From the vibrant metropolises pulsating with life to the serene urban oases nestled against breath-taking natural backdrops, each city on this list stands as a testament to the continent’s rich diversity and unparalleled beauty. We take a look at Africa’s top 7 most beautiful cities.
Cape Town, South Africa
Perched on the Cape Peninsula, Cape Town stands out as South Africa’s main city, captivating visitors with its lively colors and stunning landscapes. From charming houses and coastal cottages to beautiful beaches and a thriving art scene, Cape Town rightly earns its place among Africa’s most beautiful cities.
Surrounded by the grand Table Mountain, this busy city smoothly shifts into peaceful outskirts adorned with rolling vineyards and the well-known Kirstenbosch botanical gardens.
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Stone town, Tanzania
Zanzibar, often called the “spice island,” is well-known for growing cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and cloves. Situated near Tanzania, it houses the lively Stone Town community. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a beautiful city in Africa, bordered by the clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
Stone Town is a lovely old town featuring vibrant markets, intricately carved wooden buildings, and the historic Sultan’s Palace. The many red-tile roofs offer a captivating view, complemented by the delightful smell of spices from the local markets and nearby farms.
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Marrakesh, Morocco
Morocco boasts some of Africa’s most stunning cities, and Marrakesh stands apart with its captivating mix of modern style and ancient architecture. Marrakesh reflects the vibrant culture of North Africa, evident in landmarks like the Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden, decorated with desert-inspired colors, and the towering minaret of Koutoubia Mosque at the city’s heart. Marrakesh’s charm is evident in daily life, visible in the bustling markets where intricately woven tapestries and slippers, fragrant local spices, and colorful “tagine” cooking pots are proudly showcased.
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt’s capital, is famous for its standout feature: the amazing and world-renowned Pyramids of Giza. With a history of over 4,000 years, these pyramids rightfully hold their spot among the original “Seven Wonders of the World.” Accompanied by the Great Sphinx, the oldest known monumental sculpture, these timeless attractions possess a unique beauty deeply rooted in African culture.
Yet, the Pyramids aren’t the only reason why Cairo is among the most attractive cities in Africa. Coptic Cairo, the city’s oldest part, houses elegant mosaics and ancient churches, while Cairo adds to its charm with intricate mosques and impressive architecture.
Lamu, Kenya
Lamu, located in Kenya, features untouched and secluded beaches surrounded by windswept sand dunes. This coastal town is committed to preserving its local traditions, providing an authentic experience that places it among Africa’s most beautiful destinations.
Situated on an island in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of Kenya, Lamu Town stands as one of Africa’s oldest Swahili settlements, with a history dating back to at least the 12th century. It holds the prestigious designation of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Luxor, Egypt
In the Egyptian city of Luxor, the name itself carries profound meaning. Translating to “palaces,” it mirrors the city’s defining characteristic, even in its present bustling urban setting. Amidst the contemporary hustle and bustle, Luxor proudly safeguards its ancient palaces and temples, once the capital city of Thebes. This rich heritage establishes Luxor as one of Egypt’s most beautiful and historically significant cities.
Beyond its impressive array of palaces, Luxor boasts renowned landmarks like the temples of Karnak and Hatshepsut, along with the rock-cut tombs in the Valley of the Kings and the remnants of the Pharaohs’ Tombs.
Gaborone, Botswana
Gaborone, situated in Botswana, is mostly a modern city known for its Western-style malls, contemporary buildings, and prestigious educational institutions. Despite its urban vibes, some consider it one of Africa’s most beautiful cities, mainly because of the Gaborone Game Reserve.
This protected park encapsulates the essence of Africa, showcasing pristine ecosystems and a diverse array of native species. Among them are extraordinary creatures like the blue wildebeest, vervet monkeys, rock dassies, warthogs, zebras, and gemsbok.
