This beautiful continent features 11 urban regions with over 5 million people and over 7,500 secondary cities with fewer than 500,000 people. Many of these urban agglomerations, however, are missing from major international databases. And so there are plenty of places to visit in Africa you don’t know they exist.
For many people, the only thing that comes to mind when they hear Africa is safari, but the continent has much more to offer. From luxury hotels to instagrammable cities and villages and rich cultures. Africa boasts captivating urban destinations, ranging from well-established and tourist-frequented cities like Cairo, Marrakech, and Cape Town to more remote or lesser-known locales. Whether your preference is a cultural, safari, historical, coastal, marine, or purely leisurely vacation, the expansive African landscape offers a town, settlement, or city that not only meets your requirements but also exceeds your highest expectations.
I’ve taken on the difficult challenge of choosing 15 of Africa’s best and most beautiful cities and communities to visit. Some are noteworthy for their ancient architecture, while others are notable for their scenic surroundings, and yet others are notable for their current urban life. Only a few provide all three. In any case, these cities are unquestionably worth a visit.
Cities In Africa To Visit
Accra, Ghana
Accra, Ghana, is a bustling jewel on the West African coast that offers a one-of-a-kind and enriching tourist experience. This capital city, with its fascinating blend of heritage and modernity, is a favorite destination for visitors looking for a diverse and all-encompassing vacation. I love this beautiful city full of friendly locals. Accra’s nightlife is legendary, with an array of lively bars, clubs, and restaurants that pulse with infectious energy. Whether you’re a fan of Afrobeat rhythms or prefer the laid-back atmosphere of a beachside lounge, Accra caters to all tastes.
For history enthusiasts, Accra’s heritage is on full display with iconic landmarks like the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, dedicated to Ghana’s first president, and the W.E.B. Du Bois Center, a tribute to the renowned African-American scholar. The city’s vibrant markets and bustling streets further immerse visitors in its rich cultural tapestry.
Safety is a hallmark of Accra, making it an ideal destination for travelers. The warmth and friendliness of the locals contribute to the overall sense of well-being.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is often hailed as one of the most picturesque cities in Africa and beyond. Beyond its breathtaking natural setting, the city stands as the oldest in South Africa, dating back to its establishment in 1652. Cape Town’s allure extends beyond its scenic beauty, encompassing a captivating array of historical landmarks and museums.
These cultural gems serve as a testament to the city’s rich heritage, offering visitors a compelling journey through time. With its unique blend of natural wonders and historical treasures, Cape Town emerges as a destination that not only captivates the eye with its stunning landscapes but also invites exploration into the fascinating layers of its past.
Partygoers will enjoy Cape Town’s vibrant nightlife, foodies will like the seafood and wine, and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Table Mountain and the stunning Cape Peninsula.
Zanzibar Stone Town, Tanzania
At the core of the famed ‘Spice Island’ of Zanzibar, lying just off the coast of mainland Tanzania, Stone Town stands as the beating heart and soul. This historic old quarter, nestled amidst the contemporary expanse of Zanzibar City, is a maze of slender alleys and 19th-century structures. Offering a unique immersion into urban Swahili culture, Stone Town is a hub where history and modernity converge seamlessly. For me, Zanzibar is still on my bucket list this year.
Visitors can explore the charming alleys, shop for environmentally conscious products crafted in Zanzibar, and indulge in sundowners and cosmopolitan cuisine along the atmospheric Indian Ocean waterfront. This enclave encapsulates the essence of Zanzibar’s rich heritage, allowing travelers to stroll through the past while embracing the vibrant pulse of contemporary life. Stone Town emerges as a captivating destination that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, creating an unforgettable experience on the enchanting Spice Island.
Djenné, Mali
A significant trade center dating back to the 15th century, Djenné stands as Africa’s most architecturally harmonious town. Situated on a seasonal island within the Bani River, a component of the Niger River Delta, Djenné preserves a wealth of Sahelian mud-and-stick architecture to this day.
The epitome of this style is embodied by the Great Mosque of Djenné, considered the world’s largest and arguably the most exquisite adobe structure. Today, Djenné continues to be a living testament to the historical significance of the region, showcasing the enduring beauty and cultural heritage reflected in its remarkable architectural treasures.
Essaouira, Morocco
Nestled along Morocco’s enchanting Atlantic coast, this radiant jewel stands out as one of Africa’s most picturesque cities. The destination seamlessly marries a breathtaking resort beach with a captivating ancient medina. Enclosed by the formidable cliff-top ramparts and fortifications of the 18th-century Skala de la Kasbah, the old medina adds a fascinating historical layer to the city’s scenic allure. Together, the stunning beachfront and the intriguing medina make this coastal gem a harmonious blend of natural beauty and rich cultural history.
Nairobi, Kenya
Describing Nairobi as a thriving hub is entirely accurate. The Kenyan capital not only claims the title of the African continent’s fastest internet-connected city but also prides itself on hosting a national park merely 5 miles from its downtown. Nairobi’s ambiance is vibrant, featuring bustling neighborhoods, numerous unexpected hipster hangouts, and a captivating, affectionate culture. For music enthusiasts, Nairobi is a paradise, with melodies permeating every corner, whether emanating from radio-equipped local matatu taxis, street buskers, or the myriad bars hosting Afro and jazz bands throughout the city.
Luanda, Angola
The capital of Angola is gaining popularity among global tourists for its stunning beaches, thriving economy, and luxurious lifestyles. The city’s breathtaking scenery and rich culture, fueled by oil production, contribute to its exceptionally high living standards. History enthusiasts will find the city’s ancient past fascinating.
