blending of traditionalism and modernism. The best time to visit Marrakech is the cool winter months, Marrakesh has sunshine over 300 days in a year.
Highlights
Getting lost in the medina’s labyrinthine streets.
Visiting the stunning Jardin Majorelle and the adjacent Berber Museum.
Eating traditional Moroccan food in a riad.
Shopping for spices, textiles, and crafts in the souks.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one way of experiencing endangered mountain gorillas up close and personal as they are found nowhere else on earth but here. This is an experience that will humble you forever.
Highlights
Escorted walks through deep woodlands to watch gorilla groups.
Hearing from local guides about conservation efforts.
Discovering the rich biodiversity of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Experiences abound in Africa, just waiting to be unearthed. Every traveler can find something to suit their needs among the diverse destinations across the continent, be it adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment. Make Africa your summer travel destination and cross these amazing activities off your bucket list. Happy journeys!