Africa is a continent brimming with diverse landscapes, breathtaking natural beauty, and countless spots perfect for relaxation. From serene beaches to lush national parks, Africa has something for every traveler seeking calm and a change from the bustling pace of life.
Whether you’re looking for the best places to travel in Africa or planning a visit to a specific region like West Africa or Southern Africa, this guide will help you discover 30 of the most beautiful and tranquil places to unwind across various African countries.
1. Sahara Desert, Morocco
The Sahara Desert is one of the most mesmerizing places to travel in Africa, boasting endless golden dunes under clear blue skies.
Activities: Camel treks at sunrise and sunset, where travelers can witness the dunes bathed in warm colors. Desert camping in luxury tents equipped with air conditioning for comfort and an authentic yet modern experience.
Nearby Attractions: The oasis towns like Merzouga offer accommodation options ranging from traditional Berber tents to high-end desert lodges.
Relaxation Factor: The Sahara’s vast silence and solitude offer a peaceful escape from modern life, making it a top choice for relaxation.
2. Siwa Oasis, Egypt
Siwa Oasis in Egypt is a haven for relaxation, surrounded by date palms and clear springs in a picturesque desert setting.
Unique Features: Ancient salt lakes with buoyant blue water, perfect for a therapeutic float. – Hot springs that are known for their healing properties, such as Cleopatra’s Spring, a well-known tourist attraction.
Accommodation Options: Siwa offers eco-lodges that blend into the natural surroundings, giving travelers an authentic oasis experience.
Things to Do: Explore the Temple of the Oracle and other historical ruins. – Visit saltwater lakes and dip into relaxing mineral-rich hot springs.
3. Djerba, Tunisia
Djerba, an island off Tunisia’s coast, is an idyllic spot with beaches, historical sites, and warm hospitality.
Best Activities: Unwind on the island’s beautiful white-sand beaches with access to crystal-clear, blue water. Visit the town of Houmt Souk, known for its markets and traditional architecture, offering a unique blend of African and Mediterranean culture.
Accommodation Options: Beachfront resorts, local guesthouses, and boutique hotels with all modern amenities, including air conditioning and Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Nearby Attractions: The El Ghriba Synagogue, one of the oldest in Africa, attracts visitors from around the world.
4. Blue Hole, Dahab, Egypt
Dahab’s Blue Hole is a famous dive site on the Red Sea coast, ideal for water lovers and adventurers.
Attractions: The Blue Hole is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life, making it a top choice for snorkeling and diving.
Unique Features: Close to Dahab, this spot offers stunning blue water and a laid-back beach vibe. Dahab’s accommodation options include both high-end resorts and affordable beachside hotels. Relaxation Factor: Known for its calm, friendly atmosphere, Dahab is perfect for those looking to relax by the Red Sea.
5. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Known as the “Blue City” of Morocco, Chefchaouen is famous for its tranquil blue-painted buildings nestled in the Rif Mountains.
Things to Do: Wander through the narrow streets of the medina, marveling at the iconic blue and white architecture. Enjoy Moroccan mint tea in rooftop cafes with panoramic mountain views. Accommodation Options: Quaint guesthouses with rooftop terraces, often offering air conditioning, provide a cozy stay for travelers.
Nearby Attractions: The Akchour Waterfalls are a short hike away, offering a peaceful nature retreat.
6. Bijagos Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau
The Bijagos Archipelago in West Africa is a hidden gem with remote islands, lush vegetation, and rich biodiversity.
Activities: Relax on deserted beaches with pristine sand and blue water. Explore local villages and learn about the islanders’ unique matriarchal society.
Accommodation Options: Eco-lodges and beachfront bungalows make this destination ideal for eco-tourists looking for sustainable travel options.
Wildlife: Bijagos is a sanctuary for rare wildlife, including sea turtles and hippos.
7. Cape Coast, Ghana
Known for its historical significance, Cape Coast offers serene beaches combined with culturally rich sites.
Top Attractions: The Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular tourist attraction that provides a sobering view of Ghana’s history. Kakum National Park nearby offers canopy walkways with views of tropical rainforests.
