Discovering the Wonders of Africa: 10 Must-Visit Cities for Your Next Adventure

Africa is an incredibly diverse continent with a rich history, vibrant cultures, and stunning natural landscapes. With so many different cities to choose from, it can take time to figure out where to start when planning a visit to Africa. Here are some of the top cities in Africa that you should consider visiting and why they are worth a trip.

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is a city in western Morocco known for its beautiful architecture, bustling souks, and delicious food. The city’s medina, or old town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to many historic landmarks and attractions, such as the Bahia Palace and the Koutoubia Mosque. The Jemaa el-Fnaa square is another popular spot in Marrakech, where you can find food vendors, street performers, and henna artists.

One of the most unique experiences you can have in Marrakech is visiting a traditional hammam, a type of steam bath used in Morocco for centuries.

Many hotels and spas in the city offer hammam treatments, which involve scrubbing and massaging with black soap and a kessa glove.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a coastal city in South Africa known for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. One of the most famous landmarks in Cape Town is Table Mountain, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding ocean. You can hike to the top of the mountain or take a cable car for a more leisurely experience.

Another popular attraction in Cape Town is the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a shopping and entertainment complex located on the harbour. Here, you can find restaurants, shops, museums, boat tours, and other activities.

Cape Town is also a great place to learn about the history of South Africa, particularly the legacy of apartheid. The Robben Island Museum, located on an island off the coast of Cape Town, was once a prison where many anti-apartheid activists, including Nelson Mandela, were held. Today, the museum offers tours of the prison and insights into the country’s struggle for freedom and democracy.

Cairo, Egypt

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and is known for its ancient history and stunning architecture. The most famous attraction in Cairo is the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The pyramid, along with the Sphinx and other nearby pyramids, is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Egypt.

Another popular attraction in Cairo is the Egyptian Museum, which is home to many artefacts from ancient Egypt, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. The museum is currently undergoing renovation but is expected to reopen with updated exhibits and a more modern design.

One of the unique experiences you can have in Cairo is riding on a felucca, a traditional wooden sailboat that has been used on the Nile River for thousands of years. Many local companies offer felucca tours, which can be a peaceful and relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective.

Lagos, Nigeria

Lagos is a city that is known for its vibrant energy and cultural scene. The city is Nigeria’s economic and cultural hub and is a great place to experience the country’s culture and traditions. One of the most iconic landmarks in Lagos is the National Museum, which is home to various exhibits that showcase Nigeria’s rich history and culture.

Another must-visit destination in Lagos is the Lekki Conservation Centre, which is home to a variety of wildlife and offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The city’s beaches, such as Bar Beach and Tarkwa Bay Beach, are also great places to relax and unwind.

Lagos is also a great to experience Nigerian cuisine, with many restaurants offering traditional dishes such as jollof rice, egusi soup, and suya. 

Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi is a city that is known for its wildlife and natural beauty. The city is located near several national parks and game reserves, making it a great place to experience the beauty of Kenya’s wildlife. One of the most iconic landmarks in Nairobi is the Nairobi National Park, which is located just a few kilometres outside the city and is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and zebras.

In addition to its wildlife, Nairobi is also a great place to experience Kenya’s rich culture and history. The National Museum of Kenya is a must-visit destination, with exhibits showcasing Kenya’s history, culture, and wildlife. The city’s vibrant cultural scene is also a must-visit destination, with many theatres and galleries showcasing traditional Kenyan art and music.

Nairobi is also a great place to experience Kenyan cuisine, with many restaurants offering traditional dishes such as nyama choma (roasted meat) and ugali (a cornmeal-based dish). 

Dakar, Senegal

Dakar is a city that is known for its vibrant culture and music scene. The city is located on the coast of Senegal and is a great place to experience the country’s music, art, and cuisine. One of the most iconic landmarks in Dakar is the African Renaissance Monument, the tallest statue in Africa and a great place to experience the country’s culture and traditions.

Another must-visit destination in Dakar is Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a reminder of the country’s history as a hub of the slave trade. The island is home to several museums and exhibits that showcase the history of the slave trade and its impact on Senegal.

Dakar is also known for its vibrant music scene, with many clubs and bars offering live music and entertainment. 

Zanzibar City, Tanzania

Zanzibar City is the cultural capital of Zanzibar, a small island off the coast of Tanzania. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The city’s most famous landmark is Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful architecture and winding alleyways.

Visitors can also explore the city’s many markets, which offer a range of goods, including spices, textiles, and handmade crafts. 

The city is also home to many beautiful beaches, including the famous Nungwi Beach, where visitors can relax and soak up the sun.

Accra, Ghana

Accra is a city that is known for its vibrant culture and history. The city is the capital of Ghana and is a great place to experience the country’s culture and traditions. One of the most iconic landmarks in Accra is the Independence Arch, which is a symbol of the country’s independence from British colonial rule.

Another must-visit destination in Accra is the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, which is a museum and memorial to the country’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah. The park is home to several exhibits showcasing Ghana’s history and culture.

Accra is also a great to experience Ghanaian cuisine, with many restaurants offering traditional dishes such as jollof rice and fufu. 

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Addis Ababa is the capital city of Ethiopia, and it is the political and cultural heart of the country. The city is located in the highlands of Ethiopia and has a mild and pleasant climate. It is known for its museums and galleries, its beautiful architecture, and the African Union headquarters.

One of the main reasons to visit Addis Ababa is to experience Ethiopian culture, one of the world’s oldest and most unique cultures. Visitors can explore the city’s many markets and find traditional clothing, handicrafts, and spices. 

The city is also known for its coffee; visitors can enjoy traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremonies at local cafes.

Victoria, Seychelles

Victoria is the capital city of the Seychelles, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean. The city is known for its stunning natural landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. The city’s most famous landmark is the Clock Tower, an exquisite monument built in 1903.

Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums and galleries, which showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. 

The city is also home to many beautiful beaches, including the popular Beau Vallon Beach, where visitors can swim, snorkel, and relax in the sun.

In Conclusion

Africa is a continent that is often underestimated and misunderstood, but it is a place full of culture, history, and natural beauty. The cities mentioned in this article are just a few examples of Africa’s many vibrant and exciting destinations. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the stunning natural beauty of Cape Town, there is something for everyone in Africa. So if you are looking for a unique and exciting travel experience, consider visiting one of these fantastic African cities.

Top Tip:

When travelling to any new destination it is essential to check which vaccinations you will need before entering the country.