Generally, the languages of Africa break down into 3 large families (phyla) known as Niger-Congo, Nilo-Saharan, and Afroasiatic.

How Many Languages Are in Africa?

There are over 3000 languages in Africa, making it one-third of the world’s languages.

These languages fall under different language classifications, with Niger-Congo being the largest.

Among the many languages in Africa, Nigeria is the country with the most languages on the continent. Nigeria, a West African country has over 500 languages with its three major native languages – Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba being among the most popular languages in Africa.

In Africa, there are indigenous languages and foreign languages which have been adopted due to colonialism.

Many of these foreign languages such as English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French are used in some countries as Lingua Franca while in other countries, there is also the use of native languages in formal settings.

For instance, South Africa has 12 formal languages and Zimbabwe has 16 official languages. In both countries, numerous native languages are used as formal languages rather than other foreign languages.

The 5 Main Languages Spoken in Africa and the Countries They Are Found 

1. Swahili (200 Million)

• Native Speakers: 18 million
• Foreign Speakers: 55 million
• Countries Found: Tanzania, Kenya, Comoros, Mayotte, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Southern Somalia, Zambia, Malawi, Madagascar and Oman
• Language Family: Niger-Congo

Swahili, also known as Kiswahili is a popular African language and is the most spoken on the continent. It is found in East Africa with over 200 million speakers in estimation.

Swahili is an official language in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Tanzania has the highest number of Swahili native speakers.

Regardless, the language has speakers in other African countries such as Comoros, Mayotte, Burundi, Somalia, Zambia, Malawi, and Madagascar.

There are also many learners of the language across the world. For instance, Swahili is taught in over 50 universities in the US and several others in Europe and Asia.

2. Arabic (150 Million)

• Speakers: 150 million
• Countries Found: Algeria, Chad, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania (Zanzibar), and Tunisia
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic

According to some estimations about the most popular languages in Africa, Arabic is the most spoken language in Africa. However, the numbers based on estimation show that there are over 150 million native speakers in 13 countries.

Interestingly, Arabic is mutually unintelligible in some cases. This means that the variations of the language are different making some speakers unable to understand other speakers.

Arabic is mainly found in Northern Africa with Egypt, Algeria, Libya, and Sudan having some of the highest speakers. However, the language is also a minority language in northeastern Nigeria.

Apart from Arabic being a native language and having numerous native speakers in Africa, it is widely used in the entire continent for religious purposes in Islamic settings.

3. Hausa (88 million)

• Native Speakers: 54 million
• Foreign Speakers: 34 million
• Countries Found: Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Benin, Togo, Niger, Chad, Sudan, Ivory Coast, and Burkina Faso
• Language Family: Afroasiatic

Hausa is the most spoken language in Nigeria, the most populated country in Africa. However, it is the third most popular language in Africa, coming after Arabic and Swahili.

Hausa is a Chadic language and the speakers who are known as the Hausa people (Hausawa) migrated from Nubia to Niger. Currently, native speakers of the language are found in Northern Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, Niger, and Chad among other West African languages.

The language has numerous dialects known as Dauranci in Daura, Kananci in Kano, Sakkwatanci in Sokoto, Kurhwayanci, and Gaananci in Ghana; and Togo to mention a few.

4. Amharic (60 Million)

• Native Speakers: 35 million
• Foreign Speakers: 25 million
• Countries Found: Ethiopia, Eritrea
• Language Family: Afroasiatic (Semitic Group)

Amharic is a Semitic language under the Afro-Asiatic language family. It is the second most spoken language in Ethiopia, the second most spoken Semitic language in the world after Arabic, and the 4th most spoken language in Africa.

In Ethiopia, it is the official working language of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

5. Yoruba (47 Million)

• Native Speakers: 45 million
• Foreign Speakers: 2 million
• Countries Found: Nigeria, Togo, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia
• Language Family:  Niger-Congo (Atlantic-Congo)

The Yoruba language is native to Yoruba people who are mainly found in West Africa in southwestern and central Nigeria, Togo, and Benin. It is also found in Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia, mostly due to migration.

The language is the second most popular language and one of the three major languages in Nigeria.

The Yoruba language has different dialects such as Northwest, Northeast, Central, Southwest, and Southeast (in Nigeria); and Lucumí language and Oworo dialects among others.

Yoruba is used for religious purposes (Yoruba religion (Ìṣẹ̀ṣe)- Traditional African religions) and is very popular in the US, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, and St. Vincent & The Grenadines.

