The vast continent of Africa is home to 54 amazing countries, upwards of 2,000 languages and some of the most stunning sights and thrilling experiences on the planet. It’s no surprise Africa is at the top of many people’s bucket-list travel destinations; a place where they can lose themselves in the wonder of ancient lands, people and cultures.
But with so much on offer for someone planning a great African adventure, and likely with limited time to do it, what to choose? After all, this is a place where you famously can go on spectacular safaris and see the world’s most amazing animals in their natural habitat. You’ll never go to a zoo again!
Visitors to Africa can also spend some time on incredible white-sand beaches and take in some truly breathtaking natural attractions. For those who can’t do it all at once, Africa becomes a magnetic draw that keeps them coming back again to explore more of the magical continent.
Favourite African Places
A recent survey revealed that Kenya and neighbouring Tanzania are among people’s most favourite African holiday destinations. Respondents said they would choose these locations if they were planning safari holidays or a honeymoon, and that they would love to see the natural wonders Africa is so famous for while on holiday in various countries in the region.
These include the world-famous Serengeti Migration in Tanzania, but also in parts of southern Kenya. It was the first World Heritage Site chosen by the United Nations, which describes it thusly: “The vast plains of the Serengeti comprise 1.5 million ha of savannah. The annual migration to permanent water holes of vast herds of herbivores (wildebeest, gazelles and zebras), followed by their predators, is one of the most impressive natural events in the world.”
Other African sights people were dying to see included Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It’s Africa’s tallest mountain and reaches up to 5,895 metres. It attracts climbers from all over the world who want to reach its snow-topped peak, as well as those who just want to gaze and marvel at this towering structure. Victoria Falls, in both Zambia and Zimbabwe, was also on at the top of travellers’ Africa wishlist.
Beach-Safari Combination
Africa, it turns out, is one of the few places in the world where you can plan safari holidays and beach holidays — for the same trip. Africa has some of the best beaches anywhere, and for those looking for a spectacular time on the sand might well want to choose the dazzling island of Zanzibar. It’s easily reached via a short flight or boat ride from Tanzania.
As for the best time to visit various African regions, whether for safari holidays or anything else, it really depends. Check when the rainy season arrives in the country you’re thinking about, because the rains can be heavy and make mud roads impassable. If you’re on a budget, it might be a good idea to avoid popular holiday times, such as Christmas and Easter. But whenever you go and whatever you do, you’re sure to have a holiday adventure quite like no other.
