Best Countries to Visit in Africa? Here are 15 Amazing African Countries
Each of Africa's 54 countries has a unique history, culture, and natural beauty. Choosing the best Africa travel destination would be hard if it weren't so much fun!
African safaris that seek out wild animals in their natural environments are some of the most popular, and we have kept this in mind when choosing our 15 best African travel destinations.
While wildlife is a priority, with the Big 5 being at the top of many bucket lists, Africa has plenty of other reasons to visit, including history, culture, scenery and natural wonders, not to mention beaches, jungles, and mountains.
African cities are growing fast and the youth is striving for a modern identity that makes African cities some of the most vibrant and dynamic places to visit.
Let's dive in and look at 15 of Africa's best countries to visit.
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East AfricaNorth AfricaSouthern Africa |
The Best East African Safari Destinations
1. Ethiopia, East Africa
Ethiopia safari, African culture
Ethiopia, located on the horn of Africa, north of Kenya, was one of Christianity's early strongholds, and also the birthplace of the Rastafarian movement.
A rich history and fascinating culture make it an alluring destination for those looking for something different and willing to travel off the beaten track.
Famous for the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the landscapes of the Danikil Depression, the rare Ethiopian wolves of the Simien Mountains, exciting Addis Ababa, and the tribes of the Omo Valley, Ethiopia offers some breathtaking landscapes that include deserts, mountainous plateaus, lakes, and tropical coffee plantations.
- Ethiopia is the best African Country for its culture, history, and mountainous regions.
Ethiopia Travel Guide | Ethiopia Tours
Kenya safari Masai Mara
2. Kenya, East Africa
Kenya is #2 on our best countries to visit in Africa list and offers classic safari experiences, authentic tribes, and some of the best conservation organisations in Africa.
Known for the Masai Mara and the Great Wildebeest Migration, Kenya is a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Witnessing frantic wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles making the dangerous Mara River crossing is the safari experience of a lifetime.
Amboseli and Tsavo are famous for abundant elephant herds. Amboseli also offers iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro across the border in Tanzania.
Other attractions in Kenya include Mount Kenya, the Great Rift Valley Lakes, Samburu National Reserve, and the Samburu and Maasai people who offer unique cultural experiences.
In addition to its natural wealth, and cultural heritage, Kenya has a vibrant contemporary culture best witnessed first-hand in the capital city Nairobi. Lonely Planet has picked Nairobi as one of 2024's best travel destinations in the world, as well as the Swahili Coast as one of the best regions, think white sand beaches and watersports in Malindi, Kilifi, Mombasa, and more.
- Kenya is the best African country for wildlife encounters, Maasai culture, and city exploration.
Kenya Safari Guide | Kenya Safaris
Lake Malawi safari in Africa
3. Malawi, East Africa
Malawi is a scenic country located in southeastern Africa.
Known as the ‘warm heart of Africa’ Malawians are famously friendly and chatting will soon have you feeling like you have arrived home.
Malawi's main attraction is Lake Malawi, Africa's third-largest lake. With its palm trees and sandy beaches, it's easy to imagine you are on a tropical island. Home to endemic cichlid fish and phenomenal speciation, Lake Malawi is a fantastic destination for freshwater diving and snorkelling.
While not a traditional Big 5 destination, African Parks is making great progress restoring wilderness areas and their flagship park, Majete, is a beacon of hope for the continent. Other worthwhile parks include Liwonde, Mangochi, and Nkhotakota.
Malawi also boasts abundant birdlife due to its diverse ecosystems, which include wetlands, lakes, forests, and the Afromontane highlands.
- Malawi is the best African country for freshwater beaches, unique and colourful fish, and lakeside eco-lodges.
Malawi Safari Guide | Malawi Safaris
Rwanda
Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills is one of the best Africa travel destinations.
Recovering from a tragic past, Rwanda is blessed with incredible natural beauty and friendly locals. It is also one of the best places to go trekking with gorillas.
Experience lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, primates galore, and the critically endangered mountain gorilla at Volcanoes National Park where Dian Fossey pioneered primate conservation.
- Rwanda is the best country in Africa for environmental responsibility, pristine forests, gorilla trekking, tea and coffee.
Rwanda Safari Guide | Rwanda Safaris
Tanzania, Best African Country
5. Tanzania, East Africa
Tanzania is fantastic for Big 5 safaris, tropical beaches, and classic African safari landscapes.
Tanzania is the home of the Serengeti National Park and the Great Wildebeest Migration. Whether you choose calving season on the Ndutu Plains, or predator action in the Seronera region, the Serengeti remains one of the top destinations to witness the greatest show on earth.
The Northern Safari Circuit includes Arusha, Mount Meru, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara and Natron, Oldupai Gorge, Tarangire, and the Serengeti. This is Tanzania's most popular safari circuit. For those who prefer to get off the beaten track and are looking for a wilder experience, consider the Southern Safari Circuit which includes Tanzania's biggest parks Nyerere and Ruaha as well as some of the smallest and most remote in Mahale Mountain and Gombe Stream.