Other Languages in Africa Based on Their Popularity 

6. Oromo (45.5 million)

• Speakers: 45.5 million
• Countries Found: Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia
• Language Family: Afroasiatic

Oromo is a popular language found mostly in eastern Africa Kenya and Ethiopia. It is also spoken in some parts of Somalia, Libya, Egypt, and Sudan.

In Africa, it is the fourth most spoken language. Regardless, it is the most popular language found in Ethiopia – where it is spoken the most in the world. In the country, it is used officially alongside Amharic.

The language was once banned in Ethiopia. This was under Haile Selassie’s regime in 1940 (until 1991) when it was stopped from being spoken, used administratively, in schools, and in many other ways.

Oromo has different varieties including:

• Western Oromo (Maca)
• Shewa (Tuulama, Arsi)
• Eastern Oromo (Harar)
• Southern Oromo (Ajuran, Borana, Gabra, Munyo, Orma, Sakuye, Waata)

7. Lingala (Ngala)- 40 Million

• Native Speakers: 20 million
• Foreign Speakers: 20 million 
• Countries Found: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Angola, the Central African Republic, Kenya, and South Sudan.
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

Lingala is a Bantu language that is found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Angola, the Central African Republic, Kenya, and South Sudan. It has at least 20 million native speakers and about 20 million second-language speakers.

According to Wikipedia, the number of speakers is approximated between 60 to 65 million.

The language has different regiolects and sociolects. The major varieties are northwestern Lingala, Kinshasa Lingala, and Brazzaville Lingala.

8. Fula – 39.7

• Native Speakers: 37 million
• Foreign Speakers: 2.7 million
• Countries Found: Guinea, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Sudan
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Senegambian branch)

Fula which is also known as Fulani, Fulfulde, Pulaar, or Pular is a Senegambian language of the Atlantic-Congo family of the Niger-Congo language family.

It is the 8th most popular language in Africa and an official language in Burkina Faso.

The language is a major language mainly found in West Africa, Central, and North Africa.

Fula has speakers in Fula speakers can be found in Mauritania, Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gambia, Chad, Sierra Leone, Benin, Guinea-Bissau, Sudan, Central African Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Liberia and Gabon.

9. Igbo – 32.5 Million

• Native Speakers: 31 million
• Foreign Speakers: 1.5 million
• Countries Found: Nigeria
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Atlantic–Congo)

The Igbo language is an old language, one of the three major languages in Nigeria, and the 7th most popular language in Africa. The language is native to the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria.

In Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, the language is recognized as a minority language.

Despite being native to only a part of West Africa, Igbo people are considered the most traveled ethnic group in Nigeria and some of the most traveled ethnic groups in Africa. This means that their language can be found spoken beyond the shores of Nigeria or Africa.

10. Malagasy – 25 million

• Native Speakers: 25 million
• Countries Found: Madagascar and the Comoros
• Language Family: Austronesian (Barito language Branch)

Malagasy is one of the two official languages found in Madagascar. There is a minority of speakers of the language in Comoros. The language is spoken by at least 24 million people and it is considered as one fo the most popular languages in Africa.

The language is the westernmost Malayo-Polynesian language and it is closely related to the Ma’anyan language.

Malagacy has twelve dialects between two main dialect groups; Eastern and Western. Some of the dialects include Northern Betsimisaraka Malagasy, Antankarana Malagasy, Southern Betsimisaraka Malagasy, Plateau (Merina) Malagasy, Tsimihety Malagas, and Tandroy-Mahafaly Malaga.

11. Somali – 24 Million

• Native Speakers: 24 million
• Countries Found: Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic (Cushitic branch)

Somali is the most spoken language in Somalia, with about 89% of the population speakers. It is also the official language of the country as well as one of the 5 official languages in Ethiopia.

Somali is also spoken in Djibouti and Kenya. In total, there are about 24 million speakers of the language, making it the ninth most popular language in Africa.

The language belongs to the Cushite branch in the Afroasiacc language family.

Somali, like many other languages in Africa, has numerous dialects such as Ashraf, Benadiri, Maay, and Northern Somali.

12. Wolof – 23.1 Million

• Native Speakers: 7.1 million
• Foreign Speakers: 16 million
• Countries Found: Senegal, Mauritania, Gambia
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Senegambia Branch)

Wolof is one of the most widely spoken languages in Western Africa and one of the most popular in Africa. It is the most spoken language in Senegal with over 40% of the country’s population speaking it.

The language is also spoken in Gambia and also in Gambia.

