Africa Travel Guide
From safari icons to coastal cities: what to see, where to stay, and how to plan a smooth trip across Africa.
Start exploringDon’t miss, and where to stay
Don’t miss
- Serengeti & Maasai Mara safaris
- Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
- Lake Malawi and its quiet national parks, Malawi
- Lake Tanganyika, coffee hills and Kibira forest, Burundi
- Table Mountain, Cape Town
- Zanzibar’s Stone Town and beaches
- The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
- Marrakech’s medina and souks
Recommended hotels
- &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania
- The Silo Hotel, Cape Town
- Riad Yasmine, Marrakech
- Park Hyatt, Zanzibar
More Africa travel guides
Practical planning for Africa
Getting around
Domestic flights link major hubs; safari lodges typically arrange road or light-aircraft transfers.Safety tips
Use reputable tour operators, check current travel advisories by country, and keep valuables secured in cities.Best time to visit
June to October for East and Southern African safaris (dry season); varies by country, so check regional seasons.Budget advice
Safari lodges run premium; balance with budget city stays and shared-transfer options to manage overall cost.Visa requirements
Requirements vary widely by nationality and country. Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda offer e-visas or visa-on-arrival for many nationalities, while some African passport holders can enter neighboring countries visa-free. Always confirm with the destination’s immigration authority before booking.Currency & payments
Most countries use their own currency (Kenyan shilling, South African rand, Egyptian pound, etc.); US dollars are widely accepted for safari lodges and tours. Cards work in cities and major lodges, but carry local cash for markets, tips and rural areas.Guides and tips
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best time of year to visit Africa?
It depends on the region and what you want to see. June to October is dry season across East and Southern Africa and the best window for safaris, while North African cities like Marrakech and Cairo are most comfortable in spring and autumn. See our month-by-month East Africa safari guide for specifics.
Do I need a visa to travel to Africa?
Requirements depend on your passport and destination country. Many African passport holders can travel visa-free or visa-on-arrival to a growing number of countries, see our guide to visa-free destinations for African passport holders.
Is Africa safe for family travel?
Many destinations are well suited to families, particularly malaria-free safari reserves and established tourist regions. Our family safari guide covers age-appropriate camps and practical planning tips.
Will I have phone and internet access while traveling?
Coverage is generally good in cities and most lodges. Setting up an eSIM before you fly is the simplest way to stay connected, see our eSIM guide for Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa.