Sights of the African Continent; Nature, wildlife and History
Africa is a vast continent with countless tourist destinations worth visiting. On a trip to Africa, you can visit the Maasai Mara people in Kenya, watch the Serengeti plains or relax on a tropical island.
The sights of the African continent are amazingly diverse and beautiful, and there is no end to what can be seen, done and explored there. If you dream of traveling to this continent, be sure to plan so that you can see the sights of Africa that are introduced below.
1. It Benhado, Morocco
The amazing city of Ait Benhaddou is located on the edge of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. Also known as the “City of Raw Clay,” it is a sturdy, ancient stop that served as a haven for travelers traveling between the Sahara Desert and Morocco. On a trip to the city of It Benhado you can visit the mud houses, take a tour of the ancient grain granary (Granary) which is located on the top of the hill and even visit the tomb of Bin Haddou.
In spring and summer the weather is usually hot and humidity is high; But autumn has milder weather and because it is not closed, you see less tourists in the city and as a result, hotels and other tourist services are cheaper.
۲. Izalo National Park, Madagascar
The island of Madagascar is located just off the coast of Mozambique in the waters of the Indian Ocean. The island has many attractions, but without a doubt Izalu National Park is one of the best, which is also on the list of the best places to see in Africa. In this park, you will see a wide range of landscapes with different structures.
Get ready for huge valleys, lush palm oases and even unique sandstone structures. It is better to get help from a guide for sightseeing in Izalo National Park. Camping can also be a wonderful experience on a trip to this national park.
The best time to visit this park is the dry seasons; Because unlike wet seasons when the ground is slippery, hiking trails will be easy to use.
3. Zanzibar or Zanzibar, Tanzania
The Zanzibar Archipelago is located off the coast of Tanzania. This region is semi-autonomous and is a unique destination for traveling on the African continent. In Zanzibar, you will see an attractive mix of Arabic, Middle Eastern, Murray and Indian architecture. In this archipelago, there are beautiful beaches that are of world quality; And In addition, Zanzibar has a tumultuous history that is well-preserved. Be sure to visit its capital, Stone Town, and visit several spectacular museums and an old 17th-century castle.
The best time to visit the Zanzibar archipelago is the dry seasons, July to September. However, at other times of the year, you can easily explore this area, as the weather is usually sunny and the temperature is pleasant.
4. Janah, Mali
Djenne is perhaps the most historically and architecturally attractive city in Mali. The city played an important role in the gold desert trade and is still a regional hub , thanks to the weekly market that draws residents to the surrounding area. The most amazing sight of Jannah is the Jannah Grand Mosque, which is the largest building made of raw clay in the world; For this reason, it is one of the top sights on the African continent. This historical mosque dates back to the 13th century AH. However, its construction was officially completed in 1907.
October, November, December and January, the dry seasons, are the best times to visit Mali.
5. Lake Malawi, Malawi, Tanzania and Mozambique
Lake Malawi is one of the largest water areas in Africa. As the name implies, most of the lake is on the border with Malawi, but extends as far as Tanzania and Mozambique. If you want to see Lake Malawi, one of the best ways is to visit Lake Malawi National Park, which is located at the southern end of the lake. Along the miles of hiking and hiking trails in the park, there are places from which you can enjoy a unique view of the lake and take stunningly beautiful photos.
Learn a little more about Malawi: Malawi, despite being a small country, has many attractions for tourists (beautiful lake, diverse wildlife and lovely locals). At Lake Malawi, Africa’s third largest lake, tourists can take part in water sports such as kayaking and boating, sunbathe on the white sand beach or go scuba diving to watch the colorful cichlid fish.
The small country also has nine national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, making it a great and secluded option for safaris . To see the wildlife, it is best to travel to Malawi during the dry seasons, from April to November.
The weather is very hot in Malawi from November to April; Therefore, it is better to travel to this region in the dry season of the year, ie from early May to late October. At this time of year on the shores of Lake Malawi we see hot, sunny and dry days and the weather is great for fun.
