By now, I’m sure I have garnered a reputation as an ambassador for Africa and I am proud of it. Africa has so much to offer. Here are top 15 beautiful and cheap African countries that should be on your radar. They are budget friendly and on everyone’s bucket list destination.
When I think about Africa, I think about diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife. If I had my way, I would say you should visit all the countries in Africa as Africa has something for every traveler. The diverse culture, cuisine, street foods and of course breath-taking places.
I have written about 30 best things to do in Africa to help you with planning your trip. Some of these things are budget friendly, for the purpose of this blog, I would be streamlining it to 15 beautiful and cheap African countries to visit.
Don’t like to bother about planning your trip yourself. I have you covered. All you need to do is to book a tour with Getyourguide. They offer robust and budget friendly things to do whether in Africa, Europe or Asia. Curious about them? Let’s dive right in
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Beautiful and Cheap African countries that are on everyone’s bucket list
You may wonder why I like to talk about Africa. Well, this is my home. So, why not promote it for the world to see. Africa is not a dead-beat continent. We have so many countries with breathtaking landscape, budget friendly beaches and resorts. There is so much to do or see.
My home country Nigeria has a lot of things to do. Even if I plan to visit all these places in one year, I cannot cover it all. Asides the fun beaches, you can go hiking, canopy walk, Kayaking or visit its diverse waterfalls. I have covered most of the breathtaking waterfalls in Nigeria to add your itinerary on your visit.
Senegal
Located in West Africa, we have Senegal, an outstanding country with a friendly culture. Growing up, I didn’t know the exact location of Senegal but always heard about it. You can imagine my happiness when I discovered that this country is within my region – West Africa.
One thing about this country is that it is super affordable, even its capital city. In some countries, the capital is always so expensive. However, in Dakar, Senegal, you can get affordable accommodation, food, and public transportation.
I recommend that you visit the markets when in Senegal as they are usually vibrant and fun. You should also visit tourist sites like Goree Island, Pink Lake, and Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary.
Click here to book a tour of Dakar Senegal
Tanzania
There is always a mushy smile that comes on my face whenever I think about Tanzania as I enjoyed my last visit to this place. Typically, whenever you mention Tanzania, Zanzibar is one of the first places that comes to mind. However, allow me to tell you that there are many amazing places to visit in Tanzania.
I liked that the locals were very welcoming during my stay at Dar Es Salam. Similar to Kenya, Tanzania is famous for its wildlife, making it a top choice for budget safaris. It is almost home to the tallest mountain in Africa – Mount Kilimanjaro.
Places to visit in Tanzania include Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar beaches, and Ngorongoro Crater. Africa has so many Safaris where you can watch animals in their natural habitat. I have written about budget friendly Safaris in Africa to visit.
Click here to book and Hike Kilimanjaro and its neighboring Villages
Zambia
I like to describe Zambia as one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. I wonder why a lot of people have not hopped on the opportunity to explore this amazing country.
It is home to the famous Victoria Falls, and perfect for budget travelers looking for adventure. Some of the top attractions of this country include Victoria Falls, South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, and Kafue National Park.
Madagascar
Wouldn’t you want to explore the places mentioned in Penguins of Madagascar? From the movie, you can tell that the country is rich in biodiversity. It is known for its lemurs, baobab trees and stunning beaches.
When visiting this country, you must not leave without seeing sites like the Avenue of the Baobabs, Nosy Be, Isalo National Park, and Tsingy de Bemaraha.
Rwanda
This is one country that I am yet to visit, but I can tell you that it sits pretty at the top of my bucket list. I have heard so many amazing facts about Rwanda, including the fact that it is an affordable and safe destination.
One of the top activities to do in this country is gorilla trekking. However, it could be expensive. Some other affordable activities to do in this country include visiting Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu, Kigali Genocide Memorial, and Nyungwe Forest.
