4 PLACES YOU HAVE TO VISIT IN AFRICA

By: Jason Jourdan
August 28, 2018 12:00 am

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Travel

4 PLACES YOU HAVE TO VISIT IN AFRICA

By Jason Jourdan

The African continent remains an attractive destination for travelers worldwide. Africa is vast, stretching across 5000 miles from its north all the way to its southern tip, with a vast array of peoples, cultures, languages, and climates in between. Were a traveler to explore all of Africa, they would encounter desert, tropical and savanna among others. The occasionally bleak news stories that emanate from the continent do not represent the general safety afforded by her larger cities nor the fundamental friendliness of many of her inhabitants. Tourists often fascinate them, particularly travelers engaged in solo trekking. If your bucket list includes visiting Africa, consider traveling to these four cities.

Cairo: Gem of Africa and the Middle East

Starting from the north, our first stop is Cairo, Egypt’s capital. Home to over 17 million inhabitants, the largest city in Africa offers the tourist a menu of options from old to new. While the city is renowned for the Great Pyramids of Giza, it boasts other, lesser-known historical attractions. Cairo is home to the Al-Azhar Mosque, one of the oldest universities in the world. Located in the historic center of Islamic Cairo, the mosque dates back to 972 A.D. Its eclectic design will amaze architecture buffs as it features not only the expected minarets but also elements associated with the churches of Coptic Christianity. Although a hectic city, stretching across various districts, including the legendary Giza, the nimble backpacker can make their way reasonably enough on foot. Those pressed for time may wish to hire a guide who will be able to fill in the back story of the many attractions present.

Addis Ababa: Cradle of Mankind?

Heading south into East Africa, we next stop at Addis Ababa. This, the capital of Ethiopia, is another continental metropolis with a growing population of over three million inhabitants from all over the region. As Addis Ababa does double-duty as the capital of the African Union, it has over time become a haven for expats employed by various NGOs. Like Cairo, this verdant and temperate city boasts numerous historic attractions that speak to the complicated history of the country. The Holy Trinity Cathedral is a must-see. Located in the Aratkilo area of the city, Emperor Haile Selassie ordered this cathedral built as a primary site of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. It now serves as the final resting place for Selassie and his wife. Finally, based upon archeological discoveries such as Lucy the Australopithecus, many believe the region to have been the birthplace of humanity.

Nairobi: Safari Capital of the World

Staying in East Africa, our next destination is Nairobi, the capital of Kenya and the largest city in the region. Downtown Nairobi is as urban as you would expect of any major world city, but it also offers the unique ability to get away from it all just a few miles away. Located just a few miles outside the city, the traveler can take a safari at the Nairobi National Park. Situated on nearly 30 acres, the park is home to many animals as well as the myriad flora and fauna unique to the region. The city proper features many museums, including the National Railway Museum. Rail played an essential role in linking African cities in the colonial era. Train travel is still popular in Africa, and this museum documents the history of the critical Kenya and Uganda rail line. As with Addis Ababa and Cairo, Nairobi offers unmatched natural beauty along with a vivid sense of its own history.

Cape Town: the Mother City

Reaching the southernmost tip of the continent, Cape Town, South Africa is host to a breath-taking landscape, anchored by the looming Table Mountain range in one direction and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean to the other. To enjoy a great panorama of the city, take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain. From its terrace, the traveler can view the metropolis sprawl its way around the peninsula. Fans of the outdoors will find much to enjoy in Cape Town, with hiking, swimming and surfing all favorite pastimes with locals and tourists alike.

From Cairo to Cape Town, Africa offers a wealth of memorable travel experiences. Whether you are a digital nomad or an avid backpacker, the continent has something for everyone. Should you fall in love with your surroundings and with an extended stay, these cities offer many opportunities to volunteer to help the local populace.

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