Africa's Capital Cities |
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. Algiers, Algeria |
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Language: English ISBN: N/A ISSN: N/A 2018 | DOI: N/A
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Africa's Capital Cities
are listed below along with images, facts and travel information. There are 54 official countries in Africa and 2 disputed countries (Western Sahara and Somaliland). Each African country has at least one capital city. Some countries have a de facto capital and an administrative capital. The capitals vary widely in size, the largest African city is , with an estimated population of 17 million living in its metropolitan area. Maseru, Lesotho's capital has a population of 14,000.
African capitals are not necessarily the largest cities in neither their respective countries nor the most populated. Nigeria is a good example. Lagos is a city of almost 8 million people whereas the official capital, Abuja, has a population of just 700,000.
Many of Africa's capitals are generally not places of interest for the average tourist. But most of the are based there, as well as embassies, major hospitals, large hotels and banks.
1. Algiers, Algeria
Basic Facts about Algiers
While downtown Algiers looks modern, the capital is struggling to keep up with rapid growth and standards of living for most of its population is very poor. Algiers has also been marred by violence in the past decade. A which started in 1991 has destroyed much of the country. In recent times things have quieted down yet in the capital in December 2007. The bombings were linked to al-Qaeda.
Algiers is known locally as El-Djazaïr and the residents speak Berber, Arabic and French.
Claim to Fame
Algiers is the backdrop to one of , Battle for Algiers (1965). It's a riveting movie documenting the battle for independence in Algeria (from France) during the 1950's.
A was held in Algeria on 1 July 1962, and France declared Algeria independent on 3 July. On 8 September 1963, a was adopted by , and later that month, was formally elected the first president.
On 19 June 1965, deposed Ahmed Ben Bella in a military that was both swift and bloodless. Ben Bella "", and would not be seen again until he was released from house arrest in 1980 by Boumédienne's successor, Colonel . Boumédienne immediately dissolved the National Assembly and suspended the 1963 constitution. Political power resided in the , a predominantly military body intended to foster cooperation among various factions in the army and the party.
In 1996 a referendum introduced changes to the constitution, enhancing presidential powers and banning Islamist parties. Presidential elections were held in April 1999. Although seven candidates qualified for election, all but , who appeared to have the support of the military as well as the FLN, withdrew on the eve of the election amid charges of electoral fraud. Bouteflika went on to win with 70 percent of the cast votes.
Following his election to a five-year term, Bouteflika concentrated on restoring security and stability to the strife-ridden country. As part of his endeavor, he successfully campaigned to provide amnesty to thousands of members of the banned FIS. The so-called Civil Concord was approved in a nationwide referendum in September 2000. The by no means ended all violence, but it reduced violence to manageable levels. An estimated 80% of those fighting the regime accepted the amnesty offer.
Travel to Algiers
Algiers is not a tourist hotspot and the US State Department warns against travel to certain parts of the country. In Algiers, most of the interesting sights are in the old part of the city known as the Casbah or Medina. The travelers that do make it to Algiers are impressed with the very friendly and hospitable people. The old French buildings, the promenade along the seafront and the food also get good ratings.
2. Antananarivo, Madagascar
Basic Facts about Antananarivo
Antananarivo (Tana) is the capital city of and the largest city on this big island in the Indian Ocean. The city is situated inland, about 90 miles from the East coast. Antananarivo was founded in the early 1600's and its position on top of a high ridge made it easy to defend against enemy attack. Antananarivo means "the city of a thousand", a reference to the 1000 soldiers that supposedly protected the newly founded city during the reign of the revered King Andrianjaka. In 1895, the French took over and expanded it greatly to include many new buildings and roads. Madagascar gained its independence from the French in 1960. Today, Antananarivo has a population of about 1.4 million people.
Claim to Fame
Tana will surprise you with its rice paddies, pollution, Asian looks, and numerous stairs up steep hills, palaces, cobbled streets and churches. This is not Africa or Asia, Madagascar is totally unique.