Wolof is so popular that the English language borrowed words from the language. Some of the languages include banana and eat (as a root word).

The language has variations. For instance, the Senegalese Wolof is different from the Mauritanian and Gambian Wolof.

13. Xhosa (Xosa or isiXhosa)- 20 Million 

• Native Speakers: 10 million
• Foreign Speakers: 10 million
• Countries Found: South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

Xhosa is an Nguni language and one of the 12 official languages in South Africa. It is also an official language in Zimbabwe. Together with Zulu, Southern Ndebele, and Northern Ndebele, Xhosa is included in the Zunda languages.

The language is so popular that about 18% of South Africa’s population speaks it.

Also, due to its popularity, the language is the official language of Wakanda, a Hollywood film.

14. Afrikaans – 17.5 Million

• Native Speakers: 7.2 million
  
• Foreign Speakers: 10.3 million
• Countries Found: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Indo-European (Germanic branch)

Afrikaans is a language that was developed in the 18th century. It started as a vernacular until it later became a language that is native to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The language is believed to be one of the sexiest languages and accents in South Africa.

15. Berber- 16 Million

• Speakers: 16 Million
• Countries Found: Morocco, Algeria
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic (Semitic Group)

Berber is an ethnic group which is also known as Amazigh. The language has some similarities with some Semitic languages such as Arabic and Hebrew.

The language is mainly native to North Africa, in countries such as Morrocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt. It is also spoken in some West African countries such as Mali and Niger.

Among the countries where Berber is spoken, Morocco has the most native speakers, claiming between 15 to 20 million speakers.

16. Chewa (Nyanja) 14 million

• Native Speakers: 14 million
• Countries Found: Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

Chewa is spoken by at least 14 million native speakers and it is also spoken as a second language.

The language is one of the most famous languages found in Africa and the most widely known in Malawi. It is also native to Zambia and Mozambique.

17. Sepedi (Sesotho sa Lebowa; Northern Sotho) – 13.8 Million

• Native Speakers: 4.7 million
• Foreign Speakers: 9.1 million
• Countries Found: South Africa
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

Sepedi is the fifth most-spoken language in South Africa and one of the most popular in Africa. The Bantu language shares similarities with Setswana.

Sepedi has numerous dialects such as Bapedi, Phokwane, Bakone, Chuene, and Batlokwa.

18. Sesotho (Southern Sotho)- 13.5 Million

• Native Speakers: 5.6 million
• Foreign Speakers: 7.9 million
• Countries Found: Lesotho, South Africa, Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Southern Bantu)

Sesotho is a Bantu language which is also one of the twelve official languages in South Africa, one of the two official languages of Lesotho, and one of the sixteen official languages of Zimbabwe.

The language is closely related to other Bantu languages such as Venda, Tsonga, Tonga, and Lozi.

19. Kirundi (Rundi)- 13 million

• Native Speakers: 13 million
• Countries Found: Rwanda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and Kenya
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

Kirundi is one of the official languages in Burundi. It is also a widely spoken language in other parts of Africa.

The language is mutually intelligible with Kinyarwanda, another popular language in Africa.

20. Shona – 12 Million

• Native Speakers: 6.5 million
• Foreign Speakers: 5.50 million
• Countries Found: Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

21. Akan – 11,000,000

• Native Speakers: 8.9
• Foreign Speakers: 2: 1 
• Countries Found: Ghana
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Kwa branch)

Akan is one of Africa’s most popular languages. It is also the popular native language in Ghana where about 44% of the population are native speakers but about 80% of the country’s population can speak the language.

Akan language which is the .. most popular language in Africa has different dialects such as Bono (Twi), Asante, Akuapem, Bono (collectively known as Twi), and Fante.

22. Zulu – 10,400,000

• Native Speakers: 13 million
• Foreign Speakers: 16 million
• Countries Found: South Africa, Lesotho
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

Zulu which is also known as isiZulu is an African language and one the 12 official languages in South Africa. The language is the.. most popular language in Africa, the second most spoken Bantu language after Swahili, and the most spoken native language in South Africa.

The language is closely related to the Northern Ndebele in Zimbabwe.

Zulu is one of the most popular ethnic groups in Africa. This is mainly because of Shaka Zulu, one of Africa’s most historic warriors.

The language has four dialects known as central KwaZulu-Natal Zulu, northern Transvaal Zulu, eastern coastal Qwabe, and western coastal Cele.