6. Autosha National Park, Namibia
Autosha National Park is Namibia’s second largest animal conservation area. This national park was built around the Autosha salt flat, as native animals are more inclined to this area and live around the salt marsh. As a result, Autosha National Park is an incredibly attractive place to see wildlife.
Be sure to bring binoculars, as you can see zebras, African gazelles, giraffes, elephants and other animals that live here. 3 camps are designed to accommodate visitors, allowing you to see the animals in their natural habitat 24 hours a day.
The best time to visit Autosha is between May and December. It rains a lot from January to March, but you can still visit the park these days.
7. Lalibla, Ethiopia
The city of Lalibela in Ethiopia is considered a pilgrimage city and is one of the most historic sights of the African continent. Lalibela has 11 integrated rock churches that are very enjoyable to explore. Most of the inhabitants of this country are Orthodox Christians and most of the churches were built in the 12th and 13th centuries.
If you have limited time and can only visit one of these churches, it is best to visit Bet Giyorgis, which is cross-shaped and made entirely of stone.
October and March are the best time to visit Lalibela in terms of weather.
8. Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Virunga National Park is located near the eastern border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, minutes from Uganda. The Virunga was founded in 1925 by King Albert of Belgium and was the first national park in Africa. In the past, poaching was a serious problem for the park, but today it has become a growing tourist destination.
Virunga National Park is famous for its mountain gorillas, but Tongo chimpanzees also live here. You can even climb the summit of Niragongo volcano to see the world’s largest lava lake.
Despite the occasional rain, Virunga is a destination for all seasons. July to September is the driest time of the year and, like most sub-Saharan Africa, can be a great travel destination.
9. Fish River Strait, Namibia
The amazing Fish River Canyon in southern Namibia is one of the largest valleys in the world. Here you will see spectacular and impressive scenes. As one of the natural wonders of this continent, Fish River Strait is one of the most popular sights in Africa. If you are interested in adventure, you can walk along the path of Fish River Strait or fly over it and watch the colorful rocks of the gorge, the color of which contrasts with the blue water of the river.
You can travel to Fish River Strait all year round, but May to October (dry season) is an ideal time to travel. From November to March, the rain is very heavy and from December to February, the temperature becomes unbearable.
10. Marzuga, Morocco
Merzouga is a small village, but it attracts a lot of tourists. The village is located in the Sahara Desert of Africa and is surrounded by sand dunes called Erg Chebbi. Most of the Marzuga population is made up of Berbers ; A group whose tradition is nomadic. If you travel to this village, ride a camel and go to the sand dunes and observe the Berber way of life up close . In addition, you can watch the birds in their natural habitat in the spring. At this time of year, a wide variety of birds migrate from this area.
Spring from March to May is a good time to visit Marzuga. If you like to travel in autumn weather, you can choose Marzuga as your destination. During this period, the weather is not too hot and you can enjoy the fresh air in the desert.
۱۱. Praslin, Seychelles
Praslin is the second largest tropical island in the Seychelles, located in the heart of the Indian Ocean. There are several luxury resorts built on the island, but the two main attractions of Proslin are Anse Lazio Beach and the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. Anse Lazio is a beautiful beach with clear water and great opportunities for surface diving (snorkeling) .
The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve consists of a protected palm forest and is home to countless reptiles and birds, including the rare Seychelles black parrot .
From December to February, the weather on Praslin Island is very pleasant and tourists can enjoy the warm weather.
۱۲. Okavango Delta, Botswana
The Okavango Delta is where the Okavango River reaches the Kalahari Basin. Seeing this delta is a wonderful experience, because around the water source is always full of wild animals that live in this area. The Okavango Delta is perfect for safaris. Here you can also enjoy unparalleled views. All these factors have made this delta one of the top sights in Africa.
One of the best ways to explore the Okavango Delta is by air, which allows you to see the winding Okavango River and some large wildlife.
September and October, which are hot and dry, are a good time to visit the Okavango Delta; Because thirsty animals circle around the water to water themselves. From November to April, which is the rainy season, the Okavango Delta is a great bird watching destination.
