The ultimate African bucket list for post-lockdown travels
If you’re in search of bucket list ideas and wild travel fantasies, here’s a list of captivating African considerations, catering for all sorts of travel.
VISIT THE PYRAMIDS OF GIZA
Needing no introduction at all, and the only surviving landmark that belonged to the original seven wonders of the world, the Pyramids of Giza are a must-see. Although the dusty desert plains, the coaxing and conning vendors that try their best to hustle cash from you and the unavoidable heat are less than welcoming, viewing the pyramids is a memorable and fulfilling experience. In addition to the pyramids, you can spend your days wandering around bustling bazaars, visiting spectacular mosques and absorbing history in the famous museums.
ENCOUNTER GORILLAS IN RWANDA
Tour companies now offer alluring packages that allow guides to help you navigate deep into the Rwanda’s rich jungles on long treks, ranging from two to five days. On remote mountain tops, you’ll get the chance to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Here, you’ll get the luxury of silently marveling at the ways of wildlife, and may be able to spend up to an hour watching these incredible creatures. After your gorilla trek, you can spend the remainder of your time in Africa’s cleanest country and uncover the secrets of its up and coming capital city, Kigali.
CLIMB MOUNT KILIMANJARO
Africa’s highest point towers over the dusty plains of Tanzania, boasting the unique quality of a snowcap despite being located on the equator. Although one of the seven summits (the seven highest mountains on each continent), climbing Kilimanjaro is an achievable feat, needing no technical mountain climbing skills nor incredible fitness levels — just the ability and stamina to hike from anywhere between five and eight days. At the Uhuru peak, your perseverance will reward you with life-changing sunrises and an unparalleled view.
VISIT THE MARKETS OF MOROCCO
In the bustling center of Marrakesh, you’ll be able to live out your Aladdin fantasies without venturing to the Middle East. Get lost in never-ending and colourful markets, or souks, that offer a range of items, from spices and clothes to houseware. Take a day trip to the now famous Blue Town or wander in the desert. Morocco offers a slice of magic.
WITNESS THE MASAI MARA MIGRATION, KENYA
Known as one of the greatest wildlife spectacles, the migration of wildebeest, antelopes and zebra has stunned nature and animal lovers for years. A safari during the migratory season (late June to end of November) will allow you to witness an incredible number of animals — 1.5 million of them — herd from the Serengeti across a deadly river into the Masai Mara.
WANDER IN THE CAPE WINELANDS
To make up for all the alcohol you may have missed during the national lockdown, take a road trip along the Cape winelands when our restrictions are lifted. Here, you can sample incredibly crafted wines as you immerse yourself in spectacular landscapes. With different routes available, and a variety of cosy accommodation options, relaxation and ease await you in the Cape. And this bucket list item is the easiest for most of us to check off.
VISIT THE VICTORIA FALLS
Known infamously as the Smoke that Thunders, this legendary African waterfall bordering Zimbabwe and Zambia is simply an essential on an African bucket list. Whether you’d like to simply marvel at the majestic falls and enjoy the scenery, or indulge in adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping over the falls, you can be sure to check off more than one incredible activity.
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