23. Kinyarwanda – 9,800,000

• Native Speakers: 24 million
• Countries Found: Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic (Cushitic branch)

Kinyarwanda is one of the main languages spoken in Rwanda alongside English and French. It is spoken by about 93% of the total population of Rwanda.

Also, the language is spoken in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Kinyarwanda which is also known as Ikinyarwanda is a Bantu language. This means that it falls under the same language family as other African languages such as Zulu, Xhosa, Shona, and Kirundi,

There are different dialects of Kinyarwanda known as Bufumbwa, Ikinyabwishya, Igikiga, Ikinyamurenge, Ikirera, Urufumbira, and Urutwatwa.

Other Popular Languages in Africa

24. Tswana (Setswana; Sechuana)- 12.9 Million

• Native Speakers: 12.9 Million
• Countries Found: Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

25. Kongo – 11.5 Million

• Native Speakers:  6.5 million
  
• Foreign Speakers: 5 million
• Countries Found: Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo, Gabon and Angola
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

26. Luganda (Ganda) – 11 Million

• Native Speakers: 5.6 million
• Foreign Speakers: 5.4 million
• Countries Found: Uganda
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

27. Tigrinya (Tigrigna)- 9.7 million

• Native Speakers: 9.7 million
• Countries Found: Eritrea, Ethiopia
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic (Semitic)

28. Gikuyu (Kikuyu) – 8.1 Million

• Native Speakers: 8.1 Million
• Countries Found: Kenya
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

29. Tsonga (Xitsonga)- 7.1 Million

• Native Speakers: 3.7 million
• Foreign Speakers: 3.4 million
• Countries Found: Eswatini, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

30. Umbundu (South Mbundu)- 7 Million

• Native Speakers: 7,000,000
• Countries Found: Angola
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

31. Luhya – 6,800,000

• Native Speakers: 3.3 million
• Countries Found: Kenya
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

32. Kalenjin (Elgeyo language)- 6.6 Million

• Native Speakers: 6,600,000
• Countries Found: Kenya and Uganda
• Language Family: Nilo-Saharan (Nilotic)

33. Mossi (Mooré or More )- 6.5 million

• Native Speakers: 6.5 million
• Countries Found: Burkina Faso, Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Benin, Niger, Mali, Togo and Senegal
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

34. Tshiluba (Luba-Kasai, Cilubà or Tshilubà, Luba-Lulua)- 6,300,000

• Native Speakers: 6.4 Million
• Countries Found:  Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language

35. Kituba – 5,400,000

• Native Speakers: 5.4 million
• Countries Found: the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
• Language Family: Kongo-based Creole

36. Luo – 5,000,000

• Native Speakers: 5 million
• Countries Found: Kenya and Tanzania
• Language Family: Nilo-Saharan ( Nilotic language)

37. Swazi (siSwati)- 4.7 Million

• Native Speakers: 2.3 million
• Foreign Speakers: 2.4 million
• Countries Found: Eswatini, South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

38. Tshivenda (Venḓa) – 3 Million

• Native Speakers: 1.3 million
• Foreign Speakers: 1.7 million
• Countries Found: South Africa Zimbabwe, and Mozambique
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

39. Sena – 2.8 Million

• Native Speakers: 2.8 million
• Countries Found:  Mozambique, Malawi
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

40. Northern Ndebele (isiNdebele saseNyakatho, Zimbabwean Ndebele or North Ndebele) – 2,600,000

• Native Speakers: 2.6 million
• Countries Found: Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

41. Afar ( ’Afar Af, Afaraf, Qafar af) – 2,500,000

• Native Speakers: 2.6 million
• Countries Found: Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic (Cushitic branch)

42. Ndau (chiNdau, Chindau, Ndzawu, Njao, Southeast Shona, Chidanda)- 2,400,000

• Native Speakers: 2.4 million
• Countries Found:  Mozambique, Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

43. Fon – 2,300,000

• Native Speakers: 2.3 million
• Countries Found: Benin, Nigeria, Togo, Ghana, Gabon
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

44. Kimbundu (Mbundu)- 1,700,000

• Native Speakers: 1.7 million
• Countries Found: Angola
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

45. Tonga (Zambezi)- 1,500,000

• Native Speakers: 1.5 million
• Countries Found: Zambia, Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

The post 45 Most Popular Languages in Africa appeared first on WeAfrique.

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Mauritius

1. Black River Gorges National Park 

Here is the good news about visiting Mauritius’ Black River Gorges National Park. It is the largest protected forest in Mauritius and it prides itself on about 300 flowers and plants peculiar to only Mauritius.

