Best Countries To Visit In Africa For First Timers 2023: Top 14

Africa is the continent that is home to the longest river in the world, the Nile, and the largest desert in the world, the Sahara. Along with one of the biggest lakes in the world, Lake Victoria, the continent is home to the Congo Basin, the largest rainforest in the world. Africa has a wide range of civilizations and ethnic groups living there in addition to its varied topography.

The music of Africa is among its most distinctive cultural features. African culture is heavily reliant on music, which differs greatly from place to place. For instance, call-and-response singing and intricate harmonies are hallmarks of East African music, whereas drums and polyrhythmic tunes are common in West African traditional music. Traditional music from Southern Africa frequently combines elements of both African and Western music. Jazz, reggae, and R&B have all been greatly influenced by African music as well.

Best Countries to Visit in Africa for First Timers 2023: Top 14

• South Africa
• Tanzania
• Morocco
• Kenya
• Egypt
• Botswana
• Namibia
• Mauritius
• Seychelles
• Ethiopia
• Rwanda
• Jordan
• Zambia
• Sri Lanka

1. South Africa

For first-time travelers to Africa, South Africa is a fantastic destination. With a variety of cultures, languages, and landscapes, it is a diversified nation. You can explore stunning natural places like Table Mountain and Kruger National Park, or you can visit vibrant cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town. In addition, South Africa is renowned for its mouthwatering cuisine, exciting nightlife, and amiable populace. Even though crime is rare in South Africa, it's always vital to be aware of the risks and take preventative measures.

2. Tanzania

If you're interested in nature and wildlife, Tanzania is a fantastic place to visit if you're traveling to Africa for the first time. Tanzania is one of the best sites in the world to witness the Great Migration and the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo). Tanzania is also home to the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. In addition, the nation boasts lovely beaches, verdant woods, and amiable citizens. Tanzania is typically safe, but you should know that malaria is a possibility and take the appropriate measures.

3. Morocco

For first-time travelers to Africa who wish to experience the continent without going too far off the beaten path, Morocco is a fantastic option. The nation boasts a remarkable blend of modern and traditional cities, and it has a rich history and culture. Tangier, Fez, and Marrakech are all fantastic places to visit. The nation is renowned for its mouthwatering cuisine, stunning architecture, and friendly populace. Although Morocco is a secure country overall, there have been a few instances of scams and small-time crime, so exercise caution.

4. Kenya

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Similar to Tanzania, Kenya is a popular vacation spot for those who enjoy the outdoors and wildlife. Kenya, the home of the well-known Maasai Mara National Reserve, is a fantastic location to view the Big Five and other species. Kenya is home to breathtaking mountains, lush forests, and lovely beaches. Kenya is susceptible to malaria, just as Tanzania, thus it's crucial to take preventative measures. Although crime hasn't occurred too frequently in the nation, it's nevertheless advisable to be alert of your surroundings.

5. Egypt

This country should not be missed by lovers of history and culture. Egypt is a wealth of ancient history, home to the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings, and the Great Sphinx. Exploring Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan is highly recommended, and taking a Nile River cruise is a common method to take in the wonders of the nation. Although Egypt is a secure country overall, there have been a few instances of crime and terrorism, so before you go, make sure to check the most recent travel advisories.

6. Botswana: This country is a terrific option if you're searching for somewhere a little less traveled. This landlocked nation, which includes the Okavango Delta and the Chobe National Park, offers some of the best opportunities for observing wildlife in Africa. The Kalahari Desert is one of the nation's most breathtaking desert vistas. Although Botswana is a rather safe country, it is nevertheless advisable to take measures and be aware of the possibility of malaria. Additionally, compared to some of the other nations on this list, traveling to Botswana is more expensive.

7. Namibia

A stunning and diverse country, Namibia is another off-the-beaten-path trip. Namibia offers a diverse range of landscapes to explore, spanning from the Namib Desert to the Skeleton Coast. A diverse array of animals, like as lions, elephants, and rhinos, may be found throughout the nation. Although Namibia is a safe place to visit, you should still take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion and dehydration because of the country's sometimes harsh environment. Additionally, one of the pricier travel locations in Africa is Namibia.

8. Mauritius

This is a fantastic option if you're looking for a somewhere with more of a beach vibe. This island nation is well-known for its warm weather, clean oceans, and white sand beaches. Mauritius is a well-liked vacation spot for families and couples because it's a quiet, safe country. The smaller islands of Rodrigues and Agalega are also worth visiting, even though the larger island of Mauritius is the most visited. It's crucial to remember that Mauritius costs more to visit than some of the other nations on our list.

9. Seychelles

A tropical paradise, Seychelles is another island nation. There are more than a hundred islands in this archipelago, and each has a distinct geography and culture. The Seychelles are renowned for its immaculate beaches, verdant jungles, and breathtaking coral reefs. In addition, the nation is a sanctuary for endangered birds, marine life, and enormous tortoises. Although traveling to the Seychelles is generally safe, it's vital to be mindful of the possibility of hurricanes during the rainy season, which runs from December to March.

10. Ethiopia

For a destination with a rich history and culture, Ethiopia is a great choice. Ethiopia is known for its ancient religious sites, including the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the Simien Mountains. Ethiopia is also home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, each with their own unique traditions and customs. While Ethiopia is generally a safe destination, there have been some security incidents in recent years, so it's important to stay up to date on the latest travel advisories. It's also important to note that Ethiopia is a developing country, and infrastructure can be lacking in some areas.

11. Rwanda

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Rwanda is a fantastic option if you're searching for a place with a distinctive culture and breathtaking scenery. This landlocked nation is well-known for its verdant rainforests, towering volcanic peaks, and its critically endangered mountain gorilla population. Rwanda's terrible past, which includes the 1994 genocide, is also well-known. But since then, the nation has advanced significantly, and it is currently a stable and tranquil travel destination. Though generally safe, scams and small-time crime can still be a problem in Rwanda, so it's vital to exercise caution.

12. Jordan

Despite its tiny size and lack of attention, Jordan is a very valuable Middle Eastern nation. A few of the many highlights are the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum's desert scenery, and the ancient city of Petra. Jordan is renowned for its warmth and friendliness, and its people are quite welcome. Although the nation is generally safe, there have been a few terrorist occurrences in the past, so it's crucial to keep up with the most recent travel warnings. Additionally, as this is a strict Muslim nation, manners and clothing norms must to be followed.

13. Zambia

Although less well-known throughout Africa, Zambia has a lot to offer travelers. Hippos, elephants, and lions are among the many species of animals that the nation is famous for. Zambia is also home to one of the world's biggest waterfalls, Victoria Falls. Although most of the country is safe, there have been a few criminal situations, so it's still advisable to exercise caution, particularly in Lusaka, the capital. Delicious food and friendly people are two more things Zambia is recognized for.

14. Sri Lanka

Finally, but no less important, is Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean that is been dubbed the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. Its gorgeous beaches, old Buddhist monasteries, and verdant jungles are its national treasures. Sri Lanka has a dynamic culture with influences from Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism in addition to its stunning natural surroundings. Although there are few frauds or tourist traps, it's still vital to be cautious in this usually safe country. When visiting places of worship, make sure you follow the customs of the area and wear modest clothing.