Africa is an incredible continent, with a lot for travellers to enjoy. There are many wonderful things to discover, however, if you want to get a good overview of Africa’s diverse attractions, there are two countries you should visit: Tanzania and Morocco.
What to see in Tanzania
Tanzania is a beautiful country with some stunning natural landscapes – most notably Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro – and these are great places to learn more about the continent’s natural attractions.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenge but one that is well worth it if you want to see some of Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Aside from the mountain itself, you will have the chance to explore some of Tanzania’s diverse habitats, from forest and moorland to farmland and glaciers.
Africa truly is a diverse continent, and hiking through Kilimanjaro’s varied climatic zones will give you an indication of just how varied the region is. There are several routes to the summit, but as this is Africa’s highest peak it pays to choose wisely when it comes to tour operators – Walks Worldwide offers trips on two of the quieter paths, Rongai and Shira, to give you a real wilderness experience.
While you’re in Tanzania, you should also visit one of its amazing nature reserves, like the Serengeti, where you can spot many of Africa’s most famous creatures, including elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes and cheetahs, among others. Another place that has a lot to offer in terms of wildlife is Zanzibar, with this island surrounded by stunning coral reefs and the waters home to all manner of exotic fish.
Spend some time here and you can enjoy beautiful beaches, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters and even take the opportunity to learn a bit about the region’s heritage by visiting Stone Town – the capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city was a thriving port for centuries and became involved in the slave trade when the Portuguese arrived in the region. It’s a fascinating place to explore, with narrow winding streets that you can lose yourself in and feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.
What to see in Morocco
For a complete contrast, travel to north Africa and explore Morocco. Where Tanzania is home to verdant and green landscapes, Morocco offers something totally different. You can visit the Sahara Desert during a trip here – a vast expanse of rolling dunes that stretches as far as the eye can see and that seems very barren in comparison to the plains and forests of Tanzania.
Camel trekking across this beautiful wilderness is a real must if you’re exploring Morocco, as is spending some time in the High Atlas Mountains. While none of the peaks here are as tall as Kilimanjaro, they are still impressive, with several over 4,000 m high. Mount Toubkal is the highest in the range and it’s also possible to hike to its summit.
Another must while you’re in Morocco is discovering Marrakech, a vibrant and exciting city. Its souks are legendary and transport you back to a time when traders from the east travelled between continents on foot and by boat, bringing all manner of exotic goods with them.
Simply wander around the narrow streets, soaking up the sights, sounds and smells of this incredible piece of living history. It offers a fascinating insight into a different side of Africa to what you’ll find in the central and southern regions of the continent.
Photo credit: kilimanjaro
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