This is the familiar choice of persuasive words, researched and practiced over years to perfection, that you will encounter a lot in Egypt.

This is known in Egypt as Baksheesh. It’s used to describe a small amount of money that’s been given either as a tip, bribe, or donation.

If you travel to Egypt, or many countries in the Middle East and North Africa, you will undoubtedly be introduced to baksheesh from the first day.

It is part of the Egyptian culture and plays are major role in the tourism industry.

But it can also feel overwhelming, and for some travelers, a little confrontational, so if you’re not familiar with this type of practice, then you’re going to want to keep reading to familiarize yourself with it before you go.

What’s the meaning of Baksheesh in Egypt?

In Egypt, Baksheesh means one of three things:

1. Begging – Someone out of nowhere just asks you for money, pleading “give me baksheesh”
2. Tipping – Attempting to do something legit in an effort to get a gratuity
3. Permission for Favors – The last form of baksheesh throughout Egypt is a tweak of tipping, favors are granted and under the table tips are given

Most people will encounter the latter two forms of Egyptian baksheesh.

When people use the term baksheesh, they are usually using it to talk about tipping in Egypt and to offer a sum of money in exchange for services.

Examples of Baksheesh

In order to understand what baksheesh looks like, here is an example of what happened to me.

I was walking to the museum in Luxor one evening, knowing exactly where I was going, and walking at a brisk pace to get there.

A 13 year old boy nudged my side and said “Hey, where you going?”

I didn’t respond, yet he continued walking with me and said “Hey, you turn left here.”

I continued walking, starting to ignore the boy more and more when he recited his next verse, “Hey, give me 1 pound, I showed you where to go (at this point I hadn’t even said a word, except “hey, how are you?”).”

I almost choked on my tongue and then just grinned as I walked the 50 meters to the museum where I was already going.

It can feel aggressive, and if you’re not expecting it or know how to deal with it, can make you feel uneasy.

But it’s all part of the culture and is common practice amongst beggars in cities, as well as people working in tourism after a quick and easy buck.

The art of baksheesh in touristy areas of Egypt starts at an early age and is fine tuned throughout years of working with tourists who apparently have had unlimited supplies of cash for centuries.

Ways In Which You Encounter Baksheesh

In order to know how to deal with baksheesh, you need to know the ways in which a person may use it.

Here are some ways in which people try to get baksheesh from travelers:

• They will try to relate in a personal way to their victim and try to establish a connection or link
• They may offer a service or piece of advice (can be useful or useless)
• Without asking permission, they may provoke someone to use their service (such as a taxi or following for directions)
• They may use all rules and regulations to their advantage and discard rules that will hinder (flaky or real)
• Initially they may give roundabout clues as to their motive of making a little money but typically they will appear friendly at first and then once you engage, their motives become more apparent
• They may come right out without hesitation and demand a couple of pounds or even come right out and say “give me baksheesh”
• They will make their target feel a bit guilty for not giving a tip
• If the victim still isn’t playing ball, they may start to get a little more aggressive (not so much in a threatening way, but in a conviction of the culprits wrongdoing). They usually are not out to attack you, but they will follow you for a long time.

• They may also go up to a tourist, take off their hat or Arab style headdress and re-wrap it, then ask for a tip
• They may wear Egyptian traditional dress and ask tourists to take a photo with them, then ask for money
• They may try to show you a hidden site, that’s really just around the corner
• They may also stand outside of a random bathroom (maybe not yours) and get a tip before anyone enters even if the bathroom is free and they don’t work there

Ways to Handle Baksheesh When Traveling in Egypt

Traveling through Egypt you will certainly be faced with multiple circumstances of baksheesh on a daily occurrence.

As mentioned above, there are many ways in which you will encounter baksheesh and it can feel overwhelming when it comes at your time and time again.

To make you more at ease, here are some tips to dealing with it.

1. Think of it as normal

If you really need the service offered (bathroom, attraction, etc.) use your own discretion to determine what price it is worth and just think of it as the normal cost.

2. Just walk on

If the baksheesh is a complete bogus claim, refuse to make eye contact with the tout and walk on.

Attempt to breeze past without speaking, playing stupid.

If the solicitor gets more aggressive, don’t sweat it, they won’t hurt you or even chase you. Just walk away at full speed.

3. Get a tour guide

Guides are great at keeping baksheesh at bay since they speak to local language. You do need to tip your guide, but at least you only tip one person.

4. Get a private driver

You can avoid confrontations on public transport by having someone drive you around all day and drop you off outside attractions you want to see.

5. Carry small bills

It’s always a good idea to carry a supply of small bills in the Egyptian pounds. This makes it easier to give appropriate tips without giving too much.

6. Be mindful of the situation you’re in

Baksheesh is often given in exchange for a service or favor received, so if someone has given you a favor and you’ve accepted it, then you’re more obligated to give a tip.

Consider the context and circumstances before deciding whether or how much to tip.

For example, tipping a tour guide or a porter who has provided exceptional service is generally expected.

7. Be discreet

If you do give baksheesh, it’s best to be discreet and avoid flaunting money.

Roll a bill up in your hands and shake hands with them as a way of giving them the money.

This helps maintain a respectful atmosphere and prevents any potential misunderstandings or uncomfortable situations.

Sometimes if someone sees you give a baksheesh, others will flock over to you.

8. Negotiate prices upfront

In some countries, baksheesh can be seen as an opportunity for negotiation.

If you’re unsure about the appropriate amount to tip, negotiate and agree on the price or tip beforehand to avoid any confusion later.

9. Respect local customs

Remember that baksheesh is a cultural practice, and it’s important to respect and adhere to local customs.

While there are some who take advantage, there are others who deserve their baksheesh (good tour guides and private drivers, for example).

Don’t go in with the mindset of not tipping in Egypt, but understand it’s a way to show appreciation for the local culture and contribute positively to the community.

10. Don’t feel obligated

While tipping is customary in many places, it’s not mandatory in all situations. Use your judgment and assess whether the service or assistance received warrants a tip.

You should never feel obligated to tip if the service was subpar or if it goes against your principles.

Final Thoughts

The art of baksheesh is ingrained into the minds of the people and ways of life in the tourism industry in Egypt.

If you are prepared or equipped with a little forewarning, baksheesh can be an amusing part of the Egyptian style and may even prove to be a bit of fun.

Though it sometimes drives people crazy, think of it with an open mind, and try not to get frustrated!

Note: Egyptians are some of the nicest and most hospitable people that I have encountered in the entire world. The art of baksheesh mostly pertains to people that work in the tourism industry day in and day out, searching for a little extra income.

Tours of Egypt

If you did not want to travel to Egypt as an independent traveler, G Adventures offer guided tours. We partner with G Adventures for their commitment to the supporting the environment and conserving local cultures.

• 14 Days Highlights of Egypt
• Egypt: Boats and Bazaars – 8 day tour

We also partner with Globus Family of Brands, which are also committed to cultural and environmental conservation. Here are some of their Egyptian Tours at different price points.

• Avalon Waterways: 10 Day Taste of Egypt along the Nile River
• Globus: 9 Days Egypt with Nile Cruise
• Globus: 6 Day Cairo and Alexandria

More Egypt & North Africa Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for your travels to Egypt and North Africa? Here are some other helpful guides…

• 23 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Morocco
• Things to do in Marrakesh, Morocco
• Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
• 8 things to do in the Canary Islands
• What to Do in Ethiopia
• 5 Experiences Egypt Has To Offer Different Travel Tastes
• What to do in Cairo, Egypt

Ever been to Egypt? What did you think of the baksheesh strategies? Let us know in the comments.

One of the biggest challenges about traveling in Africa is knowing how to get around.

We explored East and South Africa on a five-month backpacking adventure, and found there were many forms of transport to explore the continent with.

Getting around East and South Africa is rough, but it’s cheap, and it will provide you with some of your most entertaining stories.

In this guide, we share how to get around East and South Africa and the different modes of transport you can take.

There are many transportation options to suit each travellers budget, desired experiences and comfort levels, which we’ll go into below.

How To Travel Africa: Getting Around East and South Africa

Below are the main ways to get around Africa.

Guided Tour

For those travellers who feels a little intimidated about backpacking Africa independently, or a short on time and want to be spared the hassle, there are organized overland safari tours that make traveling in Africa easy.

Craig, and I decided not to travel Africa in this way, although we ran into a lot of these overlander trucks through Africa and were given quite an insight into how they operated.

We wanted to travel slower through each area, and have a lot more contact with the local people, but we can see the appeal for a tour – Africa can feel huge and overwhelming.

Overland safari tours will be more expensive than independent travel, but costs usually cover meals, transport, and accommodation.

Travelling Africa independently for 5 months cost us $7,000 total, and we visited several countries.

Globus Tours

We have also traveled with the Globus family brand of tours on several occasions now and have loved them. They offer a variety of tours including budget and more luxury. Here are some of their Africa tours. Don’t forget our exclusive discount code in the blue box below.

• Globus tours of Africa
• Cosmos tours of Africa

Baz Bus

The Baz Bus is a hop on, hop off style transportation company organized to help backpackers and travelers get around South Africa in comfort.

It has designated travel route that follows the backpacking trail, taking you to the most popular destinations and popular things to do in South Africa.

You can choose the route you want, and the bust will pick you up and drop you off at your selected hostel.

Tickets can be purchased for a specific number of days, or more open-ended fleixible tickets are available.

Prices for the Baz Bus range from USD $200 to $500.

After 4 months of traveling around Africa using public transport, I welcomed the Baz Bus ‘luxury’ experience with open arms.

I used it for the last two weeks in South Africa to travel from Durban to Johannesburg via Zululand, Swaziland and Kruger National Park.

Getting picked up and dropped off at my hostel door, spreading myself out on my own spacious seat while I watched videos and swapped stories with other travelers, was pure bliss and so worth the extra expense.

It’s also a safer way to travel for solo travelers in South Africa who don’t want to take a group tour.

Public Buses

There wasn’t a bus journey we went on in Africa that did not involve a laughter and conversation with the locals, having a child thrown on your lap, a neighboring rooster dangerously pecking around your head, a protective mother figure curing your motion sickness with matchsticks, or dramas such as punctured tires, highway roadside ablutions and bus drivers leaving behind those who did not get back from the toilet quick enough.

This is Africa and what better way to experience it.

Public buses (USD$3-$32) are usually taken for longer journeys and across borders where there is a good network of sealed roads.

The buses are generally comfortable, safe and spacious.

When traveling around East African countries such as Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, you’ll find there are fewer public buses available than there are in North African countries such as Tunisia, Morocco and Egypt.

This is because they are less developed and have fewer vehicles on the road in general.

These places have fewer or no sealed roads and will have ancient buses that frequently break down, and are crowded.

A step up from the local public buses is the Intercape, the largest privately owned intercity bus service in Southern Africa.

Think modern coach service with reclining seats and restrooms. We experienced the comfort of this from Cape Town to Durban…ahhh!

Mini Vans

I thought Asians knew how to fill a mini-van, but then I went to Africa. The mini vans in Asia are quite spacious in comparison to mini vans in Africa.

Africa is the place that sets the outer limits as to how many people can be transported at once in a vehicle. 

Just when you think they couldn’t possibly fit another person in, they have them stand on the window sill outside the van.

I questioned my sanity, every time I rode in a mini-van, and spent the majority of the journey eyes closed to avoid seeing the drivers careen around mountainous corners at speeds of over 80km/h, overtaking anything from bikes to livestock trucks.

Travel in Africa, like this, is not for the faint hearted. Africa is poor; the drivers want to overfill the beat-up, rusty van and go as fast as they can in order to make more money.

Mini-vans are a very cheap way to get around, and are usually taken for up to 6 hour journeys within a country (usually around USD$1-$10).

They don’t leave until they are full, so jump on one that looks ready to go and avoid sitting in the front seat, commonly referred to as the ‘death seat.’

Of course there is more room!

Pick Ups

Pickups are cheap (usually not much more than USD$2) and tend to go a lot slower, traveling more on the smaller rural or village roads. I appreciated pickup travel a lot more than mini vans.

Even though I was hanging out in the pickup tray with bags of rice and potatoes, bicycles, and generally the whole village, I still felt a lot safer.

Traveling Africa in this way is extremely uncomfortable, but the communal aspect of it makes up for this.

A local African took me under his wing, as his muzungu (white person), on an 8 hour, 97km pickup trip to see the gorillas in Uganda.

No one was to touch me or make me uncomfortable; he even threatened to beat two handcuffed prisoners for accidentally sitting on my shoulder.

We sat under a blue tarp as rain pelted down on our drive through treacherous mountain passes.

Benson rescued me several times from sliding off the side of the truck to certain death below. You can always count on African pickups to give you memories like this.

We share more about this experience in this podcast on Amazing adventures to have in Uganda.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is something that would turn most people’s blood to ice, especially with the thought of doing it in Africa.

It can be a relatively safe and cheap way to get around East and South Africa, and it can also be incredibly dangerous.

More people tend to hitchhike through Namibia and South Africa than any other East African country, but we wouldn’t recommend it unless there is no other way.

Hitchhiking can be free, although many times you will be expected to leave a small tip, and you have to be able to judge each situation. It is always a good idea to ask how much up front.

Accommodations and internet message boards often have notices for those seeking rides, in return for the sharing of fuel costs. This is much safer than flagging someone down on the side of the road.

If you hitch from the side of the road it’s best to wave your hand up and down to flag a lift, as sticking out your thumb is considered a rude gesture in Africa.

Craig and I hitchhiked from Namibia to South Africa, only because other transport options were limited.

A Namibian trucker, for a small tip, drove us halfway, sharing stories with Craig about Namibian life while I slept comfortably in his bed.

