Travel tips

Hey guys! I’m excited about the new year and hope you are too. Understandably, many of us have goals for the new year, and I do too. If your plans involve traveling, here are the best airport travel tips perfect for first-timers or regular travelers.

Traveling is usually very therapeutic, and I could go on to write the many benefits of traveling. However, I want to focus on airport tips in this article.

I love to look good while traveling. So, I take time to plan my airport outfits a day before. Also, since I don’t want to struggle at the TSA, I avoid some airport wardrobe mistakes to shorten my time with them.

Also, I ensure that I follow my travel packing list so I don’t miss out on packing my essentials. I am such a forgetful person, so I double-check this list to be extra sure. You don’t want to miss your flight because you forget your documents or a vaccine card.

Top 15 Airport travel tips

Traveling by air is easily the fastest way to travel, and I’ve had loads of airport experience. I learn different tips and tricks each time I use the airport. 

So, I’ve compiled a list of airport tips I know to share with you. You’d be glad you knew these airport tips on your next trip. 

Also, from my wealth of experience, I have learned how to find the cheapest flight tickets for my travels. I save on miles and also earn cash back on some of my travel experiences using my WayAway membership.

Anyways, let’s jump into these airport travel tips you’d wish you knew while traveling by air.

1. Get Travel Insurance

I didn’t know that travel insurance existed until I started doing frequent international travel. Let me tell you, getting travel insurance is one of the best things you can do for yourself. It helps to cover the risks and inconveniences that may come with your trip. 

The other time, I landed at my destination and couldn’t find one of my bags. It was a mistake on the part of the airline, and my travel insurance covered the cost of the lost luggage. 

I’ve also had people get compensated for delayed flights courtesy of their travel insurance. You cannot vouch for any airline or know the risks that can happen on a trip. So, one of the best things to do before traveling is to get travel insurance. Click here to sign up for travel insurance on insubuy. It is one of the most important airport travel tips to take note of.

2. Arrive Early

Getting early to the airport can make or mar your travel experience. Trust me; I’ve had my fair share of bad traveling experiences, most of which are tied to the fact that I got late to the airport. 

It is always best to arrive at the airport two hours before takeoff. Yes, it may seem somehow sitting and waiting for long hours. However, it is better to do that than to be in a rush or even miss your flight. Also, you can entertain yourself while waiting for your flight or during a layover.

You cannot determine how long certain processes would take at the airport or how full they would be. So, save yourself the stress and get there early. 

3. Check in online if possible

One thing I always ensure to do when traveling is to check in online if possible. It applies to both international and local trips. By checking in online, I’ve reduced some of the stress I may face at the airport. 

Checking in online also lets me pick my favorite seat. If I wait to check in through the counter, someone else may have taken the seat I love. 

You will have a faster process of checking in at the airport if you have already checked in online. It leaves me feeling like a boss when I get to the airport. These are my favorite airport travel tips I would recommend first to anyone traveling for the first time.

4. Wear comfortable clothes 

Everyone who knows me knows that I love my comfort so much. Of course, I’m one of the most fashionable people you would encounter. But that doesn’t mean that I would compromise my comfort. 

And one of the top places where you would need to wear comfortable clothes is the airport. I usually don’t dress up so heavily when going to the airport. Remember that you need to remove your shoes, belt, etc. when going through security checks. So, why stress me? 

Instead, you may find me wearing sweatpants, a top, socks, and slippers or crocs. These clothes make me feel comfortable, and I know I can easily slip on my slippers or crocs when I remove them. Check out other cute yet comfortable airport outfits to wear for travel.

Click here to buy a checkered over-sized shirt

5. Have a unique tag for your luggage

If I decide to run a poll, I would see many people who have either lost their luggage at the airport or confused their bags with those of others. It is common to see people who have similar bags at the airport. 

It can be daunting picking the bags of others and then coming back to look for yours. Therefore, you need a unique tag for your luggage to make it easily identifiable. It could be a ribbon on the bag or a small teddy bag. So, it is one of the best airport travel tips I highly recommend.

Whatever you decide to put should stand out to help in identification.

6. Have a special compartment for laptops and other electronic gadgets

I usually have a laptop bag when traveling or put my laptop and other electronic gadgets in a special compartment of my carry-on bag. It makes them handy when I have to pass through security checks. 

You would have to remove your laptops, phones, and other electronic gadgets at each security check at the airport. And I’d rather not scatter my bag to get them out. So instead, I keep them specially or in another bag, which helps when arranging them back. It is one airport tip that would have you less irritated at the airport. And you would be happy you did it. 

7. Get a portable charger

The airport isn’t a place where you should expect to see sockets to charge your phone or other gadgets. But, even if you see sockets, many people have thoughts of using these sockets. So, they are often already in use. 

Asides from that, you cannot vouch for the safety of your gadgets if you decide to charge them at the airport. Therefore, I advise everyone to have a portable charger at the airport. It is handy to charge your gadgets while you wait in the lounge or waiting area. You thank me for this as it is one of the airport travel tips you should never forget.

You will have a horrible traveling experience if your gadgets die on you. Therefore, ensure that you have a portable charger. 

8. Know your bag weight before going to the airport

One of the best airport travel tips I can share is this one. It is always best to know the weight of your bags before going to the airport. It is a no-brainer that you would have to pay for excess luggage if your bag weight is more than the allocated weight per person. 

Thus, I love knowing the weight of my bags ahead so I can plan for the excess luggage money. I would rather not be surprised at the airport. 

Also, some airport staff can be mischievous and want to increase the luggage weight to extort money from you. It can only happen when you do not know your bag’s weight before going to the airport. 

9. Carry your snacks

Every time I’m at the airport, I wonder why the restaurants, shops, and food shacks sell things for ridiculous amounts! Their prices are usually five times higher than you would get outside the airport. 

So, when anyone asks me for airport travel tips, one of the first things I tell them is to carry their snacks. I usually have a bag with some of my favorite snacks, especially when I know I may be waiting for some time before taking off. I rather use my money for fun things when I get to my destination than to finish it on airport food and snacks. 

10. Download offline maps

You wouldn’t realize the importance of offline maps until you are stranded in a foreign country. Trust me, the experience isn’t funny and can shatter your mood for the rest of your trip. One of the best travel tips you need to take seriously is to ensure you have an offline map. You don’t want to fall into travel scams or miss your way.

Sometimes, it could be unfortunate that the airport has no Wi-Fi or internet when you arrive. But, even if they do, it isn’t safe to connect. So, one of the best things to do is to download offline maps before arriving in that country. You can do this with travel apps like Google maps.

It lets you move around until you can get a sim or connect to the internet. Also, I find it fun downloading the maps and trying to familiarize myself with them before leaving my region. 

11. Have hand sanitizer/wet wipes

I can’t talk about airport tips and forget to mention health tips. There are usually so many people at the airport, and you wouldn’t want to endanger yourself. Therefore, it is best to have a hand sanitizer handy when you’re traveling. 

You can use the sanitizer when you touch surfaces to keep yourself safe. Wet wipes also come in handy for stains. It is best to remember that people are many, and spills can happen. Instead of being sad when this happens, your wet wipes can be helpful. You can also use them to clean surfaces. 

12. Go to the left at checkpoints

I can see you making a face as you wonder what I mean. However, this is the best airport tip I’ve learned recently, and I couldn’t be more excited. 

For some reason, people always tilt to the right lines at checkpoints at the airport. Yet, when you look, the left lines are always shorter. So why does everyone decide to stick to the right? Well, I’m not out to find the answer; I’m just usually grateful that there is a shorter line, and I go to the left. 

The next time you find yourself at the airport, stick with the left lines. You’ll be done with your checkouts in no time. 

13. Wait for the boarding line to shorten

As long as I have checked in, I’m usually not in a rush at the airport. So, you’re at the waiting area, and they make the first boarding announcement. You will notice that everyone rushes to queue up, and the line is long. If you join that line, you’d have to stand for some time before it gets to your turn. 

I save myself the stress of standing by waiting for the line to shorten before I get more. There are usually more boarding announcements, and there is no award for being the first on the line. So, the top of my airport travel tips is to wait for the boarding line to shorten. After all, I would still get on the flight and be in my allocated seat. 

14. Be nice to the flight crew

Being nice to your flight crew also helps to improve your travel experience. Once they mark you as a nice person, they are usually more than ready to help you out in any way. They would always come to check on you and may even give you extras. 

Of course, it is important to be nice to anyone you meet. After all, we are all humans, and courtesy demands it. No one should tell you to be nice. It is always helpful, and I hope you are friendly to the flight crew on all your trips. 

15. Have gum handy

I’m chuckling as I write this, as it is one of the best airport travel tips I have ever learned. I remember a friend getting gums for me the first time I got on a plane. My friend explained that it helps with the air pressure and that I should chew gum when taking off and landing. Indeed, it helps my ears with the air pressure. 

Many people may have similar experiences as your family and friends would sing this tip to you when you travel. It’s one of the oldest airport tips, and you shouldn’t take it for granted. 

Dealing with a blocked ear after flying can be annoying, but chewing gum would relieve you. 

Finally, the most important airport travel tips is to pack your documents beforehand. I would recommend you pack in a place that is accessible. I prefer to have my travel documents readily available to me. Your visa or if it’s a visa-free country, your international passport, vaccine cards, or evidence of COVID test, etc.

Travel resources for a trip around the world

1. Travel insurance: Get your insurance ready from Insubuy
2. Flight tickets: Book cheap flight tickets from Trip.com

3. Book your stay in any hotel of your choice. Get the best deal with Trivago.

4. Opt for hotel alternatives by booking your stay in a hostel. Network and have a fun trip by booking a hostel using hostelworld.

5. Solo traveler? I have you covered. Plan your trip with the best tour group for a fun-filled time in Africa. Book your tour using GetYourGuide. You can get a tour for as low as $30.

If you travel frequently, you will agree with me that it can be so boring flying for long hours. What are some fun things to do on a long haul flight? I love flights that are very short, within 4 hours or less. However, if I have no choice but to fly for longer hours, I try to make good use of the wait time. Here are some fun things to do on long haul flights to entertain yourself.

