Best Cities For Expats In Africa part 2 – Part one is here.

10 Best Tourists Attractions to Visit in Africa

Africa is one of the most diverse continents in the world. It’s home to some major natural attractions like Victoria Falls and many cultural highlights. That being said, let us have a look at the greatest tourist attractions in Africa.

1)    The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Topping the list of best tourist attractions to visit in Africa is the Great Pyramid of Giza, located in Egypt. This is considered one of man’s greatest marvels and a must-see for anyone visiting Africa. It was built 4,500 years ago during a period that lasted 20 years involving 100,000 men. The pyramid rises at 481 ft (146 m) high, with a base covering 13 acres. Every year, about four million tourists visit this attraction.

2)    Victoria in Seychelles

This is the largest island of Seychelles and covers 86 sq km. It’s about 400 km away from Africa’s east coast, making it one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Africa. Tourists can opt to stay in any of its exclusive resorts in bungalows with a pool and rich vegetation in a secluded bay. Other tourist attractions to visit in Africa include the botanical garden, catamaran trip around the island, and diving.

3)    Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa

Table Mountain is one of South Africa’s most beautiful scenic spots that feature an almost flat tablet-shaped mountain whose granite core rises to 3,554 ft (1,085 m) above sea level. The mountain’s flat top has an area covering 57 sq mi (150 km2).

It is famous for the flat-topped Table Mountain, which served as a significant landmark when ships were in the Cape Town harbor. It can be seen almost everywhere in Cape Town and is one of the most popular tourist attractions to visit in Africa.

4)    Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve in Madagascar

The limestone formations found here are like a maze, making it difficult for visitors to see beyond them. There is an area where there are many deep caverns and caves. While there, visitors can take a bath in its hot spring waters or see the rare birds that have their own natural habitat here.

5)    The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania

This is one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Africa because it’s home to thousands of animals, especially elephants, lions, zebras, hippos, and giraffes. Tourists can visit the Serengeti in different seasons when there are different animals in various places around the park.

6)    Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

This is a dormant volcano rising to a height of 19,341 ft (5,895 m) above sea level with a base covering an area of 189 sq mi (490 km2). Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and has been named one of the 7 New Wonders of the World and one of the top 10 tourist attractions to visit in Africa.

7)    Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania

This is a vast extinct volcano covering 8,000 acres (32 km2). The crater walls have a number of animals that can be seen as they graze or hunt for food. On the crater floor, many animals can be seen while on safari. Visitors will definitely enjoy exploring this tourist attraction to visit in Africa.

8)    Visiting a Maasai village in Kenya

In the past, there have been conflicts between the Maasai tribe and tourists because some tribesmen were not educated on how to treat a tourist.

However, some tribesmen have learned the value of tourism in their community and are working hand in hand with tour operators in ensuring that tourists have a great time. There are many Maasai tribes in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda which offer tourists to visit them so they can see how these people live.

9)    Luxor Temple in Luxor, Egypt

This is one of the oldest temples in Egypt, which was built over 3,000 years ago by Amenhotep III. This temple has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list and features many ancient Egyptian artefacts, including statues of pharaohs and many other things. There are also substantial black-granite statues of the pharaoh Ramses II which stand 66 ft (20 m) tall and weigh 1,200 tons each.

10) Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey

This is a very large complex featuring a mosque, two minarets, and eight different domes with beautiful blue tiles, which can be seen from other areas in the city. Visitors will definitely enjoy exploring the many rooms that this mosque has, which includes a library containing 12,000 manuscripts. It also features a room for women with a fountain used to wash before praying.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Africa

What will I need to prepare to live in Africa?

Africa is different than where you are now. Prepare yourself for these differences to avoid culture shock. Ask yourself what you will need to prepare before moving here, such as food, clothes, money, assets (obvious things like that).

What language do people speak in Africa?

There are many different languages spoken in Africa, depending on the area you move to. If you want to avoid being confused by people talking around you, learn a few words of their language. Even knowing a few numbers or hand gestures will give you a better chance at communicating with them.