Travel to Antananarivo
Most people traveling to Madagascar will arrive in the capital since the international airport is situated there. Antananarivo is a bustling place with lots of churches, a mosque, a zoo and plenty of markets called Zomas. The capital is basically built on 12 hills and steep steps lead to the main Independence square in the town center. The architecture is a mixture of old wooden houses, modern offices and French colonial style buildings. The best way to see Tana is to walk around and take taxis. Many visitors take a taxi up to the Rova in the Upper Town and walk around from there. The houses some of Madagascar's unique flora and fauna including lemurs. Tana is somewhat typical of many cities in a developing country: lots of poverty, pollution, and crumbling infrastructure interspersed with modern cafes, restaurants and shops selling western goods.
3. Nairobi, Kenya
Basic Facts about
Nairobi is the capital city of and East Africa's most populous city (3.5 million). Nairobi was founded in 1899 as a railway stop en route to Mombasa. Within a decade it grew to become the capital of British East Africa and became Kenya's capital after independence in 1963. Nairobi is a major business hub and many Aid agencies headquarter here as well. Nairobi has a modern city center, some beautiful suburbs, as well as . The city is built on a plateau and it stays pleasantly cool year round. Both English and are widely spoken. See
Claim to Fame
Nairobi's crime rate is quite high and the US Government warns travelers to visit with care. On a lighter note, Nairobi is unique in having a very good wildlife park situated just 5 miles from the city center.
4. Cairo, Egypt's Capital City
Nairobi is a major travel hub and most people stay for a night or two . Getting around the city is easy by taxi, or and now you can travel easy by uber by simply installing a taxify application n your phone and request a taxi ride at an affordable price.
A full-day tour showcases the most incredible sites Nairobi has to offer. Join a small group to traverse the landscapes of Nairobi National Park, Drive into history at the Karen Blixen Museum, Of (Out of Africa Fame)
At Bomas different aspects of Kenyan culture are displayed including living styles, crafts, music and dancing. The word Bomas was derived from "Boma"-a Swahili word for enclosed homestead and there are now many different "Bomas", each one representing one of Kenya's major ethnic groups. You cannot afford to miss the most exciting traditional dances and acrobatic show which start at 2.30pm to 4.00pm during a weekdays and 3.30pm to 5.15pm weekends and public holidays.
If you like tacky Disney theme restaurants you will love this place. Average to poor food. Dried out and generally tough meat and overpriced considering the poor quality of food. Not worth making the effort to visit.
Born from one family’s passion for Kenya and its wilderness, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is today the most successful orphan-elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world and one of the pioneering conservation organizations for wildlife and habitat protection in East Africa. So choose to visit this place whenever in Nairobi.
include the luxurious boutique hotel , where you can stay in a tree house, or the ultra-modern . The family owned is the best mid-range option, and the tiny for budget travelers. If you want to avoid the city center, check out , just 15 minutes from Wilson airport and situated in the heart of Nairobi National Park. Around the leafy suburbs of Karen, there are some excellent boutique hotel options including: , and . The and the are both close to the international airport. for a list of my recommended hotels in Nairobi.
Nairobi has many serving a wide variety of cuisines. For people-watching grab a snack at the Thorn Tree Cafe. Fresh seafood can be had at , and French cuisine at Alan Bobbe's Bistro. Of course the is perfect for meat lovers.
are a good option for those worried about their personal safety.
Basic Facts about Cairo
is the capital and largest city in , North Africa. More than 17 million people live greater Cairo which makes it Africa's most populated city. About 8 million people live in the city proper. Egypt is Africa's most popular tourist destination and most visitors will spend at least a day or two in Cairo. Cairo is situated on the banks of the Nile River in Northern Egypt.
Claim to Fame
Cairo has been a tourist destination for thousands of years because on the outskirts of this great city you'll find the last remaining ancient wonder of the world, the and of course the Sphynx.