13. Black River George National Park, Mauritius
Another stunning island in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa is Mauritius. Mauritius is known for its tropical beaches and climate, and the magnificent Black River Gorges National Park. This park is relatively new and was established in 1994 to protect the natural beauty of the island. While visiting Black River National Park, you can hike on specific routes and enjoy the native wildlife and beautiful waterfalls.
But the beauty of Mauritius is not limited to this national park. One of the main attractions of the African continent on this island is its luxury resorts.
However, French colonial architecture draws locals to the country near Madagascar with its friendly demeanor and fragrant teas. After sightseeing and sunbathing, head to one of the best restaurants on the island and taste its seafood.
۱۴. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most famous sights on the African continent, located in the northernmost point of Tanzania, near the border with Kenya. Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and the highest independent mountain in the world, and every tourist aspires to climb such a magnificent peak. Of course, climbing this peak is not for everyone, but for ordinary tourists, there are different ways to explore the area. At the foot of the mountain, there are shorter and easier routes with beautiful waterfalls and amazing views.
In general, we recommend choosing the hottest and driest months of the year to climb Kilimanjaro, from December to mid-March and from mid-June to late October; But you should know that at this time of year, Kilimanjaro is full of tourists and climbers.
۱۵. Buindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
If you are interested in seeing rare wildlife, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is the place to be when planning your trip to Africa. With the permission of the Ugandan Wildlife Authority, you can take a nature trail from the village of Bohoma to Nikoringo or kayak in the beautiful lakes of the region.
However, the main attraction of Buindi is the gorillas that live in it. Buindi Forest is one of the best places in the world to watch mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Buindi is open all year round for wildlife watching and adventurous safaris. However, the best time of year to visit this national park is from June to August and from December to February. During this period, it rains less and the forest paths are not difficult to cross.
۱۶. Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger National Park is one of the best known parks in South Africa and is named in honor of former President Paul Krueger. The park has three main purposes: protection, education and tourism. You can take a tour of the park with your own license; But most tourists prefer to join guided tours or safari tours.
One of the most important sights on the African continent is the Kruger National Park, the Crocodile River, the Iron Age village known as Masorini and the presence of wildlife (lions, buffalo, rhinos, African elephants and leopards). Most visitors come to Kruger National Park to see the area’s wildlife.
Undoubtedly, the dry winter season from May to October is the best time to visit Kruger for animal watching and safari.
۱۷. Morocco city, Morocco
Marrakech is the third largest city in Morocco, after Rabat and Casablanca. With its ancient history and amazing architecture, it is the most popular tourist destination in Morocco and one of the most amazing sights in Africa. The historical area of the city of Morocco is known as “Medina” and its main square (Djemaa El-Fna) is a very crowded place and you can see the fighters with their snakes and captives (does this scene remind you of the Sinbad cartoon?)
In this square There are many shops where you can buy souvenirs for your loved ones. After shopping, go to one of the local baths to get rid of the tiredness of surfing.
The best time to visit Morocco is from March to May and between September and November. At this time of year, the air conditioning and hotel prices are very cheap.
۱۸. Luxor, Egypt
The Nile River divides the ancient Egyptian city of Luxor in two. The Temple of Luxor, as well as unique museums such as the Museum of Luxor and the Museum of Mummy, are located on the East Coast. On the other side of the Nile River in the West Bank, you can go to the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens for adventure. The Valley of the Kings is one of the most significant sights of the African continent, as it is the burial place of many kings of ancient Egypt.
The best time to visit Luxor is from March to April and between October and November. During these months, the weather is very favorable for sightseeing, the number of tourists is low and the cost of hotels is low.
19. Angorunguru Protected Area, Tanzania
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of several African landmarks in Tanzania. The area is named after a volcanic crater in the center of the protected area. Nature and tourism enthusiasts can choose this protected area as their destination for their trip to the African continent. Animals such as African buffalo, black rhino, hippopotamus, all Yaldar and Tanzanian cheetah live in this area and you have the chance to see the African wildlife as well.
The scenery from November to May, which is rainy and humid, is lush and spectacular.
20. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, the capital of South Africa, is a historic and vibrant city that was chosen because of its location at Cape of Good Hope. To get acquainted with the history of Cape Town, it is best to take a tour of its sights, such as the colorful houses in Bucap and Ruben Island (where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were previously imprisoned).