How do I contact 911 in case of emergencies?

It is important to know how to call the authorities in an emergency, whether fire, medical, or police. Make sure you know how it works in Africa if you want help quickly when needed.

Conclusion

Living in Africa has its pros and cons. It may be one of the most beautiful places on Earth, but it can also be dangerous. This way, you should always consider their surroundings carefully before moving to the continent. Nonetheless, refer to this platform for more information regarding the cost of living in Africa and others.

Best Cities For Expats In Africa part 1 – that will be the topic of today’s article.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Africa is one of the largest continents in the World and has a very long history. For thousands of years, cultures have been coming and going, leaving their own unique impacts on the land. The diversity that exists today across Africa results from this long history, making it a hotspot for adventure seekers who want to make a difference in a new land.

With the continent’s long history of empires, expanding trade routes, and wars, it’s not surprising that there are many different cultures across Africa today. However, not all countries in Africa are equally welcoming to expats looking for a new home.

To know which African cities will provide you with an opportunity to experience all of the cultures on offer in this big continent, take a look at our expat guide to the best cities for expats in Africa. One of the key criteria used when choosing which countries and cities would be included in this list.

According to many publications, Africa is one of the regions where the number of expats is particularly low. This means that many destinations on this list will be very different from the ones you live in now and may require a bit more research to get used to.

Today, we have compiled this article to meet your needs. If you’ve been surfing the internet to get the right information about the best cities for expats in Africa, look no further. Aside from this fact, we will walk you through the interesting facts about living in Africa as an expat. Read further to get the full details.

Interesting Facts about Living in Africa

Living in Africa can be an extraordinary experience. If you’re planning to come out here for travel or work, here are the top 8 most interesting facts about living in Africa that everyone should know.

Transportation Is Cheap and Readily Available

Public transport like bus and train systems are extremely good (in some countries), making it incredibly easy to get around. Anyone interested in seeing the entire country by bus or train will get their wish, as long as they are willing to spend some time on the road!

Conversely, owning a vehicle is incredibly cheap. For example, if you wanted to buy a decent-sized car in South Africa, the chances are that it would only cost about 8 000 USD, which is on par with buying a car in the states. Even if you wanted to repurchase a small hatch, it would still only cost about 3 000 USD.

Transportation costs are also low compared to western values; for example, getting around by taxi will only cost about $1 0 per trip on local trips and maybe $4 on longer trips.

No Real Health Concerns

Africa is a very healthy continent overall, but there are some risks like malaria and bilharzia (found in some parts of the Nile River). However, these risks can be managed by taking precautions like sleeping under mosquito nets, wearing long sleeves, and using mosquito repellent.

People Are Incredibly Friendly

Africans are also very friendly people who will go out of their way to help you if they see that you’re in need. This is especially true if it’s something small like taxi directions or advice. I’ve never once been refused help by a local person.

In addition to this, if you’re out drinking with Africans, they will buy rounds of drinks for everyone in the bar without hesitation.

High Chance of Seeing Wild Life

Africa is also one of the best places to see animals in their natural habitat in all their glory. For example, in South Africa, there are numerous safari opportunities to see lions, elephants, leopards, and even rhinos. These experiences will be a memory to last a lifetime!

The Food Is Delicious

I have yet to meet a cuisine I didn’t like in Africa so far! African cooking varies from place to place, but some mainstays are pretty common. One of these is Ugali, which I would describe as the African version of mashed potatoes mixed with flour and salt, which can be eaten plain or rolled up into small balls to pick up sauces.

It’s definitely an interesting taste, but you get used to it very quickly! For me, it tastes quite mild compared to the spices and chilis that are used in cooking. Another staple is ‘fufu,’ which is also made from flour, but instead of being cooked like a dumpling, it’s soaked in water to form a doughy ball.

It doesn’t have much taste on its own, so if you’re looking for something bland, then fufu is perfect. If you ever come to South Africa, I would recommend checking out the famous bunny chow! This is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry and can be found in most townships across the country.

