Africa is a continent of remarkable diversity, home to countries and landscapes that can be polar opposites. From dense rainforests to savannas, deserts, rolling grasslands, and mountains, each region offers a unique terrain—and, with it, unique opportunities for different activities. But where do you go, and what do you do? How do you choose?
Narrowing down the activities can be overwhelming, especially for first-time travelers. You want to ensure you don’t miss out on any of Africa’s highlights, so thoughtful planning is key.
So, what are the must-do experiences when traveling to Africa? Let’s dive deeper into the top things to do in Africa that will create memories to last a lifetime.
1. Wildlife Safari
This quintessential African experience allows you to witness the continent’s most famed wildlife, including the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), and an array of other incredible species, many of which are endemic and cannot be found anywhere else.
Imagine the excitement of spotting a lioness stalking her prey, watching a herd of elephants grazing peacefully, or a rhino emerging from the bush. These are the moments that make safaris so special – seeing untamed animals in their majestic, natural state while learning about them from your experienced guide.
Plus, you’ll get to see and learn about a variety of other species you may have never seen or heard about before, such as Cookson’s wildebeest, Grevy’s zebra, Thornicroft’s giraffe, red lechwe, Somali ostrich, and many more.
Safari guides use animal footprints, calls, and signs to locate wildlife, often leading to incredible sightings. Tracking is an essential part of the experience, and you might find yourself quietly watching as the guide points out signs of a lion pride or a leopard in the underbrush.
For the adventurous traveler, a walking safari is also an exciting way to experience the bush.
Whether you choose to explore Kenya’s renowned Maasai Mara, the open grasslands of the Serengeti, or the pristine waters of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a safari is a thrilling, once-a-lifetime experience.
2. Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda or Uganda
Gorilla trekking is an intimate, awe-inspiring wildlife experience that you can’t find anywhere else. This opportunity is completely unique to countries like Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Trekking to see gorillas involves hiking through lush, misty rainforests, guided by experienced rangers who track the gorillas’ movements. When you finally come face-to-face with these giant primates, the encounter is both humbling and exhilarating. Watching gorilla families interact in their natural environment evokes awe and a greater appreciation for the conservation efforts that protect these incredible creatures.
It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impact, strengthening your connection to Africa’s rich natural heritage. It is also a great way to explore the dense, vibrant rainforests and tropical jungles, which are home to incredible biodiversity.
3. Mokoro
A mokoro journey offers a serene and immersive way to explore one of Africa’s most beautiful wetland ecosystems in the Okavango Delta of Botswana. A mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe used by the local people to navigate the delta’s intricate network of channels and lagoons.
Imagine gliding through the crystal-clear waters of the delta, observing your surroundings from a unique perspective. Zoom in on the smaller delights, such as the lilies, tiny reed frogs, and colorful birds. But the mokoro experience is not just about wildlife; it’s also an opportunity to learn about the culture and traditions of the Okavango Delta of Botswana.
Many mokoro guides are from the delta region and share their knowledge and stories, making it more of a cultural experience rather than just a sightseeing tour.
4. Visit Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. Located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, this massive waterfall is a breathtaking sight, with water cascading over a cliff more than a mile wide.
Visiting Victoria Falls is a sensory experience like no other. The roar of the water, the mist rising from the gorge, and the vibrant rainbows created by the spray combine to create an unforgettable spectacle. Whether you choose to view the falls from above, on foot, or on a helicopter tour, Victoria Falls is a must-see on any southern African itinerary. It’s the kind of place that puts into perspective just how vast and magnificent the world really is.
Beyond the mere spectacle of the falls, you can immerse yourself in thrilling activities like white-water rafting, a visit to Devil’s Pool, and bungee jumping. Alternatively, you can unwind with a romantic sunset cruise or a peaceful canoe ride. Truly one of the best places to go in Africa!
5. Relax in Paradise on Africa's Islands
After the thrill of wildlife adventures and natural wonders, unwind on the idyllic beaches of Africa’s islands. From the turquoise waters of Zanzibar to the secluded beaches of Seychelles and the luxurious villas of Mauritius, Africa’s islands offer a slice of paradise where you can relax and rejuvenate.
These islands are renowned for their white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and rich marine life. Snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts will find themselves in an underwater wonderland, teeming with colorful coral reefs and diverse sea life. Adventure enthusiasts will find there is ample opportunity for windsurfing, kite surfing, fishing, canoeing, hiking, kayaking, horseback riding and more.
6. Star Beds
An experience completely unique to Africa are star beds. A star bed is an open-air platform or outdoor bed that allows you to sleep under the beautiful African sky and be at one with the wilderness. It’s extremely romantic – great for newlyweds on your honeymoon – with no distractions and just the quiet hum of nature and the soft glow of the moon.
But don’t worry, in star beds, you are not completely exposed – many star beds have canopies or mosquito nets to keep insects at bay and are within fenced areas or enclosed camps. Many also come with all the luxury comforts you would expect from a high-end safari lodge, such as en suite bathrooms. You can enjoy private dinners, champagne, and personalized service, while also having the safety and security of knowing a camp guard is just a call away.
7. Hides
Hides are also an excellent way to get closer to the heart and soul of Africa—its breathtaking wildlife.
“Hides” are strategically placed hideouts that allow visitors to observe and photograph animals up close – think as little as 15 feet. They are designed to blend or camouflage into the surroundings so that the photographer can get shots of the wildlife without startling or disturbing the animals. Whether it’s lion, elephant, giraffe, or rhino, hides allow you to capture intimate moments of behavior, interaction, and stunning wildlife portraits.
Photographic hides aren’t just for larger mammals. They’re also great places to photograph birds near nests or water holes.
These Are Just The Drop in the Bucket of African Adventures
While these are all unforgettable experiences, they are merely a small taste of what Africa has to offer. This vast continent is filled with endless adventures and destinations waiting to be discovered.
From cruising on the Nile in Egypt to navigating the bustling markets of Nairobi to exploring the red sand dunes of Sossusvlei to trekking Kilimanjaro, every country and city in Africa offers its own distinct landscapes, wildlife, attractions, and unforgettable experiences.
Plan Your Perfect African Journey with Africa Dynamics
At Africa Dynamics, we understand that planning an African adventure can be overwhelming. With so much to see and do, creating the perfect itinerary requires expert knowledge and personalized attention. That’s where we come in.
Our mission is to curate authentic African experiences that immerse you in the continent’s beauty and diversity. With over two decades of experience and a deep passion for Africa, we craft personalized itineraries tailored to your interests, preferences, and budget.
When you travel with Africa Dynamics, you benefit from our first-hand knowledge, reliable partnerships, independent operations, and commitment to sustainable travel. Our Africa Travel Specialists will handle every detail, from booking flights to offering packing guidance, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. Contact Africa Dynamics today and start planning your adventure of a lifetime.