I get bored quickly even on short flights. On my recent travel, I had to engage my seatmate in a fun discussion to avoid losing my mind. After packing for my trip and finding the cheapest flight tickets for my vacation. The next step is to prepare for things to do while on air. This is mainly for long haul flights.

So, you will find these fun things to do on a long haul flight useful to entertain you while on the air no matter how long.

Things to do on a long haul flight

Below are the 10 best things to do on a long haul flight that will keep you busy while traveling. These fun things are interesting to engage in. You will have fun all the way to your final destination as time passes.

1. Listen to Audiobooks

A very way to read books is by listening to audiobooks. Many of us have books on our list to read someday but can’t find time to read them. Opt to read them via audiobooks.

One of the fun things to do on a long haul flight is to read those books on your list as audiobooks. You can go through as many chapters by just listening to these books.

I have so many books on my list to read. One of them is, “sell like crazy”, only the title makes me want to read it. Other books I would recommend you read include, “Think like a champion” by Donald Trump, “Tough times never last but tough people do”, Robert Schuller, etc.

These books changed my life. Especially if you struggling with decision-making and anxiety like I do.

2. Play a game

Another of the things to do on a long haul flight is to play a game. Games are super fun and relaxing for long flights.

I love to play games while traveling. This is because are engaging. It helps me develop my resilience to win and of course, relaxes me.

One of my favorite online games that I love to play is Supermarket numbers. It is perfect to play with your kids to help them with basic arithmetic.

Also, I love this game because it is so relatable. Who doesn’t run errands in the supermarket? So, I am able to have fun while engaging in a reliable game.

3. Chat with someone

If you’re an extrovert, this is something you’d love to do on a long haul flight. You get to meet someone new. Get to know someone new. Talk about anything and keeps yourselves entertained on your trip.

I also enjoy making new friends while traveling. You never know, you may meet your future travel buddy on a trip.

I am not a conversation starter because I am an introvert. However, if I like you, I can engage you in a conversation for hours. So, if you’re looking for a fun thing to do on a long flight, start up a conversation with someone close to you.

4. Netflix and Chill

Another fun thing to do on a really long flight is to binge-watch shows or movies on Netflix. Netflix is one of my favorite places to watch movies while on a long trip.

You can watch at least two movies while on a long haul flight. Select your favorite movies or shows to watch while traveling. You’d definitely have fun killing the time while you Netflix and chill.

5. Learn a new skill

You can never go wrong with learning a new skill when you get the opportunity. I recently enrolled in a new course but haven’t had time to read it. You bet that I will be reading it on my trip this holiday.

Time flies so fast these days. Between balancing my home, blogging, and my regular job, time is never enough. So, you can enroll for a new course on Coursera or udemy to learn a new skill. Preferably skills that will boost your career in the coming year.

You can also learn a new skill on skillshares like video editing, graphic design, or gardening. You don’t have to learn skills only for work, it can be just to develop a hobby.

Also, you can learn some life skills like how to invest in stocks too. I recently invested in stocks but I have little knowledge about them. So, I stumbled on this engaging game that I play just to learn about basic knowledge of stock trading.

Although this game is solely for entertainment, it gives you the basics of what you need to know before jumping into stocks. So, I would recommend you play this game just for fun while learning new things.

6. Read a book

Another of the fun things to do on a long haul flight is to read a book. I know I have previously touched on it in audiobooks. This is perfect for those of us that prefer the traditional way of reading books hardcopy.

I find it super easy to follow hardcover books, unlike e-books. While making your travel packing list, add some hardcover books to read to your list.

I have read about 4 chapters while on a long flight. So, if you have no idea what to do on a very long flight, read a book.

7. Learn the local language

One of the fun things to do on a long haul flight is to learn the local language of your destination. This will come in handy to enable you to settle in easily.

Learn a few words or phrases of the local language of your place of visit. It is super fun to learn a new language. You can also use travel apps like google translate to help you learn the native language too.

8. Listen to Music

Music can be so entertaining while traveling. Another fun thing to do on a long flight is to listen to music. You can listen to music on apple music or Google plays music.

I love to follow the latest hits songs while traveling. Life can be quite busy to follow these things. So, I use the time I travel to catch up on these songs.

9. Catch up with work

Sometimes I feel like the 24 hours in a day is too small to finish my task. There is so much to do to grow my brand. So, I sometimes catch up on these pending tasks while traveling.

Catch up on your work while traveling on a long flight. Put some finishing touch to your presentation if it is a business trip. Also, knock off those pending tasks to reduce workload while you travel.

You can use the long travel time to do as many tasks of your work as possible.

10. Plan your itinerary

Are you a last-minute trip planner? Do you just hop on the next flight before deciding on your itinerary? Another thing to do on a long haul flight is to plan your itinerary.

Use the time while on your trip to plan how many days you’re staying, and things to do. This is especially if it’s a quick vacation. Plan your day-to-day activity for your vacation to pass the time.

So, if you need things to do when on a long flight, take time out to plan your itinerary for your trip.

Feel free to comment other fun things to do on a long haul flight.

If you’re looking for someone who loves traveling and making money, I’m the right fit for this category. How can you make money while traveling the world? What are the best ways to get paid while traveling?