In addition to these incredible safari destinations, Tanzania's Swahili Coast is a mecca for tourists looking for a bush and beach break. Zanzibar, Stone Town, and Mafia Island are all excellent.
- Tanzania is the best African country for the Great Migration, remote safari experiences, and bush & beach holidays.
Tanzania Safari Guide | Tanzania Safaris
Uganda Africa gorillas
6. Uganda, East Africa
Uganda is the Pearl of Africa, and a country that boasts friendly people, the source of the Nile, and some uniquely African food to sample.
Uganda’s wildlife reserves include the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, the Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Murchison Falls National Park, the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and the Kibale National Park to mention only a few. These parks preserve pristine landscapes that make up about 20% of Uganda and remain untouched, and teeming with wildlife.
Uganda is a good gorilla trekking option it is more affordable than Rwanda, and guests can track chimpanzees too.
Adventure enthusiasts can visit Uganda's adventure capital, Jinja, and go white-water rafting on the Nile River. Besides the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife, Ugandans are known for their kindness and hospitality, and they will greet you with beaming smiles wherever you go.
- Uganda is the best African country for chimpanzee trekking, gorilla trekking, adventure sports, culture, and banana cuisine.
Uganda Safari Guide | Uganda Safaris
Morocco, best African countries
The Best North African Travel Destination
7. Morocco, North Africa
Morocco, although not a classic safari destination, is a melting pot of culture and history, fusing European and African influences.
The epic Atlas mountains, desert scenery, beaches, and bazaars have long made Morocco a favourite with tourists from around the world.
Go surfing at some of Morocco's incredible beaches like Essaouira, visit the markets of Marrakech, or explore the Blue City of Chefchaouen. Morocco also has some impressive national parks like Talassemtane National Park which protects Morocco's rare forests and Khenifiss which protects wetlands and coastal dunes.
Morocco is a mix of Berber, African, Arabic, and Jewish influences, reflected in its eye-catching architecture, which includes Islamic and Hispano-Moorish-inspired designs. Buildings range from mosques to ancient ‘riads’ - traditional Moroccan homes built around open courtyards - palaces, and religious centres.
- Morocco is the best African country for architecture and the fusion of European and African cultures.
Kruger buffalo
The Best Southern African Countries to Visit
8. Botswana, Southern Africa
Botswana Safari, Africa
Botswana is known for its pristine wildlife reserves and unique safari experiences.
A haven for African elephants, Botswana boasts the largest population of African elephants anywhere in Africa.
The Okavango Delta, which spans 15,000 square kilometres, is one of Africa's Seven Natural Wonders and is famous for its diverse wildlife. The Delta is best explored in a traditional Mokoro where you drift silently through waterways watching for hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and more.
The Tsodilo Hills in the Kalahari is home to the world's most extensive collection of rock art, with more than 4,500 paintings that date back over 100,000 years, it is known as the Louvre of the Desert.
- Botswana is the best African Country for conservation, wildlife, and mokoro rides in the Okavango Delta.
Botswana Safari Guide | Botswana Safaris
Eswatini African country
9. The Kingdom of Eswatini, Southern Africa
Eswatini – formerly Swaziland – is a small landlocked kingdom bordered by South Africa to the north, west, and south and by Mozambique to the east.
Despite being the southern hemisphere's smallest landlocked country, Eswatini is packed with attractions and activities.
Hlane Royal National Park and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary both offer intimate safari experiences and while they lack the wilderness feel of the larger southern and east African parks, they have their charm.
The Ezulwini Valley, the Valley of Heaven is picturesque and dotted with worthwhile boutique hotels and restaurants, not to mention waterfalls, hikes, horse riding, and craft centres all a stone's throw away. For a taste of Swati culture, visit the Mantenga Cultural Village.
The jewel in Eswatini’s crown, however, is the Bushfire Festival, held each May at House of Fire. This is Eswatini's biggest festival, and with musicians from all over Africa and a ‘small festival’ vibe, is perfect for family-friendly fun.
- Eswatini is the best African country for compact travel that is accessible and packs a big punch.
Kingdom of Eswatini Safari Guide | Eswatini Safaris
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Lemurs in Madagascar, Africa
10. Madagascar, East Africa
Madagascar is located off the southeastern coast of Africa and is viewed by many as a bucket list destination.
It is famous for its unique biodiversity, containing 5% of the world's fauna and flora of which 80% is endemic. Madagascar is the only place where you can find lemurs, which is reason enough to visit. Visitors can explore wildlife reserves such as Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Ankarana Special Reserve, and the famous Avenue of Baobabs in Morondava.
Previously a French colony, Madagascar boasts diverse cultures and traditions, and being so remote, has remained out of the mainstream. The Malagasy culture is a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian influences, and the people are renowned for their hospitality.
- Madagascar is the best African country for rare and endangered animals like lemurs and beaches.