It might seem like an odd thing, but it’s incredibly delicious! A national dish of South Africa is ‘bobotie,’ a dish made from spiced mince, and it’s delicious too.

The Weather Isn’t Bad

Depending on where you are in Africa, the weather can be quite mild. For example, South Africa has four main seasons, but it’s never too cold or hot. If anything, it’s usually too wet or dry! However, for those who love snow, then there is always skiing nearby (in places like Lesotho and Swaziland), just a few hours away from Cape Town.

Great Place to Make Friends

By living in Africa for a year, I have made some amazing friends worldwide who will be friends for life. This is because many people come here on gap years, internships, or even visits when they are younger, and it’s an amazing way to meet new and interesting people.

There Is Always Something Happening

Africa is an incredibly fast-paced continent where there are always things going on. Whether it’s a festival in the Tanzanian islands, a sports match in Cape Town, or even just watching locals party out in the township; there will always be something to do.

14 Best Cities for Expats in Africa

Many people worldwide dream of living and working abroad, but not everyone dares actually to move. If you’re looking for a new home and want to explore Africa, we’ve rounded up some of the best places for expats in Africa.

1.    Nairobi

Population: Over 3 million Locations: Eastern Africa, south of Somalia, north of Tanzania

Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya. It’s a world-class metropolis with all the necessary amenities to make life comfortable for expats. Nairobi has everything you need, from international schools to shopping malls, and being so close to nature makes it an ideal place to live in Africa.

2.    Kigali

Population: Over One million Locations: Central Africa, Rwanda

Kigali is the capital of Rwanda. It’s a fast-growing city known for its safe streets and stable economy. Expats who live in Kigali tend to praise the security it offers as well as the low cost of living—the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $650/month.

3.    Dar es Salaam

Population: Over 4.3 million Locations: Eastern Africa, Tanzania

Dar es Salaam is the largest city in Tanzania, and it’s known for its high crime rate, so this might not be the best choice if you’re looking to live somewhere safe. However, there are some good reasons to move here. The Tanzanian government is trying to improve the city by building new infrastructure and offering more tourism attractions, so it’s definitely worth considering if you want to live in Africa.

4.    Cairo

Population: Over 16 million Locations: Northern Africa, Egypt

Even though Cairo is pretty hot and crowded, there are still some opportunities for expats here. If you’re a business professional who wants to take their career to the next level and explore new things, this might be an ideal place for you. Plus, there are several universities within the city to continue your education.

5.    Windhoek

Population: Over 300,000 Locations: Southern Africa, Namibia

Windhoek is the capital of Namibia—a place known for its wide-open spaces and desert landscapes. Expats here enjoy living in a city that still feels like a small town. Windhoek has an international airport and a developing tourism industry, so it’s a good place if you want to explore Africa while still being comfortable.

6.    Accra

Population: Over 2 million Locations: West Africa, Ghana

The capital of Ghana is known for its high crime rate and traffic congestion, but it’s also a great city if you’re looking to do some volunteer work. Expats here really like the fact that there are several bars and nightclubs, but be careful because fights can break out frequently (or there could be a kidnapping if you’re walking on your own late at night).

7.    Kampala

Population: Over 2 million Locations: East Africa, Uganda

If you love to travel and want to experience different cultures, Kampala might be your best bet as one of the top cities for expats in Africa. Living here is pretty cheap, but you have to be careful with the crime. There are certain areas where expats tend to avoid going after dark, making life a bit difficult at times.

8.    Lagos

Population: Over 22 million Locations: West Africa, Nigeria

Lagos is known as one of the most densely populated cities in the world, so it might not be the best choice if you’re looking to escape from a big city lifestyle. Expats here praise Lagos for its rich culture and vibrant nightlife, but at the same time, they complain about how many people are trying to scam them.

9.    Cape Town

Population: Over 4 million Locations: Southern Africa, South Africa

Living in Cape Town is not for everyone because it’s known as one of the most expensive cities in Africa, so you might have trouble making friends if you don’t have a big salary. That being said, it’s not hard to find job opportunities here because the economy is doing so well. The city also has a lot of great beaches and hiking trails if you’re looking to get some fresh air.