For the longest time as a kid, I always had the dream to travel around the world someday. You would often see me staring at airplanes as they fly past, telling everyone that I will soon be flying around the world. 

As I grew older, I held onto my dream. But I also began to understand that traveling means spending money. So, I cannot travel if I don’t make enough money. It increased my drive and ambition to keep doing more. In this way, I have to figure out several ways to save money for travel to bring this dream to reality.

I’ve been to so many places and will still travel to more. It isn’t that I have all the money in the world. However, while traveling, I consistently devise means of making money to ensure I don’t run out of cash. Yes, I may be in a foreign place, but that doesn’t mean I cannot do legal things to make money. 

How to make money while traveling

Over time, I have figured out creative ways to make money while traveling. So if you also share your dream of traveling the world someday, you should know things to do to sustain yourself and bring income. Also, you can read my post on travel tips that will come in handy on your trip to anywhere in the world.

So, let me share some creative ways to make money while traveling the world, irrespective of the region:

Buying and reselling local crafts

I always buy local art when I travel to a new place. It could be jewelry, artwork, etc. I always love to take these things back home as a reminder of where I have visited. 

Sometimes, I get carried away with excitement and overbuy these crafts. Then, when I get home, people are always interested, and I give some away. Once, I decided to buy and resell these crafts, and I saw that many people were interested in them. Then, it dawned on me that buying and reselling is a creative way to make money. 

For someone traveling the world, you can buy crafts in Ghana, Nigeria Lekki arts and craft market & take them to Turkey and resell them. You are sure to get buyers and make money from this act.

Photography selling

Did you know that people pay a lot for pictures from foreign places? I remember growing up and seeing photos of the Eiffel Tower and other places in my house. No, my parents had never visited some of these places. But they got the pictures because they thought it was beautiful. 

As someone who loves capturing moments, you would always see me with a camera when I travel to a new place. Sometimes, I take pictures of abstract moments, places, people, etc. Some of these pictures get framed, and others remain in the archive. A creative way to make money while traveling the world would be to develop and sell these pictures. 

Travel Consultant

So, you’re traveling around the world and thinking of what to do that can bring in some quick bucks. Why not help small businesses with ideas that can boost sales and visibility? 

You would always see small businesses in all regions, and these businesses need help in one way or the other. Once they see that your idea brings in value, they would pay for such consultation. It could be your favorite pastry store in that region that needs the advice. Instead of leaving it in your head, share it with them and make money from it. 

Blogging/Vlogging

Blogging/Vlogging are some of the best ways to share your travel experiences with others, and you can make money from them. People would always visit travel blogs and vlogs to get more information about a certain place. So, you can start your blog or vlog and share things like the culture of where you visited, top meals to try in the area, how to relate with people in that region, etc. 

Once your vlog or blog starts gaining traction, some brands may even pay you for advertisement. Of course, vlogging or blogging is not a get-rich-quick scheme. But, you can make money from blogging.

Teaching a foreign language

If you’re bi-lingual, you are on the best path for creatively making money while traveling the world. For example, English is your mother tongue, and you are good at it. Now, you are traveling the world, and you find yourself in the Philippines. You can harness your language skills and teach the locals the English language. 

With this skill, you can be a language tutor physically and virtually. Ideally, you should pick a preference that works best for you. 

The last time I traveled to a Francophone country, some parents paid me to teach their children English during my stay, and it was an exciting experience.  Teaching English is another creative way to make money while traveling. You may wonder how I was able to cope with the language barrier, I used one of the best travel apps like google translate a lot.

Reviewing hotels and restaurants

Let’s say you’re lodged in a hotel whenever you travel to a new place. And in addition, you would also have to visit a restaurant. After all, you cannot do without eating. So, why not review these hotels and restaurants as you travel the world?

It is a creative way to make money while traveling the world, as these hotels and restaurants are willing to pay for foreigners to write reviews on their products and services. Some people presently have careers built on reviews. The world is evolving daily, and these places know that reviews are essential for visibility and patronage. 

Become a movie extra

They often say curiosity kills the cat. But this has not stopped me from asking questions when I visit a new place. 

One time, they were shooting a movie on my street, and I got paid to feature as an extra in the film. It got me thinking; I figured one could make money from this while traveling the world. I then decided that the next time I travel, I would ask the locals if they had ideas on anywhere a movie shoot was happening so I could go request to be a movie extra. 

One thing about making money creatively is that you have to be shameless about it. 

Modeling

One of the top reasons I love traveling is the new attire and jewelry I can experience. The last time I traveled, I discovered a cute store where they sold handmade clothing. The store owner even requested that I help her model some items for her social media page. As a tourist, you can use modeling while traveling to make money creatively. 

These store owners are willing to pay for your services as they believe it would increase their visibility. What can I say? I made money from it and also enjoyed some discounts on clothing. 

Selling your handy skills

 Do you have handy skills? If yes, these skills will help you make money while traveling the world. 

Some people are excellent at hair braiding. You can explore the hair braiding charges in that region as you tour different places. Then, you can offer your services at a lower price to get more customers. Now, your handy skills will bring in money for you. 

