A complete Africa Travel Blog: To Help You Plan Your First Trip.
Africa is also a great country to visit with kids. Our kids especially loved visiting South Africa and Namibia. We are big fans of Safaris.
Quick side story: Jolene happens to be from South Africa. She lived there until she was 21 and then she immigrated to Australia. Africa is one of the ,,, so let’s get into everything you should know before you plan your first trip.
What is the Best Time of Year to Travel to Africa?
The best time to visit Africa depends on the region and activities you’re interested in.
Generally, the warmest months are from December to March, making it a popular time for beach holidays.
Autumn (March-May) is the best time for mountain trekking, as days are warm and dry.
In East Africa, this is also a great time to witness the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti.
What Month is Best for a Safari in Africa?
June to October is considered the best time for safari in Africa.
It is the dry season of the year, which means that animals will have to congregate around the bigger water damns.
The weather is also less hot and humid, with cooler mornings and evenings providing more comfortable game drives.
No matter what time of year you choose to visit Africa, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
From stunning landscapes to vibrant cultures, there’s something for everyone!
How Many Days In Africa Is Enough?
Africa is an immense continent of diverse cultures and landscapes, so it’s hard to answer this question with one definitive answer.
If your goal is to visit only one country, then it’s best to allow a minimum of two weeks or more.
Every country in Africa is unique, so it is recommended that you research your destination and plan accordingly.
For example, if you are visiting South Africa, then 10 days should be enough to explore the attractions around Cape Town, together with a visit to Kruger National Park.
However, if you want to travel further afield and explore the stunning African wilderness, then it is recommended to allocate at least three or more weeks for your trip.
No matter how much time you have in Africa, you will be sure to experience something truly unforgettable.
What is the Safest Country in Africa to Visit?
According to the Global Peace Index, Mauritius is currently the safest country in Africa and the 28th safest country in the world.
Mauritius offers up a wonderful combination of cultures, friendly people, varied cuisine, and a diverse ethnic community.
There are activities for all types of travelers in this beautiful tourist paradise – from relaxing on the beaches and lagoons, coral diving, and water activities, to exploring the “Seven Colored Earth” of Chamarel and beautiful forests full of wildlife.
The overall crime rate in Mauritius is quite low and the crimes that do occur are mostly non-violent such as petty thefts.
So if you’re looking for the safest destination in Africa, Mauritius should be at the top of your list!
In second place is Botswana, which has moved down from its 1st place ranking in 2021.
Botswana still offers a very safe environment with a Global Peace Index score of 1.676 – higher than the UK or Spain!
With stunning views and rich wildlife, it’s the perfect destination for adventure seekers looking to explore the beauty of Africa.
Which African Country Should You Visit First
Africa is an expansive continent with a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural beauty to explore.
No matter what type of experience you are looking for, there is sure to be something here that will excite you.
1. South Africa
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, then South Africa should be your go-to destination.
With its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse culture, this country has something to offer everyone.
Make sure to visit the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town – it’s one of the most beautiful spots in all of Africa!
You can also take a wildlife safari to see some of the country’s unique species like lions, elephants, and rhinos.
Traveling around South Africa is also relatively easy and safe. The locals are friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to explore.
Is South Africa baby-friendly? South Africa is perfect for kids of all ages! And we found it really easy to explore with our toddler and two older children.
Make sure to check out our South Africa travel guide for more information on where to go in South Africa and the 10 best airlines in Africa to help you choose the best airline carrier!
2. Namibia
This beautiful country is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Africa.
From the Namib Desert and its vast red dunes to the Okavango Delta and its wide open plains filled with wildlife – there’s plenty here to keep you entertained.
Namibia is a great place to take a road trip – the roads are well-maintained and provide an amazing way to explore the country’s unique landscapes.
Traveling around Namibia is easy, although it can be quite expensive compared to other countries in Africa.
However, if you’re looking for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, then Namibia is an excellent choice.
Make sure to check out our Namibia travel guide for more information on where to go and what to do.
3. Morocco
Morocco is one of the most vibrant and exotic countries in Africa. From its bustling markets and stunning architecture to its rich culture and delicious cuisine – there’s something here that everyone will enjoy.
This country is also incredibly safe and easy to explore, making it a great choice for first-time visitors to Africa.
Make sure to visit the ancient city of Marrakech – it’s filled with bustling souks and incredible architecture that will take your breath away.
You can also explore the Sahara Desert on a camel ride, or take a boat trip down the Nile River.
No matter where you go in Morocco, you’re sure to have a truly unforgettable experience.
Make sure to check out our Morocco travel guide for more information on where to go and what to do.