Chinese students drove us the remainder of the way to Cape Town, for the sharing of fuel prices and stories of life in South Africa as a Chinese student.

Train

Although not a common form of transportation in East and South Africa, there will be times when the opportunity for train travel should be taken as it is a pleasantly relaxing, cultural experience.

You can travel most of Zimbabwe by train, using the National Railways of Zimbabwe. There is also a famous route from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, but this is a luxury train and quite expensive.

Cruising through game reserves and seeing giraffe, lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, wildebeest and zebra from my sleeper class cabin window was a surreal experience.

It was a treat to pick up passengers from small African towns and have goods hawked at our windows while children raced up to smile broadly and wave at the passing Muzungus.

Usually with travel in Africa you are squashed in like sardines, but if you pay for the higher class ticket (USD$20-$30) you will have your own sleeping cabin, giving you the space and freedom to walk around and appreciate African travel.

Car Hire

If you are not doing game drives in the Game Reserves, then leave room in your Africa travel budget for car hire.

There is no other way to view the wildlife and the natural wonders of Africa, and let’s face it this is one of your main reasons for coming to this beautiful continent.

Be clear on where the best viewing areas and safari camps are for your chosen game parks and plan accordingly so you can cut down on mileage and fuel expenses.

Car hire can be expensive but can work out to be a more cost-effective way to go on safari and tour certain regions of Africa. Check out DiscoverCars.com for the best competitive rates and excellent customer service.

We hired cars for safaris in Namibia and South Africa and to experience the beautiful Garden Route, a popular and scenic stretch off the coast of South Africa.

Car hire in South Africa can be found for as cheap as $30 a day, especially if you book online in advance.

In other parts of Africa it ranges from $75- $100 a day. Be careful of where you have to pick up your vehicle from.

If it is too far from the safari park you will have to allow for extra mileage and fuel expenses.

If you are planning on long term travel in Africa you may even consider buying your own 4WD to tour the continent in.

South Africa would be the best option for purchase, or a departing traveler ready to sell up.

Getting around East and South Africa can be done really cheaply if planned well. Carefully consider your budget and safety interests for getting around Africa.

While public transport is cheap and authentic, it is uncomfortable and less safe. Hiring or buying a car is the more expensive option, but will give you greater freedom.

Overland Safari tours will be expensive and less authentic but will give you an all inclusive package and a greater sense of safety.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, those are the ways to travel around Africa, and as you can see there’s a lot of transportation options.

Before you go, we highly recommend you take out travel insurance to protect yourself ahead of your trip.

This will protect you should you come into any unforeseen circumstances.

Don’t forget to get your travel vaccinations too and talk to your doctor about medications!

More Africa Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for traveling in Africa? Here are some other helpful guides…

• Top 5 Things in Botswana to experience the natural beauty
• 7 Reasons to visit Mozambique
• 13 awe-inspiring things to do in Eastern and Southern Africa
• Africa Travel Safety Tips
• How to travel Africa on a budget
• Safari game parks in Africa not to miss
• Africa safari tips to see the best wildlife
• Why this couple is traveling Africa and you should too
• 7 Reasons to honeymoon in South Africa
• 5 Extraordinary places to visit in Namibia

Those who travel to Africa will leave in a sense of awe. It’s not only a place where you can experience wildlife encounters up close, but a place where you can learn interact with a culture so diverse, and so different, from anywhere else.

Most people expect Africa to be a cheap continent to travel to, because it’s famously underdeveloped, but this is not the case. Safaris, gorilla treks, Masai Warrior experiences etc, all come at a high price tag – and you’d be surprised by how much the bucket list experiences can eat into your budget.

Which is why we prepared this guide on the cost of travel in Africa on a budget, so you can save your hard earned cash to spend on those bucket list experiences by knowing how to save on other items.

Can I Go To Africa On A Budget?

Craig and I backpacked from Kenya to South Africa for 5 months, and we are here to tell you it’s absolutely possible to travel Africa on a budget – and when we say budget, we mean a shoestring budget.

Some African countries are more expensive than others, such as South Africa, and so it’s not a case of saying “Africa is cheap”, but there are ways you can travel on a modest budget.

The truth is, Africa can be expensive, but it can also be incredibly cheap if you’re prepared to give up some luxuries.

The cost of day-to-day living, transport, and accommodation on the whole is usually far less than Europe or America, but not quite as cheap as Asia (from our experience). But we would still class most of Africa as a budget destination.

What gets expensive are the cost of safaris, game viewing, and other adventure activities.

You must travel to Africa with a plan of exactly what parks you want to visit, what activities you want to do, and what your daily budget should be, in order to save money for those big ticket items.

You can blow your budget really quickly, so careful decisions must be made. You will have to give up luxury in some areas in order to be able to do more of the things Africa is famous for.

We spent approximately $7,000 over 5 months. This included the very expensive gorilla trekking in Uganda, white water rafting the Nile, and safaris in the Masai Mara, Kruger National Park, Addo Elephant Park, and Etosha National Park.

So if you work this out, we spent around $50 a day for 2 people, including everything. Today, a budget of $80-$100 per day may be more realistic.

Cheapest Countries To Travel To in Africa

North African countries such as Egypt and Morocco tend to have higher prices than countries in East Africa. Prices in North Africa are comparable to places in Southeastern Europe/East Asia, such as Greece or Turkey.

We haven’t been to West or Central Africa, so cannot comment on those countries.

Uganda and Rwanda are cheap countries to visit, but tourists end up spending a lot of money because most people visit to see the gorillas, and Gorilla Trek experiences are not cheap.

The same goes for Tanzania, where the Serengeti lies. Safari trips to the Serengeti are expensive, as are trekking experiences up Mount Kilimanjaro, but exploring the rest of the country can be quite affordable.

Kenya is another country that you think will be cheap but isn’t. Most people who visit Kenya are looking for luxury safari experiences, and it historically attracts wealthy travelers, so much of the accommodation and experiences are catered towards travelers with a high price point.

Zambia is comparable to Tanzania in terms of cost, but a really cheap country in Africa to visit is Malawi. If you like beautiful beaches, Mozambique is also somewhere you can travel on a modest $50 per day budget.

South Africa is not as expensive as you would imagine. You can travel South Africa for a budget of around $50 per day, per person, and live quite comfortably.

Cape Town and Johannesburg are quite backpacker friendly, but again, your biggest expense in South African will be game drives.

Cost of Travel in Africa

The following is just a general overview of costs of travel in Africa, so you can work out what budget you should allow yourself.

Accommodation

Want to know how we reduced our backpacking Africa costs? We camped almost the whole way.

All you need is a lightweight tent, a sleeping mat, and a sleeping bag/sheet. Our nightly costs ranged from $1 to $5 a night. You can sleep in national parks and safari destinations for around $10 – $15 per night, or you can upgrade to one of their lodges (though remember you still need to pay national park fees and permits).

You can find basic lodges for around $30 per night, or you can find 5* safari lodges for $300 per night. It really depends on the level of luxury you require from your vacation.

You’ll find most backpackers and hostels have areas set aside for campers, so you still get full use of the backpacker facilities, but at budget prices.

We camped at our favourite backpackers, Mayoka Village in Malawi,on a terraced garden at the edge of Lake Malawi for two weeks for only $1 a night. It is now $8 a night.

The average price of a camp site in a hostel is around $10 a night to camp in most African destinations.

If camping is too low budget for you, then next cheapest option is a hostel.

Hostels in Africa is great for backpackers to stay in. They are clean, the staff are friendly, and there are usually a lot of activities going on – many of which are free – that you can participate in with other backpackers such as quiz nights and communal dinners such as braai (South African BBQ).

The costs of a backpackers hostels tends to increase in the larger cities, and more expensive countries of South Africa and Namibia, but you can still find a dormitory bed for as little as $15 USD and private rooms for around $30 per night.

Prices range from $10 – $20 for a dorm bed in cheaper East African destinations, such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Zanzibar in Tanzania. You can expect to pay around $20- $80 for a private room.

Food

Food choices for budget travel in Africa rarely differ from budget food choices backpacking in any country. It will be cheaper if you eat with the locals or cook food yourself.

Most African hostels and backpackers will have kitchen facilities, and markets and supermarkets provide cheap food options.

We carried around two plastic bowls and spoons, a packet of cereal and powdered milk. This was our cheap breakfast every morning.

Camping facilities usually have fire circles, so braais or barbecues are easy to do and cheap.

Venture out of your hostels and into the local towns, for some cheap food in the local restaurants. Africa is a poor continent so you will find their diet is very staple and bland.

Everyday in Malawi we would walk into town for some rice with a basic curry tomato sauce. It was less than a $1 and quite tasty.

Hostels usually have restaurants where you can purchase food. It will be a little more expensive, but can be a nice break. Look out for drink specials as well.

Be warned that if you order fries you could be waiting hours for it, particularly in Uganda where they don’t have the proper cooking facilities for it.

If you can, camp under a mango tree, so they can drop on your tent all day for free food–and delicious too.

We also carried a water filter around with us to reduce the cost of bottled water. Africa is hot, you drink a lot, and this can really add up to dent your budget.

If you do eat out, you can expect to pay around $8 – $10 per meal, per person.

Transport

Travel in Africa is really cheap. But it comes at a different sort of price – it’s uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous.

Put it this way, you’ll get to know your heart and breath a lot better, and maybe have more conversations with those guiding forces from ethereal lands.

In each town, local min-vans will zip you to wherever you want to go from anywhere from 20cents to a couple of bucks.

Mini-vans, otherwise known as matutus, or pick up trucks can also take you on longer distances between towns for a couple of bucks more.

Buses will cost anywhere from $3-$32 depending on distances and the countries you visit.

Train journeys although infrequent are more comfortable and safer. A second or first class sleeper is the best way to travel and fares are usually around $20-$30.

In South Africa, taking the on-off Baz bus, made especially for travellers is a comfortable and luxurious form of travel (after 4 months of pick ups it’s heaven).

Tickets start from around $220 USD and are quite flexible in their itineraries for taking you to the main backpacker areas.

Listen to one of our craziest pick up rides in Africa, in this podcast on Uganda Travel.

African Safari Costs

You are going to need careful planning for your safaris. They can get really expensive and you have to be selective about which parks you go to.

We wanted to go to everyone, but it is just not possible.

Do your research and read the reviews from people who visited recently. You really only need 2-3 days max in each of the parks. It can get very tiring looking for the animals, and after your 50th zebra, the novelty wears off.

You have to weigh up the costs of doing a safari with your own hire car, or on a guided tour.

It is usually best to book the tour when you arrive in the nearest town to the park. We only went on a guided tour for the Masai Mara, all the rest we hired cars for and drove ourselves.

3 day camping budget safari tours of the Masai go for about $450 pp all inclusive. This would be a better option for a Kenya safari, as car hire is not as easy as it is in South Africa and Namibia.

Costs for guided safaris in South Africa for the game reserves are a lot more. However, car hire is cheaper. You can hire cars for as little as $30 per day in South Africa, in other countries from about $75 – $100 a day.

When you work out the costs of car hire (watch for extra mileage charges), fuel, accommodation and food, it usually works out to be cheaper, more practical and flexible to do it yourself.

However, you may want to save money and book a tour, for the reasons we mention in our guide on the best African Game Reserves.

To reduce the cost of the expensive car hire, we camped at the designated campsites and cooked our own meals around the campfire.

We do recommend allowing for extra costs such as guided night drive or walking safari. Limit this to just once, in one park.

Allow for around $300 – $500 for a 3-day do-it-yourself safari, or for a 3 day tour.

The more people you can travel with the less that will work out individually. If you are on your own, then a tour might just be easier.

Consider hiring a car for a longer period of time and fitting in other activities as well. We hired a car for a week to drive along the beautiful Garden Route in South Africa, taking in Addo Elephant park at the same time.

Gorilla Trekking

Didn’t Craig and I get off lightly for this one? Right time, right place. It cost us $250 each for the licence to trek for gorillas in Uganda and then it cost about another $20 each to get there (which is a lot for African travel).

Now, you can expect just the permit to cost $700, and then you need to factor in car rental, fuel, accommodation and other expenses. Just going the Gorilla trekking experience for a day can set you back close to $1000.

But, worth it to see gorillas in the wild?

You can take comfort in the fact that a lot of this money goes to gorilla conservation. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Plan for it and make room for it in your budget. Camping is looking more attractive now, right?

Vaccinations

One thing people forget to budget for is vaccinations. You may also need to pack malaria medications, depending on where in Africa you are going to.

You may want to speak to your local doctor about what vaccines you need before you visit, as this varies depending on which countries you go to and for how long you stay there.

Some countries will need Typhoid vaccines, and others may require Yellow Fever vaccines, and some may not need either.

The prices are also different for vaccines in various different countries, so we can’t tell you how much to put aside for this – just know it’s an extra cost to consider. Also, remember to consider any layovers if you are spending a couple of days somewhere before/after your trip.

When Is The Cheapest Time To Visit Africa?

The cheapest time to visit Africa would be in the off season, which would be from September to April.

June and July are considered peak season and is when the prices will be higher.

The shoulder season on either side of the high season, in May and August.

January and February are supposedly the cheapest months to fly to African destinations from the USA, but again, it varies depending on where you are flying from.

Final Thoughts

To stretch your money out and make up for the expensive safari days, remember there will be plenty of down days where you are only spending money on accommodation and food.

You can get away with doing this for as little as $10, depending on your choices.

These are some of your best days.

Spend them exploring local villages, visiting markets, hiking mountains, lazing at beaches, and relaxing on the edge of lakes.

We hope this guide gives you an idea on how to budget for Africa and answers the question; how much does is cost to travel to Africa!