If you are good at jewelry making, you can also make some and sell them to the people around you. All these are ways to utilize your handy skills and make money creatively. 

Become a tour guide

It could be laughable to imagine a foreigner being a tour guide in a new region. But it wouldn’t be a big deal if you had stayed there for some months and used to the terrain. One of the creative ways to get paid while traveling is by opting to get a job as a tour guide.

Once you are used to the area and have gained much knowledge, you can decide to help fellow foreigners for a fee. You can take these people to your best recommendations within the city, and they will pay for your services. You would see that they would appreciate you because they feel the service you render is more personalized as you are a fellow foreigner.

Au pair

I was confused the first time I came across the term Au Pair. Upon further research, I saw that the au pair system was an excellent way for a foreigner to integrate into the local setting. By being an au pair, you are providing home services for your assigned family. In addition, they pay you for your services, and you also get to live with the family for the duration of your stay in the country. Doesn’t this sound exciting? 

So, not only are you making money, but you also do not have to worry about accommodation, and you also have a local family that helps you with the dos and don’ts of the region. Could this be the next best thing after sliced bread?

Getting close to a local is one of the best travel tips for anyone in a new place, and the au pair system makes this happen.

Teach yoga

 Every time, you claim to be a yoga expert but only your room gets to enjoy your yoga skills. However, if you plan to travel the world you can put your yoga skills to monetary use by becoming a yoga instructor. 

I often see many fitness enthusiasts encouraging yoga, and people are looking for ways to learn this art. So, you can spread the word that you are a yoga teacher and get people to register for classes. In no time, you will get lots of students and even become a mini-celebrity in the region. It is one of the creative ways to make money while traveling the world. 

Volunteering

Another creative way to make money while traveling the world is by being a volunteer. Typically, there is the ideology and perception that volunteers do not get paid. However, it doesn’t always apply. Some regions have volunteering systems that allow you to pick something you enjoy doing and get paid for doing it. 

Now, you would be happy to contribute to society as you are there and make money from it. 

Freelancing

There is no limit to what you can do if you take on freelancing while traveling the world. With freelancing, you get to work when you desire and still make money from it. Freelancing could be for writers, virtual assistants, designers, developers, etc. What matters is that you’re on a reliable platform that connects freelancers and clients. 

Most freelancers usually use UpWork and Fiverr, and they also classify as some of the best travel apps. So, if you are looking for a creative way to make money as a tourist, you should consider freelancing. Check through these platforms and choose a niche you can deliver. 

Become an entertainer

People often say that you never know what you can do until you give it a try. You may typically never have thought of becoming an entertainer. However, it can come in handy when you want a way of making money while traveling. 

During my last trip, I was casually singing at my hotel reception when someone walked up to me and asked if I was a professional singer. Of course, I said no, and we joked about it. During the conversation, he mentioned that he could pay to listen to me sing all day. Now, imagine if I had monetized my singing. 

You can entertain people with your voice, jokes, dance skills, painting, etc.  

Recycling

​​It was pleasing to learn that some countries’ recycling culture is active. Everyone already knows the benefits of recycling, and I do not need to restate it. If you’re ever in a country with a recycling system, ensure to contribute one way or the other.

Some of these countries also reward people who bring recyclable items. Therefore, recycling is one of the creative ways to make money while traveling the world.

Deliver stuff

Let’s say you plan on staying in a particular place for some months before moving on to the following location. Ideally, you would be familiar with the environment. Thus, suggesting that you deliver stuff as a creative way of making money while there would not be out of place. 

You can pitch your services to some small businesses and offer to help with delivery services for a fair amount. Then, you can be sure that they will gladly accept your offer.  

Remote work

Let’s say you plan on staying in a particular place for some months before moving on to the following location. Ideally, you would be familiar with the environment. Thus, suggesting that you deliver stuff as a creative way of making money while there would not be out of place. 

You can pitch your services to some small businesses and offer to help with delivery services for a fair amount. Then, you can be sure that they will gladly accept your offer.  

Work for a hostel

I’ve always said that one must not stay in a hotel when traveling to a new place as there are other hotel alternatives. Hotels are typically more expensive, and you can opt to stay in a hostel.

Asides from staying in a hostel, you can also decide to work for the hostel. All you have to do is pitch your services to them. After all, you are looking for means to make money while traveling. The hostel will let you know if they have openings that fit the services you’re offering.

Festival staff

 One of the best ways to unwind as a foreigner is by attending local festivals. Not only do you get to have fun, but you’ll also connect with the locals and know more about the region. In addition, you can go the extra mile by working as festival staff. So, not only are you experiencing the festival, but you’re also making money from it. 

Although I have not tried this before, I look forward to being a festival staff on one of my next trips, and I know I would enjoy the experience!

Are you planning a vacation or looking to tour some African countries? Which African country is best to visit or the safest? I’ll share with you some of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa as a tourist. 

I have always loved visiting new places, learning about their cultures, and keeping indigenous items to serve as a remembrance. Through this experience, I have discovered that African countries are interesting to explore, and almost nothing can beat the experience. 

Have you ever wondered why foreigners love to explore African countries? These countries are rich in culture, vegetation, food, human resources, and more. You will be all smiles when you tour various African countries. 

