An “Off the Beaten Path” African Experience

Must-see top destinations on the African continent

When it comes to breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture, Africa is the place it’s at. From the scenic coastlines of Cape Town to the old world charm of Marrakesh, there is so much to see and experience on this beautiful continent. We share our top 5 destinations on the African continent to visit this year!

1. Accra. Situated on the very edge of West Africa, Ghana was the first sub-Saharan nation to gain independence. Known as "The Gold Coast '' of Africa, Ghana has something for everyone. Accra is the heart and capital of Ghana. With an array of markets, delicious street food, rich culture, unparalleled nightlife and incredible surf beaches you’ll have a hard time getting bored in Accra. Our top picks while you’re here?
   Independence Square, known locally as Black Star Square was erected as a tribute to the nation’s past and serves as a sort of pilgrimage for people from all over Ghana for Independence Day on March 6 every year. 

   Jamestown. An old colonial fishing port with a dominating lighthouse that reflects the heritage of this little fishing village, and strong sense of community. Makola Market. Accra’s oldest and largest outdoor market, with rows and rows of stalls selling everything from local street food to colorful textiles and antiques. You come to Makola for the experience more than any one thing that you will find being sold here. 

 2. Luanda. The capital and largest city of Angola, Luanda lies on Angola’s northern Atlantic coast. Considered "Africa’s Manhattan", Luanda is a bustling cultural hub that is the perfect combination of Portuguese and African culture. Our favorite things to do while in Luanda? Qouiçama National Park. Around 70 kilometers from the city, this national park is a popular safari day trip for those staying in Luanda.  Enjoy a day at the beach. South of Luanda is the peninsula of Mussulo, an upscale beach destination where you can relax for the day and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that line the beach while enjoying views of the city. Angola. The National Museum of Slavery. Founded in 1997, The National Museum of Slavery houses a large collection of items that were used during the slave trade and serves as a reminder of the suffering that the Angolan people experienced during that period. Take a boat ride along the Kwanza river and enjoy spotting some of Angola’s wildlife.

3. Cape Town. Known for its breathtaking scenery and cosmopolitan standard of living, Cape Town never disappoints. Let’s take a look at our top things to do while here. Take a hike up Table Mountain. Table Mountain towers 1086 meters over the city and offers stunning views of the city and harbor. You can either choose to hike or take a cable car, if you opt to go by foot, the hike takes roughly 2 hours and you will be rewarded with incredible panoramic views. Explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is one of the world's largest botanical gardens. Known for its diverse beauty, locals and tourists alike flock to Kirstenbosch every day to enjoy a stroll. Why not spend a day hanging with the penguins at Boulders Beach? After a day of hiking, you’re going to want to take it easy, and we think there’s no better way than relaxing by the water with a few extra cute buddies.

4. Nairobi. Known as East Africa’s most cosmopolitan city and with a wildlife reserve just a short drive from the city center. Nairobi is a city full of life that you will never forget. With so much to offer, we share our favorite must see spots while in Nairobi. Visit the Nairobi Elephant Orphanage. Open to the public for only an hour each day, you don’t want to miss this. The nursery cares for orphaned baby elephants until they are old enough to be released back into the wild. You get up close and personal with them during your hour visit and the best part? The proceeds from your entrance fee goes straight towards rescuing and caring for more of these vulnerable babies. Enjoy the city views from the top of Kenyatta International Convention Centre. The tallest building in Kenya and offering unparalleled views of the city, this is arguably the best place to watch the sunset in Nairobi. Have a picnic at Uhuru Park. Uhuru (meaning freedom in Swahili) park is a popular picnic spot for locals, especially on Sunday’s. Why not spend an afternoon living like a local and enjoy a lazy afternoon here.

5. The Okavango Delta. Botswana’s most famous destination, from the months of May to August, people and wildlife alike flock to The Okavango Delta to experience its rich and diverse array of wildlife and awe inspiring scenery.  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, unlike most deltas which open onto the ocean, the Okavango opens onto empty land, flooding the Savannah. The result is a unique and constantly changing terrain. Enjoy a water based safari here and get to witness everything from antelope, elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, leopards, zebras and hyenas.