60 days in Africa Itinerary

The savannahs of Kenya contain some of the most iconic sights in Africa, stirred in the minds of many when they think of the continent. Big cats, elephants, and rhinos remain major inhabitants of this vast country, with a number of safari centers running trips across the region's World Heritage-listed national parks. Trips to rural villages, where many travelers choose to join up various volunteer projects, represent some of the most inspiring and enriching things to do in Kenya.

Though the size and scale of Tanzania may be overwhelming, the people make it a personable and easy-going place to visit. The bigger cities not only offer good connections to the main natural attractions, but also feature bustling markets where locals sell fresh produce, snacks, and crafts. Smaller villages retain their long-held customs, beliefs, and artistic traditions. With the continent's highest peak, and some of the most animal-rich safaris available, Tanzania holidays tend to dart between the big and bold, and the personal and low-key.

Though small in area, Uganda represents one of the most populated landlocked countries in the world. You can feel this in the lakeside capital, but so much of the country remains untamed and untamable, with great lakes and towering mountains chief among the wilder sights. A recent troubled past delayed the growth of tourism in Uganda, but visitors now arrive in larger numbers, primarily drawn by the diverse wildlife that inhabits the country's mountains and forests. Notably, Uganda houses half of the world's population of mountain gorillas.

South Sudan became the world's youngest nation in 2011, with the splitting of the continents largest state. The civil war that preceded the separation would inevitably leave deep traces on the psyche of the people and the stability of the political situation, but any initial optimism was quickly dimmed with government forces and rebel groups once more at war. The country boasts a fascinating mix of tribes and cultures and provides the setting for the second largest animal migration in the world, with antelopes crossing large swathes of the country. Despite this, holidays in South Sudan appeal to only a few daring travelers--tourism sector remains undeveloped and infrastructure lacking.

One of the oldest countries in the world, Ethiopia was the only African nation not to fall under colonial control. The continued independence left the country with a wealth of undisturbed historical sites and cultural practices--reasons enough to plan a vacation in Ethiopia. Ancient ruins, hill tribes, wild forest areas, gushing rivers, and depressions filled with active volcanoes represent just some of the many Ethiopia attractions worthy of your attention.

Little Eritrea boasts diverse landscapes that include mountains, an arid coastline, and fertile swathes of land to the west. With tourism in Eritrea still a burgeoning industry, the country represents a place of adventure for daring travelers looking to get of that beaten path. The Art Deco architecture of the capital shows off the cultural complexity and interesting facets of the former Italian colony's recent history, while a number of archaeological sites provide evidence of once-thriving ancient kingdoms. The country gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993, but the areas bordering Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti remain dangerous and, as a result, off the map for most foreign tourists.

With ancient historical sites, the longest coastline on the continent, a rich and varied cuisine, and sprawling desert and savannah landscapes, Somalia has plenty to make it appealing to international visitors. Events in the recent past, however, made holidays in Somalia nearly impossible. The civil war that began in 1991 led to the country being declared a failed state. The introduction of a new constitution and government in 2012 has led to a glimmer of optimism.

Exotic Comoros offers a different take on the archetypal paradise island. The remote collection of varied landmasses endured a turbulent history, with nearly 20 coups since its independence in 1975. The political situation has calmed in recent years, allowing tourism in Comoros to develop thanks to a good offering of white-sand beaches, volcanic peaks, and underwater worlds rich in wildlife. Devoutly Muslim, the locals frown upon the consumption of alcohol and bare skin--few foreign tourists are bothered by this, as most come for the off-the-beaten track adventuring rather than beach-bar relaxation.