A Comprehensive Travel Guide To Sub Saharan Africa On World Map

Sub Saharan Africa is a vast and diverse region that offers a wide array of experiences for travelers. From the natural wonders of the Serengeti and Victoria Falls to the vibrant nightlife of Lagos and Cape Town, there is something for everyone in this part of the world. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Sub Saharan Africa.

Top Attractions

Sub Saharan Africa is home to some of the world’s most iconic attractions. One of the most popular destinations in the region is South Africa’s Kruger National Park, which is home to the “Big Five” game animals (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and a wide array of other wildlife. Victoria Falls, on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, is another must-see attraction that offers breathtaking views and a range of adventure activities. Other top attractions include the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania.

Hidden Gems

While Sub Saharan Africa has plenty of well-known attractions, there are also many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Cape Verde, an archipelago off the coast of West Africa, is one such gem. It offers stunning beaches, colorful colonial architecture, and a unique blend of African and Portuguese culture. The Chinhoyi Caves in Zimbabwe, the Omo Valley in Ethiopia, and the Ennedi Plateau in Chad are some other hidden gems worth exploring.

Food Scene

The food scene in Sub Saharan Africa is diverse and flavorful. In West Africa, you can try jollof rice, a spicy one-pot rice dish that is popular throughout the region. In East Africa, you can sample injera, a sourdough flatbread that is a staple in Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine. South Africa is known for its braai (barbecue) culture, and you can also try biltong (dried meat) and boerewors (sausage). Other popular dishes include fufu, banku, and kenkey (starchy sides), and groundnut soup, egusi soup, and peanut butter stew (soups and stews).

Budget-Friendly Tips

Sub Saharan Africa can be an affordable destination if you know how to budget wisely. One way to save money is by traveling during the low season, which is usually from May to September. You can also save money by staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as guesthouses and hostels. Eating street food and using public transportation are other ways to save money. Finally, consider joining a group tour, which can help you save on transportation and accommodation costs.

Outdoor Adventures

Sub Saharan Africa is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go on a safari in the Serengeti, climb mountains in the Rwenzori Range, or hike to the top of Table Mountain in Cape Town. Other popular outdoor activities include whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River, sandboarding in Namibia, and camel trekking in Morocco.

Historical Landmarks

Sub Saharan Africa has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical landmarks. One of the most famous is the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the capital of a powerful empire. Other notable landmarks include the House of Slaves on Gorée Island in Senegal, which was a key center of the transatlantic slave trade, and the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, which tells the story of South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.

Family-Friendly Activities

Sub Saharan Africa is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that will appeal to kids and adults alike. One of the best experiences is going on a family safari, where you can see wild animals up close and learn about conservation efforts. Other family-friendly activities include visiting theme parks such as Gold Reef City in Johannesburg and Ratanga Junction in Cape Town, and exploring the beaches and water parks of Durban.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a bit more unusual, Sub Saharan Africa has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. You can visit the Dogon Country in Mali, where you can see traditional mud-brick architecture and learn about the Dogon people’s unique culture. In Gabon, you can explore the dense rainforests and see gorillas and other primates in their natural habitat. And in Madagascar, you can see the unique flora and fauna, including lemurs and baobab trees.

Natural Wonders

Sub Saharan Africa is home to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. One of the most famous is the Serengeti, which is home to the world’s largest animal migration. Other natural wonders include the Okavango Delta, which is the largest inland delta in the world, and the Namib Desert, which is the oldest desert in the world.

Vibrant Nightlife

Sub Saharan Africa is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many cities offering a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Lagos, Nigeria is one of the most popular nightlife destinations, with a wide array of clubs and bars playing everything from Afrobeats to hip hop. Other cities with a vibrant nightlife scene include Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Accra.

Local Markets

Sub Saharan Africa is home to some of the world’s most vibrant and colorful markets. These markets offer a wide variety of products, from fresh produce to handmade crafts and clothing. Some of the most famous markets include the Maasai Market in Nairobi, Kenya, the Souq Al Hadid in Djibouti, and the Medina of Marrakech in Morocco.

Beaches and Mountains

Sub Saharan Africa has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and mountains. The beaches of Zanzibar and the Seychelles are world-renowned for their crystal-clear waters and white sand. The Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa and the Rwenzori Range in Uganda offer breathtaking views and a range of hiking opportunities.

Cultural Immersion

Sub Saharan Africa is a culturally rich and diverse region. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is by visiting traditional villages and learning about local customs and traditions. You can also attend cultural festivals such as the Durbar Festival in Nigeria, the Mombasa Carnival in Kenya, and the Festival of the Desert in Mali.

Art and Music Scene

Sub Saharan Africa has a vibrant art and music scene, with many talented artists and musicians producing world-class work. The Fela Kuti Shrine in Lagos is one of the most popular music venues, with live performances of Afrobeat music. Other notable art and music events include the Dakar Biennale in Senegal and the Harare International Festival of the Arts in Zimbabwe.

Walking Tours

Walking tours are a great way to explore the cities and towns of Sub Saharan Africa. You can take a walking tour of the historic district of Stone Town in Zanzibar, or explore the colorful street art of Johannesburg’s Maboneng Precinct. Other walking tours include the Slave Route in Senegal, which traces the history of the transatlantic slave trade, and the Soweto Heritage Trail in South Africa, which explores the history of apartheid.

Architectural Marvels

Sub Saharan Africa is home to many impressive architectural marvels, both ancient and modern. The Great Mosque of Djenné in Mali is one of the most famous examples of adobe architecture, while the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg is a modern marvel that hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Other notable architectural wonders include the Lalibela Churches in Ethiopia, the Hassan II Mosque in Morocco, and the National Theatre in Accra.

Historical Sites

Sub Saharan Africa has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical sites. The Goree Island Museum in Senegal and the Robben Island Museum in South Africa are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites that were once used as prisons during the colonial period. Other notable historical sites include the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the Elmina Castle in Ghana, and the Stone Circles of Senegambia.

Biking Routes

Biking is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Sub Saharan Africa. You can go on a cycling safari in Tanzania’s Tarangire National Park, or bike the scenic routes of South Africa’s Cape Peninsula. Other popular biking routes include the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, the Rift Valley in Kenya, and the Sani Pass in Lesotho.