More Africa Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for your trip to Africa? Check out these other guides!

• Top 5 Things in Botswana to experience the natural beauty
• 7 Reasons to visit Mozambique
• 13 awe-inspiring things to do in Eastern and Southern Africa
• Africa Travel Safety Tips
• 8 Safari game parks in Africa not to miss
• Africa safari tips to see the best wildlife
• Why this couple is traveling Africa and you should too
• 7 Reasons to honeymoon in South Africa
• 5 Extraordinary places to visit in Nambia

If you’re an animal lover and want to see some of the world’s most majestic creatures up close, then a visit to an African Game Reserve should be high on your bucket list.

But Africa isn’t exactly small. It’s a continent that spans 30.37 million km² and contains 54 countries, so picking the best place to visit to see animals is not an easy task.

To help you narrow down your choices, we have put together a list of the best game reserves and safari parks in Africa, and why they are the best.

Most of the safari opportunities are located in Southern and East African countries, but each destination offers something special and unique. So, if you’re not sure where to go, keep reading to find out.

What Is The Big Five In Africa?

There is estimated to be more than 1,100 animal species in Africa, from carnivorous predators to endangered insects.

When visiting Africa, you will hear the term “The Big 5” used a lot. This is a term used to describe Africa’s five most difficult to hunt animals – lions, rhinos, elephants, leopards and cape buffalo.

When embarking on a safari in Africa, it’s quite common to hear tour companies selling the chance to see “The Big Five” in their natural habitat, and if you do see all five, then that’s certainly a bucket list dream achieved!

Seeing the Big 5 has been a travel bucket list ever since I was a child, but besides seeing the big cats and rhinos, I love elephants and can spend hours watching them in their family units and learning so much from them.

They are some of the wisest animal species on our planet and even as you watch them from an open air jeep, you can tell that each one has its own personality.

Aside from The Big 5, you can also see zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, boar, hyena, and if you’re really lucky, a pack of African wild dogs.

Difference Between A Game Reserve & National Reserve

Before booking a safari in Africa, you should understand the difference between game reserves, national parks, and national reserves.

Here is a brief definition of each type of reserve you’ll find in Africa:

• Game Reserve: A game reserve is land owned and maintained by those who reside within it. Most game reserves are private game reserves, which are usually owned by a company, a group of animal loving people, or a family. In South Africa, it’s common that farmers turn some of their land into game reserves, as it brings income through tourism.
• National Parks: this is land owned and managed by the government and has been listed as protected area.
• National Reserve: land that has been designated as environmental conservation areas.

Should You Self Drive In A Game Reserve?

Most game reserves are open to the public and allow you to drive yourself. This is a more cost-effective way of seeing a game reserve since you don’t have to pay for a tour guide and jeep.

However, we highly advise you book a tour over self-driving, for the following reasons:

• You can see more in a jeep. In a hire car, you are very low to the ground and the grass is often higher than your vehicle, which means less visibility.
• You potentially see more animals. Your guide will be connected to other guides via walkie-talkie, and they constantly communicate when they see animals that are rare to spot, such as leopards, cheetahs and rhinos. Having a guide is not about learning about the animals, but learning how to find them.
• You can sit back and relax without worrying. Being in the hands of someone else means you can sit back and relax and concentrate on enjoying the experience. When you are driving yourself, you are responsible for stopping and looking for animals.
• It’s safer. These are wild animals and you are in their home. If an elephant charges at you, then you will have a better chance at escaping in a 4×4 jeep than a rental Renault Clio. Not to mention the guides know what to do should an animal get too close. They also know the warning signs that animals give when they want space.
• You don’t know what you’re looking for. When you drive yourself, it’s a game of luck. Most of travelers are not trackers or wildlife experts, and can’t recognise the signs of recent animal activity. On a guided tour, you will have a professional tracker who looks at broken branches, foot prints, disturbed rocks, and can tell when an animal has been and how long ago.
• You can meet other people. This is luck of the draw. We have done game drives with people who have not stopped talking and it ruined the experience, or we have met other likeminded people to share in this awe-inspiring experience. If you’re traveling alone, this is definitely a plus.
• Best way to see rhinos. Most national parks have a map at the entrance with markers showing where recent animal sightings have been. This makes it easier for self drivers to figure out where to go to see lions, leopards, elephants etc. But because rhinos are still being poached, they don’t map out their location (for obvious reasons). Therefore if you want to see rhinos, you need to have a professional tracker with you, or someone who saw one recently – aka, a tour guide. Or just pray to the Gods, it’s really all about luck.

The Best African Game Reserves & Safari Parks to Visit in Africa

There are numerous safari game parks in Africa. But I recommend you select only those you most want to see and that suits your budget, the animals that are present, and the season in which you are traveling.

Here are four safari game parks that we personally visited.

1. Maasai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara National Reserve, also sometimes spelled Maasai Mara National Rserve, is located in Southwest Kenya, and is a huge expanse of savannah wilderness covering around 1510 square kilometers.

It’s one of the most famous national parks in Africa because it’s where the annual Great Migration happens. This is when the world’s largest population of wildebeest, zebras, gazelle and other animals (around 2 million animals in total) migrate in a clockwise direction across the Serengeti in Tanzania and Masai Mara.

It’s known for its big cat population (due to the large amount of prey) and is one of the best places to see lions, cheetah and leopards.

This was the first safari game park we visited and so has the “first love” attachment for me. The memory of riding through the savannah in an open topped van is still strong in my mind.

Experiencing the plains dotted far and wide with zebra and wildebeest; giraffes loping by in the distance, stopping for lunch under the shade of an acacia; watching cheetahs on the hunt and seeing my first ever lion kill of a wildebeest in front of us will never leave me.

And then at night, we camped with the Masai people. We sat around the fire talking to a Masai warrior as he shared tales with us of life as a fierce nomadic warrior who fight lions and leopards with their bare hands.

The Masai Mara is approximately 280 kms west from Nairobi City and driving will take you about 5-6 hours. You can self-drive in Masai Mara Game Park but it’s always recommended to go with a guide.

2. Etosha National Park, Namibia

Etosha, meaning “Great White Place,”is dominated by a massive dry salt pan which fills only if the rains are heavy and even then only holds water for a short time. It’s a huge national reserve, covering an area of 22,270 square kilometers.

This temporary water in the Etosha Pan attracts impressive flocks of flamingos and the perennial springs along the edges of the Etosha Pan draw large concentrations of wildlife and birds.

Etosha National Park is one of those parks that’s best visited at night. It’s well known for it’s lively activity at night time around the waterholes.

We unfortunately went during the wrong season, the rainy season, with the best time being from May to September.

We didn’t see much as the animals had ample watering holes elsewhere in the park, so didn’t need to come to the floodlit ones near our camp.

We did, however, see a lot of animals during the day.

As a visitor to Etosha you can expect to see many buck species, elephant, giraffe, rhino and lions, there is a network of roads linking the three campsites and subsidiary roads lead to various waterholes.

Etosha is approximately 6 hours drive from Windhoek and is one of the best places to visit in Namibia. The road is good tarmac and can easily be driven in one day.

3. Kruger National Park, South Africa

The iconic Kruger National Park is the most well known safari park to visit in South Africa, and definitely one of the best in South Africa for wildlife viewing.

It boasts the most diverse game viewing experience in Africa and is the largest national park in SA at an area that spans 18,485 square kilometers – for perspective, it’s almost the same size as Wales (the country).

What’s unique about Kruger is that you can stay at luxury accommodation inside the park such as 5* lodge hotels, or find budget accommodation outside the park. You can even play golf inside the park, where hippos bathe in the waters of the lake in the middle of the course (I’m not kidding).

For that reason, no national park anywhere in the world can match what Kruger National Park has to offer.

Aside from the resorts, Kruger is abundant in wildlife. It has an extensive and developed road system, which means it’s easy to self drive with a rental car.

After several months of trying to find the elusive leopard, we finally saw one in Kruger sleeping in a tree and another stalking off into the bushes.

The park is massive, as are most national parks in Africa, so we highly recommend getting a guided tour so you have a driver taking you to the most active spots.

For self drivers, will have to choose carefully as to where you will spend the majority of your time. Don’t try to see too much. Stick to one pocket and use that as a base to explore.

The South is best to visit for big cats around Camp Shawu, though most people visit Skukuza which is roughly in the center and offers a great base to see the Big 5.

Our favorite area of Kruger was around the Lower Sabie Rest Camp on the banks of the Sabie River, in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which draws a wide variety of animals all year round.

Also, make sure you leave room in your budget for a night time drive and a guided safari walk, which is an exhilarating experience. You can stand up wind from wild rhinos grazing, and stand where lions have just been – experiencing instead the lingering trace of their pungent smell.

To get there, you can fly direct into Johannesburg and drive 4 hours to Kruger, or you can fly into Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) or Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (HDS), though this is more expensive.

4. Addo Elephant Park, South Africa

Addo Elephant Park, located about 75km from Port Elisabeth, was one of my favorite African safari parks and one that was totally unexpected.

If you want to have incredible experiences with elephants, then this is the place for you.

Addo is a sanctuary to over 550 elephants, lions, buffalo, black rhino, spotted hyena, leopard, a variety of antelope and zebra species, as well as the unique Addo flightless dung beetle, found almost exclusively in Addo.

We didn’t see any giraffes or rhino there on our visit.

What people do come for, as you may guess from the name, is elephants. You will come across hundreds of them as families gather together by the waterholes for their daily mud baths.

The huge gathering of elephants at the mud bath is a highlight of a visit to this park. They are usually located to the north of the park where the landscape is more open.

The south is bushland and has tall grass, which is said to be where the big cats like to roam, but we didn’t see much wildlife in this area – though it’s better to enter through the South and drive North, as it’s closer to Port Elizabeth this way.

The nearest city to Addo Elephant Park is Port Elizabeth, which is 75km from the park. You can hire a car from PE Airport and drive to the South Entrance within 30 minutes.

Travelling time from Cape Town to the park by vehicle is approximately 9 hours, so we recommend you stay two nights in Port Elizabeth so you can spend a full day here.

5. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a huge area that spans for approximately 523 square miles, and is known for its breathtaking volcanic landscapes and its contributions to preserving endangered mountain gorillas.

What makes Volcanoes National Park truly special is its role as a sanctuary for these magnificent creatures. It is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making it a crucial conservation area.

It’s one of the few places in the world where you have the rare opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat, which is certainly a bucket list experience.

In addition to mountain gorillas, the park boasts incredible biodiversity, with over 200 bird species and other mammals like golden monkeys, buffalos, and elephants. The lush greenery, mist-covered volcanoes, and stunning views make Volcanoes National Park a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

It’s best to visit the park on one of the famous Gorilla Treks, which take you through dense forests, guided by experienced trackers, where you can find gorilla families in their natural home.

The trek can be physically challenging, and you can trek for one hour or eight hours, as long as it takes to find the gorillas, but it will certainly be rewarding once you come in close proximity to these gentle giants.

6. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti National Park is perhaps the most famous safari park in Africa. It’s located in Tanzania, known as one of the best African countries to view wildlife.

The park spans a sprawling area of approximately 14,750 square kilometers and is where the annual Great Migration passes through. Visit from July through November to see millions of wildebeest and other herbivores traverse the plains in search of greener pastures.

Visiting Serengeti National Park is where you can witness the true circle of life unfold before your eyes. It’s a chance to see migrating herds, lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and numerous bird species.

Another popular game reserve in Tanzania that’s worth visiting if you have time is Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which is home to the Big 5 and also gets visited by the Great Migration of wildebeest.

7. Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana

Moremi Game Reserve is a smaller game reserve, covering just 5,000 square kilometers, which has a diverse ecosystem – ranging from vast floodplains to dense forests, which are home to a wide array of animals.

The reserve offers a chance to see The Big 5, as well as giraffes, zebras, and countless bird species. All animals are free to roam at their leisure, but because it’s a small park, game drives and boat safaris allow visitors to spot wildlife up close.

Exploring Moremi Game Reserve is like stepping into the pages of a wildlife documentary. Moremi Game Reserve is not only a chance to witness Africa’s most majestic creatures, but experience the untouched natural beauty of the Okavango Delta

Some other popular game reserves in Botswana include the Chobe National Park and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Check out these things to do in Botswana.

8. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a 9,050 square kilometer park that is truly untouched wilderness.

The park is renowned for its walking safaris, where you can explore the African bush on foot and experience an intimate connection with nature. It is also home to an impressive array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, and over 400 different bird species.

Visiting South Luangwa National Park is an immersive adventure and one of the best ways to learn more about the African wild. Don’t miss out on a chance to enjoy a night drive to reveal the park’s nocturnal wonders.

Tips for The Best Wildlife Encounters in Africa

1. Plan in Advance

Decide what animals you want to see, as some animals are only found in certain parks.

Going to many different parks all over the continent will cost you. So prioritize and go for the game parks that will allow you to see the greatest variety of wildlife.

2. Know Which Season is Best for Wildlife Viewing in Africa

The best season to see animals in Africa is in the dry season (June to October). The grass is short making it easier to spot wildlife.

Also, choice of drinking water holes for the animals will be fewer so they are moving around more in search of water so your chances of watching them socialise at waterholes is greater.

So find yourself a water hole and chances are you will have some company.

In the wet season, the grass is long making viewing more difficult and they have many options for water holes so don’t need to roam as much.

3. Know The Best Time of Day for Animal Viewing

Animals are most active at dusk and dawn when they are out hunting for food. It is very hot in Africa, so during the day the animals are usually hibernating in the shade.

Be sure to do the same thing yourself. If your excitement is too hard to contain and you go out during the day, the only result will be that you chew up your fuel budget, and an eventual visit to the chiropractor for neck strain.

