4 Countries in Africa that are mistakenly underrated

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4 Countries in Africa that are mistakenly underrated

The African continent has 54 countries. 54 countries that are there for the world to explore and learn about.Every country offering the world something different and a diversity of culture and nature all across the lands.

Below we’ll be taking a look at four different African countries that you’ve most likely heard of, but never thought about enough to consider travelling there. Well, prepare to be convinced and start packing those travel bags.

 

Rwanda

Rwanda was, basically, written off after the 1994 genocide. People, it’s been 24 years and this country is well past any governing or consequential setbacks. Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, has been named as one of the safest and cleanest cities in Africa and is catering for tourists from all around the world.

Here are a few things you can do in Rwanda when you come and visit… when, not if.

  • Gorilla trekking: Rwanda gorilla trekking is probably the most famous thing the world knows about Rwanda, aside from the 1994 genocide. One cannot undervalue the experience of observing, up-close, a few of the seven mountain gorilla groups in Rwanda. And it’s not only gorillas, chimpanzees can be found along the way as well. All it will take is seeing one baby gorilla’s face and you’ll find yourself coming back as often as possible.
  • National parks: There are many national parks in Rwanda. The most popular one, of course, being the Volcanoes National Park where the gorillas are found. Other national parks include Akagera, Nyungwe and Virunga National Park. There are more than apes to be admired in Rwanda – lions, rhinos and other wildlife live here too.  
  • Lake Kivu: If the amazing wildlife weren’t enough, Rwanda is home to one of Africa’s Great Lakes. Lake Kivu makes for beautiful boat or kayak tours and breathtaking sunset views.
  • Kigali: The capital city of Rwanda is where you go to experience the life of its people, its rich history and beautiful culture. There is so much to see and experience in Rwanda.


Botswana

There’s a reason why Botswana is known for its wildlife and nature-based offerings. But their Batswana culture and traditions make for authentic and memorable tourism experiences that many people are missing out on.

  • National parks and game reserves: Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Selinda Reserve and Linyanti Wildlife Reserve are some of the top safari experiences out there in Botswana. Have your choice of self-drive or boat-ride safaris that allow you to explore the great land and wildlife of Botswana.
  • Okavango Delta: For a special game viewing experience, the Okavango Delta offers a seasonal wetland anomaly, in the middle of the Kalahari desert. Botswana tourism professionals will be able to take you at exactly the right time to see the migration and gathering of all the area’s wildlife.   
  • Mokoro safari: And what better way to experience the Okavango Delta than through a mokoro safari? A mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe, which is only available in Botswana for this specific safari. An exclusive and special experience, indeed.


Uganda

The Cyanika border is where Rwanda and Uganda meet. So there are a few tourist attractions that are enjoyed in both countries. Even so, Uganda has their own reserves, attractions and cultural experiences for you to enjoy.

  • National parks: Murchison Falls National Park highlights a powerful gorge area of the Nile River, Semuliki National Park is home to safaris and hot springs, Kidepo Valley National Park is a “big game” park for wildlife enthusiasts, and Kibale National Park is a rainforest park where you can spot some chimpanzees.
  • Gorillas: It’s in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park that you may have the opportunity to see gorillas. The trekking experience is more difficult than the pathways in Rwanda, but is still an equally amazing experience.  
  • Crater lakes: An area of Fort Portal is home to Crater Lakes where wild, roaming hippos may be encountered, but a breathtaking view is guaranteed. Fort Portal also offers gorilla trekking and safaris.
  • Cultural tours: If you’re looking for a more cultural experience of Uganda, you can sign up for one of their cultural tours. Spend a week or more travelling around the country and learning about its history, traditions and culturally relevant areas.

 

Swaziland

In the Southern part of Africa, you will find the small country of Swaziland. Don’t think for a moment its size affects its grand offerings for anyone coming to visit.

  • Cultural visits: The Swazi culture is known for vibrant music and dancing which you can experience at the Mantenga Cultural Village. Alternatively, you could plan a visit to their various Homesteads, which are genuinely traditional areas for tourists to experience their culture.
  • Events: Throughout the year, Swaziland has various events that celebrate their land and people. Starting with the Marula Festival and moving on to the MTN Bushfire Performing Arts Festival, Umhlanga/Reed Dance and Incwala, just to name a few.
  • National parks: For a chance to see lions and leopards, you can visit the Hlane Royal National Park. Otherwise, there is the Mkhaya Game Reserve and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary to encounter a variety of Swaziland’s wildlife.
  • Hiking trails: Swaziland has amazing and diverse landscapes within its borders. These make for popular hiking trails for the adventurous tourist. The best hiking locations can be found in Mahamba, Mantenga, Mlawula, Mlilwane, Ngwempisi and Shewula.
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