Africa is the birthplace of mankind and given the great natural beauty of the continent it may be a puzzle as to why we, as species started to migrate North to colder climes.
Of course the answer is not quite as tongue in cheek- but increasing numbers of visitors are flocking back to the Mother Continent in search of something that is becoming increasingly rare – sheer natural beauty.
Given the size and square mileage of the continent it is very difficult to select highlights as far as natural beauty is concerned. But if there were seven spots that stood out from the rest they may be these.
1. The Red Sea.
Go to the top of Africa and you will find the Red Sea. In the gulf between Africa and Asia it is host to some of the most wonderful reefs on the continent. Both hard and soft corals and the diversity of other marine life attract divers and snorkelers form across the globe.
2. The Okavango Delta.
Northern Botswana is home to what has been Africa’s Last Eden. And it does live up to its name. This wetland plays host to a variety of wildlife when is flooded by the Okavango River. The flat plain of the Okavango has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. During this season Wildebeest, Hippo, Nile crocodile, Elephant and many other species flock to the attraction of the still and shallow waters.
3. Ngorongoro Crater.
In Tanzania the crater is the draw card for thousands of tourists a year. There’s good reason for this. The crater plays host to a concentration of animals that are largely untouched by human habitation. It is a microcosm of Africa. The one side of the collapsed volcano is forest, while the other is bush and low grass. Vast herds of prey animals are stalked by predators in this habitat – providing scenes that hark back to an Africa of old.
4. The Great Migration.
Each year in Tanzania the herds of Wildebeest calve. This almost immediately leads to shortage of fodder and the herds start to set out for literally new pastures. The herds are joined by other animals and large numbers of predators. They move towards Kenya where the rains provide for ample fodder. The migration of around 1.7 million Wildebeest is a scene that many will never forget.
5. The Sahara Desert.
Spanning a number of African countries this is the largest traditional desert in the world. The dunes and arid landscapes are awe inspiring. The blazing heat of the day and the cold of night has seen many an explorer perish in this unforgiving landscape. However today tourists are welcome sight and there are several companies that provide guides into the sands.
6. Mount Kilimanjaro.
The highest mountain in Africa the remains of a dormant volcano is a sight that not many will forget. At 16,000 feet from foot to base it does not rival the peaks of the Andes or those of the Himalayas – but still requires a superior level of fitness for those who want to reach its peak.
7. The Nile.
The Nile River is certainly one of the great natural wonders of Africa. Many claim that it is the longest river in the world -only challenged by the Amazon. But there can be no argument that its waters gave rise to a civilization that continues to intrigue people to this day. It is a sight that should be on the bucket list of any African explorer.
Africa is a treasure house of beauty and intrigue. Many cultures and many wonderful attractions. Get there if you can.
Other top contenders include The Victoria Falls and Table Mountain