Relaxation Factor: Enjoy the peaceful beaches along the coast and nearby fishing villages.
Accommodation Options: From beachfront hotels to cozy guesthouses, Cape Coast offers a range of options.
8. La Campagne Tropicana, Nigeria
A unique beach resort in Nigeria, La Campagne Tropicana combines African art with nature.
Features: Private beaches, palm trees, and thatched-roof huts offer a secluded, relaxing atmosphere.
Activities: Horseback riding on the beach, fishing, and canoeing on calm lagoons. Enjoy live music and dance performances showcasing Nigerian culture.
Accommodation: Luxurious beach huts and lodges with modern amenities, including air conditioning for maximum comfort.
9. Mole National Park, Ghana
Ghana’s largest national park, Mole is a perfect destination for a peaceful safari experience.
Wildlife Spotting: Spot elephants, antelope, and monkeys as they roam freely in the park. Early morning and evening game drives are available for those wanting to observe animals in their natural habitat.
Accommodation Options: The park has comfortable lodges with views of the watering holes, offering a unique stay surrounded by nature.
Relaxation Factor: Mole’s quiet, undisturbed landscape makes it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts looking for tranquility.
10. Lake Volta, Ghana
Lake Volta is a vast, serene lake offering a peaceful retreat for travelers.
Things to Do: Boat tours on the lake provide views of local villages and beautiful scenery. Fishing and kayaking are popular activities for those looking to unwind on the water.
Accommodation Options: Waterside lodges and eco-friendly cabins are available, offering travelers both comfort and a connection to nature.
11. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar, a tropical paradise, is one of the best places to travel in Africa for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history.
Top Attractions: The beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa are renowned for their powdery sands and brilliant blue water. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is perfect for exploring Swahili culture and historic architecture.
Relaxation Factor: Zanzibar’s laid-back island vibes, coupled with luxury beachfront resorts, offer the ultimate in relaxation.
Accommodation Options: High-end resorts, boutique hotels, and beachfront bungalows provide a range of stays suited to every traveler’s needs.
12. Diani Beach, Kenya
Diani Beach on Kenya’s southern coast is known for its soft sands, turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts.
Things to Do: Water sports, including snorkeling, kite surfing, and paddleboarding. Beachfront yoga and wellness retreats are popular activities for relaxation seekers.
Accommodation Options: Diani offers both luxury resorts and eco-lodges with modern comforts, including air conditioning and direct beach access.
Nearby Attractions: Shimba Hills National Reserve nearby offers a scenic day trip for wildlife spotting.
13. Lake Naivasha, Kenya
Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake with serene shores, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Activities: Boat safaris provide close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species. Visit Crescent Island, where you can take a guided walking safari among free-roaming wildlife. Accommodation Options: Lakeside lodges and eco-friendly cottages provide comfortable, nature-immersive stays.
Relaxation Factor: The peaceful lake and surrounding landscapes create a perfect escape from urban life.
14. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi offers an awe-inspiring nature experience.
Top Attractions: Gorilla trekking is the highlight, providing a unique opportunity to observe gorillas in their natural habitat. Guided forest hikes reveal exotic flora and fauna.
Accommodation: Luxury lodges and eco-camps nestled in the forest offer cozy, quiet stays with a sense of adventure.
Relaxation Factor: Bwindi’s dense, misty forest and lush greenery create a calming, otherworldly ambiance.
15. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park, located in northern Rwanda, is a tranquil and scenic spot known for its volcanic landscapes and rare wildlife.
Top Attractions: Gorilla trekking, one of the main draws, allows travelers to observe mountain gorillas in their natural mountain habitat. Explore the beautiful forests, home to golden monkeys, exotic birds, and vibrant plant life.
Accommodation Options: Eco-lodges and luxurious camps with views of the misty mountains provide an unforgettable stay.
Relaxation Factor: The park’s quiet volcanic slopes and pristine nature offer a peaceful escape, ideal for both nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
16. Lamu Island, Kenya
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Lamu Island boasts a rich history, traditional Swahili culture, and an old-world charm that creates a relaxing atmosphere.
