Africa

The Cradle Of Mankind

Africa covers an area of 30.4 million sq.km and that equates to about 20 percent of the total land surface of the earth and six percent of the earth surface. Africa is the second largest continent after Asia, and has approximately 980 million people. Africa accounts for about 14 percent of the world's human population. The Sahara desert, which is the worlds largest, Africa's largest lake, lake Victoria, the Kalahari desert, the river valleys of chad,the Zambezi and the Congo, together, dominate the African landscape. The river Nile which is 6,671 km in length, is the worlds longest river.

Africa stretches from the Mediterranean in the north, all the way to the Cape of Good Hope in the south and lies between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The African continent is divided into two by the vast Sahara desert. The northern part of Africa is populated by mostly light-skinned Berbers and Arabs. The southern part of Africa is mostly inhabited by dark-skinned peoples, Khoikoi, Bushmen and Pygmies. Africa's diversity makes it a must visit on any travelers list. From the lush Equatorial rainforest the thousands of unspoilt beaches, to the alpine tundra and the ice fields at the top of the continents highest peaks, the endless savannas and plains, Africa has it all.

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Benin

Benin: Cultural Rich Travel Destination in West Africa

Benin is a fascinating and culturally rich travel destination in West Africa, often overlooked by tourists but offering a unique blend of history, nature, and vibrant traditions. Here’s a guide to help you plan your trip:

Why Visit Benin?
1. Rich History & Culture – Benin is the birthplace of Vodun (Voodoo), with deep spiritual traditions and historic kingdoms like Dahomey.
2. UNESCO Sites – The Royal Palaces of Abomey and the stilt villages of Ganvié are must-sees.
3. Wildlife & Nature – Pendjari National Park (one of West Africa’s best for safaris) and W National Park offer elephants, lions, and more.
4. Beaches – Relax at Grand-Popo or Cotonou’s beaches.
5. Friendly Locals – Beninese people are welcoming, and tourism is still relatively undiscovered.

Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (November–February) – Best for wildlife viewing and comfortable temperatures.
- Rainy Season (June–October) – Lush landscapes but some roads may be difficult.

Top Places to Visit
1. Cotonou – The economic hub with markets (Dantokpa), the Python Temple, and vibrant nightlife.
2. Ouidah – The heart of Vodun culture, home to the Route des Esclaves (Slave Route) and the Door of No Return.
3. Abomey – Historic Dahomey Kingdom palaces and museums.
4. Ganvié – "Venice of Africa," a stilt village on Lake Nokoué.
5. Pendjari National Park – Great for safaris (elephants, hippos, lions).
6. Grand-Popo – Scenic beaches and lagoons.

Travel Tips
- Visa: Most travelers need a visa (check requirements for your country).
- Health: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Malaria prophylaxis recommended.
- Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF). Carry cash, as ATMs are limited outside cities.
- Language: French is official; local languages like Fon and Yoruba are widely spoken.
- Transport: Taxis, moto-taxis, and bush taxis are common. Renting a car with a driver is advisable for long trips.
- Safety: Generally safe, but avoid night travel and be cautious in crowded areas.

Is Benin a Good Travel Destination?
✅ Yes, if you:
- Love cultural and historical experiences.
- Enjoy off-the-beaten-path destinations.
- Are interested in Vodun traditions and African history.
- Want a mix of wildlife, beaches, and local culture.

❌ No, if you:
- Prefer luxury resorts and well-developed tourist infrastructure.
- Are uncomfortable with basic travel conditions in rural areas.

Final Verdict
Benin is an incredible destination for adventurous travelers seeking authentic African culture, history, and nature. While it lacks the tourist crowds of places like Ghana or Senegal, this makes it even more rewarding for those willing to explore.

Botswana

The majestic beauty of Africa's numerous regions has captivated a great many Western explorers, even ignited wars and aroused the interests of historians for centuries. Starting from the serene Mediterranean coast of North Africa to the flourishing southern tip of Cape Town, the African continent spans more than 10,000 indigenous tribes, more than 2000 languages and over 60 independent nations and territories. Africa is referred to as the cradle of human life for a good reason, it being the oldest inhabited territory in the world. Any individual who travels through Africa, will uncover the modern day dilemma of a region advancing ahead with globalization and technology. As a deduction of that, many tribes and cultures are determined to safeguard their traditional way of life. In addition to human life, Africa supports the world's most spectacular collection of rare species and biodiversity.

Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso Travel Guide: Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Journey

Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and stunning natural landscapes.

While it’s not a typical tourist hotspot, it’s a fantastic destination for adventurous travelers seeking authentic experiences. Here’s a travel guide with tips for visiting Burkina Faso:

Best Time to Visit
- November to February: Coolest and driest months, ideal for travel.
- March to May: Hot and dry, with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F).
- June to October: Rainy season, some roads may become impassable.

Top Destinations
1. Ouagadougou (Ouaga) – The lively capital with markets, museums, and cultural events.
- Must-see: Musée de la Musique, Grand Market, Naba Koom Palace.
- Festival: FESPACO (Pan-African Film Festival, held biennially in February).