Travel to Cairo
Cairo is not for the faint of heart. Traffic lights are routinely ignored and donkey carts still vie with cars for the right of way. Mosques and minarets mingle uneasily with gleaming skyscrapers. Cairo is a shopper’s paradise (if you like to bargain), an archaeologists' fantasy, and a drivers' nightmare; Cairo is all of these and more. Follow the links below for more information.
Travel Information about Cairo
Cairo is a city where the ancient and the modern collide, creating a unique opportunity to enjoy history in a bustling city. With approximately 22 million residents, Cairo is one of the biggest cities found in the Middle East; you can expect crowds, traffic, and noise along with the incredible chance to explore a fascinating area. Cairo keeps all five senses busy with the mix of nightlife, culture, history, and more.
The Great Sphinx of Giza ,The Terrifying One; literally: Father of Dread), commonly referred to as the Sphinx of Giza or just the Sphinx, is a statue of a reclining , a with the body of a lion and the head of a human. Facing directly from West to East, it stands on the on the west bank of the in , Egypt. The face of the Sphinx is generally believed to represent the .
5. Kigali, Rwanda
Basic Facts about Kigali
Kigali is the capital city of . Kigali is Rwanda's biggest city with a population of 850,000; it's also the commercial capital of the country. Kigali was founded by the Germans in 1907 but only became Rwanda's capital when the country became independent (from Belgium) in 1962. Kigali was at the center of the horrendous that took place in 1994 which took the lives of 800,000 people and displaced many more in the space of just 100 days.
Since 1994, Kigali has slowly been rebuilt and income from tourism (mostly coming to see the ) as well as numerous aid workers have buoyed the capital's economy. Kigali is a relatively safe and sophisticated small city; it has come a long way in a short time. Kigali is a pretty city which sprawls over several hills, its avenues are filled with flowering trees and it is surrounded by lush green mountains.
In Kigali you'll hear people speaking Kinyarwanda, English, and French.
Travel to Kigali
Kigali is often the first stop for tourists coming to in the Parc National Des Volcans (about 3 hrs drive from Kigali). Flights into the capital arrive from Brussels, , Entebbe, Addis Ababa, Kilimanjaro, and Johannesburg. Tourists also arrive in Kigali by long-distance bus from . Kigali has a few interesting sights easily reached by taxi, they include:
contains a permanent exhibition of the genocide. The center is built on a site where over 250,000 people are buried.
Caplaki - market stalls where you can shop for woodcarvings, drums, baskets and ceramics. Prices start high, so be prepared to bargain.
The Dancing Pots - offers visitors a chance to buy some Batwa pottery and learn more about the people.
Kigali Travel Resources
Recommended hotels: (the actual ), an upscale choice and one of the best hotels in Kigali. Another good high-end hotel is the . The Hotel Gorillas and Hotel Chez Lando are good mid-range options. The Lonely Planet Guide likes the Kigali Hotel for those on a budget.
Recommended restaurants: Aux Caprices du Palais for French cuisine; Addis Ethiopian for Ethiopian dishes; India Khazana and La Sierra for Indian food; and Sol e Luna for some Italian.
6. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's Capital City
Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's capital city and the largest city in the country. Located in southern Tanzania on coast of the Indian Ocean, Dar is a bustling, chaotic place, filled with life and color.
Dar es Salaam is primarily a port city in southern , located on a huge natural harbor. "Dar es Salaam" means "haven of peace", but you'll find with almost 3 million people calling the city home, it's not exactly tranquil. Dar es Salaam it is the economic heart of the country, the high rise business district buzzes with activity throughout the day. The government was officially moved to Dodoma in the center of Tanzania in the 1970's, but Dar es Salaam is the true capital and the central government by and large still operates from here. Visitors to Dar es Salaam are usually en route to Tanzania's fantastic including the Selous and Ruaha, or catching a ferry to the exotic archipelago.
The best time to visit Dar es Salaam is during the dry season from June - October, otherwise temperatures can get very hot and humid (but you can always dip in the Ocean).
