Political Map Of Africa 2020
Introduction
Africa, the second-largest continent in the world, has a diverse range of landscapes, wildlife, cultures, and history. The Political Map of Africa 2020 can serve as an excellent guide for exploring the continent’s beauty and uniqueness. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Africa has some of the world’s most iconic attractions, such as the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, Kruger National Park in South Africa, and Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Other must-visit tourist spots include the ancient city of Marrakech in Morocco, the Victoria Falls in Zambia and Zimbabwe, and the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. These attractions offer breathtaking views and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Hidden Gems
Africa is full of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. One such gem is the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The churches are carved out of solid rock and are considered one of the world’s most magnificent architectural wonders. Another hidden gem is the Sossusvlei Dunes in Namibia, which offers a surreal landscape of towering red sand dunes. These hidden gems are worth exploring to discover Africa’s lesser-known but equally beautiful destinations.
Food Scene
Africa has a diverse food scene that reflects its cultural richness. Each country has its unique cuisine, such as Moroccan tagines, Ethiopian injera, and Nigerian jollof rice. Street food is also prevalent in most African cities, offering a wide range of delicious and affordable options. For food enthusiasts, visiting local markets is a must to taste the authentic flavors of Africa.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Africa can be an expensive travel destination, but there are ways to save money while still having an unforgettable experience. One budget-friendly tip is to travel during the low season when prices are lower. Another tip is to use public transportation instead of taxis, which can be expensive. Staying in hostels or guesthouses instead of luxury hotels is also a great way to save money.
Outdoor Adventures
Africa’s natural beauty provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. From safari tours in the savannah to hiking the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, Africa has something for everyone. Other popular outdoor activities include sandboarding in Namibia, white-water rafting in Zambia and Zimbabwe, and diving with sharks in South Africa. These outdoor adventures offer a unique and thrilling way to experience Africa’s natural wonders.
Historical Landmarks
Africa has a rich history, and many of its landmarks reflect this. The Great Mosque of Djennรฉ in Mali is one such landmark, which is considered the largest mud-brick building in the world. The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, South Africa, provides a sobering reminder of the country’s apartheid past. Other historical landmarks include the Slave House on Goree Island in Senegal and the Great Zimbabwe Ruins in Zimbabwe.
Family-Friendly Activities
Africa is an excellent destination for families, with plenty of activities that cater to all ages. Safari tours are a popular choice, where families can see wildlife up close. Beach destinations such as Zanzibar in Tanzania and Seychelles offer a relaxing family vacation. Other family-friendly activities include visiting theme parks, museums, and cultural centers.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Africa has many off-the-beaten-path experiences that allow travelers to explore the continent beyond the typical tourist destinations. One such experience is visiting the Dogon Villages in Mali, where travelers can witness the traditional way of life of the Dogon people. The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, which straddles the border between South Africa and Botswana, offers a unique wilderness experience. Other off-the-beaten-path experiences include visiting the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park in Algeria and the Simien Mountains National Park in Ethiopia.
Natural Wonders
Africa is home to some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, such as the Sahara Desert, the Nile River, and the Okavango Delta. The Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is another natural wonder, where travelers can see a diverse range of wildlife in a volcanic crater. Other natural wonders include the Blyde River Canyon in South Africa and the Fish River Canyon in Namibia.
Vibrant Nightlife
Africa has a vibrant nightlife scene that varies from city to city. Cape Town in South Africa is known for its trendy bars and clubs, while Lagos in Nigeria has a pulsating music scene. Other cities with vibrant nightlife include Marrakech in Morocco and Accra in Ghana. These cities offer a great way to experience Africa’s contemporary culture.
Local Markets
Visiting local markets is an excellent way to experience Africa’s cultural richness and diversity. The Maasai Market in Nairobi, Kenya, is a popular destination for handmade crafts and souvenirs. The Medina of Marrakech in Morocco is another market that offers a colorful display of Moroccan culture. Other notable markets include the Oshodi Market in Lagos, Nigeria, and the Chichicastenango Market in Guatemala.
Beaches and Mountains
Africa has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and mountains. The beaches of Zanzibar in Tanzania are known for their crystal-clear waters and white sand. The Atlas Mountains in Morocco offer breathtaking views and excellent hiking trails. Other notable beaches and mountains include the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, the Mount Nyiragongo in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Mount Cameroon in Cameroon.
Cultural Immersion
Africa’s cultural richness is one of its main attractions. Immersing oneself in local cultures is an excellent way to experience Africa’s diversity. The Maasai Mara tribe in Kenya offers a unique cultural experience where travelers can learn about their traditional way of life. The Zulu people in South Africa also offer a fascinating cultural experience. Other notable cultural immersion experiences include visiting the Berber villages in Morocco and the Himba tribes in Namibia.
Art and Music Scene
Africa’s art and music scene are as diverse as its culture. The National Museum of Mali in Bamako is one of Africa’s leading art museums, showcasing traditional and contemporary African art. The Festival in the Desert in Mali is a celebration of African music and culture, attracting musicians and visitors from all over the world. Other notable art and music scenes include the FNB Joburg Art Fair in South Africa and the Sauti za Busara Music Festival in Zanzibar.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are an excellent way to explore African cities and their hidden gems. The Medina of Fez in Morocco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a fascinating walking tour experience. The Old Town of Stone Town in Zanzibar is another notable walking tour destination. Other cities with great walking tour options include Marrakech in Morocco and Accra in Ghana.
Architectural Marvels
Africa has some of the world’s most impressive architectural marvels, from ancient pyramids to modern skyscrapers. The Pyramids of Giza in Egypt are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are considered one of the world’s most iconic structures. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco, is another architectural marvel that offers a stunning view of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Other notable architectural marvels include the Royal Palace of Casablanca in Morocco and the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, Pakistan.
Historical Sites
Africa’s rich history is reflected in its many historical sites. The Island of Gorรฉe in Senegal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as a major center for the Atlantic slave trade. The Robben Island in South Africa is another historical site that served as a prison during the apartheid era. Other notable historical sites include the Great Zimbabwe Ruins in Zimbabwe and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, Egypt.
Biking Routes
Biking routes offer a unique way to explore Africa’s landscapes and wildlife. The Cape Town Cycle Tour in South Africa is a popular biking route that offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. The Karoo Tour in South Africa is another notable biking route that takes travelers through the semi-desert region of the country. Other biking routes include the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and the Rift Valley in Kenya.
Wellness Retreats
Africa has many wellness retreats that offer a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. The Spa at the One&Only Cape Town in South Africa is one such retreat that offers a range of treatments and therapies. The Nautilus Spa in Zanzibar is another notable wellness retreat that is set in a tranquil tropical garden. Other wellness retreats include the Singita Lebombo Lodge in South Africa and the Olarro Lodge in Kenya.
Adventure Sports
Africa is a playground for adventure sports enthusiasts. Bungee jumping from the Bloukrans Bridge in South Africa is a thrilling experience that offers a stunning view of the valley. White-water rafting on the Zambezi River in Zambia and Zimbabwe is another popular adventure sport. Other adventure sports include skydiving in Namibia, sandboarding in South Africa, and surfing in Morocco.
Conclusion