Get up real early to catch the animals at play, rest during the day,  and then go out again just before sundown.

4. Take a Guided Night Drive

In Kruger Park you can only go on night drives organized at your accommodation. All gates to accommodations close by nightfall and you better be locked safe and sound inside them.

Once night falls you can jump in an open topped vehicle with a huge spot light and a guide to tell you more about what you see as you drive around the park, hearing the sounds and seeing the sites of nighttime Africa.

5. Go on a Guided Walking Safari

You can do this in Kruger Park also. Getting on the  ground with these magnificent beasts in their territory will get your heart pumping.

We didn’t have as much action as anticipated, but we did get close to rhinos (downwind) and we smelled the fear of the lions running away from us in the distance.

6. Tips for Wildlife Photography

Be patient and remember that spotting your favorite animals can take time.

Spend the money to buy a good lens, at the very minimum a 300mm zoom but preferably a 600mm zoom lens. Animals are scared of you, they won’t come close for a portrait, and you won’t sneak up closer to them (I hope).

You’ve spent all the money, time, and energy to put yourself in a place of contact with these wild animals, you want to have something to take away from it and keep with you for memories and reflection.

7. Follow The Safety Advice in Safari Parks

Never ever ever, and I mean ever get out of your car, unless in a safe designated area, or with an armed ranger present.

This is the wild, don’t mess with it. Even in private game reserves, animals roam freely and the land is considered theirs.

I know this sounds a bit like a ‘No sh*t, Sherlock’ kind of statement, but you will be surprised at how many people get eaten by lions trying to get that perfect shot.

Keep a safe distance when you encounter a wild animal and when in your vehicle keep your windows rolled up.

And please don’t lean too far out of the jeep to get a photo!

8. Get Vaccinated

Visit your local doctor and talk about vaccinations and medicines to take. Very few national parks and game reserves are malaria-free, other than Pilanesberg in South Africa.

After choosing which parks you want to go to, speak to your doctor about what you need.

Final Thoughts

For many, the thought of traveling to Africa is enough to send them scurrying under their bed with fear. It’s wild, remote, and untamed, and that can send the fear of God into some people.

But you’ll soon learn there’s nothing to fear, only to be enjoyed, if you follow our Africa travel safety tips.

It’s also worth noting that a safari is by no means a budget experience. Even when yourself drive, the cost of hiring a car and paying entrance fees adds up, so if you want to travel Africa on a budget, then know that you will need to set aside funds for this experience.

Getting around East and South Africa for your wildlife viewing does come at a price, but there are many transportation options to suit each traveler’s budget, desired experiences and comfort levels.

If you’re considering joining a group tour for Africa, consider our long-term partner Globus family of brands. We have a discount in the blue box below.

• Globus tours of Africa
• Cosmos tours of Africa

When people think of this island haven, they think of soft, pure white sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal clear water, but there are so many more things to do in The Seychelles besides beaches.

The Seychelles Islands are a string of islands in a sparkling Indian Ocean, a thousand miles from anywhere and a stones throw south of the equator.

Most famous for being a honeymooners paradise, with world-class resorts and ample chances to spend quality time with loved ones, those wondering what to do in The Seychelles will find plenty of options.

In this guide, I share my tips on the absolute ‘must see’s’ for your visit.

Things to Do in the Seychelles

From exploring the popular beaches to sailing out to the other islands in the archipelago, make sure you don’t miss these top attractions in the Seychelles!

1. Hit Seychelles Beaches

Ok, this was probably not a tremendous surprise. Seychelles has some of the finest beaches in the world.

Palm tree sway in the breeze and white sands lead to a turquoise ocean. But even here, there are beaches that stand out.

My two favourites are Anse (meaning bay in the local language, Kreole) Intendance, and Anse Lazio, which regularly features in surveys of the worlds best beaches.

Anse Intendance, is located on the Southern end of the main and largest island, Mahe Island, whilst Anse Lazio is located on the second largest island, Praslin Island (prah-len).

Another stunning beach on Praslin Island is Anse Georgette Beach, which is considered the second most beautiful beach on Praslin after Lazio.

These beaches should be on the itineraries of any beach connoisseurs trip to the Seychelles, although care should be taken at Anse Intendance as the sea can be a mite rough at certain times of year.

An honourable mention should also go to Anse Source D’Argent on the island of La Digue, where incredible granitic rock formations meet sea in an inspiring display of natural art.

If you’ve ever seen an advert set on a beach with beautiful rocks in the background, the chances are it would have been filmed here.

Arguably the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles are the Beau Vallon Beaches, on the Island of Mahe, with the most popular beach being Beau Vallon Beach. This is widely considered the most beautiful beach in The Seychelles, though who can really compare when they all look like heaven?

Anse Coco Beach is another notable beach worth checking out. It’s located on the east side of La Digue Island, and is famous for its granite boulders which create protective pools for swimming.

Whenever you visit the beaches, don’t forget your snorkels and fins as there is always an abundance of marine life to see beneath the azure waters surface. Except for Anse Lazio, which is the only beach that doesn’t have a coral reef.

2. Go Seychelles Island Hopping

The Seychelles is made up of 115 islands, and whilst many of these are uninhabited, getting on a plane or a boat and taking some time to visit them is really worth doing.

Each island has its own vibe, from the relative hustle and bustle of the main island, Mahe, to the peace and tranquility that you would find on the most Northerly island, Bird.

The smaller islands, such as Bird and Denis, are classical flat desert island, just a ring of white sandy beach, a few palm trees, some birds, you, and a cocktail.

The larger islands, such as Mahé and Prasline Island, are granitic and more lush, with deep rainforest interiors for exploring and towering peaks for the hardier hikers. There is something here for everyone, from lying on the beach, to exploring the peaks, to trying to spot any of the unique to Seychelles birds.

3. Visit Victoria Market (Sir Selwyn Clarke Market)

If lying on the beach all day has taken it’s toll upon your soul, and you want to do something a little more active, a visit to the capital city of Victoria (Africa’s smallest capital) is in order.

As well as taking a look at the towns central feature, a miniature clock tower built in 1903, I would recommend taking a stroll around the market, a vibrantly colourful affair where local traders will happily sell you all manner of goods, from locally picked fruit and vegetables to souvenirs to the catch of the day.

The heady aroma of spice tables will assault your nose as you wander around the tables, imparting a real flavour of the Kreole foods. Mounds of chillies, a key ingredient to all Seychelles cooking, will tempt you.

The fish, fresh off the boats that day, is world class and, by Western standards, remarkably cheap. You just can’t beat a freshly caught whole snapper, smothered in Kreole spices and popped on the BBQ, accompanied by some hot off the coals breadfruit. Seychelles cuisine at its best.

4. Explore the Vallee de Mai

A trip to the Vallée de Mai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the island of Praslin, is an absolute must. This was thought to be the Garden of Eden when discovered by early explorers, and it’s not hard to see why.

The main attraction is the endemic Coco de Mer (although five other endemic palm trees also exist in this tiny valley), a giant palm tree, famed for having the largest nut in the world. The nut, which only grows on the female of the plant, has a striking resemblance to a human females nether regions.

They take seven years to germinate, and countless more to turn into the giants which line the valley, the only place in the world where they can be found. Wandering around these giant palms, with a side project of attempting to spot the Seychelles Black Parrot (another endemic species), is tonic for the soul.

Curieuse Island is a small island in the group, only 1.13 square miles in size. It’s located north of Praslin Island, and is known for its endemic coco de mer palms and red earth. These palms can only be seen on this island and in Vallée de Mai National Park.

5. Check Out Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden

One of the top attractions in The Seychelles is to go on a sensory journey at Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden, where history and nature harmoniously blend.

This hidden gem invites you to explore its aromatic grounds filled with a rich tapestry of herbs and flora, spices, and medicinal plants, such as Nutmeg, Cinnamon and Vanilla.

Here you can learn about the Seychellois spice trade that once thrived in the 18th century, or just enjoy the enchanting garden and its resident endemic giant tortoises.

If you have an interest in local spices, plants and fauna, this is one destination not to miss.

6. Go Scuba Diving

Another top thing to do in The Seychelles it to explore the underwater paradise by going scuba diving in the Seychelles.

With its crystal-clear waters boasting visibility of up to 30 meters, you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing world of vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life.

From encountering majestic sharks and manta rays or even friendly sea turtles, to trying your hand at drift dives and exploring dramatic drop-offs in the Outer Islands, there’s a whole world underwater to be discovered.

The Seychelles’ protected marine areas ensure that wildlife thrives and coral reefs can prosper, creating a tranquil and undisturbed ambiance.

7. Go Hiking in Morne Seychellois National Park

For those who prefer to get active on their vacation, embark on a hiking trip through the untamed beauty of Morne Seychellois National Park, on the Island of Mahe.

This lush park allows you to traverse along rugged trails, check out cascading waterfalls, and see breathtaking vistas that stretch out to the turquoise Indian Ocean.

You may even spot some rare endemic plants such as the Seychelles palm and the Seychelles bulbul, allowing you to discover the island’s remarkable biodiversity.

One trail worth doing is the enchanting Copolia Trail, which is a moderate hike that passes through the untamed wilderness before opening up to rewarding, panoramic views of the island and Indian Ocean.

The trail takes you through tropical forests, over river crossings, and past mangrove trees, and is an activity any nature enthusiast will enjoy.

8. Visit Coconut Plantation House and L’Union Estate Park

If you want to learn about The Seychelles cultural heritage, then a visit to the Coconut Plantation House in L’Union Estate Park is the ideal place.

At the Coconut Plantation House, you can explore the former vanilla and coconut plantation, surrounded by lush gardens and towering coconut trees.

Learn about the traditional copra production and glimpse into La Digue’s colonial past.

9. Visit Aride Island Nature Reserve

Another piece of untouched paradise in The Seychelles is Aride Island Nature Reserve, which is teeming with abundant biodiversity.

This secluded granitic island is full of natural wonders. It’s one of the best places to spot breeding seabirds, including endemic species, such as roseate tern, shearwater, and lesser noddy birds. In fact, it has the world’s largest colonies of these birds.

Aride Island Nature Reserve, managed by the Island Conservation Society, offers a sanctuary for both wildlife and visitors seeking solace in nature.

10. See Giant Tortoises at Aldabra Atoll

One of the best places to see giant tortoises is on Aldabra Atoll on Mahe Island, the largest atoll in the world.

As you explore the island, you’ll encounter these gentle giants roaming freely.

The Aldabra Atoll has the world largest population of giant tortoises.

Where to stay in Seychelles

There is no doubt luxury style accommodation is high on the mind of travelers visiting the Seychelles.

Here are a few highly rated lux style accommodations. You can then use the map below to find other places to stay to suit your budget and desired location.

• L’Escale Resort Marina & Spa: located on the waterfront in Mahé Island. Lux hotel with full spa. See rates and availability
• JA Enchanted Island Resort Seychelles; Beachfront with full service spa in Round Island See rates and availability
• Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa: private beach in Mahé Island. See rates and availability

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, those are the top things to do in the Seychelles.

They are far from a cheap destination, but the reward of having staggering beaches almost to yourself as you watch the sun set through an evening cocktail may be entirely worth it.

If you do visit, try to avoid the rainy season, between around November and February and take plenty of sun cream, because these islands get hot!

The best time of year to visit is April and October, as it’s just outside the rainy season and when the weather is not too hot (and there’s fewer crowds).

Popular Tours of the Seychelles Islands

When I hear people talk about Egypt, they talk about how big it is, how chaotic and busy it is, and that solo travellers never get a moment’s peace.

But I’m here to ease your mind and tell you that not all of Egypt is like this. There are countless reasons TO visit Egypt and make it a stop on your next vacation.

Not only is there so many things to do in Egypt, but it has plenty to offer every type of traveller; from history buffs to beach lovers, to hiking enthusiasts and adventurous explorers.

If you think Egypt has nothing but pyramids in Giza and other old monuments in Luxor and Aswan, then it’s time to change this perspective.

Here are all the top reasons to go to Egypt and make it your vacation destination!

Reasons to Visit Egypt

Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, a nature lover or explorer, here are the main reasons to visit Egypt in North Africa for your next vacation.

1. Egypt has Amazing Beaches

Who said that all of Egypt is considered to be a close-minded country where you can’t possibly even wear shorts?

I would like to invite you to Hurghada , Sharm el Sheikh and other places in Sinai (like Dahab, Taba and Nuweiba)

If you’ve ever been to any of those beach getaways in Egypt you would know that, not only it is allowed to wear your favorite bikini to the beach (yes in Egypt!), but they also have amazing waters for you swim in wearing them.

You’ll find amazing aquatic life, coral reefs and colorful fish; many amazing diving and snorkeling spots, and more centers offering day trips to those amazing diving and scuba diving spots, for next to nothing!

2. Egypt Offers Relaxation

Are you looking for that relaxed getaway where you can lay back all day and do nothing without being hassled and just enjoy the moment?

Not all of Egypt is as loud and crowded as Cairo.

I would like to introduce you to the relaxed (and more hippie towns) of Egypt: Siwa and Dahab. With both of them totally opposite to each other, you will find the place that meets your taste!

Siwa, the oasis that is literally in the middle of nowhere, lies alone in the middle of the desert at the borders of the Great Sand Sea, and at least 500 Km from any civilized city.

At Siwa you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the culture of the Amazigh people, the nomadic tribes that have always lived the Great Sahara.

Dahab, on the other end of Egypt, is a small relaxed hippie town on the shores of the Red Sea. Relax, enjoy the beautiful view, go for a swim and more!

Dahab also has the advantage of being so close to many other destinations in Sinai.