Dar es Salaam's Top Attractions
The easiest way to see Dar es Salaam's attractions is by taxi, unless you've been in the country a while and know how to figure out the mini-bus taxi system which is cheaper. There aren't a lot of major attractions, but if you've been on the road for a while, Dar offers the chance to get some good food, stock up on supplies and swim in a nice hotel pool. Take a walk in the older parts of town to check out the German and British colonial buildings. Shopping for cloth and t-shirts is fun in the Asian district northwest of the main drag Samora Avenue. Arts and craft shops are plentiful too, check out Nyumba ya sanaa (the Mwalimu Nyerere Cultural Center). For some original paintings, head to the Tingatinga Center on Haile Selassie Road. The Mwenge Carver's Market is great if you like wood carvings.
The National Museum - From fossils to cars, this museum has a little bit of everything that touches upon Tanzania's history. Some of the early hominid findings courtesy of the Leakeys are on display here (some from the in Northern Tanzania). There are also cultural displays from the various tribes that make up modern Tanzania.
Kariakoo market - Lively central market that takes up several city blocks, with people selling everything from vegetables to school bags.
- Guaranteed to be a lively morning when you head to the and watch the daily catch come in.
If you'd like to escape town and snorkel in the Ocean, check out Bongoyo Island, part of a marine reserve. You can catch a boat out to the island (30 minutes) from the Mashua Waterfront Bar & Grill at Slipway, north of the city center in the Msasani Peninsula. It's wonderful for snorkeling and chilling on the beach.
Where To Stay in Dar es Salaam
There are plenty of hotels in the city center to choose from. If you'd prefer to be out of the urban hubbub, check out the luxurious Ras Kutani just south of the city on the coast, or the . Just north of the city, have a peek at The Retreat, a very nice boutique hotel on the beach.
Budget/Mid-range hotel options include: , , , , and .
High-end hotels include: , , and (north of city)
Where to Eat and Drink in Dar es Salaam
Travelers and expatriates favorite pub is either O' Willie's or the Slipway pub. The best rooftop bar is the "Level 8" on the roof of the Kilimanjaro Kempinski Hotel. You can get all kinds of cuisines in Dar es Salaam, good Ethiopian at Addis in Dar and upscale Indian food at Nawabi Khana (but there's lots of good Indian food to get in the Asian neighborhood for cheaper). Japanese/Thai food is excellent at the .
Traditional dances are held at the Mwalimu Julius K Nyerere Cultural Center every weekend. For more on what's happening in Dar check out .
Getting to Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam's Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) lies 10 km out of town. Daily flights come in from Europe on KLM, BA and Swissair. Middle East options include Emirates and Qatar. Regional airlines that fly in daily include Kenya Airways, Ethiopian, EgyptAir, and South African Airways. Domestic flights are well served by .
If you are traveling by bus, has daily service to Nairobi (Kenya), Kampala (Uganda) and Arusha (northern Tanzania). The main express bus terminal is on Msimbazi Road, on the corner of Nyerere Road, in central Dar es Salaam.
Ferries to and from Zanzibar: There are several daily from the port in Dar es Salaam to Stone town on Zanzibar. The trip takes about an hour and a half and tickets can be bought on the spot from the ticket office (or touts) for US Dollars. You need your passport as authorities will ask to check it.
There is a very limited train service out of Dar es Salaam, but fun if you can get on it and have the time! trains run between Dar es Salaam and Mbeya (handy to get to the border of Malawi and Zambia). The (TRC) runs the other railway line and you can travel from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma and Mwanza; and also along the Kaliua-Mpanda and Manyoni-Singida Branch Lines. See 's passenger-train schedules to find out when the trains run.
7. Harare, Zimbabwe
Basic Facts about Harare
Harare is the capital city of in southern Africa. Harare is Zimbabwe's biggest city with a population of around 2 million; it's also the commercial capital of the country. The British founded the city in 1890 and called it Salisbury. When Zimbabwe gained independence in the early 1980's, the name was changed to Harare after a Shona chief, Neharawa.