If you are wondering what the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa are, I’ll share some of them. Then, perhaps, you could plan to see any of these countries this summer. And if you will be visiting during the summer, you should pack one of these summer dresses.

Top 10 Best places to visit in Africa

In no particular order, here is my top pick for the best African countries to visit:

1. Nigeria

Some people may think I am biased for placing Nigeria at the top of the list. But, have you been to Nigeria? There is a reason why it is called the giant of Africa. Nigeria is one of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa you need to add it to your travel bucket list to Africa. It is rich in beauty, natural resources, culture, and of course food.

There is never a dull moment in Nigeria, and you may even be the one who doesn’t have enough time to visit the country’s numerous fun locations. I love that most of the states and cities in Nigeria are also buzzing. Therefore, Nigeria isn’t restrictive regarding places to visit where you can have fun. 

Nigerians are lovable people who are always ready to give you a good time if you are down for it. 

Some of the fun things to do in this country include:

• Go mountain climbing: If you love to engage in outdoor activities, you should go mountain climbing in Nigeria. Obudu Mountain in Cross River State and Shere Hills in Plateau State are some excellent examples. 
• Try the street food: If you haven’t tried some of the Nigerian street foods, you haven’t visited Nigeria. From Akara to Suya to Boli, everything leaves your taste buds craving for more. 
• Go clubbing: The club scene in Nigeria is something to experience, and you can have fun clubbing in any Nigerian city you find yourself in. 
• Go for a concert: You’ll be doing a great disservice to yourself if you do not attend at least one show before leaving Nigeria. So, attend a concert and experience some of your favorite afrobeat artists performing live!
• Visit a park: At the park, you can meet and interact with super cool Nigerians and make new friends. You also get to observe the lifestyle of these people and probably learn something new. Abuja has some of the best parks in Nigeria.
• Spend time at its Numerous Beaches: Lagos Nigeria is one of Nigeria’s hubs of beaches. There are so many cheap and private beaches you can explore in Lagos. Some of my favorites are Lekki Leisure Lake, Laguna Beach, Redline private beach, Landmark beach, etc. Click here to check out my top 15 private and cheap beaches you can explore on your visit. Are there other beaches in Nigeria you can explore? Of course, Patigi beach, Kwara state & Mc Carthy beach, Delta state.
• Chasing waterfalls: Another fun thing to do on your visit to Nigeria is to chase waterfalls. There are so many beautiful waterfalls to explore in Nigeria. My favorite is Erin Ijesha waterfalls, Osun state. However, there are other waterfalls like Owu waterfalls in Kwara state, etc. How many waterfalls are in Nigeria? There are about 20 waterfalls you can visit scattered across Nigeria.

2. Kenya

Another of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa is Kenya. Amongst the numerous things to love about Kenya, I love the peace that comes with visiting the country.

I found it fascinating drivers didn’t use their car horns while driving. It came as a culture shock compared to my home country. It was also fascinating to see that most of the locals are fit. Now, it isn’t surprising why they win most athletic games. 

Some of the fun activities to do in Kenya include:

• Go Hiking/Cycling: I saw that one of the best ways to connect with Kenyan locals was through hiking and cycling. There are hiking trails across various cities in the country. Often, you will see groups of people cycling, and you can join in the fun. Aberdare National Park and Chyulu Hills are excellent spots for hiking and cycling. 
• Go scuba diving: If you are a risk-taker and love to live on the edge, you should try scuba diving in Kenya. Even if you haven’t done it, there is always a first time for everything. The fun you will experience with this activity is unmatched. 
•  Explore the nightlife: Spending time in Kenya made me realize that nightlife differs in various places. By exploring the nightlife areas in Kenya, I met more locals and learned some of the dance steps. 
• Visit a wildlife Safaris: Kenyans are proud of their wildlife, and visiting such places proves fun. Here, you get to see animals you haven’t seen before and connect better with nature. Click here to book a safari tour to see wild animals in their natural habitat.

Get your guide to offer so many of these tour activities on a budget. I love to use this brand on my travels around Africa. You can book a tour of the National park, Spend a few nights in the Maasai Mara safari, scuba Diving in Kisite Marine park, and a waterfall hike. Click here to book these tours in Kenya with the GetYourGuide tour group on a budget.

3. Tanzania

Visiting Tanzania has been on my bucket list for a while, and I was happy to tick it off my list. Undoubtedly, I fell in love with the East African culture while in the country, and I didn’t feel like leaving when my vacation was over. This country is a must-see of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Nigeria.

Zanzibar is a tourist hotspot in Tanzania, but its other cities are also worth exploring. 

– Visit Mount Kilimanjaro: This mountain has the reputation of being the tallest mountain in Africa. So, I was excited to visit it and climb the peak. Of course, I was scared at first, but excitement replaced the fear, and it’s something I can talk about for days. The beautiful scenery at this mountain’s peak was one of my vacation highlights

– Explore Zanzibar beaches: The buzz around Zanzibar isn’t fading anytime soon, and it’s because of its beautiful beaches. Exploring these beaches was fun, and I took many pictures for memory’s sake. On one of my trips there, I almost panicked as I forgot to pack a bikini. But I sorted myself with other bikini alternatives. One of the most popular things in Zanzibar is visiting Changuu island on a fun boat cruise. Click here to book a tour of Changuu island and a tour of the stone town in Tanzania. Zanzibar has to be on this list of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa.

