Regardless of where you find yourself coming to the motherland as it is called is something we all want to do once. For those in Africa, going out to other countries to experience the luxury they have – is one method of unwinding we love. Still, no matter which category you fall in, we can agree that East Africa has everything in terms of a good vacation destination. Therefore, we will be looking at vacation spots in East Africa here.
Table of Contents
Vacation Spots in East Africa
Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Mozambique, Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles, etc. These are a few of the countries that make up the amazing eastern part of the country. Nevertheless, different vacation spots in East Africa will give you the time of your life but finding the best is where the problem is.
Location
Country
Dominant Language
Zanzibar
Tanzania
Swahili/English
Kigali
Rwanda
Kinyarwanda
Nairobi
Kenya
Swahili/English
Port Louis
Mauritius
English
Kampala
Uganda
Swahili/English
Lilongwe
Malawi
English
Antananarivo
Madagascar
Malagasy/French
Maputo
Mozambique
Portuguese
List of East African Countries
Top Vacation Spots in East Africa
To begin with, it is important to first note that the best is subjective. Hence, what is best to you might not be the same for others. However, considering all things, vacation spots in East Africa that stand out includes;
1. Zanzibar, Tanzania
There are many vacation spots in East Africa but we do not think there is any that beats Zanzibar. In fact, Zanzibar is one of the two major states that came together to form the Republic of Tanzania. Zanzibar is fast-growing to be one of the biggest tourist exports in Africa. Subsequently, this Archipelago offers you the best vacation memories. One thing that makes this state stand out is the fact that it is a collation of islands. For this reason, there is an unending number of beaches and forests to explore. Thus, making it one of the best vacation spots.
We once talked about the 10 amazing summer vacation destinations in the world. In fact, Zanzibar is one of them. Click this link to see the others on the list.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Where to stay
Manta Resort
Breezes Beach Club
The Serena Inn
Baraza Resort
Kilindi
The Residence Zanzibar, e.t.c.
Subsequently, our special recommendation after reading this article is the Manta Resort.
The Manta Resort
Things to do
Go shopping in the market (Darajani Market, Forodhani Garden, Old Fort Market, etc.)
Take a stroll through Stone Town
Visit the house of wonders
Explore the Jozani Forest
Take a spicy trip to their spice plantations
Attend a festival – there are three major ones to attend in Zanzibar (Sauti za Busara, East Africa’s Film, music, and Art Festival, Zanzibar Beach and watersports festival)
Visit any of the many beaches and enjoy some time in the water (Chumbe, Mnemba, Changu, Nakupenda, Nungwi, Jambiani Beach)
Lastly, stay at a resort and enjoy some spa treatment
When to visit
No one wants their vacation time to be cut short by constant rain, therefore planning when to visit is important. In fact, in Zanzibar rain is expected from March to May and also in November. Still, going on a vacation during this period is not friendly. We suggest you plan your vacation from June to October or from late December to February. However, the temperature here in September can be quite high which is not conducive for some activities. Also, during the Muslim holidays, most shops are closed as Zanzibar is mainly occupied by Muslims.
2. Kigali, Rwanda (Vacation Spots in Africa)
Tourist attractions in East Africa are spread across all the edges making it the most appealing region on the continents. One of the cities that this stellar achievement can be attributed to is Kigali in Rwanda. This East African nation has been known in recent times for its rise in tourism. Kigali happens to be the largest city and capital of Rwanda. Also, the welcoming people and the amazing beach resorts makes Kigali a tourist’s delight. Honeymoon or summer vacation – Kigali is a place worth considering.
Kigali, Rwanda
Where to stay
Hotel des Mille Collines
Anthurium Residential Hotel
The Kingfish Beach Hotel
Avisha Town Hotel
Onomo Hotel
Peponi Living Spaces, e.t.c.
There are so many amazing hotels/resorts scattered across Kigali. So you are blessed with options when picking from the vacation spots in East Africa. However, one of our favourites is the Sweet Stay Guest House and this is because they offer amazing services.
Sweet Stay Guest House
Places to visit
Visit the Kigali genocide memorial and Camp Kigali Memorial to learn about the genocide that took place in Rwanda
Go shopping in the markets scattered all across town like the Kimironko market (the largest market in Rwanda)
Explore the art and culture of Rwanda at places like the Inema Arts Centre, Niyo Art Gallery, Caplaki Craft Village
Visit a museum and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Rwanda (Kandt House Museum, Rwanda Art Museum, Campaign Against Genocide Museum).