The best that comes to mind is the day trip you can take to St. Katherine city, where the St. Katherine monastery lies in the middle of the Sinai Mountains and is also where Moses talked to god on top of Mount Sinai.

While many people visit Sharm el Sheikh on the Mediterranean Sea, this has become over populated with tourists, so if you want somewhere quieter then consider the places I’ve suggested above.

3. There’s Plenty of Adventure in Egypt

Adrenaline. I hear you. This is my personal favorite. And Egypt is not short on that side either!

Sand drifting in the Great Sand Sea

Many adventurous things come to my mind, but the top would be the desert safaris from Siwa, or from the other oases in the middle of the Western Desert of Egypt.

Lots of sand, lots of high dunes – just being in a car with a good desert driver gives you LOADS of adrenaline!

Water Adventures/Sports in Sharm el Sheikh – Banana Boat

Water adventure? How about diving?

There are AMAZING diving places all along the Red Sea on the Eastern side of Egypt. With Dahab and Sharm el Sheikh being on top of the list of diving spots, there are many undiscovered places along that shore!

Other adventures would include hiking in the mountainous National Park of St Katherine in Sinai, Mountain Climbing in Sinai, as well as sand surfing in the Western Desert.

Wind surfing and water surfing are also growing day by day in Egypt!

4. For the Historical Experiences in Egypt

You knew it’s coming, it just can’t be ignored!

Egypt for the historians’ Mecca! With temples, monuments and buildings standing for 5,000 years, you can’t beat that.

I am not by any chance a professional Egyptologist, but it doesn’t take that to enjoy the fact that you’re seeing the Pyramids for example. It doesn’t take a professional to appreciate King Tut’s golden tomb.

Then there’s also the Grand Egyptian Museum which contains many ancient artifacts and relics from the time of the pharaohs, and is where you’ll find the gigantic, 82-ton statue of Ramses II which was built over 3,200 years ago remains.

You can also visit the temples created by Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs, such as Abu Simbel Temples, and see their tombs and sarcophagi.

If you’re thinking of coming to Egypt for history, this is one of the biggest attractions for tourism and you don’t be disappointed. It’s a history buffs paradise!

5. To See The Amazing and Diverse Egyptian Culture

Travel around Egypt for a while and you’ll notice the differences between Egyptians.

While it might seem like most Egyptians have so much in common, if you take it to the extremes from Alexandria to Nubia, you’ll notice a huge difference in the cultures and traditions of these places!

The people of Egypt are very kind and hospitable, especially outside the touristic places; you’ll see people genuinely happy to help you and trying their best to make sure you’re having a good day! This can also specially be witnessed in the less civilized cities or towns, like Siwa for example!

6. Egyptian Cuisine is Divine!

Egyptian food is warming, hearty and filling. Not to mention healthy, compared to Western standards.

You’ll find most Egyptian dishes are prepared with fresh vegetables and more savory spices, as opposed to spices that pack a lot of heat.

The most famous dish is Koshari (also spelled Kushari), the national dish of Egypt. It can be found almost everywhere in the country. It’s made from rice, macaroni, chickpeas and lentils, before being topped with caramelized onions, tomato sauce, and garlic vinegar.

Ta’meya is another popular dish, which is like an Egyptian falafel. It’s made with fried fava bean with tahini.

Of course, Egypt is known for its lamb and veal Kebabs, which are usually served with salad. Vegetarians can also enjoy stuffed vegetables such as peppers or zucchinis.

You’ll find that most dishes tend to use chicken meat, but they also eat rabbit, duck and pigeon (hamam mahshi).

Each region of Egypt has its own unique cuisines and flavor, so be sure to sample these culinary delights on your trip.

7. It has a lot of Religious Importance for Many Religions

Another top reason to visit Egypt is to learn about and experience the countries religious importance.

Religion in Egypt is an integral part of the culture and has been a cornerstone of its society for centuries. The predominant faiths are coptic Christianity and Islam, which both have roots here in Egypt.

Most famously, Egypt was the home of Moses, who wanted to free his people from slavery and move to the promised land (now Israel).

It is said that Mount Sinai, which is one of the world’s most important pilgrimage sites, was where God spoke to Abraham and gave Moses the Ten Commandments.

When visiting Egypt, you can see the remains of the countries ancient religions in its many temples, including the Luxor Temple which dates back to 1400 and the Karnak Temple, which is said to be the place where the Egyptian god Amun-Ra spoke to the people.

With coptic christians making up around 10% of the population, churches can be found alongside mosques throughout Egypt and play an integral role in many ceremonies like Easter celebrations.

8. It has bucket list experiences

Of course, there are so many tourist attractions in Egypt from visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza to bathing in the Dead Sea, and these are all bucket list experiences that you will only do once in your life.

But you can see these attractions in different ways to make the experience more memorable.

You can enjoy hot air balloon rides over Valley of the Kings, or take a Nile Cruise down the world’s longest river, The Nile River, or camel riding in the desert.

You don’t have to be a history buff to know that the Egyptian civilization is one of the oldest and most historically fascinating in the entire world, and experiencing it and learning about it in the country itself, is one of the top reasons to visit Egypt.

Before You Go

So there you have it, those are the main reasons to visit Egypt and as you can see, there’s a lot of pros to visiting this exciting and historically fascinating country.

Before you go, make sure you understand that Egypt is a busy place, and Cairo especially can make travellers feel overwhelmed.

Keep an eye on your belongings, don’t interact with people who are too pushy, and you shall have a great time.

I hope this guide helped you understand what’s in store for you in Egypt and gave you some insight into why you should visit!

Tours of Egypt

If you don’t want to travel to Egypt as an independent traveler, G Adventures offer small-group guided tours for ages 18+. We partner with G Adventures because of their commitment to the supporting the environment and conserving local cultures.

• 14 Days Highlights of Egypt Tour
• 8 Day Egypt: Boats and Bazaars Tour

And if you want to travel Egypt independently, don’t miss out on these highly-rated tours of Egypt!

More Egypt and North Africa Tips

Are you planning to visit other places in Egypt or Northern Africa? Then you may find the following guides helpful…

• Beautiful Reasons to Visit Morocco
• Things to do in Marrakesh, Morocco
• Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
• Things to do in the Canary Islands
• Ethiopia Travel Advice
• How to Become a Master of Baksheesh in Egypt
• What to do in Cairo, Egypt

But when it comes to deciding on what to do in Cairo, it can get overwhelming. The sheer number of Cairo attractions can make deciding which ones to visit a difficult task.

To help you out, we interviewed Giulia Cimarosti, who has previously lived in Cairo and is a regular visitor, who has shared with us all the top things to do in Cairo for a first time visit.

Giulia not only shares with us her insider tips on what to do in Cairo, Egypt, but she also shares the best places to eat, stay, drink, and explore. Let’s see what she says…

Is Cairo Worth Visiting?

Cairo has always been included in package tours for basically any trip to Egypt, but what’s usually shown is not the city itself. Only the Pyramids, the Great Egyptian Museum, and a few more touristic spots are all the visitors get to see.

Too many times I hear people saying they’ve been to Egypt but all they did was go to a beach resort and spend not more than a week there.

It might be beautiful but it’s definitely not an authentic Egyptian experience!

In my opinion, one can’t say he’s been to Egypt without spending some time in Cairo, this really takes people into the hectic Egyptian life, together with its many contrasts and real culture, food, habits.

In Cairo you can find one thing and its opposite; luxury and poverty, culture and illiteracy, beauty and ugliness, the friendliest people on Earth and the most dishonest ones, and so on.

Two days never look the same when you live in Cairo. If you have to go from A to B you’ll definitely have to face challenges and find a different solution every day and this is what makes it so exciting!

No one can say that Cairo is not an adventure, and for the adventurous traveller, for that reason I would say it’s definitely worth visiting.

What to do in Cairo

To answer this question, I must ask myself “where would I take you if you visited me in Cairo?” – and the answer is undoubtedly these top attractions in Cairo.

1. Visit Al Azhar Park for Sunset

On the same day you arrive, I would take you out for dinner at Al Azhar Park just before sunset, to show you the city from above and the sun going down on the Pyramids.

Located on the Mokattam Hills, it is one of the largest parks in Cairo and offers a wide range of activities and attractions such Bab El-Wazir Cemetery and City Of The Dead cemetery.

It also has some nice fountains, pools, and play areas for children. Its vast green lawns are perfect for picnics or taking leisurely strolls.

This park is a rather fancy and clean, which I believe is the perfect place for a soft introduction to the city.

2. Visit the Cairo Citadel of Saladin

Another “easy” thing to do in Cairo is visit the Citadel, a place with no cars where you can wander and take beautiful photos of Cairo from above.

Located on a hill in the heart of Cairo, it offers stunning views of the city and beyond. The Citadel itself is a testament to its rich history, with remnants from various empires, including Mamluk and Ottoman periods.

Inside the Citadel, you can explore several exciting landmarks such as mosques, palaces, and charnel houses.

When visiting the Citadel, you should take time to explore the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which is considered to be among the most beautiful architectural masterpieces in Egypt.

Adorning its walls are intricately carved designs made from marble and alabaster stone that demonstrate traditional Islamic artistry.

Another area worth exploring is Salah El-Din’s Street where you can find many souvenir shops selling traditional items such as leather bags and hats that make for excellent gifts or memories of your trip!

3. Take a Felucca Ride on the Nile

It might sound touristy but it’s very typical, so I would invite you on a felucca ride on the Nile at sunset, to relax and enjoy the views and the rare silence.

Taking a felucca ride allows you to feel the gentle breeze and calming waters of the river, and the views along the banks are breathtaking, with lush vegetation, ancient monuments and stunning Islamic architecture.

You can observe local life as you cruise along, watch fisherman casting their nets and sailing boats trading goods.

At night the Nile transforms into a magical place; you can see stars glittering above you and hear the distant sound of drums from locals celebrating at river-side cafes. As your felucca sails further away from the city, it’s just you and nature’s wonders surrounding you.

If you’re unfamiliar with feluccas, they are shallow boats powered by wind or sail, making them perfect for navigating through narrow channels while avoiding sandbanks in this great river that is filled with history. Being on a felucca adds to the overall atmosphere of being in such an amazing city like Cairo.

4. Visit the Famous Pyramids of Giza

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx is of course a must. The Great Pyramids of Giza are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and have become a symbol of Egypt’s ancient culture and heritage.

Located on the west bank of the Nile River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site are some of the most impressive monuments ever built by man.

The oldest pyramid on the Giza plateau, known as the Pyramid of Khufu, is thought to have been commissioned by the 4th-Dynasty Pharaoh Khufu in the 26th century, and is estimated to contain more than 2.3 million stones. It is also the largest pyramid in Egypt and stands at an impressive 139 meters tall.

The other two pyramids, known as the Pyramid of Khafre and Pyramid of Menkaure, were constructed between 2558 BCE and 2510 BCE.

Inside each pyramid there exists a grand burial chamber lined with polished granite flooring, hieroglyphs that tell stories about ancient life, and narrow shafts that lead to additional tunnels or secret chambers.

Visiting the Great Pyramids is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people so don’t miss this number one attraction in Cairo!

5. Wander Around Downtown Cairo

Some neighborhoods are as big as cities so it’s not easy to simply wander the neighborhoods. I heard that the neighborhood of Maadi alone has something like 2 million people!

But if you want to walk around and simply take in the neighborhoods, my favorite one is Downtown (Wust el Balad). I instantly fell in love with the area the first time I saw it from the window of a bus, on a “Cairo by night” tour.

This is where the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square are located, just to name the most famous things.

The next time I went back to this area I was on my own and I must say I was intimidated by its chaos and people staring at me. But now I wouldn’t live anywhere else!

Something very interesting to visit in Cairo is the so-called “Coptic Cairo”, or “Old Cairo”, an area where you can visit churches, Christian graveyards, and the famous Hanging Church.

It’s such an unexpected atmosphere, it almost feels like being in another city.

6. Eat Delicious Egyptian Food

In Cairo, there is definitely a lot of choice when it comes to food! For very cheap meals, try the Felfela takeaway for falafel and foul – you can eat a “taameya” (falafel sandwich) for about 1.50 EGP: 0,25 USD.

If you like koshary (a typical mix of rice, pasta, lentils, meat, and spices) don’t miss Abou Tarek, just behind Tahrir Square. It’s super cheap and you can’t get anything more typical than that!

For a fancy dinner with a beautiful view, don’t miss the Restaurant at Al Azhar Park.

I also have to mention my favorite Italian restaurant in Cairo: it’s called “La Bodega” and even if it’s pricey in local terms (about $30 per meal) the food is delicious and with a very good service.

Last but not least, Cairenes love fast foods!

So don’t feel guilty if you want to hit Pizza Hut, McDonald’s or the more local Hardee’s – it’s normal habit in Cairo, and if you feel lazy there’s a website called Otlob.com where you can order nearly any kind of food – from Chinese to McDonald’s, to Yemenite – 24/7.

The typical Egyptian breakfast is called “foul”. It’s made with a bean paste and vegetables, served in a typical flat bread bun.

You should also make sure to try:

• Taameya: the falafel sandwich named above, usually sold in the same places where they sell foul.
• Koshary is maybe the most typical thing. Very cheap and it fills you up for hours! It’s a mix of rice, noodles, pasta, lentils and chickpeas.
• Shawerma: also called “kebab” by someone, but this is the Egyptian version! It’s made with either lamb or chicken meat, peppers and a lot of spices. So tasty!
• Something very typical that I didn’t dare trying is the stuffed pigeon.
• Sahlab is a tepid milk cream that is served with fruits, chocolate, coconut or whatever you ask for. It’s freshly made to order.
• Also, don’t miss the “mahshy” – vegetables stuffed with meat, rice and more vegetables.

