Africa is a vast continent, the second largest in the world. It comprises of 54 different countries. It also has countless different landscapes, and a myriad of unique ethnic groups that share different traditions, history, norms, beliefs and religion. With that in mind, it’s almost impossible to pick a top 10 list of things to do in Africa while on your African safari tours, but we’ve come up with a few of the most iconic options for your vacation. From culinary tours to wildlife adventures.
Wildlife Safaris
Africa has a lot of untamed wildlife! There are lots of animals that you can see in the wild safari parks in East and Southern Africa. From the popular big five safaris to small eco-friendly small group safaris in less known national parks, there is a lot to see on a wildlife safari in Africa. Some of the popular animals to see include lions, leopards, buffaloes, vast variety of antelopes, gazelles, hippos etc.
In East Africa, you can witness the annual Great Migration of millions of wildebeest from a hot-air balloon, or track endangered mountain gorillas through the rain forests of Uganda and Rwanda. Southern Africa offers plenty of opportunities for spotting the Big Five in a game vehicle.
There are lots of national parks where you can enjoy an African safari. Top national parks in East Africa include Masai Mara National Park, Serengeti National Park, Amboseli National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park etc. Within Southern Africa, there is Kruger Namibia, Etosha National Park, Chobe National Park etc.
Primate Safaris
Africa has a wide variety of primates. There are over 216 different primate species recorded in Africa. Of these 111 primates are found on the main land while 105 are found in Madagascar. Would you like to see primates on a safari in Africa?
Why not visit Madagascar and see some of the best primates looked for in Africa such as different species of Lemurs.
Going on a gorilla and wildlife safari in East Africa. Book a primate safari in Uganda and meet the popular mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, baboons, golden monkeys etc.
Relax on a Beach
Africa’s beach resorts have attracted European sun-seekers to their shores for decades. But if you want to escape the crowds, head further south. Africa’s east coast offers the beach-lover everything from budget huts on the idyllic Indian Ocean in Zanzibar, to ultra-luxurious private islands in the Seychelles. Africa’s west coast is lined with thousands of miles of palm-fringed beaches. The currents make swimming a little challenging at times, but the surfing is fantastic.
Hike a Mountain
Africa offers wonderful hiking and trekking opportunities. The obvious choices for mountain enthusiasts are Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya and Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. But South Africa’s Drakensberg Mountains are an absolute delight for a half-day hike or a longer multi-day trek. Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains and Ethiopia’s Simian Mountains are lesser known but offer several of Africa’s highest peaks.
Explore on Two Wheels;
For those that enjoy a challenge, exploring Africa by bike is a great way to discover the continent. Riding a bike puts you in direct contact with the people, landscapes, and wildlife that make Africa special; while the slower pace allows you enough time to soak it all in.
Make a Difference Volunteering;
Volunteering lets you scratch below the surface and gain an appreciation of a culture very different from your own. Spending time teaching, working and living alongside a community also leads to a deeper understanding about yourself, what you take for granted and what you should appreciate back home. It’s a great way to experience Africa at a level beyond a consumer or voyeur. There are lots of options, from helping out for a few days to volunteering for several months. Many of these programs are fundraising initiatives for charities, so expect to pay a fee for your experience.
Discover the Continent’s History;
The evolution of man starts in Africa and Tanzania’s Olduvai Gorge is a great destination for anyone interested in our bi-pedal ancestors. A few million years later, the San in southern Africa were adorning caves with magnificent paintings. 5,000 years ago, the Egyptians were already busy building monuments and tombs that still stand today.
Be Wildly Adventurous;
High-octane adventure exists around every corner in Africa. At Victoria Falls, you can bungee off a bridge, swim up to the edge of the world’s largest waterfall, or white-water raft down some of the wildest rapids on Earth. Uganda and Ethiopia also offer first-class rafting. Senegal is known for its legendary surf spots, while Namibia is famous for sand-boarding and 4×4 adventures.
Shop in Local Markets and Bazaars;
Visiting markets and bazaars in Africa is a wonderful way to see local artisans at work while simultaneously getting an authentic insight into a country’s culture and food. Markets and bazaars also provide fantastic photo opportunities. Practice your bargaining skills and discover the fun side of stocking up on souvenirs. By shopping in markets and stores around town you also help the local economy.