2. Bobo-Dioulasso – The country’s cultural heart, known for its music and colonial architecture.
- Must-see: Grand Mosque of Bobo (Sudano-Sahelian style), Dafra Sacred Crocodiles, Kibidwé Market.
- Festival: Festival International de la Culture Hip Hop (November).

3. Banfora – A scenic area with waterfalls and rock formations.
- Must-see: Karfiguéla Waterfalls, Dômes de Fabedougou, Lake Tengrela (home to hippos).

4. Sindou Peaks – Striking sandstone formations, perfect for hiking and photography.

5. Arli National Park & W National Park – Wildlife safaris (elephants, lions, antelopes).

6. Loropeni Ruins – A UNESCO-listed ancient stone fortress, dating back over 1,000 years.

Burkina Faso Sindou Peaks

Travel Tips & Safety
- Visa: Required for most nationalities (check with the Burkina Faso embassy).
- Health: Yellow fever vaccination mandatory. Malaria prophylaxis recommended.
- Safety: Check travel advisories due to political instability and security concerns in some regions (especially northern areas).
- Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF). Cash is king; credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels.
- Language: French is official; local languages include Mooré, Dioula, and Fulfulde.
- Transport: Buses (e.g., STAF) connect major cities. Mototaxis and rented cars are common.
- Local Etiquette: Dress modestly, ask permission before taking photos, and greet people respectfully.

Cultural Experiences
- Attend a traditional mask dance (common among the Bwa and Lobi people).
- Visit a local weaving village (like Tiebele, known for painted Kassena houses).
- Try Burkinabé cuisine: Riz Gras (spiced rice), Poulet Bicyclette (grilled chicken), Tô (millet or sorghum porridge).

Here are some fun facts and historical highlights about Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa known for its rich culture, music, and resilience.

Fun Facts About Burkina Faso:
1. Name Meaning – "Burkina Faso" translates to "Land of Honest (Incorruptible) People" in Moré (Burkina) and Dioula (Faso). The name was adopted in 1984 under President Thomas Sankara.
2. Former Colonial Name – It was called Upper Volta (Haute-Volta) under French rule, named after the Volta River.
3. Capital City – Ouagadougou (often called "Ouaga") is the capital and largest city. Its name comes from the Moré language, meaning "where people get honor and respect."
4. Unique Cultural Festivals –
- FESPACO (Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou) is Africa’s biggest film festival.
- The International Arts and Crafts Fair (SIAO) showcases African handicrafts.
5. Music & Dance – Burkina Faso is famous for its traditional balafon (wooden xylophone) music and djembe drumming. The country has produced internationally renowned artists like Smockey and Sana Bob.
6. Giant Mosques – The Grand Mosque of Bobo-Dioulasso is an impressive example of Sudano-Sahelian architecture, built entirely from mud bricks.
7. No Coastline – Burkina Faso is landlocked, surrounded by six countries: Mali, Niger, Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire.
8. Cotton & Gold – It’s one of Africa’s top cotton producers and has significant gold reserves, making gold its leading export.
9. Soccer Passion – Football (soccer) is hugely popular, and the national team is nicknamed "Les Étalons" (The Stallions).
10. Thomas Sankara – Known as "Africa’s Che Guevara," Sankara was a revolutionary leader (1983–1987) who promoted gender equality, healthcare, and self-sufficiency before his assassination.

Brief History of Burkina Faso:
- Pre-Colonial Era: The region was home to the Mossi Kingdoms (11th–19th century), which resisted Islamic and European invasions for centuries.
- French Colonization (1896–1960): Burkina Faso became a French colony as part of French West Africa.
- Independence (1960): Gained independence on August 5, 1960, with Maurice Yaméogo as its first president.
- Instability & Coups: The country experienced multiple military coups, notably in 1966, 1980, 1983 (Sankara’s revolution), and 1987 (Sankara’s assassination).
- Blaise Compaoré’s Rule (1987–2014): Sankara’s successor ruled for 27 years before being ousted in a popular uprising.
- Recent Turbulence: Since 2015, Burkina Faso has faced jihadist insurgencies and further coups (2022, 2023).

Bonus:
- Symbol of Resistance – The "Lion of Burkina Faso" represents bravery, inspired by the extinct Barbary lions of North Africa.
- Cuisine – Staple foods include tô (millet or sorghum porridge) with peanut or okra sauce, and riz gras (spiced rice with meat).

Final Advice
Burkina Faso is best suited for off-the-beaten-path travelers who appreciate culture, history, and nature. Stay updated on security, respect local customs, and embrace the warm hospitality of the Burkinabé people.

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Chad

Witnessing Africa's wilderness is not only a phenomenal experience, but also a once-in-a-lifetime privilege that forthcoming generations may not have the opportunity to share. The incredibly overwhelming expanse of the African continent is best understood and traveled by region. The various regions in Africa are exclusively as diverse as the continent in its entirety, and the complexities of the nationalities and cultures will definitely leave the unsuspecting traveler bewildered. The largely Arabic culture of North Africa basks in the Mediterranean shoreline, from the magnificent pyramids in Egypt to the splendid Moorish architecture of Morocco. The adventuring kind will find the Sahara Desert to the south and brings to this region, drier and hotter summers in comparison with its Mediterranean neighbors in the north. Along the Atlantic Ocean, West Africa predominantly comprises of Africa's Savannah, recognised for their exciting wildlife safaris.

