I may be a little bit late but better late than never right? February is already upon us, yoh!. Anyway, here are 12 budget friendly African countries to visit if you have a plan to travel around Africa in 2025.
If you’ve been dreaming about exploring Africa but think it’s too expensive, let me stop you right there. Africa is not just for luxury safaris and high-end resorts. This continent is packed with budget-friendly destinations that offer stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences, all without draining your bank account.
In a previous post, I shared some cheap African countries to live in. That is if you’re looking to spend long time in Africa. I also shared the best Safaris to stay if you’d rather opt for the luxury safaris.
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Budget friendly African countries to visit in 2025
So, I’ve mapped out a plan: 12 African countries in 12 months, each offering something unique, all while staying within a reasonable budget.
Ready? Let’s go!
January – Ghana
Kicking off the year in Ghana is like starting on a high note. The country has an infectious energy, and January is perfect because it’s dry season, meaning fewer rain disruptions while you’re exploring.
Accra, the capital city, is a vibrant city, with street markets buzzing with activity and the waves at Labadi Beach calling your name. A visit to Cape Coast Castle offers a poignant look into history, while Kakum National Park lets you channel your inner Tarzan on its canopy walk.
Ghana is also a foodie’s paradise. I mean, imagine devouring a plate of jollof rice and grilled tilapia for just a couple of dollars! To save money while in Ghana, opt for tro-tros (shared minibuses) and eat at local chop bars to save money.
February – Morocco
As the northern hemisphere freezes, Morocco offers warm days and bustling souks without the summer tourist crowds. Marrakech is a sensory overload with its colorful markets, snake charmers, and chaotic alleyways, but you can explore it all on a budget.
To do this, stay in hostels for as little as $10 a night, and feast on tagines and mint tea from street vendors. For a change of pace, take a cheap bus to Chefchaouen, the famed Blue City, where every alleyway looks like a postcard. I would also advise that you bargain, bargain, bargain! Yes, everything from souvenirs to taxi rides can be negotiated down.
March – Uganda
Uganda is an adventure lover’s dream, and March offers slightly cheaper rates before the heavy rains kick in. While gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is the star attraction, it can be pricey.
Instead, opt for a safari at Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll see elephants, lions, and hippos for a fraction of the cost. For adrenaline junkies, Jinja is the place to be—white-water rafting on the Nile River is both thrilling and surprisingly affordable. The local food, especially matoke (steamed bananas with peanut sauce), is cheap and filling.
April – Senegal
April in Senegal is all about good vibes and incredible music. Dakar, the capital, is known for its lively atmosphere, with mbalax beats pumping through the streets.
You should also visit the pink waters of Lac Rose, a surreal natural wonder, or take a budget-friendly ferry to Gorée Island, a historically significant spot that tells the story of the transatlantic slave trade.
Transportation is cheap in Senegal, so hop on a car rapide, the colorful minibuses that zigzag through the city for just a few cents. Also, don’t forget to indulge in a plate of thieboudienne, Senegal’s national dish, which is an explosion of flavors without an explosion of cost.
May – Ethiopia
Ethiopia is hands down one of the best budget destinations in Africa. The food is ridiculously cheap as $5 can get you a full meal of injera (spongy sourdough flatbread) and spicy stews.
History lovers will geek out over the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, while nature lovers can hike the Simien Mountains for stunning landscapes and encounters with gelada baboons. Addis Ababa is a fascinating city where you can visit the world-famous National Museum (home to the fossilized remains of ‘Lucy’) for just a couple of dollars.
June – Tanzania
June is when Tanzania starts showing off in terms of cool temperatures, fewer crowds, and budget-friendly travel options. While the Serengeti safari can be expensive, there are ways to keep costs down.
To enjoy Tanzania on a budget, target campsites in the parks as they offer an affordable alternative to luxury lodges, and if you’re strategic, you can join a group tour to cut costs. Zanzibar, with its turquoise waters and spice-scented air, is surprisingly affordable if you stay in guest houses rather than resorts. Take the ferry from Dar es Salaam instead of flying as it saves a lot of money.
July – Malawi
Malawi, often called “the warm heart of Africa,” is a hidden gem for budget travelers. Lake Malawi is the perfect place to unwind, with backpacker-friendly lodges dotting its shores. You can spend your days kayaking, snorkeling, or just lying in a hammock without worrying about the cost.
Local minibuses make transport super cheap, and food is budget-friendly too. I recommend trying a plate of nsima (a maize-based dish) with grilled fish fresh from the lake.
August – Namibia
Namibia in August means epic road trips and stunning landscapes. Renting a car and camping along the way is the best way to explore this country on a budget.
The towering red dunes of Sossusvlei, the eerie beauty of Deadvlei, and the wildlife of Etosha National Park are must-sees. Fuel and food costs are manageable if you plan well, and camping keeps accommodation costs low. If you’re feeling adventurous, try sandboarding down the dunes!
September – Rwanda
Rwanda may be small, but it’s full of surprises. Kigali is one of the cleanest and safest cities in Africa, and it’s surprisingly affordable.
While gorilla trekking here is pricey, you can opt for a much cheaper chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe Forest. The shores of Lake Kivu offer a budget-friendly escape, with stunning views and local guest houses that won’t break the bank. As a plus, public transport is well-organized, making it easy to get around without spending much.
October – Eswatini (Swaziland)
Eswatini, one of Africa’s smallest countries, is big on adventure and affordability. The country’s national parks, like Hlane Royal National Park, offer budget-friendly safaris where you can see rhinos and elephants without the hefty price tag of bigger parks.
The annual Reed Dance Festival in September/October is a cultural spectacle worth witnessing. Plus, the local markets are great for picking up handcrafted souvenirs at unbeatable prices.
November – Zambia
Zambia in November means Victoria Falls is still flowing (though not at its peak), and low-season prices make everything more affordable. Livingstone is an adventure hub, where you can bungee jump, take a budget-friendly river cruise, or swim at Devil’s Pool (a natural infinity pool on the edge of the falls)!
Similarly, accommodation is reasonably priced, especially in hostels and guesthouses, and local meals are cheap yet delicious.
December – Madagascar
Closing the year in Madagascar feels like ending on a high note. This island nation is a mix of exotic wildlife, breathtaking beaches, and unique landscapes.
Visit the Avenue of the Baobabs, explore the stone forests of Tsingy de Bemaraha, or lounge on the pristine beaches of Nosy Be. Budget travel is possible here if you use taxi-brousse (shared minibuses) and stay in small guesthouses. Food is also inexpensive. So, try a big bowl of romazava, a local beef and greens stew, for just a few dollars.
Which of these 12 budget friendly African countries to visit is on your bucket list? Which of these budget friendly African countries to visit will you go to in 2025? Let me know your thoughts below. Ciao for now.
