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African Countries You Need To Visit Now

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When people consider heading to the mysterious continent of Africa, they may not know which country or countries they should head to first. With two very different ‘types’ of country to choose from (Saharan and Sub-Saharan), it can be daunting to decide on just one or two. This article will help you get an idea of which countries are fantastic and worth a visit to help you make your decision!

Morocco

Morocco is nestled in the north west corner of the continent, a stones throw away from the Rock of Gibraltar, across the Strait of Gibraltar on the north coast. Morocco is a Muslim majority nation that features some of the most unique landscapes, deserts and cities that you can find. Add to this the fact that it’s bordered by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean, and you have a recipe for a perfect holiday or larger trip. For those who want a great shopping experience, the Jema El Fna Square in Marrakesh and its nearby maze-like souk markets is perfect. To get an idea of the leather industry, head to Fes where you can visit age old leather dying vats and watch the leather be prepared and dried in the sun. Don’t miss a trip to the seaside town of Essouira for cooler temperatures and some stunningly delicious seafood. Plan it right to catch the Gnaoua World Music Festival each summer!

Tanzania

Tanzania is fantastic, varied country with some stunning natural scenery and coastline. For a real treat, head to the island of Zanzibar where the sand is like powder and it’s snow white to boot. The island is home to some of the bluest waters, incredible snorkelling and friendly villagers who don’t hesitate to stop and have a chat with you, while perhaps teaching you a word or two in Swahili. Inland Tanzania is home to many different national parks and regions where animals run wild, and so cheaper options for safaris can be found throughout in the likes of the Selous Game Reserve and near Arusha. Try out a camping safari… where you can camp out under the stars with animals walking through almost any time! For a real challenge, hire a guide and climb Mount Kilimanjaro – one of the most impressive peaks on Earth.

South Africa

South Africa is ideal for any first timers to the continent. With a strong Dutch colonial background, many parts of South Africa retain its colonial charm and history set in with its stunning natural beauty. Head to Cape Town for the likes of Table Top Mountain – climbable if you’re so inclined or you can take the cable cars. Hire a car and drive around the impressive coastlines. Be sure to hit up some of the inland vineyards in the Cape Wine Region to sample truly delectable fresh, local wines. Plan your trip for springtime to catch the great swathes of wild flowers in bloom throughout the countryside, a real treat for the senses.

So there you have three African countries you should check out now, if not first on your list of potential countries to head to on your big African adventure. One thing is for sure – what they say about Africa is true: you leave a piece of your heart there.

Why The Serengeti Is Not A Good Deal

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So you have looked into your dream trip of a safari in Africa and the next step is to book it. Many people have grand visions of booking their safari on the Serengeti plains, a region of Africa in southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. The Serengeti is also home to the majestic mountain Kilimanjaro, one of the most impressive peaks in the world that you can climb with a guide. So why shouldn’t you do a Serengeti safari? Here are a few reasons why:

The Price

Safaris are expensive, it’s true. But some safari companies in more popular areas such as the Serengeti can really hike the price way above what you might have to pay elsewhere. They know that people will pay their exorbitant prices to be able to say they went on a safari in the Serengeti. Some of the higher end safaris can be thousands of dollars per person, which immediately prices out those on a budget and makes it so only the well off can afford a trip to the Serengeti. While having luxurious options is good, it can create a higher price point for other providers in the area as well, which means that from the off, when compared with what you can get in other areas, the Serengeti is much more expensive.

The Crowds

This is something that many people who have been to the Serengeti complain about – the crowds. Everyone seems to come to the area for their safaris, and as a result the plains are packed with trucks and vans taking patrons out to see the animals. In some places at high season there are even lines to see the animals, so it becomes more like a zoo and less like a safari. If you don’t mind big crowds, then come check out the region, but if you find it pointless to have a similar experience as a zoo back home, then the Serengeti at certain times of year may not be for you.

Unsustainable Tourism

Many countries in Africa are very hot on sustainable tourism and even ecotourism, especially when it comes to safaris and animal based areas like the Serengeti. With some companies in the Serengeti though, sustainable tourism and ecotourism fall by the wayside and so the continued huge flocks of tourists that come to these regions may be doing more harm than good in the long run. Of course, this is not to say that every company which runs safaris in the area doesn’t adhere to sustainability, but only that it should be something to be considered when thinking about heading to an already packed and popular region.

So there you have a couple of reasons why you perhaps shouldn’t head to the Serengeti for your safari. With literally dozens, if not hundreds of other places where you can see many of the same animals (along with different ones!) it’s best to do your research and go with a reputably well known company for sustainable safari tourism.