Africa’s cities are pulsating with that energy that turns even the most mundane
moments into something special, from ancient medinas to ultra-modern skylines.
These metropolises invite travelers to partake in the accreted wealth of heritage over
time and expose themselves to a dynamic future at the same time. Ready to go off
the beaten path and find authentic Africa?
Lagos, Nigeria
The beating heart of West African culture welcomes you, from its bright art galleries
and experimental fashion to the addictive rhythms of Afrobeats. Stroll through the
evening in Victoria Island District, where modern African cuisine is replete with
rooftop lounges looking out over the Atlantic Ocean.
Famous marketplaces, full of energy from entrepreneurship, are a must-see.
Dakar, Senegal
Set on a peninsula sticking out into the Atlantic, Dakar combines French colonial
architecture with contemporary Senegalese style. Get a view of the African
Renaissance Monument at sunset, stroll through the historic Médina quarter, and
enjoy live mbalax music at local clubs; add to your urban adventure the city’s pink-
hued Lake Retba for an otherworldly touch.
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Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
High up in the mountains is the capital of Ethiopia, where traditional coffee
ceremonies meet contemporary art galleries. Start your day at Merkato, the largest
open-air market in Africa, before strolling through the modernist architecture of Africa
Hall.
The National Museum holds Lucy, one of the oldest ancestors of humankind.
Cape Town, South Africa
Framed by two oceans and with Table Mountain as a backdrop, this city can only be
described as dramatically set and creatively energetic. Get lost in the multicolored
Bo-Kaap neighborhood, explore the food markets of the V&A Waterfront, and catch
local jazz in historic Long Street.
Its street art tells tales of transformation and resilience.
Marrakech, Morocco
A maze of sensory delights, the ancient medina of the Red City is where modern life
flows through medieval streets. Spend your morning bargaining in the souks, and
discover modern Moroccan design at Gueliz before watching Djemaa el-Fna square
come alive at sunset with storytellers and musicians.
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Nairobi, Kenya
East Africa’s most vibrant city is where experiences of urban wildlife meet with hi-
tech hubs. Enjoy unique interactions at the Giraffe Centre, discover innovative art at
Kuona Trust, and enjoy a taste of the local coffee culture in the Westlands.
The Maasai Market offers authentic crafts with an urban twist.
Cairo, Egypt
Ancient history meets bustling modernity along the Nile’s banks. Go beyond the
pyramids and explore medieval architecture in Islamic Cairo; lose yourself inside
contemporary galleries in Zamalek; and sit in traditional ahwas (coffeehouses),
where locals gather to discuss everything from politics to poetry.
Accra, Ghana
Its capital welcomes you to beaches, markets, and innovative galleries. Go inside the
Jamestown fishing harbor at dawn, check out the modern works of African art at
Gallery 1957, or party hard at Osu’s trendy spots.
Try the local ‘chop bars’ for traditional dishes with a modern spin.
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Windhoek, Namibia
The clean streets and German colonial architecture give an unexpected backdrop to
African urban life. Pay a visit to the Independence Memorial Museum for insight into
Namibia’s freedom struggle; go shopping for crafts at Post Street Mall and game
meat at Joe’s Beerhouse, where local stories flow as freely as the beer.
Kigali, Rwanda
East Africa’s cleanest city shows off Rwanda’s incredible transformation. Start with a
stop at the Genocide Memorial for some necessary context, then head across the
city’s green initiatives, creative quarters, and innovative coffee shops, with a vibrant
slice of daily life on view at Kimironko Market.
Johannesburg, South Africa
‘Joburg’ beats to a rhythm that’s turned old industrial buildings into arts and culture
districts. Take in the street art at Maboneng, learn about apartheid at Constitution
Hill, and taste modern African cuisine in Melville.
Watch the sunset from one of the city’s many rooftop bars above the world’s biggest urban forest.
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Maputo, Mozambique
Here, Portuguese colonial architecture meets African modernism in an Indian Ocean
port. Admire the art deco train station, rummage through the vibrant Municipal
Market, and gorge yourself on peri-peri prawns at beachfront restaurants.
Its architecture tells stories of independence and resilience.
Kampala, Uganda
A capital cradled by seven hills, where traditional kingdoms meet modern African life.
Visit the Kasubi Tombs for Buganda history, get lost in controlled chaos at Owino
Market, and try a Rolex—from street vendors, of course.
Scale the minaret of the National Mosque for panoramic views of the entire city.
Zanzibar City, Tanzania
Stone Town’s narrow alleys hold centuries of trade history: find ornate wooden
doors, shop at the Darajani Market, and watch dhows sail past as you enjoy sunset
drinks at rooftop bars. The night food market at Forodhani Gardens serves up the
best street food on the island.
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Luanda, Angola
The most expensive city in Africa has fast development around its bay. See the Iron
Palace by Gustave Eiffel, São Miguel’s fortress, and enjoy Portuguese-style food at
the Ilha do Cabo.
Modern buildings provide interesting contrasts to colonial ones.
Asmara, Eritrea
UNESCO-listed Art Deco architecture makes Eritrea’s capital feel like a living
museum. Start the day with Italian-style espresso, marvel at the futurist Fiat Tagliero
building, and explore local markets to discover handmade jewelry.
The city’s colonial-era cinema houses still screen films beneath the stars.
Explore the Dynamic Cultures of Africa
It’s a delight going through the urban feel, from one continent to another, blending
old traditions with fresh ideas—stories you would not forget.
Every city has its own beat, flavors, and views just waiting to be shared, showing
why Africa’s cities are a must-visit for any curious traveler.
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