It also has about 9 species of birds which are only found in Mauritius.

The famous and beautiful Alexandra Waterfall of Mauritius is found in the Black River Gorges National Park. The good news is that this site is not very difficult to find since signposts are created for ease.

The park also has facilities such as an information center, picnic area, kiosk, and parking space.

In case you want to visit the site, note that it is important to save some money for the tour guide. You may want to bring along hiking shoes, sun cream, mosquito repellent, and other essentials.

2. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

Also known as the SSR Botanic Garden, the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden is one place where you shouldn’t visit Mauritius without letting your eyes feast on its beauty. It is located in Pamplemousses, near Port Louis, and is very notable for having lasted over 300 years.

This site is one of the most visited attractions in Mauritius. When visiting, you will explore and learn about plant species.

You’ll also find about 85 different varieties of palm trees brought from around the world, a giant water lilies pond, and more.

Before you visit this tourist site, you may want to keep in mind to take your sunscreen, mosquito repellent, covered shoes, and other essentials.

Moreso, you may want to keep in mind that tour guides are not free.

3. Chamarel Seven-Colored Earth Geopark

The earth may have given you many sites to behold, but Mauritius tops its own with a unique Charamel 7-colored earth Geopark. This place of wonder has sands of different colors that harmonize into a great beauty to behold.

Interestingly, visitors can take a glance at another splash of nature, the Chamarel Waterfall along the Seven-Colored Earth.

The scenery can also lead you to Tortoise Park where you can behold giant tortoises that have an average lifespan of 150 years.

4. Chamarel Waterfall

How will visiting the highest waterfall in Mauritius make you feel? The fall is between 80 meters to 100.

It is a beauty that has become popular in Mauritius. With its beauty and many other natural things that stand there, there are different activities one can be involved in while visiting Chamarel Waterfall.

Some activities to try are swimming and hiking. Also, the environment is good for picnics.

5. La Vanille Nature Park

It’s not the usual site that only gives beauty to behold. It also leaves you with great knowledge to return home with. This park is packed and filled with endemic plants, Nile Crocodiles, tenrecs, eels, iguanas, and turtles. It is also the home of the oldest and one of the largest tortoises in the world.

The park also has an insectarium with rare species from various parts of the world.

One other interesting thing about visiting this park in Mauritius is the fact that your taste buds can have new things to try. Apart from the regular dish that may be common to many, it offers rare crocodile meat dishes.

La Vanille Nature Park has numerous activities such as an interactive farm, aquarium, children’s play area, pony rides, restaurant, Giant Aldabra Tortoise feeding, and more.

6. Blue Penny Museum

What is a visit to Mauritius without a stop at the Blue Penny Museum? This place in Port Louis showcases the history and cultural heritage of the Island country.

Another section of the museum includes stamps, long-aged statues, coins, and notes that have been used in the country.

While this may be interesting enough, other sections make a visit to the museum worthwhile. One of them is having access to the events and exhibition sections. This part of the museum gives information about hosting events at the museum.

Another section is the shop which offers numerous products, including the world’s famous Post Office Stamps.

7. Grand Bassin 

Also known as Ganga Talao, this is one of the most visited places in Mauritius. It is mostly used as a sacred Hindu place and this makes it a place of prayer and meditation.

On the shoreline, there is a temple and a collection of small shrines dedicated to some Hindu gods, including Lord Shiva.

Also, the Grand Bassin which is a crater lake is rich in local monkeys which visitors get to see and play with.

Concerning location, this beautiful place is found in a secluded mountain. It is located in Savanne, a district of Mauritius which is in the South of the island.

See Also: 10 Best Places To Visit In Rwanda

8. Ile Aux Cerfs Island

The Ile Aux Cerfs is a beautiful island that has received numerous visitors over time. The place is also known as deer land in English even though no deer are currently found there.

Regardless, the place still maintains a position as one of the most beautiful places in Mauritius and Africa. It constituted around 100 hectares of land and it is known for its sandy beaches.

There are many water sports activities visitors can engage in. There are also a hotel, restaurants, and many other things to enjoy while visiting Ile Aux Cerfs Island.

The island is located in the Flaxq district of Mauritius.

9. Le Morne Beach

The Le Morne beach is beautiful and great for lovers of water, sand, and other natural phenomena. The beach is located at the door of the majestic Le Morne Brabant mountain.

The mountain is listed as a World Heritage UNESCO site.

