8 of the most underrated travel experiences in Africa

ADVENTURE tour operator Explore Worldwide has researched over 350 hidden gems in more than 130 countries across six of the world’s continents to reveal which are the most underrated.

These travel experiences have been ranked based on how high their Trip Advisor score is versus how many people have actually reviewed the activity, and how many Google searches there are around the experience.

Below are some of the most underrated destinations on our beautiful and diverse continent, Africa.

Gishora Drum sanctuary in Burundi

This made the top spot, an experience where the art of Burundi’s ancient drum rituals is celebrated. The ritual takes you through history.

An Instagram post by @worldlist. travel says: “In Burundi, the drums were the pillar of the political power of the monarchy. They were made and beaten on special occasions by specialised families called ‘Abatimbo’ in important places, announcing great events of the country like the royal enthronement, the sowing festival, the funerals of the kings and gave the rhythm of regular seasons.”

The Roots Yard Off-grid camping, Ghana

The name should give you an indication of the type of experience this is. A chance for you and the family to spend quality time away from bustling towns. The campsite offers vegan food, a calming atmosphere, and long walks in absolute peace and quiet.

Kapishya Hot Springs, Chinsali, Zambia

Third on the list is Kapishya hot spring. It’s an extraordinary destination where you can enjoy warm waters surrounded by palm trees on the banks of the Mansha River.

You leave relaxed and ready for life.

Langebaan Lagoon, South Africa

This is a large saltwater lagoon. The beautiful landscape attracts numerous waterbirds, including Palearctic specimens and rare migrant Wader. What makes this lagoon special is that it has

“been shaped by the rise and fall of sea levels over time, and is a self-sustaining, pure saltwater lagoon”.

The West Coast is a beautiful part of South Africa, and brings a sense of peace and tranquillity, with calm waters, white sand and a peaceful environment, ideal to de-stress.

Boat trip to Nosy Fanihy Island, Madagascar

Get whisked away with the captain of the village of Andilana to this deserted island. Also known as Robinson Crusoé Island, here you can explore, fishing sailing, snorkelling and swimming, in transparent turquoise waters. You can also hike around the island.

Bring your own food and water as there are no stores available for buying provisions.

This is so secluded, it could make a good honeymoon trip.

Hiking the Drakensberg

Hiking has become a tradition for some. Explore Worldwide noted that the Drakensberg Mountains, the highest in southern Africa, offer a hiking and camping experience unlike any other, yet often go unnoticed by visitors.

This is especially for those who enjoy a challenging hike experience. However, there are hiking trails for

everyone, from beginners to advanced. Drakensberg Hiker (a guided Drakensberg Hike) offers a variety of guided hikes for people of all levels of fitness.

Spiagge di Anse Marron – The Secret Beach, Seychelles

Similar to Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town, Western Cape, Spiagge di Anse Marron is one of the most beautiful beaches on Earth, surrounded by rocks and calm waters. To make it even sexier, the beach is private, giving it that “secret” beach vibe, a true gem.

Take a hike or go by boat, but make sure to visit this “love island” beach. As stated at earthtrip.com: “The trail goes into the water, over rocks and through the dense forest. You will be rewarded as the destination of Spiagge di Anse Marron is so unique and hard to compare with other beaches.’’

Pelican Point Kayaking, Walvis Bay

Situated in Namibia is Pelican Point Kayaking, considered another one of Africa’s underrated places, scoring a

dashing 66 points. If you haven’t been, it makes a great activity for the family.

According to the official website: ‘’Pelican Point provides a home to up to 50 000 Cape Fur seals, lots of Heaviside’s and bottlenose dolphins, black-backed jackals, flamingoes, pelicans and even the brown hyena.

“The Pelican Point lighthouse, erected nearly 100 years ago, still casts a guiding light to sailors at night.’’

There are many animals to see. You can imagine how exciting it will be for the little ones. To make the experience even better, visitors are able to kayak alongside dolphins and seals.

Not to worry, it’s reported that the animals do not see humans as a threat. In fact, the seals interact with you, splashing water at you playfully.

It’s time to give the underrated places on the African continent a lot more love. Many South Africans are now choosing to holiday in Africa rather than internationally. As Explore Worldwide revealed, Langebaan Lagoon and hiking the Drakensberg should be added to your bucket list, along with other adventures in Africa.