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Nile Cruise In the Footpath Of The Pharaohs

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The western part is also home to Africa's greatest cultural and political diversity, mainly a consequence of the colonial period and the Slave Trade. East Africa is one of the most favorite destinations where Africa's two tallest peaks, Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya, soar majestically over splendid concentrations of elephants, water buffalo and rhinoceros. Travellers to the east will also have the benefit to explore the Great Rift Valley, a geologic wonder formed by the movement of the earth's plates. The Southern part of Africa is a great mix of forests, grasslands and deserts rich with gold and diamonds. Travel in southern Africa is unique due to the high population of Europeans and Indians;consequently, a distinct culture of music, art, food and religion has emerged from the blending of great traditions. Prolific urban centers, stunning national parks and endless encounters with the history, is only the introduction of your African travels. Travel to Africa and meet the numerous faces of our global history. The consistent experience and intellectual intrigue of this multifaceted and ancient continent is a journey that will be treasured for life.

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Guinea

Top 10 Attractions In Africa

1. MOUNT KILIMINJARO – TANZANIA

The highest mountain on the African continent, ‘Kili’ measures an astounding 19,340 feet at her highest point.

The challenge to climb this majestic mountain has lured many to scale her heights, a demanding but worthwhile ascent by most accounts. Kili, which has five distinct ecological zones, is an extinct volcano.

2. OKAVANGO DELTA - BOTSWANA

The champagne-coloured waterways of this famous floodplain form the basis of a pristine Wetland of International Importance (RAMSAR).

With some of the most fantastic birding globally and a wild dog population, the largest inland delta in the world is often called Africa’s most beautiful destination.

The region can be explored by land, boat and air. Enjoy the spectacular diversity of flora and fauna species.

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Lesotho

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Libya

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Malawi

3. THE EGYPTIAN PYRAMIDS

Easily the most recognizable of the 7 Wonders of the World, the Egyptian Pyramids have long held fascination for thousands of people. Recent resurgence of interest Egyptology has made trips to this alluring destination more popular than ever. The majority of visitors view the pyramids at Giza. The origins of these majestic structures continue to be a source of lively debate, while the stories of ancient curses and grave robbers delight us all.

4. PONTA DO OURO – MOZAMBIQUE

With around 100 Bottlenose and Spinner dolphins making the sheltered waters of Ponta du Ouro their home, this region is definitely worth visiting. Dive the reefs to 40 metres in depth; they are teeming with a rainbow of marine life. Dolphin dives are a popular while in winter the haunting call of the humpback whale can be heard.

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Namibia Is A True Paradise For The Adventure Traveler

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5. KRUGER NATIONAL PARK - SOUTH AFRICA

The oldest, most established reserve in Africa, the Kruger boasts an amazing variety of game and bird life throughout its numerous habitats. The fantastic opportunities to view the Big Five draw many visitors to the park, hoping to spot lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and black rhinoceros. Game drives and guided walking trails offer great animal watching opportunities in the African bush.

6. DJEMAA el FNAA SQUARE – MARRAKESH – MOROCCO

A tapestry of colours, smells, sites and wonderful local characters make a visit to this bustling marketplace an unforgettable experience. Be entertained by fortune tellers, street performers and henna women. The Municipal Market sells local fresh produce. Take a ride in a Horse-drawn carriage and enjoy the spectacular sunset. More performers come out in the evening and entertain till midnight.

Enjoy the famous local orange juice or mint tea!

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7. THE SERENGETI - TANZANIA

The Serengeti National Park, covering 14,763 sq. km, is named ‘endless plains’ in Masai. Here are 35 species of mammals, including wildebeest, zebra, lion, cheetah, leopard, elephant and giraffe, and over 200 species of birds. The annual wildebeest migration is possibly the most spectacular natural event in Africa.

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8. THE VICTORIA FALLS – ZIMBABWE

From either Zimbabwe or Zambia you can experience the world’s largest sheet of falling water. The spray can be seen up to 30 kilometers away - hence the local name ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ - "The smoke that thunders". Apart from the spectacular views including permanent rainbows arcing across the face of the falls, one can experience the waters along the river at closer quarters with white water rafting.

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9. LAKE MALAWI

The 3rd largest lake in Africa is a tropical paradise. The tranquil waters lap against shores lined with palm, mango, banana and avocado trees. Here you can kayak, while snorkeling offers access to the colourful kaleidoscope of endemic cichlids found at this UNESCO world heritage site.

10. TABLE MOUNTAIN – SOUTH AFRICA

This iconic landmark stands in the centre of the beautiful city of Cape Town. Climb, or experience the wonders of the revolving cable car. Either way a visit to one of the most recognizable mountains in the world is a must for your trip around the great African continent. And while you’re there, enjoy the wonders of Cape Town –beaches, winelands, Robben Island – each one a ‘Top 10’ in its own right!

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