One of the most prominent sights of the African continent in Cape Town is Table Mountain, which you can climb to see the stunning views of Good Hope Cape as well as the city itself. If you are interested in mountaineering, climb the mountain top, otherwise you can ride the cable car.
The weather in Cape Town is mild, hot and dry from October to April. You experience the highest temperatures in December and February, which is a good time for beach trips.
۲۱. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
There are different ethnic groups living in Africa, but few of them are attracted to the Masai people . The group lives in the Masai Mara National Reserve in southern Kenya. Every year thousands of tourists come to this area to enjoy the natural scenery and wildlife. In addition to the chance to see animals such as rhinos and lions in their natural habitat, you can visit one of the local villages to get acquainted with the culture, food, customs and clothes of this people.
You can go to Masai Mara all year round to watch the wild animals. However, those looking for an opportunity to watch the Yaldar migration migrate should visit the area from July to October.
۲۲. Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls is located right on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and on the Zambezi River. In Zimbabwe, this waterfall, as well as the surrounding city, is known as Victoria Falls. Across the border in Zambia, this waterfall is called Mosi-oa-Tunya. The beauty of Victoria Falls multiplies from December to March, as it is the rainy season and less visible at other times of the year.
While canoeing or rafting near the waterfall, you can also enjoy the beautiful natural scenery or watch the romantic sunset on the cruise ship.
The best time of year to visit the spectacular Victoria Falls is from February to May, right after the end of the summer rains. During this period, we see the largest volume of waterfall water.
23. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
The Serengeti National Park, located in northeastern Tanzania, is one of the most stunning protected areas in Africa. “Serengeti” means the endless plains, and this is exactly what you will see in this park. More than 1 million terns and more than 200,000 zebras migrate through these plains every year.
While visiting Serengeti National Park, you can also see wildlife such as cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, wild cattle, mountain deer and more. If you want a more exciting trip, you can go on a hot air balloon ride or take a safari tour, one of the most prominent sights of the African continent.
The best time to visit Serengeti National Park is from January to February or from June to September.
۲۴. Pyramid of Giza, Egypt
If you have always dreamed of seeing the pyramids of Egypt, be sure to make the Pyramid of Giza your next destination. Giza is the gateway to Egypt’s most iconic structures, located very close to Cairo. On a trip to this area, you can enter the Great Pyramid of Khufu, which is now the last surviving structure of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World.
The Sphinx, several small pyramids and a number of museums are other Giza attractions that help explain the role of these pyramids and their importance in Egyptian history.
If your main concern is the weather, the best time to visit Egypt is autumn, winter or early spring, when the weather is cooler. If you are bothered by crowds, it is best to avoid traveling to Egypt and the Pyramids of Giza in December and January, which is a busy season.
۲۵. Cairo, Egypt
The heat of the desert, the noisy streets and the vast expanse of Cairo shock even the most adaptable tourists. You may not like the hustle and bustle of street vendors, the smell of cattle, and the seemingly chaotic lifestyle; But be patient. Have a cup of tea and wander the ancient streets of the city and watch the sunset along the great Nile River. It will not be long before the treasures of their city will reveal to you.
Most tourists go to the Egyptian capital to see the wonders of the ancient world and to discover the footprints of the pharaohs. Cairo has two faces: on the one hand, the inhabitants of the city have accepted history and are happy with their progress, and on the other hand, the ancient pyramids of Giza, Dehshour and Saqqara are at war with Zamalek and Heliopolis neighborhoods in order to attract tourists.
Taxis with frequent horns want to overtake the donkeys that are barking in the narrow streets. On the one hand, the call to prayer is heard calling Muslims to prayer, and on the other hand, the loud music of lounge music pervades the region. “Coexistence of differences” is a term that describes Cairo.
The best time to visit Cairo is from March to April and from October to November when the weather is nice and the tourist population is low. The cost of hotels is low most days of the week.
and at the end
What do you think about traveling to Africa? Do you have interest in such attractions? If you have ever traveled to this continent and know the sights of the African continent that may be attractive to Iranian tourists, be sure to let us know.