Fruit juices are sold at kiosks on the streets and are as cheap as refreshing. In Egypt I ate the tastier fruit ever, and no I have never been sick.

7. Watch a Sufi Dance in Bayt el Harawi

If you want to breathe the atmosphere of Islamic Cairo, don’t miss Bayt el Harawi at night, where you can watch free shows such as sufi dance and tannoura (whirling dervish), concerts with typical Middle Eastern instruments, etc.

For other things to do in Cairo at night, there are some nice clubs such as Buddha Bar, Stiletto, Purple and countless new clubs that keep opening. Most of them are located on docked boats on the Nile, so the location alone makes the outing worth it.

Also, sitting for hours in an “ahwa”, the Egyptian name for a cafe (basically chairs on the streets) chatting, smoking shisha and playing board games is something very typical.

8. Hunt for Treasures in Khan el Khalili Bazaar

When it comes to shopping, there is no better place than Cairo. With bustling souk markets and bazaars, you’ll find everything from textiles, spices, lamps, ceramics, silverware and more.

For souvenirs, I would definitely go to the famous Khan el Khalili market. It’s beautiful and even if the main roads became way too touristy you can always explore the backstreets to find the best deals.

If you want to go shopping and you like branded clothing etc, you can’t miss the City Stars mall, a 7-storied building with shops, movie theaters, restaurants and a souq reproduction.

For cheap clothing I always choose Downtown with its colorful and huge windows. Last time I bought 2 pairs of jeans and spent something like €12.

Another thing I like about these shops is that literally everything they have is shown in the windows so you can have a look from the outside and enter the shop only if you are interested and when you already chose what you want.

9. Experience Ramadan in Cairo

Visiting Cairo during Ramadan may not be for everyone but there are certain advantages when visiting during the Holy Month.

As most of you may know, this is the Holy Month when people fast until sunset, there are special praying sessions and everyone has to act well, donate to charity, spend time with their families and in general live without committing sins.

After sunset though, the city looks completely different.

The streets are lightened with colorful lights, people gather to eat together, the music is in the air. It’s definitely very interesting to witness the Ramadan, but remember that it’s not polite to eat and drink in public during the day of Holy Month – respect the people who are fasting.

What’s great about Ramadan is that restaurants are quiet in the day time, people tend to not visit tourist attractions because they want to stay indoors and conserve their energy, and people are overall more friendly because of the nature of gift-giving and reflection that comes with Ramadan.

However, it can also be difficult to find accommodation, especially during the first night and the last three nights of Eid.

Also, most clubs (and companies in general) stay closed during the Holy Month so if your aim is partying well that’s not the best time of the year!

On the other hand Ramadan is a great time to enjoy the city without too much traffic as many people take vacations and travel outside of Cairo.

There are many religious feasts throughout the year, but one that I think is worth mentioning is the Eid el Adha – this is the feast when people slaughter cows and sheep in the streets.

And if you don’t like the sight of blood then you can definitely avoid it, or take advantage to have a short trip outside of Cairo.

Other than religious festivities, the major national holidays are the Sinai Liberation Day (April 25th), Labour Day (May 1st), Revolution Day (July 23rd, with reference to the 1953 Revolution), Armed Forces Day (October 6th), and of course the National January 25th Revolution Day!

10. Take a Day Trip to Quieter Pyramids

I love Cairo because in a 2 hours range you can go from the sea to the desert! I will list 3 beautiful side trips that you can have in one full day:

The pyramids of Saqqara, Dahshur and Memphis: did you know that there are many more pyramids in Egypt other than the Giza ones?

Before the Pyramids of Giza, there were some smaller pyramids built to try and get the design right.

Dahshur has 3 pyramids and is much less touristy than Giza.

You can enter the “Red Pyramid” and you won’t find any crowd or tout around it. Memphis, also known as the bent pyramid, was the ancient capital of Egypt, and Saqqara is where the famous “Step Pyramid of Djoser” is located, together with its temple and many beautifully decorated tombs.

11. Take a Trip to the Beaches

If you want to go to the sea, Ein El Sokhna is the closest beach resort to Cairo. You can get there in about 2 hours, driving east. There is no coral reef or anything, and the place is not too crowded as Sharm El Sheikh, so it’s very quiet and simple.

Another option is driving north to the so-called “North Coast”, on the Mediterranean Sea. There are some beautiful beach resorts up there, such as Marsa Matrouh for example.

12. Take a Trip to El Fayoum

Last but not least, at just about 2 hours driving south of Cairo you can get to the oasis of El Fayoum with its lovely towns, lake and pottery factories.

Just outside of the oasis there is the beautiful desert of Wadi al Hitan (the valley of the whales) and Wadi al Rayan, where you can ride beautiful dunes, camp and see the fossils of sea plants and fish that used to live there when the desert was once an ocean… how fascinating!

13. Visit Mokattam Mountain

There’s a “drive through” version of nearly anything in Cairo: you can stop by a kiosk and get your drinks, food, ice-cream or even shisha directly on your car.

This is something very typical and fun! Ask your Egyptian friends to take you to some of these places and you’ll definitely have a good laugh together with yummy meals.

For some more beautiful views over Cairo you can enjoy sitting on the edge of the flat Mokattam Mountain, overlooking the city.

They also serve drinks and shisha up there, but the cafes tend to be a bit too pricey if compared to other places in Downtown.

14. Visit “Garbage City”

An experience that I recommend to everyone is visiting the so-called “Garbage City”, an area where people literally live in the garbage, spending their lives separating the trash and selling the different materials to make a living out of it.

It goes without saying, Garbage City is a very poor area. It’s a Christian neighborhood and after you cross it all (a strong experience itself) you are “rewarded” by the magnificent view of the Cave Churches.

I know there are people that would never dare going to Garbage City, but I also believe that in order to fully understand where we are, we can’t only see the beautiful sides of the places we visit.

15. Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum

Learn about Ancient Egypt and the Egyptians at the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is expected to open in 2023, but the exact date has not been confirmed yet.

The Grand Egyptian Museum will house artifacts from ancient Egypt, spanning over 5000 years of history.

It will contain artifacts from the world-famous Tutankhamun pharaohs’ tombs, including sculptures, treasures, jewelry, and hieroglyphics.

The museum is expected to be one of the most complete and largest museums on Ancient Egyptian history in the world, and will be the perfect place to gain insight into Ancient Egyptian culture while learning more about its history.

16. See the Royal Mummies at The Egyptian Museum

Another museum in Cairo not to miss is the Egyptian Museum, not to be confused with the Grand Egyptian Museum – confusing, I know!

The Egyptian Museum is an incredibly enriching and educational experience. This museum contains artifacts from ancient Egypt, including the royal mummies, statues and reliefs depicting ancient Egyptian gods, and many other items from Ancient Egypt.

Not only is the collection vast, it provides a captivating insight into historical events, culture and traditions.

Learn about the religions, customs, beliefs and lifestyles of this influential civilization.

17. Wander Over to Gezira Island

Gezira Island is located in the Nile River and sits in the very center of Cairo, home to the Zamalek district. It’s home to many iconic landmarks in Cairo, such as the Cairo Tower and Cairo Opera House.

Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of The Pyramids of Giza from the top of Cairo Tower and explore the beautiful gardens and art galleries.

18. Visit the Ben Ezra Synagogue

For Christians visiting Cairo, or those interested in Christian history, will enjoy visiting the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which is said to be built on the spot where moses washed up in a basket among the reeds.

The Ben Ezra Synagogue was first built in the 9th century AD and has been beautifully maintained over the centuries.

It still stands as a testament to Jewish culture and heritage, with its stunning architecture and interior design.

Not only is it an extraordinary historical site, but it’s also a pilgrimage site for Jews for generations.

19. Visit the Coptic Museum

Another important religious site in Cairo is the Coptic Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts and artworks from ancient Egypt and other countries, offering a unique insight into the culture, history, and coptic christian religion of the region.

It has over 1,600 items on display including stone, wood and metal works, icons, frescoes, textiles and ceramics from all over the region.

The museum also features some displays dedicated to Christian art and architecture as it relates to the Coptic Church.

While here, visitors can view stunning pieces such as ornate wall paintings, intricate mosaic floors and spectacular stained glass windows.

Getting Around Cairo

Public transportation in Cairo includes taxis, metro, buses and microbuses.

I wouldn’t recommend moving around by bus and microbus to a newcomer – it’s not easy to figure out their destination because it’s either written in Arabic or there’s nothing written on the bus itself: someone peeking from the bus door just screams the destination to the people in the street so if you don’t speak the language is quite hard.

After some time you can figure out the routes of buses and microbuses also by asking to locals so that you can finally try this adventure and explore the city in the cheapest possible way.

The metro is easy to use, there are separate cars for men and women (that is: women can ride men’s cars – at their own risk – but men can’t access the women’s ones) and it’s clean enough.

Unfortunately, the metro doesn’t reach all areas of Cairo yet, but it’s very cheap (1 EGP per ride = 12 Euro cents) and it makes you avoid traffic, so sometimes you can use a combination of metro and taxi to move quicker.

The easiest way to move around Cairo is definitely by taxi, but there are 3 kinds of taxis and you have to know the differences.

Black taxi are the oldest ones, usually without air conditioned and always without a meter. If you go for a black taxi you have to agree on a price before getting on the car, or your trip will end with a taxi driver asking for an outrageous amount of money, especially if you look like a tourist or it’s obvious that you don’t know where you’re going.

Another option is to ask nothing, act like you know exactly what you’re doing and when the ride is over give the money to the driver and walk away. Of course in this case, you have to know roughly how much the ride is worth.

An easier option is the white taxi. These are newer and nicer, and the main difference is that they have a meter so you won’t have to haggle for the price. Just be careful, sometimes the taxi drivers modify their meters to get more money or turn off the meter to ask you the money they want. Try to avoid these!

The third kind of taxi is the yellow one. This is the one you call and make a reservation for, so you never really need it unless for instance you have a flight at a certain time and want a reliable service to pick you up, be on time and take you to the airport. They also have fixed rates.

Best time of year to visit Cairo

I would say anytime but summer (May to September).

Winter can get pretty cold in Cairo too, so if your accommodation doesn’t have a heating, which is very likely if it’s a budget hotel or hostel, it can get tough.

On winter I would recommend going south and visiting Luxor, Abu Simbel, Marsa Alam and the other locations in Upper Egypt, where the temperatures keep very warm throughout the year.

Another thing you might want to consider is Ramadan – since most clubs, shops, and companies are closed during this month, it is definitely interesting but there won’t be much to do.

Where to stay in Cairo Egypt

I usually stay in apartments, as it’s overall cheaper than any budget accommodation. Word of mouth is definitely the best way to find the right sublet for you.

There are also some very cheap hostels in downtown but of course, you can’t expect much luxury.

There are very modern, luxury and beautiful hotels. Consider staying at the Four Seasons, Sofitel or the Kempinski – you won’t be disappointed.

If alcohol is important for you, check if it’s served in the hotel you choose before confirming your reservation.

Final Thoughts on What to Do in Cairo

I love Cairo because it’s impossible to get bored when you’re there. It’s a safe and incredibly lively city.

People here are friendly and helpful, and I met some of my best friends during my stay in Cairo.

I love Cairo because it’s an affordable place to live in.

It’s a city where you can find anything you want, and if you are stressed by its hectic life you can reach the peace of the desert or the sea in just a couple of hours.

I love Cairo because even in the worst traffic you sometimes spot the pyramids on the horizon, or you find yourself crossing one of the countless bridges on the Nile, and you are therefore constantly reminded of the magnificent history of this place, and you can’t help feeling a profound awe, reverence, and respect towards it.

We hope this guide helped you plan what to do in Cairo and gave you inspiration for some attractions to add to your itinerary.

Tours of Cairo

Before you go, make sure to check out some tours of Cairo and plan in advance. This will help you maximise your time and avoid spending time in long queues.

Tours of Egypt

If you don’t want to travel to Egypt as an independent traveler, G Adventures offer guided tours. We partner with G Adventures for their commitment to the supporting the environment and conserving local cultures.

• 14 Days Highlights of Egypt
• Egypt: Boats and Bazaars – 8 day tour

More North Africa Travel Tips

Planning to visit other parts of Northern Africa? Then you may find these other guides helpful.

Do you have any tips on what to do in Cairo? Please share in the comments below.

Those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in a totally unique and authentic African country, will find all this and more in Ethiopia.

But one should not just venture into Ethiopia without the proper knowledge and guidance from an expert.

That’s why as part of our “Travel Tips” series we interviewed Marcello Arrambide, who traveled throughout Ethiopia for roughly three months and lived there for two months.

Marcello share’s with us his Ethiopia travel advice and knowledge on what to do in Ethiopia Africa, as well as some information about safety, what to prepare before you go, and how to get around.

Take it away Marcello…

Why Visit Ethiopia?

Ethiopia has a tremendous amount of history and culture and is one of the most ancient civilizations that we have today.

It is one of the only places in the world that has a completely unique culture that isn’t similar to others.

The costs of traveling to Ethiopia are extremely cheap, the food is delicious, crime is almost nonexistent, and if you like coffee why not go to the place that invented it?

But first, real talk…

Is Ethiopia Safe to Travel?

Safety in Ethiopia is an issue, and we’re not going to lie to you. Most people will tell you it’s safe, but we would advise against visiting unless on an organized tour – safety in numbers, and all that.

The UK Gov, U.S. embassy and Australian government says not to visit Ethiopia for non-essential travel due to armed conflict, civil unrest and rising tensions between tribes.

