Africa is the second-largest continent, and most people visit only a slice of it on any one trip. The easiest way to plan is to pick a region based on what you want to do, then build a route inside it.
Four regions, four kinds of trip
East Africa: classic safari
Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda are home to the Great Migration, Kilimanjaro, mountain gorillas and Indian Ocean beaches. Most first-time safari visitors start here. Flights go into Nairobi, Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam, and tour operators handle most of the logistics.
Southern Africa: variety and independence
South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe have good roads, strong tourism infrastructure and plenty of choice. You can self-drive Kruger, take a mokoro trip in the Okavango Delta, or see Victoria Falls. Cape Town is the main city draw.
North Africa: history and cities
Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia offer ancient monuments, medinas and desert landscapes. They are closest to Europe and easiest for short trips.
West and Central Africa: for experienced travelers
Senegal, Ghana, Benin and others have rich music, food and history, including the heritage of the transatlantic slave trade. Infrastructure is less developed, and trips usually need more planning and local help.
What to see and do
- Safari: Game drives in open vehicles, walking safaris and boat trips. A typical day starts before sunrise and includes a long midday break.
- Gorilla and chimp trekking: Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC. Treks last from one hour to a full day, and permits are expensive.
- Ancient history: Pyramids and temples in Egypt, rock churches in Lalibela (Ethiopia), the medieval city of Fes.
- Beaches: Zanzibar, Mauritius, the Seychelles and Mozambique’s coast.
- Mountains and deserts: Kilimanjaro, the Atlas, the Sahara and the Namib.
Planning basics
Budget
Africa can be cheap or very expensive. Safari lodges in Botswana can cost several hundred dollars per person per night, while self-drive trips in South Africa or Namibia can be quite affordable. Park fees are a big part of the cost in Kenya and Tanzania.
Health
- Ask a travel clinic about vaccines (hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever for some countries) at least six to eight weeks before you leave.
- Malaria is present in many safari areas. Pills, repellent and long sleeves in the evening all help.
- Drink bottled or filtered water.
Safety
Most tourist areas are safe if you take normal care. Check your government’s travel advice for the countries you’re visiting, avoid driving at night outside cities, and don’t display valuables in crowded areas. Some regions are not currently advisable for travel, so look up the latest information before booking.
Getting around
Within a country, small planes and good tour operators save time. In South Africa and Namibia, rental cars are easy. Elsewhere, hiring a driver-guide is often the best way to travel.
Money and packing
- Carry some US dollars in newer notes in East Africa, and local currency for small purchases.
- Pack neutral-colored clothes for safari, a warm layer for early mornings, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars and a power adapter.
When to go
In short: June–October for East and Southern African safaris, October–April for North Africa, and November–March for Cape Town. See our guide to the best time to visit Africa for details.
A sensible first trip
Ten to twelve days in one region, with a mix of safari and rest, is more rewarding than rushing through three countries. Add a city or beach at the end to recover.
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