Madagascar Travel Guide | Madagascar Tours
Mozambique, best African countries
11. Mozambique, Southern Africa
Situated along the southeastern coast of Africa, Mozambique's coastline stretches over 2 600km / 1616 miles, making it an excellent destination for beach lovers.
The former Portuguese colony boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world, coupled with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can relax on the beaches of Vilanculos, go diving in Tofo, or visit the Bazaruto archipelago.
Mozambique is a premier location for diving – the warm, clear waters of the Indian Ocean offer a unique marine experience, and the chance to dive with whale sharks.
- Mozambique is the best African country for beaches and diving with whale sharks.
Mozambique Travel Guide | Mozambique Safaris
Best African countries, Namibia
12. Namibia, Southern Africa
Namibia in southwest Africa is rugged and remote, with some of the continent’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Adventures await inland and on the coast, from dramatic Damaraland with its endangered desert elephant and rhino to hiking up the world’s largest dunes at Sossusvlei. Etosha National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife and floodlit watering holes, and hiking the Fish River Canyon - the largest canyon in the southern hemisphere - is a test for avid adventurers. The Skeleton Coast offers the unique spectacle where the desert and ocean meet, ships lie wrecked on the shoreline and the water teems with marine life.
Namibia is a huge country, one of the safest in Africa, with long distances and wide open spaces. The good roads and gorgeous scenery in Namibia make it one of the best road trip destinations anywhere on the continent.
- Namibia is the best African Country for desert-adapted animals, surreal desert landscapes, and epic road trips.
Namibia Safari Guide | Namibia Safaris
South Africa safari leopard
13. South Africa, Southern Africa
South Africa is an amazing all-round destination and remains one of Africa's most popular travel destinations.
Starting with the Kruger National Park, Pilanesburg, Hluhluwe, and Isimangaliso, and moving on to Addo, Table Mountain, Tankwa, and the Garden Route, the country is a veritable playground for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Johannesburg and Cape Town offer contrasting experiences. Cape Town has it all from malls, restaurants, museums, and nightlife, to beaches, hikes, cable cars, marine life, and penguins on the beach, it even offers Big 5 safaris within a 3-hour drive of the city centre. The Mother City is the world's darling and frequently makes the Top 10 lists of best cities in the world. Johannesburg on the other hand has grit and some superb sights, sounds, and experiences for those who are willing to brave its bad reputation.
From Big 5 safaris to wine land tours, and land-based whale watching, South Africa is as diverse as it is exciting. Never a dull moment, you could spend your life exploring South Africa and never see it all!
- South Africa is the best African Country for diversity and value for money.
South Africa Safari Guide | South Africa Safaris
Zambia Victoria Falls, Africa
14. Zambia, South-Central Africa
Zambia is an off-the-beaten-track destination that is remote and still has a wilderness appeal.
With over 20 national parks and 34 game management zones, which comprise more than 30% of the country, Zambia is a safari aficionado's dream. Located along the Zambezi River Basin, South Luangwa National Park is the home of the walking safari and is famous for having some of the best guides and trackers in Africa. Other destinations include Mosi-oa-Tunya, Kafue, Lower Zambezi, Liuwa Plains, Kasanka, and many more.
Livingstone is Zambia's side of the Victoria Falls, and a must-visit attraction, that includes, amongst other attractions, the chance to take a dip in the Devil's Pool on the edge of the falls.
- Zambia is the Best African Country for walking safaris and true wilderness experience.
Zambia Safari Guide | Zambia Safaris
Zimbabwe safari, African elephants
15. Zimbabwe, Southern Africa
Zimbabwe, located between South Africa and Botswana, boasts incredible natural wonders and wildlife.
Zimbabwe is the home of Hwange National Park, Mana Pools, and the Matobo Hills, the resting place of the great Cecil John Rhodes, but Zimbabwe's real draw card is the Victoria Falls. The largest sheet of cascading water in the world, Victoria Falls is a natural wonder not to be missed. It is also an adventurer's playground with everything to offer from white water rafting to bungee jumping, helicopter rides, and safaris.
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers an extraordinary opportunity to visit a site of ancient African sophistication and culture.
- Zimbabwe is the best African country for adventure travel and the Great Zimbabwe Ruins
Zimbabwe Safari Guide | Zimbabwe Safaris
Tanzania, Best African Country
Plan your African Safari to Your Best Safari Destination
This is the African Budget Safaris list of the 15 best African countries to visit. Each country offers a unique experience, and whether you are a budget traveller, a family looking for a relaxing getaway, or an adventurer looking for your next hit of adrenaline, African Budget Safaris can help find the best safari for you and your budget.
Talk to one of our experienced African safari travel experts and start planning your safari today.
Kenya best African countries
Updated from original post in 2023
On the outskirts of Marloth Nature Reserve, Andrew can be found walking and swimming in the beautiful Langeburg Mountains. He is passionate about animals, birds, reptiles, and plants and loves nothing more than an adventure in nature. An established artist with a master's in English literature, Andrew has traveled far and wide but South Africa still has his heart.