Click here to book a full day tour of Kigali
Mozambique
Mozambique is famous for its beautiful, unspoiled beaches, marine life, and Portuguese heritage. It is one of the cheapest beach destinations in Africa as it offers affordable accommodation and fresh seafood.
You can engage in a lot of water activities while in this country. You should check out Bazaruto Archipelago, Tofo Beach, Gorongosa National Park, and Quirimbas Islands when in Mozambique.
Namibia
Namibia is home to vast deserts, surreal landscapes, and rich wildlife. While safaris here can be pricier, affordable self-drive tours are an excellent way to explore the country on a budget.
I would recommend that you visit places like Sossusvlei Dunes, Etosha National Park, Skeleton Coast, and Fish River Canyon. Importantly, do not go to these places without a camera as you would need to capture the memories.
Egypt
There is this exciting energy that comes with talking about Egypt. Or, maybe it’s because I always fantasize about exploring the pyramids. For such an ancient country, Egypt is surprisingly affordable for travelers.
Some of the top attractions in Egypt are Pyramids of Giza, The Sphinx, Luxor Temple, and Nile River Cruises.
Botswana
The first time I heard about rock painting was when I was reading up on Botswana, and I could immediately tell that this would be an interesting country to visit. But, is it affordable?
I have found out that the best way to explore Botswana if you are on a budget is through self-guided tours and more affordable accommodations. I like that the affordable accommodation options are still of top quality and standards.
Curious about what to do in Botswana, visit Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Kalahari Desert, and Tsodilo Hills (for ancient rock paintings).
Kenya
If I ever have to relocate to another country, Kenya would be my pick. It is a budget-friendly destination known for its wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can experience safaris in the Maasai Mara, hike in the Great Rift Valley, and explore the coastal city of Mombasa.
During my last visit to Mombasa, I stayed at Diani Beach and I almost didn’t want to return home. It gave me the feeling of being home away from home. I would also recommend that you visit Nairobi National Park.
Click here to book a tour of Nairobi National park
Uganda
Often called the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda offers visitors a mix of wildlife, stunning lakes, and lush forests. You can trek to see mountain gorillas or relax along the shores of Lake Victoria, all without breaking the bank.
Some of the top attractions of this country are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (for gorilla trekking), Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Victoria, and Rwenzori Mountains.
Ethiopia
For some reason, the Ethiopian currency ‘Birr” sounds so nice and this was one of the initial reasons why I wanted to visit the country. Yes, little details stand out to me and attract me to a place.
Ethiopia is rich in history and culture and a unique travel experience. From the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the historic city of Axum, Ethiopia is a budget traveler’s dream with inexpensive accommodations and food.
You should also check out Simien Mountains National Park, Blue Nile Falls, and the Ancient City of Axum.
Ghana
Allow me tell you that Ghana is one country you can visit if you are on a budget. One thing about this country is that they have unique meals for you to try. In case you didn’t know, Ghanians are huge fans of eggs and try to incorporate it into every meal.
Top attractions to visit in Ghana include Cape Coast Cattle, Kakum National Park, Wli Waterfalls, and Mole National Park.
Malawi
Malawi is known as “The Warm Heart of Africa” and is one of the most budget-friendly countries in Africa. Some of its top attractions are Lake Malawi National Park, Mulanje Mountain, Liwonde National Park, and Nkhata Bay.
Morocco
I love how Morocco has a fine mix of traditional and modern elements. From the bustling markets of Marrakech to the blue streets of Chefchaouen, and the vast Sahara Desert, Morocco provides affordable accommodation, food, and transport.
I can assure you that you would make lots of memories when exploring Morocco.
You shouldn’t think about visiting Africa without visiting Nigeria. Known as the Giant of Africa and filled with friendly people, active nightlife culture, amazing cuisines and outstanding tourist attractions, Nigeria is also an affordable place to visit in Africa.
Feel free to comment which of these beautiful and cheap African countries you have on your budget list. Are you planning your wedding, and you want a budget friendly destination wedding? Check out these beautiful and cheap African countries for your wedding. Ciao.