– Go to the safari: I don’t know the idea or imagination you might have of the safari, but it is sure to surpass your expectation. In addition, ensure that you ride on a horse. 

– Go to the national parks: The national parks in Tanzania are also refreshing to visit. They made excellent spots to mingle and connect with the locals. 

–Street food hopping in Stone Town: What’s the fun of visiting a country without trying out its street food. Stone town is one of the best places to experience the street food of the people of Tanzania. Get your GetYourGuide offers a day tour worth just $35, click here to book it, eat street food, and spend time with the locals in Stone town.

4. Egypt

I hear some people say that you must be of a specific religion before you can enjoy visiting Egypt. But I can’t entirely agree with such claims. It is one of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa you need to add to your bucket list.

Yes, Egypt might be a conservative country, but anyone can enjoy visiting it, especially when you go there with an open mind. Plus it is another of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa to add to your bucket list.

Some of the fun things to do in Egypt are: 

– Visit the pyramids: One cannot talk about Egypt without mentioning its pyramids, especially the pyramids of Giza. So, why not satisfy your curiosity and visit these pyramids? Not only is it fun, but it is also enlightening. Click here to book a tour of the pyramid in Egypt.

– Go to the river Nile:  Does this place ring a bell? Of course, it will be familiar to Christians. I had it on my list of things to do in Egypt, and I did not regret it. You can enjoy a boat cruise on the Nile river, click here to book it on a budget while on your trip to Egypt. I love boar cruises, so you know why I added the Nile to my top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa.

– See Mount Sinai: I had always heard about mount Sinai, so it joined my list of places I needed to visit in Egypt. It felt good that I could now put a proper visual connection to my imagination. 

– Learn the culture: One of the best things you can do in Egypt is to learn their culture. The experience of learning something that differs from what you are used to tends to be exciting. It also helps you know what is applicable in the country and betters your relations with the locals. 

– Buy local artifacts: How else will you connect with a place if you don’t buy their local artifacts. But, be sure not to get carried away and finish all your money.  

Get your guide offers some very budget-friendly activities you can do during your visit to Egypt. Click here to check out other fun tours you can do in Egypt.

5. Morocco

Another of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa is Morrocco. It is easy for one to overlook this country. However, Morrocco stands as one of the best African countries to visit. Their culture is similar to that of Egypt, but there is also something unique about this place. 

Being in Morrocco brings an unexplainable sense of peace and calm.

– Visit a waterfall: Not everyone has seen a waterfall before. I have seen my fair share of waterfalls. But the ones in Morocco have a special place in my heart. Not only did I see them, but I also engaged in water games and brought out my inner child. So, I didn’t mind visiting the falls multiple times in Morocco. One of my favorites is the Ouzoud waterfalls. Click here to book this tour for under $20 via Getyourguide on your visit to Morrocco. This tour is from Marrakech to Ouzoud. 

– Go on a quad bike: I’ll say that the quad bike is for daring people. Even though my heart almost fell out, I was glad I got to experience and enjoy it.

– Visit the blue alley: The blue alley is so beautiful, and I couldn’t help but take pictures. It was fun exploring this place, especially as I haven’t seen something like it in other countries. 

– Go to a Moroccan Spa: Amazing! That’s the word I can use to describe how I felt after visiting a Moroccan Spa. The herbs and ingredients they used in taking care of me when I went there is something I still fantasize about to date. 

6. The Republic of Benin

Another of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa is the Republic of Benin. You instantly feel at home when in the Republic of Benin, which is why it is one of the best African countries to visit. This cozy country has a lot to offer, even though it may not seem like it. 

Another lovable fact about the country is the warmness of the locals. They are open to foreigners. 

Some of the fun things to do in the Republic of Benin include: 

– Go to a museum: The Republic of Benin has many museums that showcase its rich cultural heritage. You learn more about the country’s history, culture, beliefs, and more at these museums. It is easy to lose track of time while exploring the museums in the Republic of Benin.

– Learn French: French is the predominant language in the country, and it comes in handy to learn it. Knowing how to speak French helps you relate better with the locals. It is always exciting getting the locals to teach you the language. 

– Go Kayaking: Kayaking is one of the fun water activities in the Republic of Benin. It was my visit time Kayaking, and I did not regret it. 

–Spend time at Fidjrosse Beach, Cotonou: Another fun thing to do in the Republic of Benin is to visit Fidjrosse beach. It is a very beautiful place to visit on your trip to Cotonou. Plus it is free to access to tourists and locals alike. Click here to read more on my ultimate guide to visiting Cotonou on a budget.

7. Ghana

Another of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa is Ghana. I did not have high expectations when visiting Ghana. For some reason, I was indifferent about it. However, the country left me in awe after a few days, and I have become Ghana’s regular visitor. 

The energy and vibe in Ghana are always high and positive. It is why visitors never want to leave when they visit. 