4. Egypt
Egypt is a land of mystery and marvel.
From the ancient pyramids and sphinx of Giza, to the stunning temples of Luxor – there’s something here that will capture your imagination.
You can also explore some of the country’s incredible cities like Cairo and Alexandria.
Here you’ll find bustling markets and vibrant nightlife, as well as a wealth of cultural attractions.
Egypt is also a relatively safe and easy country to explore.
Traveling around the country can be done by train, car, or even boat – giving you plenty of options for getting from place to place.
No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, Egypt has something to offer everyone.
5. Seychelles
Seychelles is a group of over 100 islands scattered in the Indian Ocean.
With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungle vegetation – this archipelago is truly paradise on Earth.
Seychelles is also a great place to get away from it all and relax.
There’s no shortage of luxurious resorts here, so you can spend your days lounging on the beach and soaking up the sun.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, there are plenty of activities to choose from – such as snorkeling, fishing, sailing, and kayaking.
No matter what type of experience you’re looking for in Seychelles, you’re sure to find something here that will suit your needs.
6. Tanzania
Tanzania is one of Africa’s most popular and diverse countries.
From its stunning national parks and wildlife reserves, to its vibrant culture and traditions – there’s something here that everyone will enjoy.
Make sure to visit the Serengeti National Park, where you’ll find some of the world’s most incredible wildlife.
You can also explore the Ngorongoro Crater and its incredible array of animals, or head to Zanzibar and soak up the sun on its white-sand beaches.
No matter where you go in Tanzania, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Start your research for your trip with our Tanzania travel blog posts.
African Safaris For First-Timers
Are you ready to explore the wild African continent?
An African safari is a great way for first-timers to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most incredible creatures and scenery.
Before booking that trip, there are a few things you should know about planning an African safari.
Are African Safaris Safe?
Yes, African safaris are generally safe if you take the proper precautions.
If you are planning on doing Game Drives with a guide: As long as you follow your guide’s instructions when it comes to camp, game drives, and bush walks, you should never feel like your safety is at risk.
Be sure to research the safari company you choose and read reviews from past customers.
During the drive make sure you follow all the guide directions – they know how to keep you safe.
If you are planning on doing self-drive safaris: Make sure to follow all the park rules (as well as any local laws).
Do not leave the car unless it is in a fenced area with signs saying it is safe to do so.
Also best to keep your windows up – I have had a few instances where a cheetah walked right past my window from the back of the car – only realized it was there till it was right next to me!
Another important tip is to always make sure you have enough petrol and a charged phone.
Safety should always be a priority when traveling, but if you follow these tips and stay cautious, you and your family can enjoy an unforgettable African safari experience!
Best time for safaris in Africa
The best time for safaris in Africa depends on which country or region you are visiting.
Generally, the dry season (June to September) is best for game-viewing as animals will congregate around permanent water sources and it’s easier to spot wildlife.
In East Africa, the main game viewing season is from July to October, when animals are most plentiful.
In Southern Africa, the peak game-viewing season is from May to September.
Of course, safaris can be enjoyed year-round in Africa and some parks offer special attractions during the wet season (December to March).
How many days on safari is enough?
The length of your safari really depends on what you want to see and experience, but we recommend at least 4-5 days for an African safari.
This will give you plenty of time to explore different parks, go on game drives, and enjoy the incredible wildlife that Africa has to offer.
Where do most people go on safari in Africa?
The most popular African safari destination is South Africa, home to the famous Kruger National Park.
Kruger is one of the few parks in the world where you can go on a self-drive safari and it offers some of the best game-viewing opportunities in all of Africa.
Other great safari destinations include Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and Namibia.
Should you Visit Africa with Kids?
Absolutely! Africa is one of the most exciting and diverse continents in the world, offering a range of experiences to suit children of all ages.
It is a perfect destination to visit with kids (of all ages).
South Africa offers safari trips that are sure to be unforgettable experiences for your kids. South Africa is also a great destination to visit with a toddler (our little one loved it!).
You can also explore vast national parks and game reserves, see incredible wildlife, and visit stunning cities like Cape Town.
Namibia is a great destination for a family adventure, with its extraordinary landscapes and opportunities to explore the desert and enjoy some game drives.
Morocco is a wonderful place to visit with kids, offering an exciting mix of culture, history, and sightseeing.
You can explore the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh’s medina or visit the Sahara Desert for a unique desert experience.
No matter where you choose to go in Africa, your family is sure to have an amazing and unforgettable experience!
Visit the post below to find some great articles full of helpful info for those who want to visit Africa with kids: