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Africa's diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and incredible wildlife offer a unique adventure for. While the continent has its challenges, its richness in experiences and opportunities for exploration is unparalleled. With stunning scenery and warm hospitality, Africa is hard to overlook. This continent is rich in resources, from fertile agricultural lands to extensive deposits, showcasing a variety of cultures and natural beauty unique to each nation. Beyond renowned destinations like Morocco and South Africa, countless hidden gems await discovery Having lived in Congo for over a decade, I've ventured from the deserts of Morocco to the pyramids of Egypt, the Kenyan bush to Victoria Falls, and the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa. Africa is home to over3,000 protected wildlife areas, 198 marine protected areas, 50 biosphere reserves, and wetland reserves, making it the ultimate destination for travelers in search of an authentic safari experience.
African Safaris Destinations
East Africa
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Kenya
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Tanzania
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Uganda
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Rwanda
Discovering Africa: Essential Information You Should Know
Venturing to Africa for the first time is an indescribable journey. It is a continent overflowing with enchantment – from its breathtakingly diverse landscapes to its cultural tapestry and transformative encounters with wildlife.
As an expansive and culturally rich continent, Africa promises some of the most extraordinary travel adventures imaginable. It caters to every kind of traveller, whether you crave heart-pounding adventures, immersion in untouched wilderness, enlightening cultural exchanges, lavish retreats, or wildlife-filled safaris.
When to Go to Africa
When organizing your African safari or vacation, it's important to research best time to visit for the experience you seek. You wouldn't want to kick off your beach holiday during cyclone season or arrive only to find the migrating herds have already departed. Generally, Africa enjoys and sunny weather year-round. However, specific countries and even regions within them can have diverse climates. A crucial aspect to keep in mind when planning your African safari is the distinction between the dry and wet seasons in each region:
Southern Africa
Dry Seasons > May to October
Wet Season >Around November to April
East Africa
Dry Seasons > January to March and June to October
Wet Season >Around April to June and November to December
Best Time to Visit Southern Africa
Choosing the best time to visit Southern Africa depends entirely on what you want to see and do:
Experience Best Time
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Safari in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia May to October
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Cape Town beach holiday November to March
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Victoria Falls in full flood February to July
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Zebra migration in Botswana November to February
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Whale watching in South Africa July to November
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Mozambique beach holiday May to November
Wildlife Observation
Genuine African Safaris and Amazing Wildlife.
The dry season in Southern Africa spans from May to October, offering the best game viewing opportunities in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, except for Namibia, which remains excellent year-round. During the hotter, drier months at the end of the season, animals gather around dwindling waterholes, and the sparse vegetation makes wildlife sightings easier. While nights can be chilly in mid-winter, daytime temperatures are pleasant, and the risk of malaria is minimal. Conversely, the wet season lasts from December to March, characterized by hot occasionally humid weather, with brief but heavy rainfall. During this period, the landscape becomes lush and green, providing fantasticwatching opportunities, and many animals give birth, creating unique game viewing moments, especially when predators are on the hunt.
Beach Holidays
A beach holiday in Cape Town is ideal the peak summer months of December to February. You can look forward to lively beaches, a vibrant nightlife, and delightful sunny celebrations. By March, many tourists have left, leading to lower rates and less crowded beaches until April, making it a perfect time for a honeymoon in Africa. For Mozambique, the best travel period is from May to November, when temperatures are pleasant and likelihood of rain is minimal. We advise against traveling between January and February due to cyclone season in southern Mozambique.
Best Time to Visit East Africa
The seasons in East Africa are intricate, and your choice of when to visit should reflect the type of safari experience you wish have. Most safari regions in East Africa feature warm days, cool evenings, and excellent game viewing throughout the year.
However, it’s essential to consider the two distinct rainy seasons in the area:
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April to May (the 'long rains') -
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November to December (the 'short rains')
Typically, the long rains result in heavy afternoon downpours, leading many safari camps to close. In contrast, the short rains occasional brief showers, allowing safari camps to remain open and providing good game viewing opportunities.
Wildebeest Migration and Game Viewing
Most safari destinations in Kenya and major areas in Tanzania shine from January to the end of March and from June to October, when the weather is mild and dry. However, considering a safari during the short rainy season (November to December) can be rewarding. Game viewing remains excellent, crowds are minimal, and you can benefit from lower prices. For a Wildebeest Migration safari in the Serengeti, the ideal time is from January to September. Since the park is vast, it's crucial to be in the right spot at the right time to witness the action—check out our Wildebeest Migration guide for more details. To see the migration in the Masai Mara, plan your visit between June and.