Activities: Explore Lamu Old Town, where historic buildings, narrow alleys, and intricate doors reflect centuries of Swahili architecture. Dhow sailing trips offer peaceful excursions along the Indian Ocean, allowing travelers to relax while viewing the coastal scenery.
Accommodation: Lamu offers charming guesthouses, boutique hotels, and beachfront resorts, some featuring traditional Swahili decor and architecture.
Unique Feature: With no cars on the island, transportation is either by foot or donkey, contributing to the calm, relaxed pace.
17. Lake Kivu, Rwanda
Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, sits on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This picturesque lake is surrounded by lush hills and is one of the most peaceful places to visit in East Africa.
Things to Do: Relax along the lake’s beautiful beaches, take boat rides, or enjoy kayaking in the calm waters. Visit nearby coffee plantations to learn about Rwanda’s renowned coffee industry. Accommodation Options: Lakeside resorts and cozy guesthouses offer serene stays with views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Relaxation Factor: The tranquil waters and breathtaking scenery make Lake Kivu an ideal place to escape and unwind.
18. Loango National Park, Gabon
Loango National Park in Gabon is a stunning blend of beach, savannah, and rainforest, offering unique ecosystems and rare wildlife sightings.
Highlights: Visitors can witness “surfing hippos,” elephants, and even gorillas along the coastline. Birdwatching is a popular activity, as the park is home to various colorful and rare bird species. Accommodation: Eco-lodges in the park provide immersive stays where travelers can experience nature up close.
Relaxation Factor: Loango’s pristine and untouched landscapes provide a calm retreat for nature enthusiasts looking to reconnect with the wilderness.
19. Virunga National Park, DRC
Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park, is a place of immense beauty and home to diverse wildlife, including endangered mountain gorillas.
Main Attractions: Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Virunga’s lush, volcanic terrain. Climbing Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano with a boiling lava lake, offers adventurous travelers an unforgettable journey.
Accommodation Options: The park features rustic lodges and camps, offering all necessary comforts amid nature.
Relaxation Factor: Virunga’s expansive landscapes and rich biodiversity provide a quiet refuge far from the hustle and bustle of city life.
20. Pointe Denis, Gabon
Pointe Denis is a beautiful, secluded beach destination located across from Gabon’s capital, Libreville.
Activities: Relax on the white sandy beaches, swim in the calm blue waters, and explore the peaceful coastal surroundings. Enjoy beach picnics and long walks along the shore, away from crowds.
Accommodation: Beachfront lodges and private villas offer comfortable stays right by the ocean. Unique Feature: Pointe Denis’s quiet shores and remote location make it perfect for travelers seeking a private, relaxed beach experience.
21. Mount Cameroon, Cameroon
Mount Cameroon is Africa’s highest mountain in West Africa, with stunning landscapes and unique volcanic scenery.
Activities: Trekking is the main draw, with scenic trails leading to panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Walk through lush rainforests and past small villages, experiencing Cameroon’s natural beauty.
Accommodation Options: Rustic lodges and eco-camps provide a cozy place to stay for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
Relaxation Factor: The mountain’s peaceful trails and fresh mountain air make it a rejuvenating escape for hikers and adventurers.
22. Dzanga-Sangha Reserve, Central African Republic
Dzanga-Sangha Reserve is a remote wildlife sanctuary, known for its dense rainforests, rare species, and untouched natural beauty.
Wildlife and Nature: The reserve is home to forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, and a range of primates and birds. Visitors can join gorilla trekking tours or guided safaris through the forest.
Accommodation: Simple lodges within the reserve offer an authentic experience immersed in nature.
Relaxation Factor: Dzanga-Sangha’s serene forests provide an off-the-beaten-path destination ideal for travelers looking to disconnect and embrace the wild.
23. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
Known as “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls is one of the world’s largest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls.
Top Attractions: Walk along the scenic trails surrounding the falls, with viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas of the falls. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River are perfect for unwinding while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Accommodation Options: Luxury lodges and riverside hotels provide stunning views and close proximity to the falls.