10. Windhoek

Population: Over 300,000 Locations: Southern Africa, Namibia

Windhoek is the capital of Namibia—a place known for its wide-open spaces and desert landscapes. Expats here enjoy living in a city that still feels like a small town. Windhoek has an international airport and a developing tourism industry, so it’s a good place if you want to explore Africa while still being comfortable.

11. Addis Ababa

Population: Over 3 million Locations: East Africa, Ethiopia

If you’re looking for an exciting place where you can make a difference and help others, Addis Ababa might be the right choice. Expats here value the beauty of the Ethiopian culture and their experiences learning new languages (many locals speak at least three different languages). There aren’t many bars or nightclubs, but there are several malls and things to do if you’re looking for an entertaining night out.

12. Algiers

Population: Over 3 million Locations: Northern Africa, Algeria

If you want to live in North Africa but don’t like Morocco (Algiers is right next door), the city of Algiers might be a good choice. Expats praise how easy it is to travel to other places around the continent from here because there are often cheap flights from Algiers. It’s a pretty safe city too, but the only downside is that it can get boring at times.

13. Asmara

Population: Over 600,000 Locations: East Africa, Eritrea

If you want to live in Africa but are looking for a different experience than other expats, Asmara might be the best choice. It’s known as one of the safest cities on the continent, and there are also many job opportunities for expats who have the right skills.

14. Lusaka

Population: Over 1 million Locations: Southern Africa, Zambia

Living in Lusaka is pretty cheap, and the city has a vibrant culture, so it could be a good choice if you want to experience living in Africa without spending too much money. Expats here complain about how often they get sick because the roads can be poorly maintained and there is a lot of air pollution.

Understanding the Cost of Living in Ghana

If you are coming to Ghana, most likely, you will be looking for a place to live. You can choose between renting or buying. Renting is far less expensive than buying, so if you are on a tight budget, this may be preferable.

However, it is nice having your own space, and if you plan on spending more than six months in the country, it may be more cost-effective to buy. The following is a list of the main expenses that you should keep in mind when preparing your budget:

●        Rent: can range from 10$-50$. If you live in a city such as Accra or Kumasi, you should expect to pay closer to the higher end of this scale.

●        Lunchtime meals: can cost as little as 2.50-3$.

●        Dinner out at a restaurant: will run around 5$. If you are eating dinner in a nice place with air conditioning, you should expect to pay closer to 10$.

●        Transportation costs: taxis are the most expensive form of transportation. You could easily spend 50 cedis ($20) in one evening. Buses are much cheaper, but they are challenging to figure out and not very comfortable. The best way to get around is by car. You can usually find a driver to take you where you want to go for 10-15 cedis per hour ($5-$7).

●        Groceries: the minimum you will probably pay for groceries is 150 cedis ($60) per week. You can usually get breakfast ingredients (bread, eggs, juice, fruit) for around 25 cedis (.50$). Fresh vegetables are also cheap, but meat and fish are more expensive.

●        Entertainment: movies range from 5-7 dollars, a nice dinner for two at a restaurant with air conditioning is 10$.

Cons of Living in Ghana as an Expat

There are many pros to living in Ghana as a foreigner. They tend to have great salaries, live in large, luxurious homes with maids and drivers. Not only is that, but they have access to some of the best cuisines on the continent, do not have to wait in popular lines at bars or clubs, and many more. However, there are also some downsides; check it out below.

• It’s expensive to maintain a lifestyle like you’re accustomed to at home.
• Threatened and even attacked by locals if you dare to take certain shortcuts or cut through popular areas (especially, but not exclusively, late at night).
• Foreigners are often treated as walking wallets or ATMs.
• Inability to fully follow the local culture and customs due to foreignness.
• Generally, expats who adapt to a luxury lifestyle will have difficulty making ends meet in Ghana.
• Dining out is very expensive compared to eating local food or going grocery shopping and cooking.
• Corruption is so pervasive, even the richest of foreigners are not immune to it.
• You can never get all of your money out of the country due to capital controls, etc.
• A foreigner who gets into a car accident will have extreme difficulty finding someone trustworthy to work on their car or deal with the accident’s aftermath.
• The threat of disease – especially mosquito-borne like malaria and dengue fever is ever-present and can ruin your life if you contract it (and even if you don’t).