Gorilla Hiking
Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is possible year-round. However, for a more enjoyable experience in the rainforests, consider trekking during the drier and cooler months of January and February, as well as from June to September. While these times offer more comfort for trekking, be prepared for humid and wet conditions with lots of mud (so don't forget your gaiters!).
Exotic Beach Getaways
For a tropical beach getaway, the ideal time to explore Tanzania’s coast, Zanzibar, and other islands is from June to March. If you're willing to gamble during the rainy season (April to May), you might experience a week of sunshine or week of rain, but you'll benefit from low season rates. Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast remains hot and humid year-round, with rain possible at any time. It's best to steer clear of the coast from March to May when both temperatures and rainfall peak.
Why visit Africa
6 Reasons to Experience Africa for First Time
Embarking on your first journey to Africa is an incredible adventure. The continent is filled with wonder, showcasing stunning and varied landscapes alongside a rich cultural heritage and transformative wildlife encounters. As a vast and diverse region, Africa provides some of the most remarkable travel experiences globally. Whether you crave exhilarating adventures, want to connect with untamed nature, seek enlightening cultural experiences, desire luxurious retreats, or aim for a wildlife-packed safari, there's something for every traveller. With its wide array of destinations, Africa offers a variety of holiday experiences in both East and Southern Africa.
The top safari destinations for first-timers include:
Kenya (Masai Mara National Park)
Tanzania (Serengeti National Park)
South Africa (Kruger National Park )
Botswana (Okavango Delta)
Zambia/Zimbabwe Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe/Zambia border
1. Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Africa.
The breathtaking natural landscapes of Africa are a major draw for travelers seeking adventure. In an era where urban and suburban life often overshadows nature, Africa presents a chance to truly engage with its pristine wilderness. Marvel at the stunning views and landmarks, from vast sand dunes to expansive grasslands and lush tropical rainforests While first-time visitors may be attracted by the diverse wildlife, thrilling safari experiences, cultural richness, or vibrant cities, assure you that the continent’s soul-stirring natural beauty will keep you returning time and again.
2. Explore the diverse cultures and rich history of Africa.
One of the greatest reasons to explore Africa is to immerse yourself in its diverse cultures and the continent's rich history. With 54 recognized countries, each nation boasts its own unique cultural heritage and intricate past. Traveling across Africa allows you to visit local villages and engage with traditional tribespeople, offering transformative insights into ancient customs and traditions. From the semi-nomadic Himba people in Namibia to the pastoral Maasai tribe in Tanzania and Kenya, there's a of knowledge to gain from Africa's inhabitants. For those who prefer a more structured approach to learning, the continent features numerous museums historical sites to explore, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial and Museum Rwanda, Dian Fossey's grave, the Karen Blixen Museum in Kenya, and the Apartheid and District Six museums in South Africa.
3.Genuine African Safaris and Amazing Wildlife.
Visiting Africa without going on safari should be considered a missed opportunity! A safari offers an immersive holiday experience, allowing you to traverse the continent's pristine landscapes observing African wildlife in their natural habitats. Guided by skilled professionals, you'll national parks, game reserves, and wildlife-rich areas through various activities, such as game drives, hot-air balloon rides, boat, canoeing, and nature walks. The incredible variety of wildlife is a major draw Africa, especially for first visitors. From the renowned Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) to beloved characters from the Lion King, like meerkats warthogs, hyenas, and wildebeest, Africa is truly a paradise for animal enthusiasts.
4. an Urban Safari in the Lively Cities of Africa.
Holidays in Africa extend far beyond luxury tented lodges in secluded bush areas. Safaris are just one of the many attractions that draw visitors to the continent. The lively cities across Southern and East Africa offer another compelling reason to explore. Africa is a vibrant blend of cosmopolitan centers that serve as both modern hubs and historical reflections of the past. Cape Town and Johannesburg are among the continent's most iconic cities, each offering a rich array of urban experiences. From the world-class dining and shopping in Cape Town, known as the Mother City, to the energetic nightlife of Johannesburg known as the City of Gold, there's something everyone. Similarly, cities like Arusha in Tanzania and Nairobi in Kenya are equally dynamic, albeit with their unique flair. These urban landscapes are steeped in rich culture and history, showcasing a blend of colonial architecture and contemporary design, alongside bustling street markets and distinctive local cuisine.
5.Explore Africa's incredible World Heritage Sites and geological marvels.
Africa's countless World Heritage Sites and geological wonders are truly captivating. While photographs of these natural landmarks are stunning, witnessing them firsthand is an enchanting experience that words can't fully express. Plus, you can immerse yourself in their beauty rather than observing from afar. Scale the towering sand dunes, such as Big Daddy and Dune 45, on a thrilling safari. Experience the majesty of the world's largest waterfall at Victoria Falls through various activities. Iconic destinations like Table Mountain and Mount Kilimanjaro invite you to hike, while the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest intact volcanic caldera, awaits your discovery with scenic rim walks and exciting game drives.
6.Relax in Paradise: Africa's Tropical Isles & Untouched Beaches
You might realize that Africa is also an incredible destination for tropical island and beach getaways. The continent is filled with beautiful islands and soft sandy beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters. Destinations like South Africa, Mozambique, Tanzania, provide exceptional beach vacations in luxurious yet resorts, lodges, and hotels. Moreover, Africa's breathtaking coastal locations complement a safari itinerary perfectly, allowing you to enjoy a delightful combination of bush and beach. There's nothing quite like wrapping up a week of exploring Africa's unspoiled landscapes with some well-deserved relaxation in paradise.
The Best Places to Go in Africa in 2025
Uganda
Choose from luxurious new lodges located in various national parks throughout the country.
“Put a stick in the ground and it will grow,” they say of the heart of Africa. From papyrus wetlands and semi-arid savannas to gorilla trekking in mist-shrouded forests and marvelling at alpine flora on snowcapped Mountains of the Moon—the nickname for the Rwenzori Mountain—Uganda offers wilderness in the raw, and in 2025 travellers will experience it in style.
Gorilla Forest Camp, an A&K sanctuary in the heart of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park—home to more than half the world’s mountain gorilla population—has always offered unparalleled access, but in April 2025, it will open with a gorgeous new design after a complete rebuild.
Also entirely reimagined and slated to open in early 2025 is neighbouring Silverback Lodge, offering 12 sumptuously furnished “nests” by award-winning Hesse Kleinloog studio (responsible for Rwanda’s Singita Kwitonda).
From either location, it’s fairly easy to tack on a stop in Kibale Forest National Park, and Volcanoes Safaris’ newly launched Kibale Lodge is an excellent reason to do so. At the end of 2025, you’ll also be able to base yourself at Lake Nyamirima Cottages, 30 minutes away, with views of surrounding crater lakes.
A game changer for the underrated Queen Elizabeth National Park is the opening of the River Station, the new luxury camp built by Wildplaces Africa on the banks of the Kazinga Channel. Wild Places is also busy in Murchison Falls National Park (MFNP) with Kulu Ora opening on a remote new concession on the banks of the Nile around Spring 2025.
Elsewhere in MFNP, Pabidi Lodge, Budongo will be built by Great Lakes Safaris in their Budongo Forest conservancy, on the site of a former Jane Goodall research centre.
And with Uganda Airlines’ new direct flight from Gatwick to Entebbe, getting here, at least for UK visitors, is now a cinch. Karibu sana (or “welcome”).
How to plan it: Gorilla trekking is a little easier in drier seasons (December to February; June to August), but Uganda is essentially a year-round destination. Multiple airlines fly to Entebbe, but to reach Bwindi’s southern sector (the only place you can book a four-hour habituation gorilla trek), you may want to consider flying into Kigali in neighbouring Rwanda and transferring by car.
Laikipia, Northern Kenya
Choose a peaceful, wildlife-abundant alternative to the Masai Mara.
Stretching from the Rift Valley to the slopes of Mount Kenya, the vast Laikipia Plateau is a compelling alternative to the Masai Mara—where overcrowding can impact the wilderness experience, especially during the peak of the migration. Offering exclusivity regardless of the season, private conservation projects in Laikipia’s wildlife conservancies have a limited tourism footprint. Game viewing has the edge over the Mara, too: Laikipia boasts the second-largest elephant population in Kenya, and more endangered species than anywhere else in East Africa. Tracking black (or melanistic) leopards is on every wildlife photographer’s bucket list, and Laikipia is home to the largest known population.
