Travel Guides

Top 10 Cheap And Fascinating Destinations In Africa

The stunning Victoria Falls Bridge linking Zambia to Zimbabwe
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Written by See Africa Today

With the world opening up, we anticipate a lot more free movement of people. This should ultimately trickle down to the tourism industry. A trip to Africa could be on the cards, and it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Yet, it can still be that once-in-a-lifetime adventure. There’s so much to enjoy in Africa; from food to culture to history to famed safaris. However, the excursions can quickly add up, and your holiday can easily go out of budget. But there is something Africa has matching your budget.

Rwanda’s Kigali

When you compare Kigali to other African cities, you’ll see that it’s relatively easy to travel around on a budget. Gorilla trekking tours at Volcanoes National Park are a popular tourist attraction in Rwanda. Those tours, on the other hand, can easily cost $750 or more. According to Trip Advisor, there are trips available for as little as $240. If gorilla trekking is still too expensive for your budget, take a cruise on Lake Kivu for $84 instead.  Or assist the locals by arranging a cultural walking tour.

Cairo, Egypt

Egypt is one of the most affordable African nations to visit for a budget tourist. The Giza Pyramids should be on your schedule from the outset. If you’ve done your homework, you will realize that what determines the quality of your experience is the activities you choose.

A road trip through Africa in 9 weeks

Egyptian pyramids [Photo/My Modern Met]

A ticket to the Giza Plateau costs $10, according to Egypt Travel. Egypt Pyramid Tours offers a $35-day tour to view both the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx if you want to splurge a little more.

Nairobi, Kenya

Yes, the Great Wildebeest migration is in full swing, but Nairobi could be a cheaper option. This city is known as one of the world’s safari capitals, making it another popular but cheaper destination. Whist activities such as breakfast with giraffes, one of the resort’s most famous events, costs around $620 each night.

You don’t want to spend so much money. The good news is that there are other less expensive options, such as visiting Nairobi’s National Park. The entrance charge is $50, but tourists will still get a close look at some of the world’s most beautiful wildlife. You will still be able to have a more intimate encounter with giraffes. You will have to bring your breakfast, though.

Tanzania’s Zanzibar

In the past, Zanzibar was one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences only for the wealthy. Don’t get us wrong: Zanzibar is still a stunning and once-in-a-lifetime destination. But if you travel at the appropriate time, you can get a round-trip ticket for far less than the average of $1500. The convenient thing about Zanzibar is that all you have to do is head to the beach to enjoy luxury and beauty for free once you arrive. How is that for a bargain holiday experience?

Ethiopia’s Addis Ababa

Airlines like Ethiopian Airlines have made Addis Ababa more accessible and affordable than ever before when it comes to East Africa. Ethiopia’s capital city, being one of Africa’s major cities, offers many sights and activities. We suggest a visit to the National Museum. According to Joy of Museums, Ethiopia’s National Museum includes the country’s cultural treasures. It has one of the best archaeological finds: the remains of early hominids, the most renowned of which is “Lucy.” Inside the museum, the entrance cost is less than $1.

Ghana, Cape Coast

Cape Coast is one of Africa’s most culturally important locations, forever haunted by colonial horrors. The Portuguese named this old European colonial city Cabo Corso. It was formerly the most important center for the slave trade in West Africa. Along with other Ghanaian slave castles, the castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with low entry fees. Adults will pay $7, while students pay $4. It may be cheap, but your tour guide will take you on an emotional journey. He explains how the castles served as the beginning point for the transatlantic slave trade. For history buffs, this will be a trip of a lifetime.

Zambia’s Livingstone

According to the Wanderlust Movement, Zambia is one of Africa’s cheapest countries to visit and a backpacker’s paradise. This makes Livingston a potential African budget safari worth considering. Because of its proximity the Victoria Falls, this is a destination that will not disappoint. One of the most favorite activities in Victoria Falls National Park, which costs $30 per person. With packages that can go into multiple thousands of dollars for the exact location, Livingstone is a steal.

Morocco’s Marrakech

4-day Morocco Desert Tour for $565

The Morocco desert tour [Photo courtesy]

Marrakech has been a favorite of European travelers due to its proximity to mainland Europe. This makes flights a lot cheaper than other destinations. There is so much to do, and you can stretch your money to fit your budget and lifestyle. Djmaa El Fna Market is the place to go if you want to get a taste of Moroccan culture on a shoestring budget. As with any market, how much you spend is determined by what you intend to buy and experience.

Namibia’s Windhoek

Sossusvlei is amongst Namibia’s most magnificent sights and is roughly a five-hour drive from the capital Windhoek. This nature reserve is in Africa’s largest protected area. This is certainly a one-of-a-kind experience, thanks to the burned orange hues. A self-guided tour or reserving a private tour with a guide are both viable options for any budget.

Senegal’s Dakar

One thing that strikes you about Dakar is how beautiful and vibrant the streets are. Is it possible to get any more awe-inspiring? The dunes. Take a bus or taxi to Ngor Island if you want to get away from the rush and bustle of Dakar. Your ride should cost no more than 2,500 CFA (about $4) and take no longer than 15 minutes.

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About the author

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See Africa Today

Pharis Kinyua is the editor of See Africa Today. With over seven years of experience in digital media, he has a soft spot for African tours and travel. His drive is to tell the rest of the world what Africa offers, the best accommodation facilities, national parks, culture, shopping malls and best airline deals to travel to Africa

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