The truth is, anything can happen in Ethiopia. While it’s generally safer in areas such as Addis Ababa, terrorists can attack with little warning and the security forces are not always able to stop it from happening.

However, crimes against tourists are relatively low. Tourists may encounter petty crimes such as pickpocketing, mugging and vehicle theft, but assaults and terrorism have been known to happen.

It’s also not uncommon to hear about terrorists kidnapping foreigners, though this is very rare. If you stay in a large group, and stick to public places and touristy areas, you minimize the risk of getting caught up with the local violence.

You should also make sure to stay away from demonstrations and large gatherings.

You can also avoid civil unrest in Ethiopia by staying clear of the dangerous areas.

It’s not recommended to travel to areas on the Ethiopian border with Sudan, South Sudan, Eritrea, Kenya, Somali Regional State or the Gambela Regional State.

The border roads are where most of the clashes between armed groups happen, so stay clear of those.

The Regional State of Tigray and the northern territories of the Amhara Region and Afar Region bordering Tigray, and the East and West Wollega Zones in Oromia Regional State and Benishangul Gumuz Regional State, are also considered unsafe.

There is a peace agreement between Ethiopia and The Regional State of Tigray which has eased some disruption, but the security situation is still not considered totally safe.

Oh and you need to watch out for landmines. Another good reason to book a trip to Ethiopia with an organized tour!

Tours of Ethiopia

If you’re worried about traveling to Ethiopia as an independent traveler, G Adventures offer small-group guided tours for ages 18+.

What to Prepare for an Ethiopia Trip

So if we haven’t put you off with our honest word of warning on safety, then read on to find out what you need to prepare before you visit…

Vaccines & Medicine Needed for Ethiopia

As with all African countries, you’re going to need to get some vaccinations before visiting. The following vaccinations are recommended for travel to Ethiopia:

• Hepatitis A
• Up to date Tetanus and MMR vaccine
• Polio
• Yellow Fever if you are travelling from a country in a Yellow Fever Zone (usually South America)
• You should also bring malaria tablets

Medical facilities are scarce in Ethiopia, especially in Addis Ababa and rural areas.

As of February 2023, there are renovations taking place at the Black Lion Hospital in Addis Ababa, which means you are less likely to receive medical assistance and if you do, it will be expensive.

If you plan to hike the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains, bring altitude sickness pills, as medical evacuation is very expensive.

Basically, wear insect repellent and try not to get seriously sick and you shall be fine.

Visa Requirements for Ethiopia

Most countries need a visa to travel to Ethiopia, even other African Nationals. You can check the visa requirements for your country here.

You need to have a valid passport with at least six months left until expiry, and two empty pages for your visa to enter Ethiopia.

ATMs and Credit Cards

ATMs are limited in most areas in Ethiopia and it’s not common for places to accept cards.

The major banks in the city usually accepts international cards for withdrawals.

Our advice is to book and pay for tours and hotels online beforehand, and then only take out as much cash as you need. You don’t want to carry too much cash due for safety reasons.

Side note: ATMs are often not working, so you may need to try a few until you get one that works.

Best Things to See and Do in Ethiopia

Ethiopia has so many incredible tourist attractions worth visiting. The Omo Valley is a very interesting cultural experience as they are one of the last parts of the world that haven’t been influenced by the western world.

Ethiopia is the only place you can access Somaliland (Somalia), the real-life Camelot can be found in Gondar, the second Jerusalem in Lalibela, and the history of a powerful empire in the city Axum.

Don’t forget the bustling an interesting capital, Addis Ababa, that can easily be called the capital of Africa. Once you head to the East you can visit the fourth most religious city for Muslims in Harar and feed hyenas.

Best Areas to Explore in Ethiopia

• Addis Ababa
• The Northern circuit; Axum, Gondar, & Lalibela, Semene Mountains
• The Southern Circuit: Awasa, Omo Valley, Rift Valley Lakes

Markets or Shopping Districts in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa is home to Merkato which is one of the largest markets in Africa and the largest open air market on the continent.

To add to the interesting nature of the surrounding area, this is a Muslim neighborhood where you can find very interesting people and things to see.

Major Events and Festivals in Ethiopia

Timkat, Timkat, Timkat! This is where Ethiopians celebrate Epiphany, commemorating the baptism of Jesus in the river of Jordan. It’s one of the most colorful and best festivals to witness in the country. Timkat is celebrated on January 11th.

Meskel, or finding of the true cross, is also a large celebration where we can see thousands of people celebrating, eating, singing, and an endless amount of flowers being thrown.

I would also recommend that you check out the new year celebrations that are held on September 1 every year. Consider that Ethiopians have their own calendar (dates listed above are in a Western calendar).

Where to Eat in Ethiopia

I tended to already stay away from restaurants and big hotel chains to eat and Ethiopia proved that right. The food is already extremely reasonable and the best places to eat in Ethiopia are in local restaurants.

Anyone is going to serve you some of the best coffee you ever had and the prices many times will be under two or three dollars. There aren’t many street vendors in Ethiopia, the local restaurants are the way to go.

You Can’t Visit Ethiopia Without Eating…

Food in Ethiopia is very unique, while they do have popular choices like many varieties of meat, the sponge like bread called Ingera is unique to their culture and country.

Most Ethiopians eat with their hands and you typically pick up your food with the engineer of bread. You have to try the lamb or beef tibs.

Where to Drink Coffee in Ethiopia

I kid you not when I tell you that I used to drink six or seven machiatos every day because the coffee was that good. There is a coffee ceremony that you should definitely experience which is very unique.

You can find the coffee anywhere in the country including local cafés, hotels, restaurants, and corner stores.

Where to Stay in Ethiopia

Accommodation in Ethiopia is very reasonable, even in the developed cities like Addis Ababa you’re going to pay anywhere between $7-$15 a night for a private room with a shared bathroom, and up to $20 to $30 for a private room and bathroom.

When choosing a place to stay, we recommend choosing a hotel with a name you know already, or at a hotel with plenty of high-rated reviews.

What’s the Best Way to Get to and Around Ethiopia?

Traveling around the country is very cheap, if you’re going over long distances I would recommend that you fly. I bought two round-trip tickets to three different cities for only $210, the roads are atrocious between cities so it is best to fly since the prices are so cheap.

Within city limits you can use local transport which depending on the city can be a combination of toyota vans, three wheeled tuk tuks, and even motorcycle taxis.

Getting There and Away

The best way to get to Ethiopia would be to fly directly into the country. Flying between countries in Eastern Africa is tremendously expensive and considering the mountainous region that Ethiopia lies in it’s very hard to get information during countries.

The only border that can be crossed by land is via Kenya and even that has seen significant problems. Fly into the capital Addis Ababa, Ethiopian Airlines is one of the best airlines in Africa.

Is Ethiopia WiFi friendly?

The only thing that Ethiopia does not have is good Internet access, after the war with Eritrea their access to the coast was cut off along with its Internet access. The only place to find good Internet access is a large hotel chains.

It does not have to be a brand name hotel like Hilton or Sheraton but make sure you find a big hotel and you will surely find Internet access.

Most of the time you will be able to find it for free as well as long as you buy something, my favorite is six or seven machiatos.

Best Time of Year to Visit Ethiopia

The best time overall to visit the country would be in the fall between September to December. You can avoid the rainy season (July – September) in most parts of the country and the weather is also very temperate.

When I was living in Addis Ababa, the days were warm, but not hot, and the evenings were very cool.

Surprisingly, the hottest month is May, which is the driest month of the year and right before the rainy season in the summer.

Final Word of Advice for Traveling to Ethiopia

Many people don’t know that Ethiopia is the religious homeland for Rastafarians (mostly Jamaicans). The last King of Ethiopia is their God and there is a city just outside Addis Ababa which can be considered the Jamaican homeland.

It’s a surreal experience to go to Africa and see all the Rastas around, definitely something you should check out.

I love Ethiopia because Ethiopian culture resembles no other and being such an ancient civilization it’s extremely interesting and fascinating to get to know.

Supposedly, their history descends directly King Solomon. It is extremely cheap, the people are friendly, open to new cultures and people, and the women are beautiful.

We hope this guide helped you plan your trip to Ethiopia and gave you some practical advice for visiting the country.

More Northern Africa Travel Tips

Are you planning to visit other parts of North Africa? Then you may find the following resources helpful.

• Reasons to Visit Morocco
• Things to do in Marrakesh, Morocco
• Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
• Things to do in the Canary Islands
• Experiences Egypt Has To Offer Different Travel Tastes
• How to Become a Master of Baksheesh in Egypt
• What to do in Cairo, Egypt

It’s where history and modernity collide effortlessly, with souk market sellers still flogging traditional textiles, pottery and jewellery like their ancestors did thousands of years before them, and yet there is an element of luxury that comes with staying here.

Visitors will find there are plenty of great things to do in Marrakech, Morocco, from exploring the bustling streets to relaxing in the many gardens.

But to find the best attractions in Marrakech, we interviewed Amanda, a frequent traveller to Marrakech since 2004, when she met her Marrakechi husband.

And unlike many visitors to the red city her trips have a distinctly local flavor. Amanda tells us what to do in Marrakech as well as shares tips on places to eat, stay, shop, drink, and play.

Take it away Amanda.

Is Marrakech Worth Visiting?

Marrakech is the city of legends. One of the first things that attracted me to visiting Morocco was the mix of European, Middle Eastern and African culture and flavors. Marrakech epitomizes this.

It’s also perfect for any type of traveler; from the luxury traveler to the budget backpacker, from families with young children to senior citizens.

While Marrakech is known for its lively markets there is so much more to the city, from charming riads and enchanting gardens, and that’s what makes it worth visiting, in my opinion.

Things to Do in Marrakech

Now you know the reasons why you should add Marrakech to your bucket list, it’s time to show you the top attractions in the city!

1. Check out the Souk Markets

At the top of any visitors list is a trip to Djem L’Fna or the central souk and market.

Over the years it has been commercialized more and more. The layout can be confusing however it is divided into different sections such as the woodworking souk, the clothing souk, the leather goods souk (otherwise known as tanneries), the spice souk etc.

My best advice is to go as deep in as you can and then start shopping.

Anything on the perimeter will be the most expensive and odds are very good that you will find the same things for less money further inside.

Aside from visiting the souks of the medina (off of d’jem l’fna) there are a few other locations to get your shopping in.

Gueleiz is known for its boutique and specialty shops. This is not the rough and tumble haggling/shopping but higher end. Some of my favorite shops in this district are;

Moor (7 Rue de Liberte) – traditional Moroccan clothing updated and with a modern feel. They also have lovely home décor items.

Scenes de Lin (70 Rue de Liberte) gorgeous textile boutique featuring natural linens from Morocco and around the world as well as offering other cloth goods. Fabrics can be made into custom products.

Naturelle (5 Rue Sourya) Argan based products are all the rage and that’s what you’ll find at Naturelle. High quality products that are acquired through a commitment to helping the producers of argan in southern Morocco.

The Mellah is the Jewish Quarter of Marrakech (though the Jewish population itself is waning). Here you’ll find some great gold and jewelry as well as a wonderful spice souk. Remember to haggle for the best price.

In recent years gold has not been such a bargain. Sellers for the most part are looking for market rates or close to them.

Nearby you’ll also find Place Ferblantier where metalwork is for sale. This is the place to get Moroccan lanterns and lights as well as other metal furnishings.

2. Visit the El Badi Palace

Marrakech has many historical sites, but the most famous is the ruins of the El Badi Palace. The palace was originally built in 1578 by the sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty.

It was built using materials from Italy and Mali and took several decades to build. The purpose of the palace was to show off the Sultan’s wealth and power, and where he could hold parties.

But after he died in 1603, the palace was neglected and eventually fell to ruins. Many of the valuable materials such as marble were striped and reused in other buildings, but the remains still lie for visitors to see.

You can make out the shape of rooms, and in some areas see some intricate detailing from the original structure.

3. Take a Moroccan Cooking Class

A cooking class is a great way to appreciate the intricacy of Moroccan cooking and take home a unique souvenie.

Morocco is known for delicious food that are rich in flavor and color, and are usually using recipes that have been passed down through generations.

In a cooking class, you learn all about the spices and ingredients used in Moroccan cooking and their uses.

There are many cooking schools around the city, but I recommend the Hakima’s Moroccan Cooking School because your participation goes towards funding literacy and job skills for Moroccan women.

4. Relax in a Hammam

For a relaxing thing to do in Marrakech, try to visit a hammam. The traditional Moroccan bath is an experience in and of itself.

You are welcome to visit any of the neighborhood baths but may feel more comfortable in a more resort like setting.

La Bain Bleu and Les Bains de Marrakech are two suggestions though many hotels also have a hammam on the property.

5. Splash Around at Oasiria Waterpark

Are you looking for things to do in Marrakech with kids? Then the whole family will love splashing around at Oasiria Waterpark.

Oasiria is a fun family activity and where you can cool off from the blazing heat of the Moroccan sun.

This waterpark is located slightly outside of Marrakech but has a free shuttle service running from Gueliz.

Make sure to bring your own towel and plenty of water. Snacks are allowed though there is a café and pizza restaurant on site.

6. Explore the Neighborhoods in Marrakech

I often feel the best way to get to know a place is to wander around the neighborhoods and take it all in.

The Kasbah is the old residential center of the city and for the most part still inhabited by families who have lived here for decades.

There are side shops down the main thoroughfare and small markets off to some of the sides. You’ll find some great food stalls set up here as well.

Gueliz/Hivernage is the “new city” and is a boutique shopping epi-center. Gueliz has fashionable shops and restaurants as well as art galleries.