Visit one of the many parks in Kigali and see nature at its best
Go on a hike at Mt. Kigali
Check what sporting event or concert is on at the Amahoro Stadium and plan to attend
Lastly, find a fish hole and go fishing
When to visit
The first thing worth noting about Kigali is that the average daily temperature is 21°C. However, they experience rain most time from March to May. The best time to go to Kigali for a vacation will be between June and September. Because Kigali experiences dry season during this period you can have a lot of uninterrupted fun then.
3. Nairobi, Kenya
Of all the vacation spots in East Africa we have chosen, this is one of the few with fame even before tourism started. Nairobi is one of the most popular cities in Africa with a large population. The name Nairobi comes from the Massai Phrase ‘Enkare Nairobi’ which means cool water.
Nairobi, Kenya
Where to stay
Giraffe Manor
Airport Landing Hotel
Fahari Palace
Capital Heights Hotel
Bali’s Best Resort
Decale Palace Hotel, e.t.c.
Giraffe Manor
Places to visit
Visit the Nairobi National Park, and Nairobi Game Drive to see nature at its finest forms
Interact with the animals at the Elephant Orphanage and Nairobi Giraffe Centre
Learn the history of Nairobi and Kenya at the Nairobi National Museum
Go hiking at the Ngong Forest Reserve
Take an evening stroll through Uhuru Park
Go on a shopping spree at the Massai market, Kazuri Beads factory, Galleria Shopping mall
Lastly, visit Kiambethu Tea Farm and other coffee/tea farms around Nairobi.
If you wish to explore Kenya’s Safari in Nairobi then we suggest you take advantage of this 5-day trip package. It will take you to Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive on Day 1, Amboseli Safari on Day 2, and Maasai Mara on Day 3.
When to visit
Weather is the first thing to consider when planning a trip to East Africa’s most sophisticated city. Subsequently, the dry season occurs between late June and October. Thus, making this the best time to visit the city of Nairobi for Vacation.
4. Port Louis, Mauritius (Vacation Spots in East Africa)
The Harbor of Tortoises or as you now call it, Port Louis is the capital of the Francophone-speaking nation of Mauritius. This Port turned city was named in honour of King Louis XV hence the name Port Louis. Subsequently, the capital has grown to become one of the best vacation spots in East Africa. Some will even say Mauritius is not just good for vacations but is one of the best countries in East Africa to live in. Therefore making Port Louis one of the best cities in East Africa. There are a lot of things to do when you combine the land and waters of Port Louis.
Port Louis, Mauritius
Where to stay
Cocotiers Hotel
The Oberoi Beach Resort
Sikamifer Tourist Resort
Le Suffren Hotel and Marina
The Address Boutique Hotel, etc.
Sunset Reef Resort and Spa
Places to visit
Go shopping at the Central Market, Craft Market,
Learn about the culture and people of Mauritius at places like the Blue Penny Museum, Natural History Museum, Photography Museum
Enjoy the view of the Aapravasi Ghat, Place d’Armes
Visit the Shrine of French Catholic Priest and missionary Pere Jacques-Desire Laval
Enjoy arts and culture at the Caudan Arts Centre, SSR Memorial Center for Culture, Municipal Theatre, ICAIO
Take a stroll through Jardins de la Compagnie, Citadel Fort, Caudan Waterfront,
Watch sporting activities at the Champ de Mars Racecourse and take a photo with the statue of King Edward VII found around the grounds
Also, explore the Mauritius National Botanical Garden
When to visit
Here the weather is most favourable from May to December. Hence, this makes it the best time to visit for a vacation. The beaches are at their best during this time and you are sure to have unending fun.
5. Kampala, Uganda
We are looking at cool vacation spots in East Africa and it rarely will get better than the beautiful city of Kampala. To begin with, 13 km square of water and 176 km square of land make up this amazing city. Also, it is packed with amazing fun activities. Moreover, it is home to the second-largest freshwater lake in the world and ten national parks. Therefore, exploring nature in Kampala is a decision you will never regret.
Kampala, Uganda
Where to stay
Speke Resort and Hotel
Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort
Kampala Suburbs Apartments
Latitude 0 Degrees
Dolphins Suites
The Humura Hotel, e.t.c.
Kampala Forest Resort
Places to visit
Worship at the Uganda National Mosque (Gaddafi Mosque), Ba’hai Temple, or the Rubaga Cathedral
Go shopping in the markets scattered around town – Owino Market, Crafts Village, Nakasero Food Market, etc.
Explore the amazing structures in a town like the Kabaka’s Palace, Kasubi Tombs, etc.
Enjoy and learn by exploring the Uganda National Museum, Asante Art Gallery
Learn about different reptiles by going on a guided tour through the Reptile Village
Also, visit the Botanical Garden
Explore Uganda’s has ten national parks
Visit Lake Victoria and enjoy the wildlife there.