Below are some of the fun activities to do in Ghana: 

– Go to the local market: There is always something to buy when you visit a Ghanaian market. I don’t know how they do it, but I always love in love with the displayed wares. As someone who loves getting souvenirs from different countries, I always have fun exploring the local markets in Ghana.

– Go on the canopy walk: I was excited when I learned about the canopy walk as it seemed different from regular activities. Yes, I was scared to try it. But it turned out fantastic. I’ll always recommend the Kakum canopy walk to anyone visiting Ghana. 

– Attend a local festival: Attending a local festival is one of the best ways to mingle with the locals in Ghana. It is always fun as it is nothing short of merriment. 

–Cape coast and Elimina Castle tour: another fun activity you can do is to visit cape coast or Elmina castle in Ghana. These castles were built by European traders that stayed in Ghana according to history. It is a very chilled instagrammable place to visit in Ghana. So, if you’re a content creator, you can get great pictures while learning about Ghanian history. Click here to book your tour at Elmina and cape coast, Ghana.

8. Cote d’Ivoire

I’ve always believed that having fun in a country isn’t dependent on the country’s size, and Cote d’Ivoire proved me correct. From its capital city to Abidjan and other regions of the country, I had a swell time exploring when I visited. It is a great option for the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa on a budget.

– Go to a park: Cote d’Ivoire has beautiful scenery, and I loved visiting their gardens with a novel. I felt most of my evenings having quiet times, and at other times I would chat with people at the parks. It was a wholesome experience.  

– Go on a night drive: The calmness in this country makes it an excellent location for night drives. However, I would not advise that you do this alone as a foreigner. Instead, make friends with the locals and link up with them when you want to experience a night drive.

– Visit the pubs:  The pubs in the country are the best locations for local beverages. My curiosity made me taste some of these drinks like Bandji, Bissap Juice, Ginger Juice, and others. 

9. Cameroon

Another of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa is Cameroon. Cameroon is a place I would want to keep all for myself if I could. Visiting this city allowed me to have an exciting time without spending much. It is a no-brainer for it to be part of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa. Yes, it is also a small country, but there are many things to do for fun.

It is one of those African countries that has a special place in my heart, and I could not help but add it as one of the best African countries to visit. 

Some of the fun things I did in Cameroon included: 

– Visiting a butterfly farm: Imagine spending all day chasing butterflies without worries. I’m sure a smile has crept on your face with such imagination. Yes, that is how I felt on this farm. I felt happy and free, which I needed at that moment. 

– Going hiking: It was also fun exploring the forests of Cameroon, but I had to indulge in the services of a tour guide. Of course, there is always the initial fear that the tour will be boring, but that was not the case. I also learned many new things about Cameroon from the tour guide.

– Going to a cactus farm: As someone who had never been to a cactus farm, I could not pass up the opportunity to visit one. And, you can be sure that I had my camera handy to create memories. 

10. Namibia

That Namibia is the last country on this list doesn’t make it less fun or exciting African country to visit. It is one of the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa, especially in the southwest. 

Below are some of the fun activities to do in Namibia

– Visit a craft center:  Namibia has some of the top-notch and exquisite artworks I have seen. Visiting a craft center allows you to learn the process and buy souvenirs. I could spend all my time in a Namibia craft center if I had the opportunity.  

– Go site seeing: I could not help but commend the architectural structures while walking around Namibia. The images are imprinted in my head as they were fascinating. Looking at these buildings while taking quiet walks in the evenings gave me an enjoyable stay in Namibia.

 – Go to a leisure park: Namibians are fun people, and you can see this in leisure parks. These people indulge in different games that let them unleash their inner child, and you can also be a part of them.

–Enjoy a quad bike ride in the desert of Namibia: I love to go on quad bike rides on my vacations. Quad bike rides are always fun whether on the beach or on the desert sands. You can enjoy out riding on a bike in the desert of Namibia. Also, you can book this tour with GetYourGuide for just $32 for a full day’s ride.

Handy tips for visiting African countries

In as much as we have covered the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa. We all know that Navigating a new environment is not the same as your home town. What do you need to know before traveling to Africa? So, if you are all packed to explore Africa, here are some handy tips you need to know.

1. As a stranger, you will definitely get un-solicited help. Reject it as much as possible.
2. The locals may try to hike the prices of things like increasing the cost of uber or bike rides. So, make a local friend that will help you navigate the town. You can also make a friend with the hotel staff in the hotel or guest house.
3. Pack all your essentials for your travel but if possible travel light. Click here to know the travel essentials to pack.
4. Learn a few words of the local languages. It will make the locals feel more at home with you. You can also use travel apps like google translate to make it easy for you to communicate. Africa has a vast language. However, the major languages are Francophone, Anglophone and Portuguese. Click here to learn more travel apps that will come in handy on your trip to Africa. Learning some words in the local languages will is a useful tip you need to explore these top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa.
5. Dress modestly, especially in Muslim countries. Africa is big on culture and ethics.
6. Prepare for the frequent stares. The locals mean no harm.
7. Explore the local markets to shop and try out the local dishes

All these tips have come in handy for easy navigation while traveling in Africa. So, you will definitely find them useful on your travels in Africa. Coming to Africa soonest, add these top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Africa to your Itinerary.