Medina is the old city. The medina is a maze of winding streets that winds off of all sides of d’jem al fna and stretches back to residential areas. It’s home to the traditional houses known as riads, which are colorful and iconic examples of Moroccan architecture in Marrakech.

7. Try the Street Food in Marrakech

I truly believe the best food you will eat in Marrakech will be street food. I say that with a nod of caution because any intrepid traveler has been told not to do this. I’ve never gotten sick eating anything in Morocco but that’s not to say you won’t.

Street vendors offer a variety of foods; from fresh fruit, cookies, stews and tajines, grilled brochettes, sandwiches, and soups.

Eat at least once in djem l’fna at the open air stalls. Try the snail soup. Stop for breakfast at a hole in the wall shop. Pick up a string of sfinge (Moroccan doughnuts) for a snack.

I know there are some nice upscale restaurants in the city, but street food is the heartbeat of the city.

A quick note about water. Marrakech’s water is filtered and safe to drink however bottled water is cheap and accessible. Brushing your teeth might be alright in tap water but stick to bottled water for drinking.

We highly recommend that you use a reusable filtered water bottle to reduce plastic usage, which is terrible for the environment – plus it will save you money! This one by Grayl comes highly recommended for good filtration and removal. Don’t skimp out on having something that will clean your water and keep you healthy.

If you need to refresh yourself, Morocco’s Mint Tea is legendary!

Be sure to try Tangia, the signature dish of Marrakech. You won’t find it anywhere else in Morocco (and if you do you shouldn’t eat it!).

It’s traditionally the “bachelor” meal because of the easy preparation, but I promise you’ll never eat lamb so tender and full of flavor.

8. Try Moroccan Wine

Morocco is a Muslim country so alcohol is a little more difficult to come by, but you should definitely try some Moroccan wine if you have the chance.

When it comes to finding somewhere to drink, most larger hotels have bars and some have rooftop terraces that double as bars.

Bo-zin is a restaurant/bar located a bit outside of the city center, located on Rue de l’Ourika, but very accessible by taxi. It features a restaurant, bar and beautiful outdoor garden area with traditional tents.

Le Comptoir, located on Rue Echouada, is another good option if you’re looking for a meal or nightcap. It is similar in ambiance to Bo-zin but a little more expensive.

Djellabar, Villa Bougainvillé 2 rue Abou Hanifa, Hivernage, is a great place for drinks. I really like the modern bohemian feel of Djellabar. Come for dinner and drinks, check out the shopping for some really unique art, books, and fashion items, and enjoy a good glass of wine.

9. Take a Free Walking Tour

I feel like Marrakech is written about all over the place so my best tip would be to make friends with a local and have them show you around.

If you don’t know a local, you should take a free walking tour, which are always run by friendly locals who love their city. Not only do you get to see all the highlights with a knowledgeable guide and learn about the history and culture, but you can ask your guide for recommendations on where to eat, drink and explore off the beaten path.

This will help you experience the real Marrakech and not the tourist packaged version. Of course, the tours are free, but it’s expected to give your guide a tip if you enjoy the tour.

10. Catch a Performance at The Royal Theater

If you’re looking for things to do in Marrakech at night, then a visit to The Royal Theater is a must.

The theatre itself is gorgeous, with a stately 21st-century design, featuring an open-air stage and a classic domed room.

The theatre hosts several operas, ballets and classic music concerts. The Royal Symphony plays throughout the year.

Check with the Marrakech tourist office (Office National Marocain du Tourism) to see what’s on when you’re there.

11. Take a Trip to The Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains

The most famous desert in the world, the Sahara. Of course, no trip to Morocco would be complete without taking a trip out to see it in all its vastness.

If you have time on your side, I recommend doing a three day trip to the Sahara which includes a camel ride through the desert to the Atlas Mountains, which are often snow-capped in the winter and vibrant with swaying palm trees in the summer.

Have you ever wanted to sleep under the stars in a Berber village in the desert and wake up to the incredible dunes surrounding you from every angle? Now’s your chance!

Just outside Marrakech is the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, the Valley of the Roses, and Tinghir, Todra Gorge and Erg Chebbi dunes, the highest dunes in Morocco.

It’s a desert paradise, and a landscape so unique to Morocco you won’t believe you’re still on planet Earth.

To see it all, it really takes a few days, following the Tizi Ntichka pass to the high Atlas Mountains.

12. Visit the The Marrakech Arts Festivals

There are two major festivals in Marrakech worth visiting if you happen to be in the city at the right time.

The Marrakech International Film Festival and Marrakech Popular Arts Festival are two big events to attend if you’re in town.

There are many smaller festivals through the year, but the film festival and popular arts festival are the biggest and most bustling events.

13. Check out the Saadian Tombs

Another top attraction in Marrakech to not miss are the Saadian Tombs. The tombs are the resting place of the historic royal necropolis and are located on the site of the Kasbah Mosque, inside the royal kasbah.

They are the graves of the Moroccan monarchy, dating back to the Saadian dynasty (1578–1603) and a few royals from after this dynasty.

It is one of the best preserved examples of Saadian architecture, since the tombs feature intricate decoration and design.

For history lovers, don’t miss the opportunity to see this ancient style in its preserved form.

14. Admire the Architecture of Ben Youssef Madrasa

For those looking for beautiful Moroccan buildings with classic Moroccan styles, you will love the design of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, the largest Islamic college in Morocco.

The school features some of the most beautiful examples of Andalusian-Arabic architecture, with arched windows and geometric carvings in the plasterwork. The school was built in the 14th century by Sultan Abou al Hasan, but it’s now a museum.

Visitors can wander the old college halls and visit the dorms where students studied the Quran and other science and religious subjects.

It’s a great place to visit if you are curious about the Islamic religion and traditions, as well as see the beautiful building.

15. Check out the Bahia Palace

Another beautiful building known for its intricate decoration is the Bahia Palace. Along its walls and floors, you’ll see several thousand tiles, as well as geometric patterns carved into the walls stucco.

The Grand Courtyard of the Bahia Palace is the place to be to see this intricate beauty in all its glory.

The Bahia Palace was built in the 19th-century palace by Si Musa, grand vizier of Alaouite sultan Muhammad ibn Abd al-Rahman.

It was used as the family residence, but after his son passed away, it was handed to the royal family who used it to entertain foreign guests. Even today, the King sometimes uses the palace when foreign guests come to visit.

When it’s not in use by the royal family, it’s a bustling tourist attraction, so be sure to get there early to avoid the crowds.

16. Marvel at the Koutoubia Mosque

Most local mosques are closed to non-Muslims, but tourists can see the design and architecture of the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest and most recognizable mosque in the city, from the outside.

The mosque is one of the oldest buildings in the city, built in 1147 by the Almohad caliph Abd al-Mu’min shortly after he conquered Marrakesh.

The original mosque was remodelled a short while later in 1158, but this is the building you see before you today.

It’s a classic example of Almohad architecture, and is decorated with geometric arch motifs. It’s one of the most striking buildings in the city, so be sure to check it out.

17. Take a Day Trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls

Contrary to popular belief, Morocco is not all desert landscapes. In fact, the Ouzoud Waterfalls are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world!

At 110 m high, they are the second tallest waterfalls in Africa. To reach them, you must hike down winding trails, through rainforest and olive groves, as well as an argan oil plantation.

Then, you can get up close and personal with the falls on a relaxing boat ride. It’s one of the most unmissable attractions in Marrakech!

18. Visit the Marrakech Museum Courtyard

The Marrakech Museum is a fascinating museum showcasing exhibits on Morroco’s history, with a collection of weapons, pottery and artifacts found across different parts of Morocco.

The main reason to visit the museum is for the building itself, which is the former Dar Mnebhi Palace, which has the most beautiful central courtyard.

It was built in a late 19th century design with a huge chandelier in its centre and colorful tiles on the floor, with natural light pouring into the space from its domed glass ceiling.

Many photographers visit the museum just to snap photos of the courtyard, but do make sure to wander around the exhibits as well.

19. Visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Marrakech is known for its luxury shopping and designer clothing, so why not learn about the history of the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent at the museum dedicated to him.

The museum is set in the designer’s former home, known as Villa Oasis, and houses exhibits telling the story of his life’s work.

Also attached to the museum is the beautiful Majorelle Gardens, which were designed by a French artist, Jacques Majorelle, who actually holds the patent for the color blue used in the architecture of the garden.

Majorelle Blue is used several times in the home of Yves Saint Laurent. The house and gardens are simply stunning, and the perfect backdrop for photography lovers.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

To be fair I’ve stayed in very few Marrakech accommodations because I stay in our family home, however I have spent a good deal of time connecting with travelers and visitors to make a few recommendations.

One note worth mentioning, prices no matter where you stay in Marrakech will be much higher in the summer months.

If you travel during the off-seasons you will find accommodations at a fraction of the summer rates.

• Peacock Pavilions (Kilometer 13 Route de Ourzazate) If you want to have a relaxing vacation in Marrakech outside the hustle and bustle of the city center you must stay here. Peacock Pavilions is a guest house built by an American expat family and matriarch Maryam (who is a fantastic designer!) creates unique charm in each and every corner of this boutique hotel. Some unique features include an outdoor theatre, a dining tent and an outdoor gym. Shopping trips, babysitting, and spa reservations can also be arranged.
• Hotel Mamounia – I would really be remiss if I didn’t mention this shining beacon of Marrakech. Recently remodeled and updated the Mamounia is a landmark in Marrakech. The price is on the higher end but if you visit in the off season, it’s really worth it to spend at least one night here.
• Riads are bed and breakfasts that offer a handful of rooms. In Marrakech many riads are traditional homes that have been repurposed for renting rooms. Prices range from $20 a night to $200+ a night.
• Dar Najat (Dar Graoua Derb Lala Chacha #18) I have heard fantastic raves about this riad and the price is very good. Meals are provided on site. The one comment I have heard over and over about this riad is the service provided to guests is exceptional.
• Riad Layla Rouge (Rue el Ksour Derb Rokni 23)  This is a riad/hostel located just off djem l’fna. If you’re hunting for a bargain this might be your stop! Hostel accommodations can be found for under $20 a night (depending on season) and a private room for around $60. The colors of Marrakech will surround you during a stay here!

Vacation Rentals in Marrakech

A last option to consider, especially if your visit will be longer term is apartment rentals in Marrakech. There are numerous furnished apartments available at anytime in the city.

When Moroccans travel in the country this option is one they usually use. Often this will put you in more residential neighborhoods but the price is much more bearable than a hotel stay.

I like this option the best for families that are traveling to Marrakech.

Best Time of Year to Visit Marrakech

Fall (mid- Sept until early December) and Spring (March to May).

Summer in Marrakech is very, very hot and chances are you won’t want to be outside very much. Winter tends to be rainy and cool.

Ramadan is another month out of the year that you might not want to visit. During the Muslim holy month shop and restaurant hours are often changed and there is less activity as most of the country is fasting from dawn to dusk.

Getting To and Around Marrakech

Many major and discount airlines fly into Marrakech and Morocco’s train system runs a few times daily to the city. If you’re coming from Europe I would fly a low-cost carrier like EasyJet or RyanAir.

Major airlines that fly into Marrakech are Royal Air Maroc, Air France, Iberia, BMI and TAP.

I have found that it’s often easier to get much cheaper flights to Casablanca and then take the train to Marrakech. It takes more time but the cost difference often makes up for it.

If you’re looking to visit other parts of Morocco the train runs to major cities but no further south than Marrakech. Morocco does have a fairly good coach bus system to access small cities from the train line.

Supratours and CTM have the best reputation for bus companies, but Supratours is my preferred coach bus. They have commissioned the old train station as their depot.

Any taxi driver will be able to know the difference if you tell them the bus company you are looking for. CTM buses pick up near Bab Doukkala.

When getting around Marrakech, the best way is by taxi. There are two types of taxis, the grand taxi and the petit taxi.

Grand taxi’s tend to go from point to point (i.e. you can’t really tell them easily a specific point you want to go to). They also tend to cram as many people in as possible. Imagine 7 passengers in a 1970’s Mercedes sedan.

The petit taxi is the best way to get around Marrakech. They are reasonably priced and run on a meter, whereas with a grand taxi the price is agreed on ahead of time. They also will take you point to point.

Marrakech does have a bus system but the times are not very reliable and they are overcrowded. Let’s just say in nearly 8 years of visiting I’ve never taken a bus ride.

Check Skyscanner and Going (formerly, Scott’s Cheap Flights) for flight deals.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Marrakech

I love Marrakech because it’s always changing!

Visiting from year to year I feel like there is always something new and exciting happening. I do miss some of the old charm that has been erased in just under a decade but I am excited for the new possibilities as well.

Whatever you decide to do in Marrakech, remember to just enjoy yourself.

In Morocco people aren’t ever in a hurry so don’t try and keep a strict schedule, so just let what happens happen!

There’s a Moroccan saying when someone asks you when something will be done. The answer is “tomorrow after tomorrow” or it will happen when it happens!

Allow this ethos to seep into your mindset and let your worries fade away. The world will sort itself out around you as you just have fun.

Tours of Marrakech

Our partner, Get Your Guide offers tour operators with many Marrakech tours and attractions tickets. They have the lowest prices, guaranteed — no booking fees or hidden charges.

You can pre-book tickets and skip the line at top attractions and cancel up to 24 hours before.
Some best-selling Marrakech tours are below:

More Northern Africa Travel Tips

Are you planning on visiting other parts of North Africa? Then you may find these other guides helpful…

• 23 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Morocco
• Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
• Top things to do in the Canary Islands
• What to Do in Ethiopia
• 5 Experiences Egypt Has To Offer Different Travel Tastes
• How to Become a Master of Baksheesh in Egypt
• What to do in Cairo, Egypt