Africa’s beating heart is in her cities, not in the safaris – but which cities have the most to offer? Which are the best African cities?
According to the World Bank, African cities are inhabited by 40% of the African population south of the Sahara, despite what the ubiquitous travel ads seem to suggest, ie that the continent is one big safari, albeit with stunning baobab trees, savannah grasslands and striking sunsets. Between the dichotomy of safari and sunsets and conflict and chaos lies the truth, and it’s found in African cities – her vibrant, energetic, creative and colourful cities.
With a total of 54 countries, Africa is the second largest continent in the world. Of the 100 largest cities in Africa (the largest by population is Kinshasa, per Wikipedia), here are our top seven cities in Africa, all of which are enriched with history, culture and unique experiences. Among this selection (not in any particular order) you’ll find dazzling, diverse populations; futuristic skylines, outstanding landmarks and buzzing energy, all of which make everything seem possible.
Monrovia, Liberia
Monrovia was the second permanent African American settlement in Africa after Freetown, Sierra Leone. Monrovia’s economy is shaped by its harbour and by its being the heart of Liberia’s government offices. Makes our list for its arresting history: Monrovia has been variously known as the African city for stylish stores and facades; Africa’s party city; and, yes, a war zone. Elements of this past still linger along with hints of an old glamour, although the country as a whole is still dusting itself off after resuming normal life following the brutal civil war and the Ebola crisis. Not be missed: Wulki farms; Ce Ce beach; and, of course, Centennial Pavillion.
Lusaka, Zambia
The cosmopolitan capital and largest city of Zambia, Lusaka is one of the fastest developing cities in southern Africa. Things to do: Visit Mutendere, the oldest market, which is said to be the best. Try a katata or katubi, home-fermented millet drinks served in cups made from hollowed calabash gourd. Not to be missed are the Namwane Art Gallery, Arcade Shopping mall, Kabwata Cultural Village, Bookworld and Lusaka Playhouse.
Lagos, Nigeria
No longer the capital city of Nigeria, but it might as well be. Lagos is Nigeria’s super-confident economic and cultural powerhouse, an epicentre for creativity and innovation. Explore the city’s exploding arts and music scene, which will keep you entranced until it’s time to leave. Don’t miss the Bogobiri Open Mic nights, the New Afrika Shrine, Nike Art Gallery, Terra Kulture , Lagos National Museum and Jazzhole. We also recommend a city tour – try iTravels and tours
Nairobi, Kenya
We’ve included Nairobi in our list because it’s the only city in the world that can boast of having a national park (home to four of the Big Five) with the city’s skyscrapers as its backdrop! Park aside, there’s much to do in this vibrant, creative city. Take a tour with the Nai Nami boys – or if you prefer to do everything solo, make sure you visit the Thorn Tree Cafe at the bottom of the Savova Stanley Hotel; take in the views at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre; go shopping at the Village Market in Gigiri.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
A noisy bustling city in a country that’s best known for at least three things: never having been colonized; having one of the world’s oldest alphabets; and a calendar that’s seven years and three months behind the calendar the rest of the world uses – so it’s 2014 there now. Delve beneath the rough and ready exterior and you’ll find real gems, such as the Ethnological Museum and the National Museum. There’s plenty more to do here – the city is known for its thriving restaurant scene and buzzing nightlife.
Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire
What’s not to like? Creative and delicious Angolan dishes, an exploding art scene and a buzzing nightlife await you.
Dakar, Senegal
Senegal’s alluring city has much to recommend it: great beach restaurants; a bustling city life and a wonderful music scene (head for the Grand Theatre National). Be sure to visit the African Renaissance Monument; the Railway Station, a cultural landmark; the Museum of Black Civilisations, and the Village des Arts.
