Stepping into 2025, I just knew it had to be my year in one way or the other! One of the first things I did was to manifest soft life, beautiful sceneries, luxurious culture-soaked getaways, and foodie adventures that live rent-free in my memory forever. I made these 2025 travel Wishlist for myself. Apparently, all the baddies on Instagram have these places locked down for their 2025 epic travels. You too should.
Why these places? Well because I have an obsession with Africa. Also, Africa is slept on by the world and many underate what it has to offer. What else can I ask for? Budget friendly, check! beautiful and breath taking, check! Of course, it is warm as I would rather die than commit suicide. It is an African thing. We love the warmth compared to winter.
This led me to coming up with a travel Wishlist that I had not shared up until now. Curious about my Wishlist?
If you’re looking for that mix of culture, vibes, good people, nature, adventure, and Instagram-worthy content, this list is your golden ticket. I’ve handpicked each location with the perfect blend of “bucket list” and “YES, this is what my soul needs!”
So here it is my 2025 travel Wishlist, and trust me, you need to add these to yours too. Let’s goooo!
Table of Contents
2025 travel Wishlist: All the baddies have clocked it
I keep saying baddies because they have been putting your girl on the trend. Years ago, when you think vacation, you think travel around Europe or Asia or on the coast. However, now many are curating fun experiences around Africa for a budget. And thankfully, for US citizens, your currency can get you farther in Africa. The pecks of a strong currency. So, what are you waiting for, pack your bags, hop on a flight and check out my 2025 travel Wishlist.
Senegal
Senegal is giving rhythm, roots, and realness. I’ve had my eye on Dakar for a while now, especially because the art scene there is wild (in the best way), and if you’re into fashion or music, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a living Pinterest board.
I can already see myself walking through the colorful alleys of Goree Island, soaking in the history, then hopping on a boat to the Pink Lake (yes, it’s actually pink). I also want to try their Thieboudienne (their iconic rice and fish dish), and then dance the night away in a beachfront club where everyone knows how to move. Senegal is culture with a beat, and I’m ready!
Click here to book a tour of Dakar
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Listen, I’ve seen way too many drone shots of Nungwi Beach lately to not go to Zanzibar again this year! This island is unreal with clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibes for days.
I want to wander the alleys of Stone Town, get lost in the smell of spices, and watch dhows sail off into the sunset. Also, trust me, the seafood is divine. I want lobster. I want grilled octopus. I want fresh coconut juice by the ocean. It’s giving island babe energy and I’m here for it.
São Tomé and Príncipe
Now, this one is my secret spot (well, not anymore). São Tomé and Príncipe is a tiny island nation off the coast of Central Africa, and it looks like something out of a dream.
It’s quiet, lush, and romantic and perfect for a “disconnect to reconnect” type of vacation. Think of waterfalls, cocoa plantations, empty beaches, and slow mornings. I want to hike through the forest, eat fresh seafood by candlelight, and fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
This place isn’t touristy, and that’s what makes it perfect. It’s like the Africa people don’t talk about enough, and I can’t wait to discover it.
Rwanda
Rwanda is so high on my list, I might even go twice. Kigali is modern, safe, and stunning. I also hear the coffee scene is divine. Now, if you know you, you know that once you give me a good iced latte and a view of the hills – I’m home.
But I’m mostly dreaming about visiting Volcanoes National Park to see the mountain gorillas. There’s something so raw and humbling about being in nature like that. And don’t get me started on Lake Kivu; I want a lakeside weekend with peace, books, and good food.
Rwanda is where I want to go to breathe!
Click here to book a fun bike ride
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Abidjan gives Paris, but Afro. Like, if Lagos and Paris had a baby with better weather and more plantains, it would be Abidjan.
I’m obsessed with how stylish people are there. I mean, I just know I’m going to feel underdressed and love every second of it. I plan to sip espresso in Plateau, eat attiéké and grilled fish in Treichville, and dance the night away in Zone 4.
Also, have you seen photos of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro? Jaw-dropping. I’m brushing up on my French ASAP because I’m not missing a moment of this Ivorian magic.
Nigeria
Home sweet home yea? Surprised to see it on the list?
Well, this time, I want to explore Nigeria differently. I want to escape the Lagos hustle and do a local staycation with resort vibes. Have you heard of XLarge Farms Resort? It’s in Ogun state, and it is giving luxury, nature, and soft life energy.
I want to wake up to views of farmland, eat organic food straight from the soil, and just exist without traffic stress. There’s also the fact that I get to go horse riding and just be at peace with myself. Yes, that’s the new Naija dream for me.
Of course, I’ll still recommend that people do a Lagos weekend, because you need your suya, beach day and a night out in VI!
But Nigeria is full of hidden gems, and this year, I’m discovering them!
Xlarge farms also Known as Agritech resorts
Kenya
Let’s be honest, Kenya is an icon. From wildlife to nightlife, it’s giving range. I’m dreaming of waking up at Giraffe Manor and having breakfast with a giraffe literally peeking through the window like it’s no big deal
Then there’s the Masai Mara which is the ultimate safari experience. I want to wear cute neutral tones and look like I belong in a National Geographic cover while watching elephants stroll by.
But Kenya’s not just about animals. Nairobi is bustling, and the food scene? A vibe! I already know I’ll eat my way through nyama choma and mandazi like there’s no tomorrow.
Nambibia
Namibia is so cinematic it doesn’t feel real. Like, where else can you climb a giant orange sand dune, watch wild horses run across endless plains, then sleep under the Milky Way?
I’m obsessed with the idea of road-tripping through the desert in a 4×4, blasting Afrobeats, and pulling over for photos every 20 minutes. The photos from Sossusvlei alone are enough to make you want to book a flight right now.
This is the kind of trip you take when you want to feel small in a good way. Namibia is nature, freedom, and beauty all in one.
Uganda
Uganda is giving everything: mountains, lakes, gorillas, and heart. I’ve heard people say it’s one of the most underrated countries in Africa, and that only makes me want to go more.
Imagine waking up in a cozy lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (yes, that’s the real name), gearing up to trek through misty trails just to see mountain gorillas up close.
And Lake Bunyonyi? I saw a drone shot once and immediately added it to my vision board. I also want to visit Kampala and explore its chaotic, colorful vibe. Uganda looks like an adventure I won’t recover from, and I’m ready to be changed.
Ghana
Everyone has to go to Ghana. But this time, I’m doing it bigger!
December in Accra? Nothing compares. The festivals, the fashion, the food, and the people gives Ghana a full-body experience.
I want to stroll through Makola Market, get a custom outfit made by a local designer, and then head to the beach to catch a sunset that makes me believe in magic. I’ve been stalking Ghanaian TikTok lately and let me tell you, the lifestyle is soft, the vibes are elite, and the people are effortlessly cool.
P.S. I’m definitely visiting Cape Coast and Elmina Castles again because history needs to be felt.
Which of these 2025 travel Wishlist is also on your list? Which of these 2025 travel Wishlist is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below. Ciao for now.