Africa is a continent of wonders, from the majestic pyramids of Giza to the vibrant cities of Cape Town and Marrakech. Home to more than 50 countries, it offers a wealth of experiences for travelers of all kinds. From the rhinoceroses of the Solio Reserve to the art scene in Marrakech, there's something for everyone. The Pyramid of King Cheops, located near Cairo, is one of the most iconic structures in the world.
Built around 2650 BC, it is composed of 2.5 million limestone blocks and its sides are oriented exactly to the four cardinal directions. A helicopter ride across the Bazaruto Archipelago to the Azura Retreats hostel on Benguerra Island is also a must-do experience. The Solio Reserve in Kenya is one of the best places to see black and white rhinoceroses, which are increasingly rare. The Cape Verde archipelago is a cultural mix of African, Iberian and Brazilian influences and is located in the North Atlantic.
It is comprised of 10 islands and offers a unique experience for travelers. Marrakech, Morocco is a city that offers both old and new attractions. It has an up-and-coming art scene, five-star resorts, contemporary restaurants, bazaars, souks and markets. The 12th century Koutoubia mosque with its Arab minaret is an integral part of the city's skyline and should not be missed.
The Al Maaden Museum of Contemporary African Art and other galleries make up Marrakech's burgeoning art scene. Cairo, Egypt is another must-see destination for travelers looking to explore its long history. The Egyptian Museum has thousands of years of antiquities and artifacts, including mummified bodies of ancient rulers. The large public square of Tahir with its central roundabout is also known as a place of political demonstrations.
For panoramic views of the city, visit the 187-meter-high Cairo Tower in the Zamalek district. Kigali, Rwanda is known for being one of the cleanest cities in Africa and is located just a 2.5-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park where tourists come to hike to see Rwanda's mountain gorillas. The Kigali Genocide Monument documents the horrific mass killings that occurred during the Rwandan civil war in 1994. The old town of Essaouira in Morocco is protected by 18th-century waterfront walls and is full of palm-lined avenues and narrow streets where you'll find cafés, art galleries and small hotels. Don't miss out on visiting the Ketchaoua Mosque which dates back to the 17th century and has two large minarets. Luxor in southern Egypt was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979 and was once home to the ancient city of Thebes which was the seat of power for pharaohs during their reign between 16th and 11th centuries BC. Dar es Salaam in Tanzania was founded in 1862 by the Sultan of Zanzibar in what was once known as Mzizima. In 1907, it was connected to Kigoma on Lake Tanganyika by Central Line railway with a stop in Dodoma. Morocco is one of the best countries to visit in Africa as it offers mountains, sand dunes and beaches around the country as well as important mosques and incredible attractions in cities like Marrakech and Casablanca.
Mauritania is also open to tourism for travelers who present a negative PCR test 72 hours after their trip. Johannesburg or Jo'burg as locals call it is South Africa's largest city and one of Africa's richest and most modern cities. It has excellent restaurants and contemporary shops at its Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Whether you're dreaming of white-sand beaches or getting up close to the Big Five on safari, Africa has something for everyone. From ancient pyramids to modern metropolises, this continent has something for every traveler looking for an unforgettable experience.
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