Le Morne Beach is characterized by white sand and clear water. It is also a great place for water activities such as scuba diving,  boating, and swimming.

10. Mauritius Aquarium

The Mauritius Aquarium is another highly visited place in Mauritius. There are many fish and other aquatic animals. These species are over 200 and they include clownfish, sharks, butterfly fish, sea turtles, squirrel fish, and lobsters.

In the aquarium, you can go beyond seeing marine creatures. There are animals you can touch and feed as well.

Mauritius Aquarium can be found in a small in the northwestern part of Mauritius.

The post Mauritius: 10 Best Places To Visit In The Only Developed African Country appeared first on WeAfrique.

Take a break from the township, grab a set of wheels, and set off on a journey through the Liwonde National Park, where lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants, and buffalo graze freely. Make sure to visit Majete, which is renowned for its incredible biodiversity. While admiring the views from the summit of Mountain Peaks, take a walk on the wild side of the Mulanje mountains. It’s difficult to think of another vacation spot with as much variety. Here are some of Malawi’s top tourist destinations.

Destinations In Malawi That Will Take Your Breath Away

1. Lilongwe

Lilongwe is gorgeous, as one would expect given that it is Malawi’s capital. The city has been masterfully and deliberately planned to accommodate a number of government and public institutions, including the University of Malawi, the Bingu National Stadium, and Kamuzu International Airport.

In addition, the city is a commercial center and home to a number of unique recreation areas such as Dreamland, Gecdec Leisure Center, and Fun City. Therefore, if you ever plan to travel to Malawi, whether for business, academics, or pleasure, you might want to think about staying in Lilongwe.

2. Liwonde National Park

Liwonde is Malawi’s top location for seeing wildlife because it is surrounded by some of nature’s finest. The park, which lies in Malawi’s southern region close to the border with Mozambique, has been host to some notable wildlife translocations and reintroductions. The Liwonde National Park, which borders the Shire River and Lake Malombe, provides glimpses of the rocky trails and walks used by elephants, hippos, and endangered black rhinos, to name a few.

Furthermore, the birding in the park is simply outstanding especially if you are on a boat cruise, simple walk, or game drive. Those who have visited this park will agree that the ideal way to end the day is with a chill wine or tonic while watching the sunset over the Shire River.

3. Blantyre

Although Lilongwe is regarded as Malawi’s capital, Blantyre is unquestionably the nation’s financial and commercial hub. It produces the most jobs in the nation and has the most multiplier effect on the urban economy. With numerous manufacturing facilities, the city serves as Malawi’s industrial center.

Aside from business, you can choose to travel to Blantyre for intellectual reasons as well. The city is home to a number of educational institutions, such as the Blantyre Institute of Management, Central Christian University, and the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences. Meanwhile, The La Caverna Art Gallery, the famed St. Michael and All Angels Church, and the Chichiri Museum are just a few of the city’s prominent locations.

ALSO SEE: 10 Safest African Countries In 2023

4. Majete Wildlife Reserve

During your journey to Malawi, you really shouldn’t pass up the chance to see Majete. The Majete Wildlife Reserve, which is adjacent to Blantyre in the south of Malawi, is made up of mature miombo woodlands, granite-topped hills, and scenic river basins.

After years of poaching, the reserve has once again become a sustainable development and the sole recognized Big 5 Game Park in Malawi. So far, this is one of the biggest conservation success stories in Africa. There are now breeding populations of once-endangered animals, so you can anticipate incredible experiences.

Majete is also home to approximately 300 different bird species, including four different species of vultures and a large number of bateleur eagles. The boulder chatterer, Livingstone flycatcher, Boehm’s bee-eater, cuckoo hawk, Pel’s fishing owl, and rock pratincole are a few other noteworthy birds. Avid birders will definitely find plenty of diversity to keep them occupied here.

In the meantime, consider Mkulumadzi Lodge if you want to unwind in Majete Wildlife Reserve. The Mkulumadzi Lodge is unquestionably a tiny paradise. It provides breathtaking views of the surroundings and is located on the banks of the Shire River. There are 8 lovely chalets in Mkulumadzi where you may relax. This will give you an unforgettable stay and experience, with the calming sound of the river and wildlife in the background.
You may access this breathtaking setting with an infinity pool, restaurant, and a variety of opulent amenities over a suspension bridge.

5. Lake Malawi National Park

The Malawi national park, with its deep, clear waters and mountain backdrop, is situated at the southern end of the enormous Lake Malawi. It is widely known to be home to hundreds of fish species, almost all of which are endemic.