Key attractions include The Slavery Museum, The Armed Forces Museum, Independence Square, and the Mausoleum of Agostinho Neto. The renowned Bay of Luanda, with its clear waters and pristine beaches, provides both locals and visitors with an ideal retreat to unwind amid their busy travels, making it one of the most sought-after destinations in the entire country.
Axum, Ethiopia
Axum stands as the longest continuously inhabited city in sub-Saharan Africa. Once the capital of the Axumite Empire, its origins trace back to the era of the Queen of Sheba, who wielded control over a vital trade route from the Sudanese Nile to Yemen across the Red Sea.
Presently, Axum is adorned with the remnants of its grandeur, featuring crumbling palaces, towering stelae, and other artifacts from its historical zenith. The Maryam Tsion Church, founded in the 4th century, holds a central role as the birthplace of Ethiopian Christianity.
Agadir, Morocco
It’s astonishing to consider that Agadir, in its entirety, was devastated by an earthquake in 1960, compelling a meticulous reconstruction adhering to specific seismic standards. The region enjoys a consistently pleasant climate throughout the year, making it an unquestionable choice for those seeking a visually appealing travel destination.
With its expansive sandy beaches, diverse water-based activities, and an opulent animal park, the city caters to a wide range of interests for both the young and the old. The cultural tapestry of this Moroccan gem is vibrant, highlighted by the annual Timitar Festival that celebrates Berber music, culture, and traditions, taking place in the city every summer.
Luxor, Egypt
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Luxor, located on the east bank of the Nile River in southern Egypt, boasts a rich historical legacy. Between the 16th and 11th centuries BCE, it served as the site for the ancient city of Thebes, serving as the pharaohs’ seat of power during the pinnacle of their rule.
In the present day, the modern city is intricately intertwined with two enduring monuments from its ancient past—namely, the Luxor and Karnak Temples. Noteworthy attractions from Luxor’s historical era also encompass the royal tombs situated in the Valley of the Kings on the west bank of the Nile.
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Meaning “Abode of Peace” in Arabic, Dar es Salaam stands as Tanzania’s largest city and industrial hub, playing a crucial role as a major trade port for eastern Africa. Despite Dodoma being the official capital of Tanzania, Dar, as it is commonly known, serves as the primary seat for much of the country’s government administration.
Established in 1862 by the sultan of Zanzibar on the former site of Mzizima village, Dar es Salaam experienced significant growth in 1887 when the German East Africa Company established a station. The construction of the Central Line railroad in 1907 connected Dar to Kigoma on Lake Tanganyika to the west, with a stop in Dodoma.
From 1891 to 1916, Dar served as the capital of German East Africa, and post-independence in 1964, it remained the capital of Tanzania until 1974 when Dodoma officially assumed the national capital role.
Presently, Dar es Salaam thrives as a vibrant city boasting a diverse architectural landscape that reflects its colonial history. The city exhibits a blend of Swahili, British, German, and Asian styles, showcasing its multicultural essence. With its international airport, scenic beaches, and convenient access to the rest of Tanzania, Dar has become a popular tourist destination—a perfect stopover before embarking on a safari or visiting the island of Zanzibar.
Island of Mozambique, Mozambique
Situated off the north coast of Mozambique, this island with a crescent shape held the status of the capital of Portuguese East Africa for four centuries before Maputo took over. Commonly known by its Portuguese name, Ilha de Moçambique, the island is home to some of the oldest structures in the southern hemisphere, notably the 16th-century Fortaleza de São Sebastião.
Equally remarkable is the architectural harmony of the old town center, retaining its shape largely unchanged since the late 19th century.
Kigali, Rwanda
Recognized as one of Africa’s cleanest cities, Rwanda’s capital is situated centrally in the country, just a 2.5-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park—a renowned destination for tourists seeking to trek and witness Rwanda’s mountain gorillas. Its strategic geographical location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring this emerging destination.
Nestled at an altitude of over 5,000 feet above sea level and tracing its roots back to the 11th century, the city features a hilly terrain, with buildings positioned on ridges and nestled in valleys. Among Kigali’s notable attractions is the Kigali Genocide Memorial, providing poignant documentation of the tragic mass killings during Rwanda’s civil war in 1994.
For those interested in traditional handicrafts, ranging from wooden carvings to jewelry and woven baskets, the Caplaki Craft Village is a hub of numerous vendors offering authentic pieces. Kigali also boasts a vibrant restaurant and entertainment scene, adding to the city’s dynamic atmosphere.
Lamu, Kenya
Nestled on an island in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Kenya, Lamu can be characterized as a relaxed and understated counterpart to Zanzibar’s Stone Town. Despite its simplicity, the old town exudes a timeless and traditional charm in its architecture.
The whitewashed houses lining the cobbled alleys are constructed in a Swahili style dating back to medieval times, giving Lamu an older and more authentic feel compared to Zanzibar. Lamu is an excellent destination for those seeking a laid-back atmosphere, providing access to beautiful beaches and captivating snorkeling reefs.
Swakopmund, Namibia
Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, features impressive German colonial-era architecture. However, the Bavarian-style seaport of Swakopmund, located approximately 360km/224 mi to the west, surpasses Windhoek in this aspect with its charming time-warped buildings.
After exploring the architectural gems of Swakopmund, the town becomes a favored hub for adventure enthusiasts, offering activities such as quad biking, sandboarding, and sea kayaking. Venturing beyond, Cape Cross hosts the world’s largest Cape fur seal colony, home to as many as 200,000 individuals.