Many would often associate North Africa with Arabic violence and unrest but in reality the extreme north of the African continent is a veritable wonderland of vast deserts, spectacular architecture and a rich infusion of African, Middle East and Mediterranean culture.
Enjoy the exotic influence of a new world, from the dusty deserts of Algeria to the thrill of the seeing the spectacular Pyramid of Giza, there is really no end to the fun and excitement that awaits your visit.
I strongly advise that you take a trip to North Africa for your next vacation with family and friends, a perfect respite from the crowd and traffic jam in Lagos.
To help narrow down your choices and ease off the task of having to search for an ideal destination, a list of the top cities to visit has been curated to help you decide.
Cairo:
egypt-cairo-pyramids-of-giza
photo source: planetwares.com
The name Cairo conjures up images of ancient monuments, exotic Arabian bazaars and a glimpse of humanity’s first civilization. Take a trip to see the great Pyramid of Giza and the Sphinx in the company of an archaeologist or watch as the pyramid comes to life with a lit brilliance at night. From modern shopping complexes to traditional souks like the lively Khan el Khalili bazaar, a visit to the market provides an opportunity to get souvenirs and enjoy local cuisine. Remember to check out the renowned Egyptian Museum and nearby archaeological treasures of the Valley of Kings, where Egypt’s Pharaohs were laid to rest, see the Saqqara and Memphis or enjoy a dining cruise on River Nile before taking the day off.
Tunis:
Bardo National Museum Tunis
photo source: wikipedia
Tunis serves as the centre of Tunisian culture, home to Bardo National Museum, the most important archaeological museum in Maghreb and holds one of the richest collection of Roman mosaic in the world. Delve into the history of Tunis through the ages and enjoy an experience that takes you into a new a realm. From Moorish treks to Mediterranean cruises, the city has something for everyone.
Marrakech:
jemma el fna
photo source: freddynonstop.wordpress.com
Marrakech is a treasure drove of archaeological wonders, architectural masterpieces and a rich culture. Enjoy a refreshing bargain at its traditional market, the Jemma el Fnaa, a square known as an important centre of trade and a UNESCO world heritage site. Visit Marrakech Museum, the ancient mosques and some the palaces built by Moroccan kings.
Alexandria:
the light house alexandria
photo source: viator.com
The history of Alexandria is richly on display through its architectural wonders. The Light House of Alexandria and the Royal Library of Alexandria are some of the wonders of the ancient world while the Alexandria National Museum offers a chronological tour through history with about 1,800 artifacts from the Ancient, Coptic, Greco-Roman and Islamic periods in Egypt.
Casablanca:
hassan ii mosque casablanca
photo source: flicker.com
Explore the architectural wonder of Hassan II mosque, one of the world’s largest mosque, built to commemorate the 60th birthday of King Hassan II or enjoy a tram ride from the United Nation’s place through Marche Central de Casablanca to get a taste of the old culture. Stroll through a maze of narrow alleys in Old Medina, a virtual evidence of pre 20th century Casablanca.
Disclaimer: Ensure you check with local authorities or the embassy for travel warnings and advice before setting out.