Since it was of global importance for biodiversity protection due notably to its fish diversity, Lake Malawi National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

Lying within the Western Rift Valley, the lake is one of the deepest lakes in the world. The property is surrounded by untamed terrain and is located in a region of extraordinary natural beauty. It has numerous hundreds of cichlid fish, locally referred to as “mbuna,” which are almost all native to Lake Malawi. The mbuna fishes offer a noteworthy illustration of biological evolution. Because Lake Malawi is cut off from other bodies of water, its fish have undergone amazing adaptive radiation and diversification, making them a prime illustration of ecological processes.

6. Cape Maclear

Chembe Village is another name for Cape Maclear. Clear sea, sand beaches, welcoming people, and stunning hills make Cape Maclear a stunning location. With the opening of the Cape Maclear Hotel in 1940, tourism slowly developed into what it is today.

As the busiest resort on Lake Malawi, the town is described as a leading tourist destination and includes bars, restaurants, resorts, and guesthouses. Snorkeling, hiking, boat tours, kayaking, and diving are among the activities you can do in Cape Maclear.

7. Likoma Island

The larger of two islands in Lake Malawi in East Africa is Likoma Island, with the smaller being adjacent Chizumulu. The Likoma District is made up of the two Malawian cities of Likoma and Chizumulu. They are both exclaves of Malawi despite being only a few kilometers apart and completely encircled by Mozambican territorial seas.

The natural ecosystem of Likoma Island remains mostly unaltered despite its dense population. With steep cliffs, sandy bays, and wetlands, the coast is diverse. The island’s interior, which is primarily made up of grassland with many baobab and mango trees, is home to a variety of small reptiles, amphibians, birds, and insects, including scorpion spiders. Crocodiles can occasionally be found along the coast. As is customary in Lake Malawi, several cichlids can be found in the waters near Likoma.

Since Likoma is a popular tourist destination in Malawi, there are a few hotels, most of which follow ecotouristic ideals.

8. Zomba

Zomba is a city in southern Malawi, in the Shire Highlands. It is the former capital city of Malawi.

The Zomba Plateau is the city’s principal appeal. Rock climbing, horseback riding, birdwatching, fishing, and mountain biking are among the available activities Zomba presents.

The most lavish hotel in the region is the Ku Chawe Inn, which is located directly on the edge of the plateau. Visitors may camp on the trout farm or stay in log homes. Two backpacker hostels and a number of lodges, from budget to mid-range, are available for visitors within the town. Also, beautiful locally created souvenirs are available at a craft market in the area.

Additionally, Zomba serves as the hub for the nearby dairy and tobacco farms, which also grow softwoods, fish, and corn.

Meanwhile, If you want to travel to Malawi for research or other academic reasons, you might also Zomba, which is home to a number of educational institutions, including the University of Malawi and the Zomba Theological College.

9. Mount Mulanje

The highest mountain in Malawi is Mount Mulanje. With a height of 3,002 meters, Sapitwa Peak is the highest peak and is composed of granite and diorite, two strong metamorphic rocks. The enormous mass, which is the tallest in Central Africa, stretches 26 km. It is close to the South Malawi capital and is located to the east of Blantyre. Every year, many tourists and hikers visit the Mountain. This mountain also offers at least 20 peaks above 2,500 meters scattered across a wondrously gorgeous landscape of basins and plateaus, rivers, gorges, and waterfalls.

Locals refer to Mulanje as the “island in the sky” because of how abruptly it rises from the plains below, which are only 650 meters high on average. As you get closer to Mulanje and see it towering above all around it, there is a genuine sensation of amazement and awe, unlike some of the world’s peaks that are partly “hidden” in surrounding ranges.

10. King African Rifles Monument

The King African Rifles Monument is another intriguing location you might want to check out while in Malawi. Going down memory lane, ‘The King’s African Rifles’ was the name given to the unified British forces in East and Central Africa in 1902.

The King’s African Rifles soldiers who fought in the First and Second World Wars are honored by this majestic red brick monument in Zomba, the former capital of Malawi.

You can observe the numerous valiant acts of Malawians who served not just in Africa but all over the world as you ascend the stairs to the monument on a tiny hill. More so, The Park is the ideal location to unwind and enjoy yourself because it is surrounded by a tranquil and serene ambiance.

The post 10 Places To Visit In Malawi appeared first on WeAfrique.

