Exciting, captivating and mysterious, this is how one could describe the African continent. It has always fascinated travelers with its impressive wildlife and exotic landscapes. From north to south, Africa is home to splendid natural sites and sprawling cities always on the move. It's hard to choose, as this land is so large and its possibilities so varied! Le Petit Futé offers you its selection of ten destinations to discover in Africa. Of course, the list is not exhaustive and we are waiting for your suggestions to enrich it!
N°10 - Senegal and its bustling capital
Sprawling and dynamic, Dakar is a city in constant evolution. As the gateway to Senegal for many travelers, it allows you to breathe in its overheated atmosphere right away. Off the coast of Dakar is the island of Gorée. Its flowering bougainvilleas, its gentle way of life and its charm are a complete contrast to the joyful hubbub of Dakar. Take the time to visit the House of the Martyred Slaves, a place of memory and a symbol of the terrible history of the island, a former slave trading center.
N°9- Ivory Coast and the incomparable atmosphere of Abidjan
Cosmopolitan city, Abidjan is nicknamed the "Paris of West Africa". Its motto, mari semper altor, "always higher thanks to the sea", highlights its port vocation and its impressive size. Five times larger than Paris, three times more populated, it is a sprawling and eventful city. The atmosphere is in the blood of the Abidjanese and the evenings are memorable!
N°8- Mozambique and Maputo, a stopover bordered by the Indian Ocean
Seen from the sky, Mozambique is a true palette of colors: the blue of the Indian Ocean borders the green of its plains. Maputo, covered in white, shines with its Portuguese colonial architecture and its view of the bay, which inspires you to relax every day. Its railway station, designed by Gustave Eiffel, is worth a visit. The engineer's genius can be seen in its wrought iron elements and its marble dome.
N°7- Cape Verde and Mindelo, a musical stage
Second city of Cape Verde, Mindelo is known as the city of "the barefoot diva": Cesaria Evora. When you walk through the streets of the cultural capital of the country, how can you not think of the one who exported the Cape Verdean morna coladeira all over the world... Here, the nights are vibrant and animated, and the music resounds in all the districts. A walk on the beaches of Lajinha, Calhau, Tupim or Saõ Pedro will make you take the temperature of this lively and amazing city.
N° 6 - Marrakech, the essential Moroccan stage
Marrakech, the pearl of Morocco, often evokes a change of scenery and enchantment. If tourism has developed in recent years, it has not lost its authenticity: less than thirty minutes from the city are charming Berber villages preserved. In the alleys of the labyrinthine medina of Marrakech, the sensory experience is unforgettable: colors and smells of spices, songs of the muezzin... It is here that you can fully taste the atmosphere of Marrakech!
N°5- Tunis, the white and blue city
The beating heart of Tunisia, Tunis does not leave travelers indifferent. Its new city, built by the French in the 19th century, is home to large arteries and beautiful buildings inspired by Haussmannian architecture. Its labyrinthine medina, meanwhile, is a sublime example of seventh-century Arab construction. It is this mix of genres coupled with a vibrant cultural life that makes the charm of the Tunisian capital.
No. 4 - Victoria Falls, wonders of nature
As the natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is one of the most impressive sites in the world. Located on the Zambezi River, they flow along a 108 m high fault! We then understand the full force of this natural element when the water roars in an unforgettable noise. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls is one of the most visited sites in southern Africa.
No. 3 - Cairo, the land of the pyramids
With its thousand-year-old history, Cairo is a destination of choice for history lovers. How not to be amazed by so many archaeological sites and remains! Gigantic city, the Egyptian capital is full of treasures: in total, there are no less than 200 religious buildings celebrating 30 different rites, 1,000 minarets and 100 pyramids in the surroundings... The most famous are of course those of Giza, unique ancient wonders in the world, built in 2500 BC!
N° 2 - Kilimanjaro National Park, wonder of Tanzania
The highest point in Africa, at 5,895 m, Kilimanjaro is a volcanic massif made majestic by its summit covered by eternal snow... It offers a unique spectacle, in the middle of the surrounding savannahs. Classified as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the Kilimanjaro National Park is also home to unparalleled wildlife: lions, elephants, buffaloes and elands are among the animals listed.
N°1- South Africa and the vibrant Cape Town
Trendy, relaxed, festive... This is how we could describe Cape Town! We quickly fall in love with this melting pot city, dear to Nelson Mandela, where modernity and traditions have managed to marry elegantly. It is certainly one of the most pleasant capitals to visit in Africa for its atmosphere, certainly, but especially for its beauty. Climbing Table Mountain, the city's landmark at 1,086 meters above sea level, will give you an unparalleled view of the endless sea.
