6 Underrated Places in Africa With Unforgettable Memories

When it’s time to pack and dust off the suitcases for an epic journey to Africa, most people only think about the pyramids of Egypt or a safari in Kenya and Tanzania. But that should not be the case since Africa has a wealth of underrated places that offer an unforgettable experience to travellers in search of exotic adventure.

From unspoiled white sandy beaches and vast ochre sands of the desert to iconic national parks, Africa is full of incredible secret destinations that are just waiting to be discovered. Enjoy your underrated travel fun in Africa in these six places.

Table of Contents

1. Bazaruto, Mozambique

The beautiful Bazaruto Archipelago. Photo/ Pestana.

Bazaruto Archipelago is a group of pristine islands located off the coast of Mozambique. The idyllic islands are known for their unspoiled beauty and diverse ecologies. Here, you get the feeling that you’re in the Caribbean swimming in turquoise waters and lounging on white sands.

At Bazaruto, there’s plenty to see, especially underwater. The pristine coral reefs are home to over 2000 species of fish, whales, sharks, dolphins, turtles, manta rays and the endangered Dugong. Enjoy an unforgettable Mozambican holiday at this tiny group of islands.

2. Namib Desert, Namibia

Namib Desert, which is one of the most underrated places in Africa, is as fascinating as it is vast. The iconic sands of the Namib have a surprising amount of plants and other species despite being arid. One of the most iconic sites to see at Namib is Sossusvlei and Deadvlei which are best explored from above via a hot air balloon.

Namib Desert. Photo/ Britannica.

3. Nyerere National Park, Tanzania

Tanzania is one of the most visited African countries due to iconic national parks such as Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro and Lake Manyara. However, there are dozens of other places in the East African country where you can connect with nature. And one of them is Nyerere National Park, which is the largest park in Africa.

Nyerere National Park features close to 12,000 square miles of protected space and is home to the Big Five and over 400 bird species. For the best experience seeing wildlife at Nyerere, plan a three-day safari.

4. Santo Antao, Cape Verde

Sal and Boa Vista are the most popular Cape Verde islands. But if you are looking for an adventurous trekking holiday, let Santo Antao be your destination. The lush island of undulating fertile peaks and valleys is so remote and is relatively untouched by mass tourism. It is one of the most underrated places in Africa.

Santo Antao. Photo/ Cape Verde Experience.

Santo Antao has no airport, which means you’ll arrive by ferry. Once you’re there, head to the northeast region where there are undulating fertile peaks and valleys as well as charming villages. You get the opportunity to interact with the locals and learn their culture as you get off the beaten path.

5. Saly, Senegal

If you’re itching for African winter sun, Saly should be on your travel bucket list. This area is one of the most underrated places in Africa. Saly is the place to relax, play golf and enjoy African cuisine as well as a low-key holiday at affordable rates. If you want more than that, then book a trip to the nearby Samone Lagoon where you’ll enjoy blissed-out reggae beach hunts.

Saly is ideal for those who want to relax. Photo/ Culture Trip.

6. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Despite the facts that Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers the best gorilla-trekking experience, it remains to be one of the most underrated and under-explored places in Africa. The park has grown significantly in size in recent years and has succeeded in bolstering its gorilla population from 254 to over 600.

Besides gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park also offers other outdoor activities such as hiking the towering Karisimbi and visiting the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Bulera.

What is the Most Underrated Country in Africa?

Malawi is one of the underrated African countries. It is common to be the only tourist in Malawi as you enjoy the natural beauty or learn more about the local culture.

What is the Least Visited Place in Africa?

Equatorial Guinea has the distinction of being Africa’s least visited country. Despite efforts to increase tourism by granting visa-free admission to US/American Samoan nationals, the West African country has not attracted many visitors.