The beaches are located in different parts of the East African country and have different characteristics. What remains common among them is adding to the beauty of their environments, and being able to harbour tourists. Although there are many beaches in Kenya, here, we will list a few based on their features, reviews, popularity, and reports according to top sites. Here are 10 Kenya beaches in no particular order.

10 Fascinating Beaches in Kenya

1. Diani Beach

If you happen to visit Kenya and wonder a beach to visit, Diani is one of the best and most visited. The beach is located south of Mombasa and remains one of the best spots for surfing and swimming. Its beauty lies in its unique white sands, coral reefs that protect it from heavy surf, and the nature of beautiful long coconut palms with greeny leaves. Diani Beach also has beach umbrellas, restaurants, beachfront reserves and bars.

2. Chale Island

One of Kenya beaches, Chale Island maintains a great position among the most beautiful and most visited in the country. It remains the only private in Kenya and its characteristics include coral reefs and well-formed vegetation which gives it a better view of natural green. It still has been able to take comfort and luxury into consideration of the many things it has to offer.

On the beach, there is accessibility to beach bumming and it can make arrangements for snorkelling or scuba diving at Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park.

3. Gazi

For people who enjoy privacy, Gazi beach which is located in Kwale County in the Coast region of Kenya may be the right option. It has features that include calm waters, coconut trees, beach hotels, restaurants and bars among others.

4. Kilifi Beach

Located in the north of Mombasa, Kilifi beach stands tall on the list of Kenya beaches you can visit. The coast holiday venue allows for the experience of having different kinds of seafood that its restaurant has to offer among other foods. As part of its drinks, it has a popular cocktail, dawas that is mixed with local Kenyan sugarcane.

5. Kikambala

Apart from the calm waters and sand of the beach, it also boasts of its sisal plantations. The beach has its location in the northern part of Mombasa resort city and it is prominent for being another setting that is best for people who love privacy as it has lesser visitors compared to many other beaches in Kenya.

The beach has white sand a long coastline, and reefs. It is also said to be one of the best places for lovers of swimming, diving and snorkelling. Nonetheless, during the ebbs, it has been claimed that entering the beach may get a little uncomfortable due to slippery stones as a result of the presence of algae.

See Also: 12 Most Powerful African Kings That Ever Lived

6. Malindi Beach

It is not only a sight to behold but it also has a historical marking as the place where explorer Vasco de Gama landed in Africa. The beach offers itself as a place where relaxation, snorkelling, deep-sea fishing and sailing along other things can be possible. It also makes available different types of food and drinks from its restaurants and bars.

One of the major things that land it in the position of a top beach in Kenya is its clean waters, golden sand and sunbeds, umbrellas and lifeguards. It was able to gain attention and win itself a Blue Flag award.

The beach has its location between Parelissia beach and the Grand Resort Beach in the Limassol district.

7. Lamu Beaches

Lamu presents itself as an old town that harbours one of the most remarkable reasons for tourists visiting Kenya, Lamu Island. It is situated around Mombasa not so far from the shore of the Indian Ocean.

Going to Lamu Beach automatically gives you a journey of nature as it allows you to move on donkeys and move around the Lamu Island from one beach to the other of a dhow boat.

Its coastline is characterised by shells, dry land, and sand. And if you happen to wonder about what to eat, one of the Kenya beaches definitely provides the luxury of many cuisines.

8. Mambrui

Another beach that gives its visitors the luxury of coming face to face with the reality of how beauty can be found in nature through waters, sand, trees, and even modern, yet traditional setting of restaurants and bars. The infusion of all of these things gives Mambrui an edge over many places to visit in Kenya.

The beach allows for snorkelling, kitesurfing and deep-sea surfing among others. It is located somewhere around the north of Malindi.

9. Watamu

Watamu is not just known for harbouring beautiful beaches in Kenya but it was also nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Status. It also is a place that still houses ruins from a medieval Swahili town called Gedi.

The beach avails itself to showcase its standard and beauty through waters, vegetation, and sand that cannot go unnoticed. It is also a place that is great for snorkelling, and scuba diving.

10. Nyali Beach

Not so far from Mombasa is Nyali Beach which has become one of the renowned Kenya Beaches. It is located in the town of Nyali and it boasts of being a venue for surfing among other things to be done with the availability of vast and deep water. The beach does not get really crowded and it is characterised by shades, palm trees, greens, and soft white sand.

For the lovers of food and drinks, there is the availability of both local and international restaurants with different cuisines and drinks.

The post Kenya Beaches – These 10 Beaches are The Best in Kenya to Have a Good Time appeared first on WeAfrique.