Have you ever wondered why you never hear about certain countries yet they are in Africa? The most underrated African Countries are those that are often overlooked by tourists and travellers.
The continent has 54 countries, all with different cultures and sights. Naturally, some countries have grown their tourism better than others and capture our attention and entice visitors.
But what about those few underrated countries in Africa that we barely hear about? How stunning are they? Is it worth dedicating your vacation time to any of those?
Well, the answer is yes, they are worth it. Further, they are all interesting and impressive in their own way.
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What is the Prettiest Country in Africa?
Among the prettiest countries are Morocco, Egypt, Mauritius, South Africa, Tunisia, Namibia, Kenya, and a few more we’ve seen in countless pictures. These are some of the finest African countries with a mosaic of fascinating natural landscapes.
They have enviable cultures and an aura for tourism in every aspect.
Which is the No 1 Country in Africa?
The largest country in Africa and the 10th largest in the world is Algeria. Located in Northern Africa, Algeria spans over 2.38 million km² (919,595 mi²) and is home to over 44 million people.
Algeria is a country with a fantastic diversity of landscapes with the Sahara desert in the south, beaches along the Mediterranean sea to the north, and mountains that offer excellent hiking in the summer and snow skiing during winter.
There are many great countries in Africa may not rank high on your search engine when searching for African destinations to travel to. However, these gems should be on any savvy traveller’s radar. So here, I’ll share with you the most underrated countries In Africa that deserve much more tourists.
Malawi
The beauty of Malawi. Photo/inventtour.com.
Malawi is one of the underrated African countries and is rarely heard of. But did you know it’s one of the most peaceful nations you could visit. In Malawi, it’s so common to be the only tourist as you enjoy the natural beauty or learn more about the local culture.
Being situated in Africa’s Great Rift Valley gives Malawi a diverse terrain that ranges from high peaks to plateaus to expansive lakes.
Malawi is also home to Mount Mulanje, Lake Malawi, and Nyika National Park, home to a variety of wild animals, including leopards, zebras, elephants, lions, and spotted hyenas.
Sao Tome & Principe
Sao Tome & Principe. Photo/worldatlas.com.
Sao Tome & Principe is a tiny island nation on the west coast of Africa and the second smallest country on the continent. Although It is one of the underrated African countries, surprisingly, the country has so much to offer. From pristine beaches and crystal clear waters to endless hiking opportunities.
It comprises two different islands, Sao Tome and Principe island. Principe is more remote and beautiful than the main island and is a paradise for birdwatchers.
Enjoy a landscape that looks like it’s taken straight out of Jurrasic Park, and what might be the world’s strangest-looking mountain, and not to forget maybe the world’s best chocolate.
Comoros
Comoros Islands. Photo/ seeafricatoday.com.
The tiny country of Comoros on the eastern coast of Africa is a country that few people can pinpoint on a map.
However, it will give a bigger positive surprise for a travel destination. Amazingly, it has friendly and warm people, world-class beaches and an underwater world that even the most famous countries in south-east Asia envy.
And to everyone’s surprise, Comoros is one of the very best places in the world to swim with and see Humpback whales up close.
You can relax at what may be the best beach in all of Africa and have the chance to swim with the big mammals.
Madagascar
Madagascar. Photo/PeakD.
Madagascar is an underrated African country. Yet, it is a perfect destination for the adventurous traveller who wants to get away from mass tourism. However, travelling around the 4th biggest island in the world requires a lot of time and patience.
With these virtues, it will reward you with one of the most biodiverse destinations in the world. It is home to thousands of unique species of flora and fauna, including the famous lemurs.
In addition, it has some of the best, but unpopular beaches in the world, together with breathtaking scenery.
Zimbabwe
Rukomechi Camp Wilderness, Zimbabwe. Photo/
tasafaris.com.
Though Zimbabwe has had a turbulent government and a crumbling economy, the country still conserves several stunning natural and historical landmarks. They easily impress even the most seasoned traveller. Its most famous natural feature is Victoria Falls, the world’s greatest curtain of falling water.
Other places worth visiting in Zimbabwe are the Great Ruins in Masvingo, Matobo National Park, and its Matobo Hills.
Algeria
The beauty of Algeria. Photo/washingtonpost.
Algeria has had a bad reputation for years, because of armed terrorist groups. Civil war ended in 2002 and it is a reason why it remains among the most underrated African countries.
Today, it is a safe country to visit and has more to offer than you would expect. The capital city, Algiers is a charming city with a mix of French architecture.
The Casbah neighbourhood along the hills in Algiers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Southern Algeria around Tamanrasset and the Hoggar mountains is also an adventure dream worth exploring.
Lesotho
Lesotho Sehlabathebe. Photo/uslovingwanderlust.
Welcome to the amazing mountain kingdom; The Republic of Lesotho. It is one of the three remaining sovereign kingdoms in Africa.
Lesotho is landlocked by South Africa with many attractions to enjoy for nature lovers. They include the following:
- Maletsunyane Falls
- Hiking at Thabana Ntlengana
- Jungle thrill at Maluti Mountains
- Visit the rock pools
- Mohale Dam
Lesotho is also home to a rich cultural heritage, Kome caves that hold thousands of years of history. Tsehlanyane National park is the crown of Lesotho’s National Park System.
It doubled up as home to Afriski resort where you can ski and snowboard.
