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YouTuber Reveals Top 3 African Destinations and Travel Advice
An American content creator, Drew Binsky, who has journeyed to all 54 nations on the African continent, has disclosed his top three favorite countries, offering travel tips and practical guidance for prospective visitors. The travel enthusiast, known for documenting his global explorations, previously shared a breakdown of his preferred African experiences in September 2022, generating significant interest among travel aficionados. Binsky suggests his selections may surprise some and inspire others to embark on their own African adventure.
Tanzania: Top Choice for First-Time African Travelers
Tanzania, an East African nation with a population exceeding 66 million, secured the top position on Binsky’s list. His enthusiasm for the country is evident in his travelogue. The globetrotter, on his fourth expedition to Tanzania, expressed his deep appreciation for the destination.
Highlighting his experiences, Binsky recounted interacting with the Hadzabe people, one of Africa’s last remaining hunter-gatherer societies. He further explored the renowned Serengeti National Park, witnessing the spectacular zebra and wildebeest migration. His itinerary also included the iconic Ngorongoro Crater in northern Tanzania, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Binsky described the natural wonder as immense, emphasizing its breathtaking scale. Additionally, he marveled at Mount Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest freestanding mountain, and relaxed on the beaches of Zanzibar, which he proclaimed to be among the world’s most stunning coastal escapes.
“For those considering their first trip to Africa, Tanzania should be your primary choice,” Binsky advised. He lauded the country’s safety, cleanliness, and hospitable locals, noting the prevalence of English and the absence of prevalent tourist scams, making it an ideal entry point to the continent.
Ethiopia: A Land of Diverse Culture and History
Ethiopia, an East African nation with a population exceeding 128 million, claimed the second spot on Binsky’s ranking. He commended the nation’s rich and varied cultures, having visited the country nine times. Binsky encouraged travelers to explore beyond the capital city of Addis Ababa to fully appreciate Ethiopia’s offerings.
He detailed visits to captivating locations outside the capital, including Dire Dawa in eastern Ethiopia and the historic walled city of Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Somali culture. Binsky also highlighted Lalibela, famed for its ancient monolithic rock-cut churches, emphasizing Ethiopia’s unique Christian heritage, a blend of Islam and a distinctive form of Christianity.
Venturing into Tigray in Northern Ethiopia, Binsky enjoyed a trek to mountaintop Christian churches carved into rock formations. He also explored Gondar, known for its Jewish community, and the Omo Valley in southwestern Ethiopia, celebrated for its diverse tribal communities with unique customs.
“Ethiopia boasts the finest cuisine in Africa, and the world’s best coffee originates here,” Binsky asserted, passionately recommending the country as a must-visit destination for cultural and culinary exploration.
Namibia: Desert Landscapes and Coastal Beauty
Namibia, a Southwest African nation with a population of nearly 3 million, completed Binsky’s top three list. It is recognized as the second least densely populated country globally, after Mongolia.
Binsky described Namibia as one of the select places where striking sand dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean coastline. He conveyed his understanding of Namibia’s widespread appeal, affirming its exceptional beauty. His itinerary included Etosha National Park and Windhoek, which he depicted as an appealing capital city. Binsky praised the warmth and friendliness of the Namibian people and their proficient English.
Concluding his Namibian exploration, Binsky visited Sossusvlei, praising its “incredible nature” characterized by desert landscapes and unique flora. He also mentioned encountering the Himba tribe near the Angolan border, renowned for their distinctive clay-covered hairstyles and rich cultural traditions. Binsky expressed his appreciation for engaging with African tribes, finding it enriching to learn about and respect their diverse cultures and heritage.