Much like India couldn’t be more different to Russia, northern Africa resembles very little of the southern point of the continent. Here, much of the populace subscribe to Islam, there are countless kilometres of desert, and enough history to fill dozens of books.
Northern Africa is extremely diverse, with a multitude of countries, each offering a unique culture and history. Any adventurers that are looking to explore the upper half of Africa, these are one-of-a-kind destinations not worth missing.
Marrakesh
Found right at the top of the continent, Morocco is a country overflowing with culture, and anyone going through the region will want to stop in at one of its most well-known cities: Marrakesh. One of four imperial cities of Morocco, this is a fascinating metropolis with countless stores and traders along its streets and an incredible assortment of smells and sights.
The Pyramids Of Giza
The Pyramids represent a time when the human race was truly becoming a globally dominant species, where it was clear that we weren’t like anything else that lived on the planet. Built over 5000 years ago, the Pyramids of Giza are massive crypts that were constructed as fitting resting places of the Pharaohs of old. They’re so old that they were one of the seven Wonders of the ancient world, a status that they’ve held on to all these years later. While they’ve been sealed off from the public, it’s still possible to walk through them and admire the incredible workmanship that went into every one.
Tunis
Tunisia is a mesmerizing and vibrant country that offers an almost endless amount to see and do, and nothing exemplifies this more than its capital city: Tunis. With thousands of years of history behind it, Tunis offers visitors a chance to learn about the various religions, cultures and peoples that have lived in the area, along with the many wars that have been fought. It’s also close to Carthage, ancient that are worth taking the 10 minute train ride to. And if there wasn’t enough on offer, Tunis also boasts one of the very best museums in northern Africa.
The Sahara Desert
Although the Sahara Desert borders on multiple countries throughout the area, Tunisia is probably the best starting point for the brave that want to wander through the vast expanse of the desert. It’s the very largest of its kind, its home to endless points of interest, as well as ancient settlements that have survived in the dunes for hundreds of years. If that wasn’t enough, the view of the stars in the area are said to be some of the very best in the world thanks to the lack of light pollution.
The Atlas Mountains
If the sands of the Sahara become overwhelming, maybe some time in the snow might be in order. Set in the mountains of Morocco, the Atlas Mountains are 4000 metres above sea level, and offer some of the most difficult climbs on earth. And while it’s possible to mount the summit in as little as a day, it’s a good idea to learn the area before trying.