It’s the kind of place that you can never stay away from for too long: the vibrant colours, the scents, and the sounds of a continent so full of life. Africa is a place like no other on this planet–and every time I go to visit, I’m reminded why it’s become one of my favourite places to travel. From safaris through the African savanna to exploring ancient cities, there’s something for everyone on this magical continent. So, why do I keep going back to Africa? Let me explain.
When you travel the beaten path, it often feels like you are walking in someone else’s footsteps. You go to the same places as everyone else, eat the same food, take the same pictures… you get the point. Sometimes I feel like I’ve been to London, despite never setting foot outside of the airport. Everyone enjoys this kind of travel because it is safe and reliable, but when you want something different – adventure, if you will – then going off-the-beaten-path, is the way to go.
The best part about travelling off the beaten path is that there are very few tourists in these areas. Fewer tourists mean fewer crowds at attractions so you can really take your time exploring and appreciating the beauty of your surroundings without fighting for space in front of a famous painting or waiting in line for hours just to take one picture at an iconic location.
Take Africa’s incredible wildlife opportunities, for example. Africa is a photographer’s dream. From wildebeests roaming beneath an endless horizon to elephants strolling right by your car window, it’s hard not to be mesmerized by nature’s beauty. Regardless of whether you prefer getting up close and personal or observing from afar, there are countless opportunities for you to get in touch with nature. You don’t even have to be lucky — you’re guaranteed to witness some of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. It’s rich with national parks and reserves which makes wildlife viewing easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy.
This post wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t mention the people. There’s something special about being welcomed into someone else’s home and sharing stories over meals prepared with love. Whether it’s a family dinner or a night out with friends, African hospitality is unparalleled and always leaves me feeling warm inside. I’ve been taught so much about their various cultures and history–things that I would have never known if I hadn’t taken the time to really talk to those living there. The different ethnic groups each with their own distinctive customs and traditions bring uniqueness to each experience. During your travels, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about and experience these vibrant cultures firsthand. From traditional music to local cuisine and art, there’s something special waiting for every traveller who visits Africa. Plus, you’ll meet a lot of interesting people along the way.
A new friend emerges from the trees in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Travelling in Africa also allows me to experience these cultures in ways that most tourists never get to see firsthand. It gives me an appreciation for how other people live around the world and helps me learn more about myself by seeing things from other perspectives. Plus, finding hidden gems like local eateries or secret sites not listed on any tourist map is one of my favourite parts.
No matter how many times I visit this incredible continent, there will always be something new waiting for me around every corner–and I wouldn’t want it any other way. From its welcoming people and breathtaking wildlife to its endless adventure potential, there are myriad reasons why I keep coming back again and again. So if you’re looking for a travel experience unlike any other on Earth…well then come join me in Africa. Let’s make some memories
Finally, what makes my journeys back to Africa so memorable is that each trip brings something different with it. From tracking gorillas in the lush Ugandan mountains to exploring Ethiopia’s Danakil desert in 4×4 vehicles, every location brings its own unique set of adventures. To top it all off, even though there are certain parts of Africa that aren’t exactly safe or stable right now (like parts of South Sudan), there are still plenty of spots where you can explore without fear–which makes planning trips here oh-so-easy!