Africa Travel Guide
Africa is the world’s second-largest continent. It covers around 30.3 million square kilometres. This makes up roughly one-fifth of the Earth’s land surface. It is made up of 54 independent countries. Each is shaped by its own languages, traditions, histories, and ways of life.
Travelling across Africa rarely feels uniform. Even within a single country, experiences can change quickly. Moving from one region to another can feel like entering a completely different place.
Many travellers arrive with a single image of Africa in mind. Most leave with a much deeper understanding of how varied the continent really is. They also begin to see how layered and complex it can be. A journey here often feels grounding and eye-opening. It is filled with moments that stay with you long after you return home.
Africa at a Glance
Number of Countries
Africa is made up of 54 independent countries. Each has its own culture, pace, and travel style. These are shaped by geography, history, and local traditions.
Best Time to Visit
Africa can be visited all year. The best time depends on the region and the type of trip you are planning. Wildlife viewing is strongest during drier months.
Ideal Trip Length
12 to 18 days suits travel within a single country or focused region. Three to five weeks allows time for longer distances, varied landscapes, and different travel conditions without constant movement.
Top Experiences
Safaris and wildlife encounters are a major draw. Cultural cities and historic sites are also highlights. Beaches, road trips, desert landscapes, and nature-focused stays all feature across the continent.
Languages
Hundreds of languages are spoken across Africa. English and French are widely used in tourism. Portuguese, Arabic, and many local languages are also common.
Currency
Most countries use their own currency. Cash remains important outside major cities. Cards are accepted in many hotels and lodges.
Why Travel to Africa
Wildlife and Nature
Africa is home to some of the most diverse wildlife ecosystems in the world. Big Five safaris are often the main reason people visit. Other regions offer primate trekking, birdwatching, marine life, and desert-adapted wildlife.
In many parts of the continent, tourism plays an important role in conservation.
Park fees, lodge stays, and guided experiences help protect wildlife. They also support local communities near national parks and reserves.
Cultural Heritage
Civilisations in Africa stretch back thousands of years. Ancient cities and archaeological sites are still visible today.
Historic trade routes also remain part of the landscape. These sit alongside living traditions that continue in daily life. Local markets, family-run eateries, and festivals offer insight into culture.
Contemporary art, music, and design scenes continue to grow, especially in larger cities.
Landscapes
Africa’s scenery changes constantly. Deserts, rainforests, mountains, and savannahs can exist within the same country.
Slow and Meaningful Travel
Africa suits a slower pace. Spending more time in one place often leads to richer experiences. Stronger connections form with people and place.
This approach allows space for conversation and observation. Unexpected moments often become the most memorable.
Movement Shaped by Distance and Geography
Getting Around Africa
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights are widely used across Africa, especially for long distances and remote areas. They are common for travelling between major cities, reaching safari regions, and accessing national parks that are far from main roads.
In many countries, flying saves significant time compared to driving. Smaller regional airlines also operate short routes into safari areas, often using light aircraft. Luggage limits can be stricter on these flights, so packing light is important.
Guided Transfers and Tours
Guided transfers are widely used for safaris and visits to national parks. These usually include transport, experienced drivers or guides, and sometimes game drives as part of the journey.
For first-time visitors, guided travel can make logistics much simpler. It reduces the need to navigate unfamiliar roads and helps avoid long, tiring travel days.
Transfers and tours can usually be arranged through lodges, hotels, or tour operators. Private transfers are also common for airport pick-ups, longer intercity journeys, and pre-planned excursions.
Self-Drive Travel
Self-drive travel works well in selected regions, particularly in parts of Southern Africa, where road infrastructure is stronger and signage is clear. Countries such as South Africa and Namibia are popular for road trips and independent travel.
Driving gives more flexibility and allows you to explore at your own pace. However, distances can be long, and road conditions vary. In more remote areas, fuel stops may be limited, so planning routes carefully is essential.
For safari areas, self-drive is not always allowed or recommended, and guided options are often a better choice.
Local Transport Within Cities
Local transport is mainly used within cities and large towns. Options vary by destination and may include buses, minibuses, taxis, and ride-hailing services.
Ride-hailing apps are available in many major cities and are often the easiest option for visitors. Public transport can be inexpensive, but comfort, reliability, and safety vary widely depending on location.
Hotels and guesthouses can usually advise on the most practical and safe ways to get around locally.
Regions of Africa
Southern Africa
Southern Africa is often one of the easiest regions for first-time visitors. Safari routes are well established. Road infrastructure is strong in certain countries.
South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe are known for wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Scenic road trips are common.
Self-drive travel is particularly popular in parts of this region.
Eastern Africa
Eastern Africa has two main dry periods. The longer dry season runs from June to October. This is one of the best times for safaris. It also coincides with the Great Migration.
A shorter dry period usually falls between December and March. This is another good time for wildlife travel. It works well for combining safaris with beach time.
The wetter months tend to occur between April and May. Another wet period often falls around November. Landscapes are green and dramatic. Access to some parks can be affected.
Northern Africa
Northern Africa is best visited between October and April. Temperatures are more comfortable during these months. City sightseeing and desert travel are easier.
The summer months run from June to August. Temperatures can be extremely hot. This is especially true inland and in desert regions. Travel is still possible. Sightseeing is often limited to early mornings and evenings.
Western Africa
The best time to visit much of Western Africa is during the drier season. This usually runs between November and March. Humidity is lower. Travel conditions are more comfortable.
The wetter season typically falls between April and October. Rainfall can be heavy. This is especially true in coastal and forested areas. Travel can slow down during this period.
Central Africa
Central Africa is best visited during the drier periods. These usually fall between June and September. Another good period runs from December to February.
These months offer better conditions for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Trails are less muddy. Access to forest areas is easier.