Harare is a fairly cosmopolitan capital, with an excellent climate. It's easy to walk around central Harare; there are lots of shops, parks, banks and restaurants in the city-center as well as high-rise office buildings. There are nicely maintained suburbs where the wealthier folks live along with several golf courses. The outskirts of Harare are filled with townships that are home to most of Harare's workers.
Shona, Sindebele and English are the most common languages spoken in Harare.
Travel to Harare
Visitors fly into Harare via London (on and ) or Johannesburg (on or ). Regional airlines include , and Malawi Airlines (web site coming soon!). Long-distance buses travel between Harare and Blantyre (), Johannesburg (), and Lusaka ().
Minibuses and taxis will get you around Harare. Commuter trains are used by locals making their way from the townships into the city center. It's not advisable to walk around Harare at night.
Where to Stay: (high-end, central location); Bronte and Baines B&B (luxury/mid-range, Harare suburbs); and (luxury, outside city center); Small World Backpackers Lodge.
Where to Eat: Amanzi (International); Keg and Maiden (British Pub food); Shangri-La (Chinese); Kwa Mereki (African BBQ).
Harare's Attractions
Harare Gardens and Africa Unity Square -- two parks that are worth checking out. Have a coke, enjoy street performers and watch Harare's youth stroll by.
Tobacco Auctions -- as a major tobacco producer, the auctions are fascinating to watch, tours are available (April - October).
-- a recreated Shona village with an excellent gallery showcasing Shona sculpture.
- 58 hectares of gorgeous flowers, trees and shrubs.
-- good display of African art and traveling exhibits.
-- excellent cultural festival, not to be missed in April/May.
8. Kampala, Uganda
Basic Facts about Kampala
Kampala is the capital city of in East Africa. Over 1 million people live in Kampala making it Uganda's largest city. Kampala was the capital of the Bugandan Kingdom several hundred years ago. Today, Kampala is a modern looking city, with outlying townships spreading far beyond the original "seven hills" the city was built upon. Many of Kampala's more modern buildings were built in the 1980's since the city suffered significant destruction during the "" between Tanzania and Uganda in the late 1970's. The war was fought to oust the brutal dictator, Idi Amin who was in power during that time.
Kampala is built close to the shores of Lake Victoria, the world's second largest fresh water lake and the source of Nile River. English, Swahili and Luganda are the predominant languages spoken in the streets of Kampala.
Claim to Fame
Kampala is one of Africa's "greenest" cities, with parks, gardens and golf courses in the city center. This reputation may not last long however as Kampala is one of the fastest growing cities in Africa.
Travel to Kampala
Kampala is a relatively safe city, (despite the awful in 2010). You can walk the main streets at night without too much fear of getting mugged or robbed. The center of the city is relatively clean, the are fun, (check out the Kabalagala district) and there are plenty of restaurants. Most of the large banks, offices, big hotels and embassies are situated on Nakasero Hill.
At the bottom of Nakasero Hill, the streets get more congested with traffic as well as pedestrians and hawkers selling goods along the sidewalks. There are several Hindu temples and Mosques as the Indian community has a long history in Uganda and play a big role in the economy.
Kampala's attractions aren't too plentiful. It's a nice city to stay in and use as a base for exploring the country further (and the Indian food is great). But if you have a few afternoons to spare, you can visit the , the and follow the , which takes you to the pretty on this cultural heritage tour. The best way to get around Kampala is by taxi or mini-bus.
9. Malabo, Equatorial Guinea's Capital City
Malabo is 's capital city. Despite being an oil-rich town, Malabo has a fairly poor infrastructure. Paved streets are few and far between and the Spanish colonial buildings are somewhat faded along the main avenues. But the markets are lively and there are some worthwhile sights to keep visitors occupied. Attractions include the Cathedral and exhibits at the French and Spanish Cultural centers.
's capital Malabo is located just off the mainland on Bioko Island. It's an oil town these days, with some high end, expensive hotels and lots of oil platforms dotted around the harbor. Because of the oil industry, Malabo is a fairly cosmopolitan city and there are plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy especially along the main street in town, Ave de la Independencia. In January 2012 Malabo co-hosts the , so the town will be filled with fans and soccer players alike. Malabo is a relatively small capital, with a population hovering around 100,000.
