Africa. The land of unfiltered adventure. It’s a destination we all dream of, but it can often feel overwhelming because of the continent’s sheer size… which country do you even begin in?! Not to worry though, we’ve broken it down into 35 unmissable experiences everyone should do in Africa.
1. See Victoria Falls from the water by rafting the Zambezi River
On the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, this is the largest waterfall in the world. It’s breathtaking any time of day, but we love the idea of a chill sunset boat cruise.
2. Bungee jump off Victoria Falls
Or better yet, why not take on the AMAZING adrenaline rush that is jumping off it?
3. Master the dunes on a quad bike or sand board
Whether in the Sossusvlei area of Namibia or the Kalahari Desert of Botswana – this is an unforgettable experience.
4. Go glamping in a national park
Try safari glamping at the foot of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania or in South Africa’s stunning Kruger Park.
5. Hot air balloon over the Masai Mara
A once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon safari experience is the best way to see the wild animals.
6. Try an authentic South African braai
The love of meat cooked over an open wood fire is a passion that all South Africans share, get in on the action and you won’t regret it.
7. Spot the Big 5 on safari
Lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape buffalo. The Serengeti, Masai Mara, Etosha National Park, Okavango Delta and Kruger National Park are just some of the best places to see them all.
8. Gaze upon the Ngorongoro Crater
This is the world’s largest inactive and intact volcanic caldera. And it. Is. Stunning.
9. Visit an elephant orphanage
At the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi, you can see how Contiki Cares is protecting these babies.
10. Go on a game drive, full Africa safari-style
We’re talking with the top down and khakis on.
11. Get a dose of culture during a Masai village tour
A short safari walk will take you to to a Masai village, where warriors can teach you about their culture and everyday lives co-existing with wild animals.
12. Climb a freakin’ mountain
We recommend the Marangu route up Kilimanjaro. This is a challenge worthy of any bucket list.
13. Wonder about the ancient world at the Pyramids of Giza
It’s the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and well worth a trip to Egypt to catch a glimpse.
14. See the sunset over the savannah
Ain’t nothing like a Serengeti sunset. Trust us.
15. See meerkats in the wild in their colony in Botswana
These charismatic critters are fun to watch all day, and yes you may be left squealing your heart out.
16. Think about climbing Big Daddy
…then climb a smaller red sand dune in Namibia!
17. Laze on the pristine Zanzibar beaches
Pure-white sands, pristine waters, stunning marine reserves? The Zanzibarian beaches just can’t be beaten.
18. ‘Ooh’ and ‘aah’ over the penguins at Boulders Beach in Cape Town
This iconic beach in South Africa is overrun with waddling penguins, plus it’s the perfect picnic spot.
19. Spot gorillas in Uganda
Trek deep into the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Reserve and you’ll be rewarded with a magical encounter with the elusive East African Gorilla.
20. See the eerie beauty of the petrified trees
This haunting sight is in Deadvlei (Dead Valley), Namibia. Cameras at the ready.
21. Feast your eyes on Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Salt Pan
It’s one of the largest salt flats in the world and all that remains of the formerly enormous Lake Makgadikgadi (which once covered an area larger than Switzerland).
22. Try a marine safari cruise
Cape Town is a great place to do this, and if you’re lucky, you can spot penguins, seals, sharks, and dolphins.
23. Gaze upon the towering glory of Dune 7 in Namibia
One of the tallest sand dunes in the world, this is a great intro to Namibia’s jaw-dropping landscape.
24. Take a Cape Town Township Tour
This is the chance to see the different housing and socio-economic areas in the city and learn how you can support those in poverty.
25. Cruise down The Nile on a ‘felucca’
A traditional Egyptian wooden sailing boat is the coolest way to tour The Nile.
26. Learn how people are working to stop animal poachers
Whether it’s a rhino conservation area or wild animal orphanage, booking an African anti-poaching experience will show you how you can do your bit.
27. Stay in a treehouse at Ngeou Camp in the Okavango Delta
This will help you understand the true meaning of camping out in the wild – plus you get to wake up to the beautiful sounds of all the surrounding wildlife.
28. Visit one of the oldest indigenous communities in the world
The Ju/Hoansi-San Living Village is the first Living Museum of Namibia. It’s a cultural highlight and you can learn how to shoot arrows and sing songs with the community.
29. Get right up close to giraffes
You can get within kissing distance to these gentle giants at The Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, Kenya.
30. Take a winery tour in Cape Town
Red, white or rosé? In this famous wine region, there’s something to suit all tastes.
31. Have a sundowner (AKA sunset cocktail) in Zanzibar
Whether you’re on Nungwi, Kendwa or perhaps Paje beach, the sunset views are incredible and best served with something chilled and refreshing.
32. Explore the oceans on a kayak safari in Namibia
From chilled lagoons to white-water rapids, this is an adventure you’ll never forget.
33. Tuck into a traditional African Boma dinner in Zimbabwe
Want to experience the warmth of Zimbabwean hospitality? Try an al fresco fire-lit Boma dinner with delicious Zimbabwean food, of course.
34. Climb Table Mountain in South Africa
Conquering this iconic peak will make you feel like you’re on top of the world.
35. Take a trip to buzzing Kigali
Rwanda’s capital is fast-becoming one of the most vibrant and exciting African cities. Explore the markets and art galleries or check out an outdoor concert.