Best Cities to Visit in Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa
This diverse southern African city is beyond magical. Joburg as its fondly called is South Africa’s entertainment centre. This city is an accurate depiction of modern day South Africa. A trip to Johannesburg allows you explore more than enough things: Soweto, Mandela’s house, the apartheid museum, Johannesburg zoo, world class malls and even the city’s nightlife. For tourists who need a bit of adrenaline rush, visit Soweto Towers to go bungee jumping.
Best time to visit: March to May (Autumn), September to November (Spring).
Currency: South African Rand.
Marrakech, Morocco
Located in northern Africa, Morocco is a delight for people who are enthusiastic about architecture. Walk down the streets of Marrakech to take in the phenomenal architecture -be careful not to get lost. Marrakech is home to a lot of luxury resorts so if you’re looking to give yourself a lovely treat, Marrakech is the right place. Explore the souks and markets at night as that’s when they come alive.
Best time to visit: March – May
Currency: Moroccan Dirham
Cairo, Egypt
The ancient city of Egypt is a dreamy holiday destination for history lovers. Cairo is the largest city and the capital of Egypt. Its a relatively safe city so tourists can be rest assured of their safety. Visit the museum of Egyptian antiquities, Mosque of Mohammed Ali, Cairo festival city mall, Cave church, Khan El-Khalili souk and sail on the Nile. To see the pyramids, you can take a taxi to Giza not too far away from the city centre. Egyptians are also known to love their coffee so, experiment and try different variations of coffee.
Best time to visit: March – May, October – November .
Currency: Egyptian pound
Nairobi, Kenya
A discussion about East Africa is not complete without talking about Kenya’s capital city- Nairobi. Kenya welcomes you with so much warmth all thanks to the almost perfect weather. A major bustling metropolitan city, Nairobi is often referred to as the Wildlife capital. It offers you a combination of the safari experience and a modern city. Explore the national park, Giraffe manor, the elephants orphanage and many more. A trip to Nairobi guarantees you lots of fun and cool experiences with animals.
Best time to visit: June – October
Currency: Kenyan Shilling
Lagos, Nigeria
Nigeria’s entertainment hub – Lagos is probably the most fast-pace city you can visit in Africa. This west African city is home to gorgeous public and private beaches, museums, parks and restaurants. Ain’t no party like a Lagos party helps you understand that Lagos’ nightlife isn’t for the faint- hearted. Visit the Lekki conservation centre, Nike art gallery and shop at the Lekki Arts and Crafts market.
Best time to visit: November – February
Currency: Nigerian Naira
Accra, Ghana
This west African city welcomes tourists with a lot of warmth. Explore the city’s beaches and night life. Visit the Aburi botanical gardens, Kwame Nkrumah park and black star gate. You can also treat yourself to some street food like Kelewele, Kychinga and many more.
Best time to visit: July – October
Currency: Ghanaian Cedis
Dakar, Senegal
The most westernmost city in west Africa. Dakar is home to some very interesting architecture because of its Arab influence. This city has the loveliest beaches that are a surfer’s paradise. Explore the pink lake and the African renaissance monument (tallest in Africa). Buy distinct arts and crafts in the markets from the sellers: try to get a good bargain.
Best time to visit: August
Currency: Western African CFA franc
Cape Town, South Africa
Located in the heart of South Africa, Cape Town is a very intriguing city. Home to the world famous table mountains, its Asian influences are very evident in the culture and food. Take a cable car across table mountain to get the most stunning aerial view of the city. Go wine tasting in any vineyard of your choice and spend sometime in Camps Bay (one of South Africa’s most beautiful beaches). Take a stroll through Bo-Kaapto see the multi- colored houses on the streets. Cape Town has an abundance of activities to engage in, you’d never get bored on your trip.
Best time to visit: March-May, September – November
Windhoek, Namibia
Formerly a part of South Africa before it gained its independence as a sovereign state in 1990. Winhoek is the capital city and is home to some historical sites. Visit the Voigtland Guesthouse to feed some giraffes, learn a bit of Namibia’s history at the Independence memorial museum, take a tour of Daan Viljoen game reserve and many more. To buy souvenirs, explore Namibia craft centre for beautiful arts and crafts.
Best time to visit: December – February
Currency: Namibian dollar
Kigali, Rwanda
Dubbed the cleanest city in Africa, Kigali is always a delight to visit. With its low crime rates, your safety is guaranteed. Learn more about Rwanda’s post- genocide history and enjoy viewing art at some of the city’s Art centres. Via Kigali, you can access other cities if you’re looking to explore more of the country’s beauty. Coffee is never a bad idea in Rwanda, so get to it and drink as much as you can!
Best time to visit: June – September
Currency: Rwandan Franc
There you have it! Our top 10 cities to visit in Africa. If you’re looking to plan a trip to any of these cities, we are here.