Africa
Africa, a land of stirring contrasts and profound beauty. From the ancient pyramids of Egypt to the majestic savannahs of the Serengeti, from the bustling markets of Marrakech to the serene beaches of Mauritius — Africa offers an adventure that is unmatched, raw, and deeply soul-touching.
At Northern Wanderers, our hearts have been captivated by the rhythms, colours, and stories of this enchanting continent. Trekking through vast deserts, celebrating local festivals, and dancing to the beats of traditional drums, we’ve crafted travel guides that are as diverse and spirited as Africa itself.
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone seeking spiritual and cultural immersion, our guides are designed to bring you closer to the true essence of Africa. Bursting with insider tips, budget-friendly recommendations, and tales from hidden corners, our goal is to make your African journey unforgettable.
So, ready your backpack, fuel your wanderlust, and stride forth with Northern Wanderers into the heart of Africa. Here’s to sunsets that paint the sky and adventures that stir the soul!
Select a country below or search for your destination:
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Africa is during the drier winter months, from May to September, when vegetation thins out and wildlife congregates around remaining water sources. The large southern game reserves are at their best during this time.
However, Africa is a year-round destination, its varying climates providing good conditions for a visit in one region or another at every time of year.
The green season, from November to April, offers lush vegetation, good birdwatching and often lower prices. While some areas see heavy rains during these months, it’s a good time of year to see Victoria Falls, go diving in Zanzibar, or track chimpanzees in Rwanda
What To Expect
Northern Africa: Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia, make up the North Africa region. The main language spoken is Arabic, and Islam is the dominant religion. It’s famous for its natural wonders like the Sahara Desert, the Atlas Mountains, the Nile River, and the Red Sea.
Southern Africa: Southern Africa is one of the most travelled regions in Africa for locals and international visitors. It’s made up of Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Some of the most popular destinations include Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Sossusvlei, Chobe National Park, and Kruger National Park.
Central Africa: The Central Africa region is made up of Cameroon, Central Africa Republic, the DRC, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Republic of the Congo, Sao Tome, and Principe, and South Sudan. Due to political instability, it’s one of the least visited regions in Africa, and some countries have little to none tourist infrastructure.
Western Africa: The easiest country to visit in West Africa is Ghana and is often called “Africa for Beginners”. It boasts varied landscapes, beautiful beaches, and excellent surfing conditions. Other popular destinations include Senegal, Gambia, Benin, and Cape Verde.
Eastern Africa: East Africa is home to some of Africa’s top safari destinations with incredible wildlife. Travel to Kenya or Tanzania to watch the Great Migration that takes place between July and September every year or trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Madagascar, Seychelles, Reunion, and Mauritius are only a short flight from the mainland and are great options for travellers looking for a luxury honeymoon. Uganda is an amazing place for seeing wildlife and gorilla trekking.
Guides by Country
Most Popular Posts
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Africa
(Note: Africa is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
1. Witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara
One of nature’s most spectacular events, the Great Migration, is a sight to behold. Every year, over a million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle traverse the vast plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania and move towards the Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of fresh pastures. This epic journey presents dramatic moments of life and death as the herds face predators and cross perilous rivers. A safari during this period offers an unfiltered glimpse into the raw beauty and brutal realities of the African wilderness.
2. Scaling the Heights of Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak and the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, offers a challenging yet rewarding trek. Situated in Tanzania, this majestic mountain presents climbers with a unique journey through diverse ecosystems — from tropical rainforests to alpine meadows and finally, a snowy summit. Reaching the ‘Roof of Africa’ is not just a physical achievement but a transformative experience, where the journey itself is as enriching as the panoramic views from the top.
Standing as a testament to human ingenuity and the grandeur of ancient civilisation, the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt are a marvel. Located on the outskirts of Cairo, these iconic structures, especially the Great Pyramid, have fascinated travellers for centuries. Beyond the pyramids, the Sphinx, an enigmatic limestone statue, adds to the area’s allure. Exploring these ancient wonders, one cannot help but feel a deep connection to the rich tapestry of history that the land has witnessed.
Marrakech, a vibrant city in Morocco, is a sensory delight. Wandering through the narrow alleyways of its medina, you’re greeted by a kaleidoscope of colours, tantalising aromas, and the distant echo of traditional music. The bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square comes alive at night with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls, offering a true taste of Moroccan culture. The city’s historical sites, such as the Koutoubia Mosque and the Saadian Tombs, offer a deep dive into its rich heritage, while the myriad souks present a treasure trove of traditional crafts and goods.
5. Cruising the Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River
Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the Victoria Falls, often referred to as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ or ‘The Smoke That Thunders’, is one of the largest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls in the world. The thunderous roar of the cascading waters and the fine mist that envelops the surroundings create a magical atmosphere. Visitors can embark on a boat cruise on the Zambezi River, capturing the falls’ magnificence from a distance, or dare to take a dip in the Devil’s Pool, a natural infinity pool on the edge of the falls, during the drier months. The surrounding national parks also offer excellent safari opportunities for those keen on spotting Africa’s famed wildlife.
Recommended Tours
Travel Resources
More Ways to Keep in Touch
*Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.