The Seven Natural Wonders of Africa

In 2013, the New Seven Natural Wonders of Africa were officially declared in Arusha, Tanzania. They were determined by insights and knowledge from experts around the world, with a key focus on conservationists such as members of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Victoria Falls, known as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, served as ambassador to these deservedly-named natural wonders.

Here, in no particular order, are the seven wonders of Africa:

Mount Kilimanjaro – Located in Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s youngest volcano, highest mountain, and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Consider climbing this iconic mountain.

Mount Kilimanjaro in the Background with Ele Herd Up Front, Tanzania
Majestic Mount Kilimanjaro in the background

The Great Migration – Considered the greatest show on earth, the Great Migration features over 1.2 million wildebeest, more than 800,000 zebra, and thousands of gazelle. The Great Migration is the largest land migration in the world and shared between Tanzania and Kenya, is one of the most spectacular wildlife feats.

Great Migration at Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Wildebeest in Serengeti National Park

Okavango Delta – One of the most incredible wildlife and wilderness sanctuaries in Africa, The Okavango Delta is the largest inland delta in the world, an area of 15,000Km2 filled with water channels, lagoons, swamps, and islands. Found in Botswana, it supports a habitat that is mind-blowing in its number of diverse species of mammal, fish, and bird life.

Exploring the Okavango by Mokoro, Botswana - photo credit Dana Allen
Exploring the Okavango by mokoro | Photo Credit: Dana Allen

Ngorongoro Crater – The largest unbroken caldera in the world, Ngorongoro Crater is often known as the “Garden of Eden of Africa,” or, the “Cradle of Life.” Home to the Big 5, and many other animals, Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater serves as an intimate encounter with nature.

Black Rhino in Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Black Rhino in Ngorongoro Crater

Nile River – Touted as the longest river in the world, the Nile River makes its way through 10 countries, with Egypt being the country usually associated with it. However, Uganda, home to the source and Murchison Falls, are both fascinating parts of the Nile.

Feluccas on the Nile, Egypt
Feluccas on the Nile

Red Sea Reef – The Red Sea Reef is the largest coral reef connected to Africa, and the third largest reef in the world. The reef Stretches over 1,200 miles along the coasts of Egypt, Sudan, and Eritrea, and is home to over 1,100 species of fish, with approximately 10% exclusive to this reef area. The best way to enjoy the reef is by snorkeling and diving – an experience which is accessible in Egypt’s Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada.

Snorkeling in the Red Sea Reef in Hurghada, Egypt
Snorkeling in the Red Sea Reef in Hurghada, Egypt

Sahara Desert – Expanding over 10 countries, including Morocco and Tunisia, the Sahara Desert’s land mass is comparable to the United States. Not only is the Sahara the largest dry desert in the world, it is also recognized as the hottest place on Earth.

Sunrise Camel Ride in Merzouga, Morocco
Sunrise camel ride in Merzouga
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Kirsty Perring
Kirsty Perring

Africa Experts Product Manager – Although British born and now Toronto based, Kirsty grew up in South Africa and is completely passionate about all things Africa. She finds it hard to choose a favourite destination, but lists Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, and Botswana as some of the most special places she has visited, and feels it’s not just about where you go and what you see, but who you get to experience it with. Kirsty is always up for an adventure and will try anything once. As such, she has para-glided in South Africa, zip lined in Mauritius, dived the Red Sea, hot air ballooned in Egypt, and even swam in the Okavango Delta. Next on Kirsty’s bucket list is to climb Kilimanjaro!

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