Saigon
Gold Member
A lot of people think Africa is all dying people, flies and wars. But given there are 51 countries in Africa, that has always been a very narrow view. So much of Africa is great and doing well, and visiting these countries is one way to help them develop through trade, not aid.
So these are my Top 5 African destinations.
1) Ghana. It's safe, it's English speaking, it's a genuine democracy, and it has great beaches! What else do you need? Well, it has amazing history (the slave coast), beautiful nature (some rain forest and semi-desert) and really terrific people.
2) Rwanda. One of only 3 countries which have Mountain Gorillas, and that is a once in a lifetime experience for anyone. It's now English-speaking, and despite the 1994 genocide is very safe, welcoming and developed. Great people, amazing nature, and some gorgeous resorts with (lakeside) beaches.
3) Namibia. The most stunning desert landscapes I've ever seen, with 300 metre high red sand dunes and empty salt lakes. All this and the chance to see lions, rhinos and giraffes up close. They even have UV lights at one oasis, so you can see the animals at night.
4) Egypt. Probably the best country in the world for history, and not just at the overcrowded pyramids. There are pyramids out in the desert where you can be almost alone, then head into the museums to learn more. Amazing diving, great markets, and it is a very real, very untouristy experience. Yes, it can be hard work, but for open minds also a revelation.
5) South Africa. Not the safest place on earth, but possibly the most beautiful. Tour the Kruger to see leopards & lions, but also take a tour of Soweto to soak up some history and culture. Great food, and wonderful people.
I also enjoyed Botswana and Togo a lot, and reccomend those if you have time.
I'm going to Senegal this year, which many people say is in their Top 5, so I hope they are right.
Feel free to add in any others you have been to and enjoyed.
So these are my Top 5 African destinations.
1) Ghana. It's safe, it's English speaking, it's a genuine democracy, and it has great beaches! What else do you need? Well, it has amazing history (the slave coast), beautiful nature (some rain forest and semi-desert) and really terrific people.
2) Rwanda. One of only 3 countries which have Mountain Gorillas, and that is a once in a lifetime experience for anyone. It's now English-speaking, and despite the 1994 genocide is very safe, welcoming and developed. Great people, amazing nature, and some gorgeous resorts with (lakeside) beaches.
3) Namibia. The most stunning desert landscapes I've ever seen, with 300 metre high red sand dunes and empty salt lakes. All this and the chance to see lions, rhinos and giraffes up close. They even have UV lights at one oasis, so you can see the animals at night.
4) Egypt. Probably the best country in the world for history, and not just at the overcrowded pyramids. There are pyramids out in the desert where you can be almost alone, then head into the museums to learn more. Amazing diving, great markets, and it is a very real, very untouristy experience. Yes, it can be hard work, but for open minds also a revelation.
5) South Africa. Not the safest place on earth, but possibly the most beautiful. Tour the Kruger to see leopards & lions, but also take a tour of Soweto to soak up some history and culture. Great food, and wonderful people.
I also enjoyed Botswana and Togo a lot, and reccomend those if you have time.
I'm going to Senegal this year, which many people say is in their Top 5, so I hope they are right.
Feel free to add in any others you have been to and enjoyed.