Half of Kenya’s rhinos are protected in private conservancies; when luxury lodge Segera opens its rhino sanctuary in 2025, it will become part of the Kenya Rhino Range Expansion (KRRE), an ambitious collaborative plan among neighboring conservancies to create one of the largest interconnected rhino sanctuaries in the world, straddling up to 840,000 acres. If you’re planning a safari in 2025,
AndBeyond will have you covered when it opens its plush Suyian Lodge in July, as part of a regenerative project in the 44,478-acre Suyian Conservancy in partnership with global conservation charity Space for Giants. Built between ancient granite kopjes with Mount Kenya views, the lodge’s 14 luxury, low-impact suites will be among the largest in the region, starting at a generous 1,292 square feet each.
How to plan it: From Nairobi, there are scheduled and charter flights to Nanyuki, the gateway to the Laikipia region, or direct ones to the private conservancies. Safarilink operates two daily scheduled flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Nanyuki and Lewa, with an approximate flying time of one hour, and Scenic Air and Air Wilderness both offer charter flights to destinations in Laikipia. In partnership, they offer a time-saving daily shared charter service linking Laikipia to the Masai Mara (flying time: 1 hour 40 minutes).
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Experience game viewing on the rim of a volcanic crater.
One of the world’s largest volcanic calderas has long been a top-tier safari destination, but there are compelling new reasons to visit Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater in 2025. In July, Lemala Camps & Lodges will open Lemala Osonjoi Lodge at the eastern edge of the crater; it will have 20 contemporary suites appointed with oversized beds and wood-burning stoves, a must in the region’s chilly highlands. Later in the year, Elewana will unveil Ngorongoro Explorer, the second hotel under its premier Explorer brand. Set at the highest point of the crater rim, the lodge looks down from 1,600 feet over the caldera. And there’s a reason so many travelers like to end their safari adventures with a sojourn on the sand: Bush and beach have been a pairing for the ages. The beguiling Tanzanian archipelago of Zanzibar is a natural add-on to any Ngorongoro Crater outing, and there are a handful of resorts worth keeping an eye on. Egyptian hotel group opened Jaz Adonia, a 182-room resort on a private beach in Uroa Bay, in October 2024; Jaz Amaluna and Jaz Aurora will follow in 2025. October also saw the reopening of AndBeyond Mnemba Island, a romantic getaway with 12 rustic-chic beachside bandas just off Zanzibar’s northeast coast, and in 2025, Marriott International brings its first Le Méridien property to the beaches of Bwejuu, on the main island’s east coast. There’s plenty of connectivity to both the Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar, but there’s always room for one more flight. In November, Air France inaugurates a Mount Kilimanjaro stop to its Paris-Zanzibar route, making it easier than ever to get here.
How to plan it: Begin your Tanzanian bush-and-beach journey in Ngorongoro Crater and finish in Zanzibar, flying between the Arusha Airport and Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. The dry season, from June through October, is the best time to visit both regions.
The Nile River, Egypt
Opt for: opulent cruises that meander through rich historical landscapes
Tourists looking to pair the pharaonic sites of Upper Egypt with a sail down the Nile will be spoiled for choice this year, thanks to a host of new riverboats that promise to raise the bar for five-star experiences along the iconic Luxor-Aswan circuit.
Oberoi has a busy year ahead: The Oberoi Zahra cruiser added a two-bedroom suite this October, and the brand is poised to introduce two new luxury dahabiya to its fleet: The Oberoi Melouk and the Malekat Luxury Nile Dahabeyas, each with five cabins and two suites, are designed in collaboration with Egyptian architect Karim Mekhtigian and slated for an early-2025 launch. Viking unveiled the four-deck, 41-suite Viking Sobek—its sixth ship on the Nile—in October 2024, while German company TUI River Cruises makes its Nile debut with the 74-cabin adults-only Al Horeya, setting sail in November 2024, with packages that include direct charter flights to Luxor from London Gatwick and Manchester. And Abercrombie & Kent, a pioneer when it launched its first Nile cruise, in 1977, will add a fifth vessel to its fleet in late 2025. Arriving in Luxor is becoming easier than ever now, too, thanks to a new, twice-weekly EasyJet departure from Gatwick; the airline’s holiday division has also teamed up with Jaz Hotels and Resorts’ 21-ship fleet to offer Nile cruise packages. For those preferring to stay on land, Luxor’s beloved boutique hotel Al Moudira has plans to open 12 local artisan workshops in 2025 to help showcase local craftspersons and keep generations-old traditions alive. And the US Agency for International Development (USAID) concluded several multiyear cultural tourism projects across the country this year, including renovations at the Carter House and the Tombs of the Nobles sites in Luxor and, 35 miles south, the revitalization of key sites in Esna. Of course, a trip to Egypt is not complete without a visit to Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza.
