The Best African UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Visit
Curious about how to visit Africa’s best UNESCO World Heritage sites? Amazing African safari experiences can include incredible encounters with exotic wildlife and nomadic tribes, rewarding experiences that contribute to conservation initiatives, relaxation at luxurious lodges and spas, and visits to some of the most interesting historical sites on earth. History or culture buffs looking to cross as many UNESCO World Heritage Sites off their bucket list will find a plethora of fascinating offerings on the African continent, and many of the top UNESCO sites can easily be included on an African Safari trip with Epic Road.
Known by a local tribe as “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls makes the UNESCO list and also snags a spot on a the much smaller list of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Marking the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, this soaring waterfall can be explored in numerous thrilling ways - rigorous rafting on the rapids of the connected Zambezi River, flying by helicopter over the falls at sunset, go bungee jumping, and more daring adventurers can swim at the edge in the famous Devil’s Pool.
Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area is perhaps the most wildlife-dense spot on the continent. The protected area’s main feature is the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest caldera, which offers a stunning sunset scene from its rim. The area is a prime place for Big Five game viewing, including critically endangered black rhino. The adjacent Serengeti National Park, another UNESCO site, is a prime spot to see the annual great migration wildebeest, zebra, hippos, giraffes and more of their wild friends as they head into the northern plains on quest for food and water. The most magical way to see to see the largest mammal migration on the planet? By hot air balloon at sunrise.
Even on a short visit to Morocco it’s impossible not to immerse yourself in the country’s fascinating cultural history, and it’s possible to hit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites on a single trip. For a departure from the frenetic energy of Marrakech, visit bohemian seaside Essaouira’s medina and take in the striking blue and white fortified historic walled city that earns a spot on UNESCO’s list. Stroll through the souks looking for beautifully handmade souvenirs and walk along the beach where the coastal winds make cool Essaouira a go-to spot for windsurfing enthusiasts. A few hours inland in the Ouzarzate province, as a sidestep on a visit to the foothills of the breathtaking Atlas Mountains, the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is made up of castle-like structures made from earthen mud brick architecture that is beautifully emblematic of southern Moroccan culture.
Just a short ferry ride from Capetown’s V&A Waterfront district, Robben Island feels a world away. With a somber history, its buildings are powerful symbols of democracy and freedom. Also within suitable distance for a day trip, botany enthusiasts should check out the Cape Floral Region protected areas that are famous for their unparallelled diversity and density of plants, including many species that are endemic to the region and also under threat.
Learn more about Epic Road’s many different types of luxury safaris throughout southern and eastern Africa.
