The thrill in meeting people that speak in a completely different language and engage in traditions that you didn’t even know exist is just one of the many things that make travelling exciting. If you’re looking to be one with diverse culture and tradition, it might be the right time for you to set foot in Africa.
Considering that this is the second largest continent in the world, it’s impossible for you to run out of destinations and activities in just one trip. Thank heavens for travel tours offered by companies like Bench Africa that curates perfect itineraries for different types of globetrotters. You can even design one yourself with the help of their travel experts (because let’s be honest, planning for a trip alone can be overwhelming especially if there’s a lot of activities you want to experience).
As if you need more reasons to include Africa on your bucket list, we have listed down four things that will convince you more to visit this land.
Culture
Africa is also the second most populous continent in the world. Although majority of the population is indigenous, people from different parts of the world have migrated over the years, making Africa a land with meshed culture.
With 3,000 distinct ethnic groups, you can expect practices and customs that differ from one country to another. It’s worth researching the customs in every place you’re travelling to. For example, did you know that pointing at something is considered rude and offensive in Africa? You don’t want to create bad blood between you and the locals, do you? You might also want to take note that there are areas that are predominantly Muslim like Stone Town in Zanzibar, so you might want to consider packing a scarf or clothes that cover your knees and shoulders.
Food
Just like the locals, African cuisine is diverse and rich with tastes from around the world. With each region having different flavours to offer, eating in each destination will always be a unique experience. Expect combinations of grains, fruits and vegetables, stews, yam, meat and milk products. Africa is also home to some of the world’s finest wines, so when you visit the southern part of the continent, especially Cape Town, don’t forget to treat yourself to a drink.
Sights
Landscapes and architecture all over Africa are feasts for the eye. Whether you want to see the ruins of Great Zimbabwe or to explore the sand dunes in Morocco, Africa will never disappoint. This place will also satisfy your inner love for history. Seeing the Egyptian pyramids with your naked eye will blow your mind and will make you wonder how our ancestors were able to build such a great place for tombs that we now consider a piece of art.
Wildlife
Where else can you find wild animals roaming free around their niche? Seeing animals at their most “at-home” state is one of the reasons people visit Africa. Wanna see millions of wildebeests and zebras on their journey across East Africa in search for better pastures? Better plan your trip around the annual great migration. Did you know that more than 600 new species were discovered over the past decade in Madagascar alone? Africa offers unrivaled animal encounters whether on a Botswana luxury safari or exploring the grasslands of Kenya you we be able to experience the true call of the wild.
There are surely a lot of activities that you can do in Africa, but this is a continent worth more than just taking Instagram-worthy photos of. Is there any other way to fully experience that Hakuna Matata philosophy other than to see Africa for yourself? The beauty of this place will definitely leave you without worries for the rest of your day.