Of course, we know how beautiful the African continent is, but nothing gives us more of a thrill than seeing other people appreciate it, too. Condé Nast Traveler recently released their list of The 40 Most Beautiful Countries in the World, and four countries in Africa made an appearance (not that we’re surprised). Read on to find out who:
Tanzania
The top attractions in Tanzania are undoubtedly witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti and climbing (or at least seeing) the tallest mountain on the continent, Mount Kilimanjaro.
That said, this magical country has plenty more to offer than just those two attractions, despite how monumental they are. Other must-see destinations include visiting the Ngorongoro Crater (the only intact caldera in the world) and the aquamarine shorelines surrounding Zanzibar.
This East African country cracked the nod at number 8 out of 40 according to Condé Nast.
Kenya
As the neighbour to its predecessor and with the Great Wildebeest Migration moving across the border into the Mara at certain times of the year, it’s only natural that Kenya would feature.
It’s tall grasslands, incredible wildlife population, and colourfully attired Maasai herdsmen have inspired many a safari holiday – and one of the most famous books (and movies) about the continent: Out of Africa. Kenya comes in at 15 on Condé Nast’s list of 40.
South Africa
Truly a land of contrasts, South Africa is a country that has it all (including us – did you know Rhino Africa’s HQ is based here?) The Rainbow Nation is a vacation destination that was made for a combination holiday, whether it’s safari and the seaside or the city.
There’s Kruger and its Big 5, KwaZulu-Natal and its beaches, Cape Town and Table Mountain, the Western Cape and its Garden Route and winelands, the Eastern Cape and its malaria-free reserves, the Drakensberg and its peaks – you get the idea. Need we go on? South Africa makes Condé Nast’s list at 23.
Namibia
Its eerie mist-laden coastline has served as a burial ground for passing ships, earning it the name, the Skeleton Coast, while its burnt dunes are some of the highest on earth.
Namibia‘s otherworldly landscape has long drawn adventure-seekers and outdoorsmen and its natural attractions are astonishing in their diversity and multitude. Fall in love with its unique wildlife in Etosha and the lush Caprivi Strip.
Wander the stark salt pans of the Makgadkgadi and spot unique desert-adapted animals in the Damaraland. Dramatic, mercurial, awe-inspiring in its vastness, Namibia is a place like no other on earth and gets Condé Nast’s nod of approval at number 38.
Have you been to any of these amazing destinations, and if so, where did you go? Let us know in the comments section below!
Both South Africa and Kenya, both on safari and other. Beautiful destinations
I agree! I had the pleasure of visiting Kenya in August last year. What a treat.
I have been to all of these countries and more in Africa. I would have to put Botswana ahead of Kenya. Also Ethiopia is hard to beat.
Hi Terry! Ethiopia is on my to-do list, too.
I have been to all four of these, some more than once. Also Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. I love the bush!
So do we, Carol! What a privilege to live in Africa 🙂
Yes, been to all 4. I lived in Tanzania for many years and South Africa (on a yacht for 2 years in Knysna & Saldahna). I would also put Ethiopia ahead of Kenya, but for sure Namibia is Africa’s best kept secret! Stunning!
That’s wonderful, Lynne. Knysna also holds a very special place in my heart having grown up there 🙂
I have been to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana, and will be going to Etosha in Namibia, Sabi Sands and Kruger in S.A., as well as Kenya and Tanzania in May and June of 2018. Can’t wait!
That’s amazing, Gerry! You’re certainly ticking them all off the list 🙂