Lastly, chill with the waters at the Kabbaka’s Lake
When to visit
Besides most of the other cities we talked about here, Kampala experiences a lot of rain. Also, it has two rainy seasons every year. The first starts from February and runs till June and the second goes from August to December. Therefore, this makes the periods between these rainy seasons best for planning your vacation.
6. Lilongwe, Malawi (Vacation Spots in East Africa)
Everything in Lilongwe shows you exactly why we have it on our list of the best places in East Africa. Be sure to get your cameras ready before you step out of the plane. Because you are going to be flicking from then till you leave.
Lilongwe, Malawi
Where to stay
Woodlands Lilongwe
Kasha premier Lodges
Kumbali Country Club
President Walmont Hotel
Adlib Executive Lodge
Mutheto Lodges, e.t.c.
Kumbali Country Club
Places to visit
Explore the Lilongwe wildlife centre, Nkhotakota wildlife reserve, Kuti Wildlife reserve
Go shopping in the market with a lot of them spread across town – Lizulu Horticulture market, Four Seasons Centre, crafts market, etc.
Go hiking – Nkhoma mountain, Nkhama Mountain
Also, explore and buy local art at places like La Galleria Africa
Take pictures with the Chongoni rock art area,
Visit the Kamuzu Mausoleum, World War I memorial
Learn a few things about the country’s tobacco industry at the Tobacco auction floors
Lastly, go to the Umunthu theatre for the variety show that takes place every Friday evenings
When to visit
We ultimately want to avoid the rainy season. Therefore, the best time would be between May and September. However, it is important to note that during summer, the temperatures can rise to around 32°C. At night during winter, it can drop down to around 10°C.
7. Antananarivo, Madagascar
This is one of the coolest vacation spots in East Africa when you arrive in Antananarivo. From the movies, we are clear on the fact that Madagascar is surely a country worth spending your vacation in. Antananarivo is blessed with water and land. Therefore, giving the best combination of resorts, beaches, parks, and reserves.
Antananarivo, Madagascar
Where to stay
Green Palace
Hotel La Maison Lovasoa
Madagascar Golden Peacock Hotel
Les Flots Bleu
Le Louvre Hotel & Spa
Hotel Carlton, e.t.c.
Places to visit
Take a tour of the Rova Palace, Queen’s Palace, Rovan’ Ambohimanga
Learn more about the history of Madagascar at the Musee Andafiavaratra, Musee de l’Art et de Archeologie
Visit the French Institute of Madagascar formerly called the Albert Camus Cultural Center to catch a show
Also enjoy nature and wildlife at Lemur’s Park, Croc Farm Ivato, Tsimbazaza Zoo,
Birdwatching at Parc de Tsarasaotra is one common activity among tourists
Go shopping at the Analakely market, La Digue market,
Lastly, enjoy and buy art at Is’Art Galarie, Lisy Art Gallery,
Oceanis Home & Voyages
When to visit
The best time to go on vacation here is between December and February. Because the weather is perfect during this time. On average, the temperature goes as high as 25.6°C. During summer, you can also visit for vacation – the rain is usually on break during this period.
8. Maputo, Mozambique
To this end, but that doesn’t mean this is less than the others in terms of quality and value. Maputo will remain one of the best vacation spots in Africa, not just in the East. The official name for the capital of Mozambique is Lourenco Marques until 1976 when it was changed. This location is specifically situated on the natural bay on the Indian Ocean. This city offers you a holiday filled with memories to last a lifetime.
Maputo, Mozambique
Where to stay
StayEasy Maputo
Pestana Rovuma
Southern Sun Maputo
Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence
Polana Serena Hotel
Hotel Cardoso, e.t.c.
Casa de Ferro
Places to visit
Visit the islands of Maputo and engage in a variety of activities
Go shopping at FEIMA, Mercado Central de Maputo, Maputo shopping centre,
Worship at the Peroqua Santo Antonio, Mesquita da
Learn about this town and her people at the Museu De Historia Natural de Maputo, Fortaleza of Maputo, Museu dos CFM, National Art Museum,
Also explore nature at the Maputo Elephant Reserve, unduru Botanical Gardens,
Enjoy art at its finest at the Fundacao Fernando Leite Couto, CCBM (Centro Cultural Brasil-Mocambique)
Lastly, see the amazing structure of the Casa de Ferro
When to visit
We suggest you plan your trip during the summer season (June to October). However, the sun stays up in the skies longer in January. Thus, it wouldn’t be a bad time to also visit and enjoy more time for your activities.
Conclusion Vacation Spots in East Africa
At the end of the day, making memories is what you want to make. This is exactly what these cities offer you. Thee rise of vacation spots in East Africa has turned the region into one of the top players in the Tourism game. However, if spending your vacation in East Africa is in the cart then visit Tripadvisor.
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