Winter 2025 will see the debut of the Jaz Palmira Pyramids Resort, and while it’s anyone’s guess when the much-delayed Grand Egyptian Museum will finally fully open, patrons can now book tours for the 12 main galleries, the Grand Staircase, and the Children’s Museum. The Tutankhamun galleries, which will feature all 5,000-plus artifacts discovered in the boy king’s tomb and two Khufu solar boats, remain under wraps—but there are promises that they are “coming soon.”
How to plan it: Some cruise itineraries include a few-days stopover in Cairo to see the sights before a one-hour flight to either Luxor or Aswan to begin the Nile journey. Tours typically last four days to a week, but a few companies offer the full 600-mile voyage from Cairo to Aswan over the course of two weeks. Whatever you choose, be sure to include the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples—a 45-minute flight south from Aswan.
Best to know
Visa and Entry Requirements
Before planning your trip, make sure to research visa and entry requirements for the specific country or countries you plan to visit. Each nation may have different regulations, so it's important to obtain the required visas and permits in advance. Fortunately, more countries are updating their visa policies to make travel easier.
Health Precautions:
"Remember that Africa is home to various tropical that may vary depending on your destination. It's important to consult a healthcare professional and inform them of the specific areas you'll be visiting for the best recommendations on vaccinations and health precautions. Be sure to bring necessary medications insect repellents, and remain mindful of food and water."
Cultural Sensitivity:
Africa is home to incredible diversity, showcasing numerous ethnicities and cultures. It is important to exhibit respect and understanding of local customs and traditions. When suitable, dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos, and make an effort to learn a few basic phrases in the local language a sign of respect.
Safety Tips:
Stay safe by keeping yourself updated on the current political climate, local customs, and possible risks. You might be surprised to learn that many African countries are deemed safer than certain locations in the Caribbean. Always fact-check before dismissing a country. Ensure your belongings are secure, refrain from showcasing valuable items, and exercise caution when navigating unfamiliar areas.
Currency and Payment Methods:
Familiarize yourself with the local currency and exchange rates. While credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially when exploring more locations.
Transportation&Infrastructure:
Familiarize yourself with the transportation options in the region you’re visiting. Africa offers various methods of transportation, with some areas featuring advanced infrastructure while others may be more challenging. Planning ahead and staying flexible with your travel arrangements is crucial. Keep in mind that getting around the continent can be tricky, so consider researching available flights before finalizing your itinerary for certain countries.
Weather and Climate:
Africa's climate is diverse, ranging from arid deserts to lush tropical rainforests. It's essential to check the weather for your specific destination and pack accordingly. Be ready for unexpected shifts in temperature and weather conditions. If your journey includes a flight to a more remote area on a small plane, ensure you have a duffle bag for packing your clothes for that part of the trip.
Wildlife Safaris:
When planning a safari, it's important to research the ideal time for optimal wildlife viewing. Familiarize yourself with park regulations, adhere to ethical guidelines, and choose reputable guides to enhance your safari experience. Additionally, I strongly suggest spending a few nights in a park or conservancy to fully immerse yourself in the adventure.
Local Cuisine:
Discover the rich and varied flavors of African cuisine, while keeping your dietary and potential food allergies mind. Street food can an authentic taste of the culture, but aware of the risks on your location on the continent For instance, in, tap water is safe to drink, whereas in Uganda, filtration is necessary.
Connectivity and Communication:
Ensure you verify the availability of internet and mobile network coverage in the locations you intend to visit. Keep in mind that some remote areas may have limited service, but this can be a perfect opportunity to disconnect and unwind. Consider buying local SIM cards for improved connectivity and utilize communication apps to keep in touch with family and friends. It's great that phones now come with electronic SIM cards, making it easy to switch and add countries.
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