10 Incredible Places To Visit In Africa

As we kick off another year, the longing for travel in 2024 feels more compelling than ever. Whether it’s the allure of remote islands or the serenity of untouched landscapes, the idea of exploring uncharted territories resonates deeply with many of us. As the travel bug bites, we’ve handpicked some standout destinations and must-try activities across Africa that we think deserve your time this year. From the beauty of Botswana to the magic of Madagascar, here are ten places that are sure to spark inspiration and encourage you to start planning your next unforgettable adventure in Africa. 

Africa boasts one of the most diverse landscapes on any continent, from lush rainforests and towering mountains to deep deserts, vast savannahs, and endless coastlines. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-timer seeking an action-packed itinerary, Africa offers destinations tailored to every style. Here are our top ten places in Africa that we think are worth adding to your 2024 travel bucket list.

Migration Masai Mara, Kenya

If you want to witness the magic of life in the African savannah, the Masai Mara Migration in Kenya is the place to be. From July to October, the vast plains of the Masai Mara become a playground for the Wildebeest Migration. Huge herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other antelopes make their annual trek from Tanzania's Serengeti in search of grasslands and water. The Mara River is at the heart of their daring river crossings as they battle currents and the watchful eyes of predators.

Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders and also one of the largest, measuring a whopping 1,708 metres wide and towering at 108 meters high. It sits perched on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe and has earned the well-deserved title of a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its outstanding natural beauty and ecological significance. It really is one of nature’s greatest gifts; the spray from the falls creates a unique microclimate in the surrounding area, which over time led to the formation of a rainforest, now home to a wide variety of incredible flora and fauna. It’s no surprise that the area all around Victoria Falls has been nicknamed the Adventure Capital of Africa; there’s so much to see and do here, from zip-lining and helicopter flights to white-water rafting and bungee jumping.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

If Botswana isn’t on your Africa travel list, it should be. The country is teeming with incredible natural wonders, including the UNESCO Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta, covering a huge 15,000 square kilometres at its peak. This particular delta stands out because its waters never actually reach the sea, unlike your typical deltas that tend to flow straight into the ocean. It provides a valuable water source and habitat for all the incredible wildlife that visits the delta – it varies depending on the season – from herds of elephants and lions to basking hippos and more bird species than you can ever imagine. You can experience a luxury safari on both land and water with Olo Safaris in Botswana, and one of the most popular ways to soak up the incredible Okavango Delta is by gliding silently through the waterways in a traditional mokoro – a dugout canoe that lets you get up close to wildlife in its natural setting.

Gorillas Trekking Virunga Mountains, Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda is one of those one-in-a-lifetime-pinch-me experiences. The Virunga Mountains are home to one of the few remaining populations of the majestic mountain gorillas, so getting to see them going about their daily business in their natural habitat is the ultimate privilege. The mountains are covered by a blanket of mist and dense bamboo forest, making for ample photo opportunities before even setting foot to search for gorillas. Treks are led by experienced, knowledgeable guides who teach you all about the gorillas’ behaviour and the conservation efforts to protect them and the surrounding landscape.

Cape Town, South Africa

We have recently come back from our honey/babymoon in Cape Town in South Africa, a place that’s brimming with different cultures, a rich history, outstanding natural beauty and drop-dead beaches. Aside from all the incredible hiking trails – like the famous Table Mountain and Lions Head – paired with the breathtaking beaches scattered all down the coastline, there’s so much to see and do in this vibrant city that’ll leave your itinerary jam-packed to the very top. It’s an adventure-lovers paradise, offering all kinds of thrilling experiences, like paragliding, surfing, kitesurfing and mountain biking. You can also get knee-deep in the culture here by sampling delicious Cape Malay cuisine, exploring the city’s mix of modern and historic architecture and strolling through one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. There are also picturesque vineyards and wine estates a short drive from the city, where world-class vino is produced. You can even see colonies of little African penguins splashing about on Boulders Beach.

Lower Zambezi, Zambia

Lower Zambezi National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife, from elephants and leopards to lions, hippos, and more. Its relatively remote location and limited tourism give it a sense of raw, untouched wilderness, providing the opportunity to enjoy an authentic safari experience away from hordes of people. The Zambezi River meanders through the park between the rugged landscapes and dense forest, acting as the lifeblood of the region. It creates a breathtaking backdrop for safaris and river cruises, where you can see gliding crocodiles, hippos, and all kinds of bird species. It's also home to a variety of luxurious safari lodges that bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to your safari experience.

See the lemurs in Madagascar

If you're contemplating heading on a once-in-a-lifetime holiday this year but you're feeling uncertain about where to begin, let us introduce you to the magic of Madagascar. This incredible country is often nicknamed the Eighth Continent because of its unique biodiversity and remoteness. Home to more wildlife and plant life than you could possibly imagine, Madagascar is a hotspot for anyone who wants to be totally immersed in breathtaking nature in its purest form. It's also the only place on the planet where lemurs are found naturally, spanning over 110 species across five families, from the tiny pygmy mouse lemur to the larger indri, known for its distinct bellowing songs. There are several places where you can see these wonderful animals in their natural habitat in Madagascar, including the lush Ranomafana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique ecosystems, diverse birdlife, and thermal springs believed to have medicinal properties.

Horse riding in the Namibia Desert, Namibia

The Namibia Desert is a place of ever-changing landscapes, made up of rolling dunes, ancient riverbeds and sandy plains, providing habitat for a diverse plant and animal life. Horse riding through the desert is just one of the many ways to explore the area’s incredible topography and embrace the slower mode of transportation that allows you to connect with the nature around you. Keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife as you navigate tall dunes and rugged land; the area is home to everything from rare puku and oribi antelopes to springboks, ostriches, and even spotted hyenas. If you happen to spend a night here, the Namibia Desert is particularly famous for its clear night skies, and the remoteness means you’ve got more chances to get a glimpse of sparkling constellations and celestial bodies.