Relaxation Factor: The falls’ majestic beauty and soothing sounds create a unique, relaxing experience.
24. Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
Bazaruto Archipelago is a tropical paradise with turquoise waters, soft sand beaches, and rich marine biodiversity.
Activities: Snorkeling and diving in the archipelago’s clear waters reveal vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including sea turtles and tropical fish. Relax on deserted beaches and enjoy island-hopping adventures.
Accommodation: The archipelago offers luxury resorts with private villas, infinity pools, and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
Relaxation Factor: Bazaruto’s calm beaches and tropical atmosphere make it one of the best places to travel in Africa for total relaxation.
25. Okavango Delta, Botswana
The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its unique inland delta ecosystem, teeming with wildlife.
Unique Experiences: Guided mokoro (dugout canoe) tours offer a tranquil way to explore the delta’s waterways, where you can spot elephants, hippos, and a range of bird species. Sunset safaris provide an unforgettable opportunity to witness Botswana’s beautiful wildlife. – Accommodation Options: Luxury tented camps and eco-lodges provide a comfortable and immersive stay.
Relaxation Factor: The Okavango’s peaceful waters and open landscapes provide a perfect environment for unwinding and experiencing nature.
26. Sossusvlei, Namibia
Sossusvlei is famous for its towering red sand dunes in the heart of the Namib Desert.
Top Attractions: Climb Dune 45 or Big Daddy for stunning sunrise or sunset views over the desert landscape. Visit Deadvlei, a surreal white clay pan with ancient, petrified trees. – Accommodation: Desert lodges offer luxurious stays with panoramic desert views and stargazing opportunities.
Relaxation Factor: The solitude and otherworldly beauty of Sossusvlei make it an exceptional place to escape and reflect.
27. Table Mountain National Park, South Africa
Table Mountain, overlooking Cape Town, is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Africa.
Highlights: Take the cable car to the summit, or hike one of the many trails to enjoy breathtaking views of Cape Town and the surrounding ocean. Explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site located within the park.
Accommodation Options: Cape Town offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to guesthouses, all close to the mountain.
Relaxation Factor: The scenic views and diverse flora and fauna make Table Mountain National Park a fantastic place to relax and enjoy nature.
28. Tofo Beach, Mozambique
Tofo Beach is a tranquil beach destination known for its soft sands and vibrant marine life.
Things to Do: Snorkeling, diving, and swimming with whale sharks are popular activities at Tofo. Relax on the pristine beaches or explore local seafood markets.
Accommodation: Beachfront lodges, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly guesthouses offer comfortable stays.
Relaxation Factor: The laid-back atmosphere, combined with stunning beaches, makes Tofo a great spot for unwinding.
29. Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route is a scenic stretch of coastline offering lush forests, sandy beaches, and charming towns.
Activities: Hike the trails in Tsitsikamma National Park, or relax on the beaches in Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. Explore local wineries, and visit wildlife reserves to see elephants and other animals.
Accommodation Options: From beach resorts to cozy cabins, the Garden Route offers diverse accommodation options for travelers.
Relaxation Factor: The Garden Route’s stunning natural beauty and relaxed towns make it an ideal road trip for peace and adventure.
30. Lake Malawi, Malawi
Lake Malawi is known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and diverse fish species, making it a perfect destination for relaxation.
Activities: Snorkel or dive to see the colorful cichlids unique to the lake. Relax on the lake’s many beautiful beaches and enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Accommodation: Lakeside lodges and eco-resorts provide a range of options for a peaceful stay. Relaxation Factor: Lake Malawi’s calm waters and serene beaches make it one of the most beautiful places in Africa for a tranquil escape.
Final Thoughts
Africa offers a plethora of serene locations, from lush national parks to secluded islands, vibrant beaches, and majestic mountains. Whether you’re seeking a wildlife adventure, a quiet beach, or a cultural experience, these beautiful places to travel in Africa promise an unforgettable, relaxing escape. Always remember to check travel insurance options before planning your trip to ensure peace of mind.
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