4 Best Cities to Reside in Ghana

Since you’re planning to relocate to Ghana, it’s high time you know the best places to visit. Here are four of the best cities where you can live.

1.    Accra

If you want an international city experience but don’t want to travel too far away, then you should try Accra. This city is filled with opportunities and can provide an excellent atmosphere for you. The city has a lot of activities going on, with many beaches just within a 15-kilometer radius from each other. Also, the weather in the summer is also pleasant because it never gets too hot or humid to handle.

2.    Kumasi

Are you looking for adventure? If so, then you should definitely look into moving to the second-best city in Ghana. Kumasi is known for its rich culture and heritage, with historical monuments that will leave you breathless. This city also has many opportunities for career-driven individuals since it’s a major center for trade and commerce. You can also visit nearby villages if you want some peace of mind.

3.    Tamale

Tamale is a city in northern Ghana and is known for having some of the best people you’ll ever meet in your life. Since it’s an inland city, there’s never a dull moment, especially because of its close proximity to rivers and hills that surround it. If you’re into nature, then this is the place to be.

Moreover, the best part about Tamale is its atmosphere. People in this city are very friendly and kind, which will help you adapt to your new environment a lot easier. The weather here is also pleasant, with warm temperatures all year long.

4.    Sekondi-Takoradi

Last but certainly not least is Sekondi-Takoradi. This is also an international city with opportunities, but it’s known for its beaches and nature preserves. The best part about living in this coastal town is that you’ll never get bored of the beach. And this is because it never gets overcrowded or flooded during high tide. You can even go fishing or boat-riding with your friends and family here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Ghana

How is the internet?

The internet here in Ghana can be very spotty and slow, but not to the extent that it has access to Wi-Fi outside of your home or office. If anything, expect situations when there are no Wi-Fi hotspots available, but you can still use 3G on your phone.

How is the healthcare system?

In Ghana, there are both public and private health systems that you can join to receive coverage. The easiest way to do this is by registering with a mission hospital or clinic in Ghana as a member of their staff (The staff member must be a Ghanaian). Also, the cost for this will depend on how much money you can afford and whether or not you want to support a mission-oriented organization.

How is the safety?

Ghana is overall a very safe country, but some parts of the city aren’t as developed as others and thus not as secure. As long as you don’t go wandering into dangerous areas (which we’re sure no one would want to do anyway) and keep your money in a safe place (such as keeping it at the bank), you will be fine.

What is the food like?

The food here in Ghana is very good, especially when eating fresh fruits and vegetables that don’t have to be imported. Besides, there are lots of different options when it comes to food here too. This means that if there is something you miss from back home, chances are it’s just a plane ride away.

Do I really need a visa?

If you are staying in Ghana for longer than 90 days, then yes, you will probably need to apply for a visa. Fortunately, this process is not too difficult, and it only takes about 5-6 business days to receive once you have handed in your application.

How easy is it to relocate from Ghana?

Relocating from Ghana will be challenging but not impossible. If you can afford a plane ticket out of Ghana, then I’m sure you will find a way. However, this will depend on how much money you have and what your living situation is like.

What should I bring?

There are a few items that you might want to consider bringing with you if you know that they will be hard to find in Ghana. Some of these things would include; toilet paper, first aid supplies, and mosquito repellents (and anything else that might help with the mosquitoes).

Conclusion

Having a taste of African cultures in Ghana would surprise you and tempt you to relocate to this country. If you’ve been procrastinating about living in this country, here’s the time to stand up! We’ve got you covered by explaining the tips and everything needed. Should in case you need to know more, refer to this ultimate guide for more information.