Summer in Africa has a full-on vibe. Whether you’re beach-hopping in Lagos, exploring the spice markets of Zanzibar, or brunching with friends in Accra, your outfit has to keep up with the heat, the style, and the vibe. Here 15 chic Africa summer travel outfits perfect all the heat of Africa will throw at you. And no, it is not always hot. Sometimes it is as cold as it can get on a rainy day. So, you need some warm clothes too.
In this blog, I’m sharing my go-to summer outfits that have seen me through beach days, rooftop parties, quick market runs, and even surprise date nights. These pieces are breathable, bold, and oh-so-African.
Now, let’s dive into these 15 seriously chic Africa summer looks that are perfect for the sun, the sand, and everything in between.
Cute Africa summer travel outfits
Africa has so many things to offer. From the fun clear beaches that are begging for a deep in the water to the nature reserve where you see the animals up close and personal. lol. I laughed because I imagine being up close and personal with a lion. Not in this lifetime.
Any who let’s dive into these cool Outfits you need to pack for a trip to Africa.
Silk Scarf Top With Wide-Leg Pants
Ever turned a silk African print scarf into a top? Trust me, it is a game changer.
Typically, I tie mine in the front and pair with cream or beige wide-leg trousers. I wore this to a casual gallery visit in Victoria Island and felt like an artsy goddess. It is lightweight, elegant, and unexpected.
Oversized Shirt Dress
This is my go-to when I’m running errands but still want to look put-together. An oversized tribal-print shirt dress can be worn loose or belted depending on the vibe.
I once wore mine with white sneakers to the Lekki Arts & Crafts Market and it was the perfect combo of cute and practical. Plus, it hides food babies after too much suya.
Tie-and-Dye Slip Dress
Tie-dye is making a big comeback, especially in Nigerian streetwear. I wore a body-skimming tie-dye slip dress to a pop-up art show and felt like a 90s supermodel. I’d advise you look for one with adjustable straps and side slits for ultimate breathability.
Kente Mini Dress
I once wore a Kente mini dress to a beachside party in Ghana and got stopped five times for compliments. Kente is that girl as it is vibrant, rich, and unapologetically African.
A fitted mini dress in Kente print screams confidence. Once you throw on some chunky earrings and lace-up sandals and you’re golden. Plus, it’s easy to go from day to night with just a change of shoes.
Chiffon Kaftan
I had a staycation in Abuja and threw a sheer chiffon kaftan over my swimsuit—chef’s kiss. I would say you should get one with gold embroidery or cowrie accents to take it from basic to baddie. This outfit is perfect for poolside lounging with a cocktail in hand. And… add big shades for drama.
Crochet Tops and African Print Shorts
The mix of textures here? Amazing! I wore a handmade crochet top with high-waisted wax print shorts to a beach bonfire in Lomé, and let me tell you, I was serving boho babe for real! You can also add some shell jewelry or a straw hat for extra flair.
Linen Two-Piece Set
Okay, if you haven’t fallen in love with linen yet, what are you doing?
The other day, I wore a loose-fitting linen set in white while walking the beachfront in Takwa Bay and I swear, I felt like I was in a movie. Linen is breezy, classy, and doesn’t cling to the skin.
Go for bold colors like mustard yellow or sky blue if you want that extra pop in your photos. It works for brunch or a casual walk around the city.
Flowy Ankara Maxi Skirt With a Crop Top
There’s something about a high-waisted Ankara maxi skirt that just makes me feel regal. I pair mine with a simple white crop top or tank and let the skirt do all the talking.
The best part? Pockets!!! I wore this outfit to a summer festival in Abuja and danced all day without breaking a sweat.
Adire Palazzo Pants With a Tank Top
Adire is seriously underrated. I scored a pair of purple Adire palazzo pants in Ibadan and they’ve become one of my favorite pieces ever. Pair with a white or black tank top, minimal jewelry, and you’re good to go. It’s giving Afro-boho goddess.
Boho Fringe Kimono Over a Bikini
I’m not always in the mood for a full outfit at the beach. Sometimes, I just wear a cute bikini and throw on a dramatic fringe kimono. I have one in cream with subtle gold thread and it’s a total main character piece.
This outfit is perfect for sipping fresh coconut water while you lounge on a beach bed in Zanzibar.
Wrap Dresses
Wrap dresses are the MVP of summer wardrobes. They flatter every body type and they’re so easy to throw on.
I wore a green and orange wax print wrap dress for a beach wedding in Lamu and it looked like I planned my outfit for weeks (I didn’t). Get one with puff sleeves if you want that extra flair.
Handwoven Aso-Oke Co-Ord Set
I know what you’re thinking, Aso-Oke for summer? YES. Especially the lightweight, handwoven versions.
I once rocked a pastel Aso-Oke co-ord set to a high-end summer lunch and felt like African royalty. Keep the makeup dewy and the accessories minimal. It always gives elegance without effort.
Ankara or Kitenge Swimsuit
Yea right, don’t give me that look! Swimwear in African Prints is a whole vibe!
I bought a high-waisted Kitenge bikini set and it’s my favorite beach look ever. Whether it’s a full one-piece or a bikini, African prints make it unique and bold. I wore mine while kayaking in Senegal and every photo turned out like a magazine cover.
African Print Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits are a lifesaver on days when you don’t want to think too hard. I have one in Ankara that cinches at the waist with flared legs. Wore it to a rooftop hangout in Nairobi and danced till midnight.
I’d advise you to get one with a breathable lining so you don’t feel like you’re in a sauna.
Off-Shoulder Dashiki Romper
A Dashiki romper is what I wear when I want to feel comfy and snatched. Off-shoulder styles show just enough skin, and the bold print adds personality.
I wore mine on a girls’ trip to Cape Town and it was the moment. There was even no need to over-accessorize because the print is already doing the most (in a good way).
Which of these Africa Summer travel outfits is your favorite? Which of these Africa summer travel outfits is on your Wishlist? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Ciao for now.
