Top 10 Destinations — Africa
1 Marrakech, Morocco
The
“Red City” of Marrakesh is a magical place, brimming with markets,
gardens, palaces, and mosques. Exploring the intimate courtyards and
snaking alleyways of the historic Medina can easily eat up a day. Find
inner peace at the serene Jardin Majorelle or take in the beauty of one
of the city’s historic mosques (taking note that, unless you are Muslim,
you are not allowed to enter).
2 Cape Town Central, South Africa
Cape
Town glistens at the southern toe of the African continent. Tourist
brochure-views at Blaauwberg Beach and Kirstenbosch National Botanical
Gardens are within easy driving distance of "The Mother City." The Cape
of Good Hope Nature Reserve provides sweeping sea vistas, hiking trails
and wildlife encounters. On a more somber note, travelers can visit
Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 27 years.
3 Fes, Morocco
The
oldest university in the world isn’t Oxford or the Sorbonne—it’s the
University of Al-Karaouine, and you’ll find it in Fes el Bali. This
walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will transport you back to
medieval times. Visit the ancient maze-like quarters of the Medina to
Fes el-Bali and the four imposing Gates of Fes, with their distinctive
Moroccan tile work. You can walk, or, if you're brave, take a taxi—the
daredevil drivers will have you hanging on for dear life.
4 Knysna, South Africa
Knysna
stands out on South Africa's famed Garden Route thanks to the sandstone
cliffs that dramatically separate its tranquil lagoon from the pounding
surf of the Indian Ocean. It's also home to the country's largest
indigenous forest. Hop aboard a ferry for a ride through the scenic
highlights. The Millwood Mines at Jubilee Creek, site of a major gold
rush in 1885, provide a picturesque spot for a picnic. Be sure to try
some local oysters during the renowned annual festival.
5 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Rainbows
are cool. But what trumps rainbows? Moonbows. If you visit Victoria
Falls during a full moon, the light of the moon through the the
waterfall spray produces a lunar rainbow, or moonbow. More of a
daredevil? Then try what’s been called the world’s best white-water
rafting.
6 Zanzibar City, Tanzania
7 Diani Beach, Kenya
About
an hour south of Mombasa, the sparkling white sands and lush greenery
of Diani invite you to relax under a beach umbrella with a refreshing
drink. Try a camel ride for the tourist experience or book a bike tour
inland for a glimpse of life in local villages. Diani is also a base for
several safari companies.
8 Grand Baie
With
lively restaurants, white-sand beaches, ever-expanding resorts and a
natural harbor, Grand Baie is fertile tourist ground. Located on the
northwest coast of Mauritius, its fashion and craft shops appeal to
landlubbers, while swimming, sailing and windsurfing enthusiasts frolic
in the emerald Indian Ocean. Glass-bottom boat trips provide a window on
the underwater world, but for a one-of-a-kind experience, board a
two-person submarine and cruise beneath the surface with the tropical
fish.
9 Nairobi
Known
as the safari capital of Africa, Nairobi is an energetic, modern city
that serves as a fascinating introduction to both wildlife and
nightlife. Music clubs pulse with life, shops and markets bustle, and a
mélange of restaurants will tempt your palate in this former Maasai
watering hole. Top sights include the Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe
Centre and the black rhinos of Nairobi National Park. The compact city
center is safe to walk in and taxis make other areas accessible.