History
The Portuguese explorer Fernão do Pó, was the first European to discover the island of Bioko in 1472. He called it Formosa ("Beautiful"), but it ended up being named after Fernao himself and officially colonized by Portugal in 1474. In 1778, the island, adjacent islets, and commercial rights to the mainland between the Niger and Ogoue Rivers were ceded to Spain in exchange for territory in the American continent. As an important settlement, Malabo started life as Port Clarence in 1827, after the British leased Bioko island from the Spanish, to establish a naval station to help fight slavery along the coast. Newly freed slaves called settled in the town and their descendants can still be found in Malabo today, speaking an Afro-Portuguese dialect. When the Spanish regained control of the island, it was renamed Santa Isabel and finally Malabo in 1973 after independence. Malabo became the capital city of Equatorial Guinea in 1969, replacing Bata on the mainland, (which is still a larger city to this day).
Malabo lost much of its soul during the 1970's under the then , who led a reign of terror on the dominant tribe of Bioko island, the Bubi. Talk to anyone in Malabo today and you'll find out that this period of darkness still affects them.
Malabo Today
Despite being an oil-rich town, Malabo has a fairly poor infrastructure. Paved streets are few and far between and the Spanish colonial buildings are somewhat faded along the main avenues. But the markets are lively and there are some worthwhile sights to keep visitors occupied. Attractions include the Cathedral and exhibits at the French and Spanish Cultural centers.
The dry months between December and February are the best time to visit . It is warm year round.
Recommended Hotels in Malabo
Sofitel Sipopo Hilton Malabo Ibis Malabo Hotel Bahia Hotel Yoli
Getting to Malabo
Most visitors will fly into the Saint Isabel International airport in Malabo. Regular flights from Europe as well as Africa arrive daily. Airlines servicing the capital include: Ethiopian, Kenya Airways, Iberia, and Swissair. You can fly the local airline - to Equatorial Guinea's larger city, Bata on the mainland (takes about 30 mins).
Malabo is located on Bioko Island, there are some ferries to the mainland, but they take a long time so it's best to fly to Bata, or neighboring capitals in Cameroon (Douala) and/or Libreville (Gabon).
10. Gaborone, Botswana
Basic Facts about Gaborone
Gaborone is 's capital city and its commercial hub. Gaborone has a population of around 250,000 people. It's located in a valley on the Notwane River, in the south-east corner of Botswana ( see map), close to the border of . Gaborone was named after Kgosi (Chief) Gaborone who led the Batlokwa tribe into the area in the 1880's. The small town grew into the administrative center of Bechuanaland, a British protectorate (1885 -1966). When Botswana gained independence in 1966, Gaborone became its capital.
Gaborone is a fairly affluent city, with shopping malls, restaurants, some nightclubs, decent hotels and a . It's a small city, not very lively or vibrant but quite safe, tidy and relaxing. Gaborone is the setting for Alexander McCall Smith's delightful detective series, , and home town of his leading lady, Precious Ramotswe.
Gaborone Sights
The Mall -- the hub of Gaborone is The Mall, a main street lined with shops, banks and craft sellers.
-- an excellent place to learn more about Botswana, its history, ecology and culture.
-- Alexander McCall-Smith's put Gaborone on the map. Take a tour and see Precious Ramotswe's, home town come to life.
-- small reserve with good roads, you can see ostrich, rhino, kudu, eland, zebra and a huge array of birds.
Getting to Gaborone
Botswana's main international airport, Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (airport code: GBE) is located 9 miles outside of Gaborone. Airlines that operate include: Air Botswana (to/from Harare, Johannesburg, Lusaka, , Victoria Falls, Windhoek), Air France, Air Zimbabwe, South African Airways and British Airways.
Long-distance buses to Gaborone are available from Johannesburg and Pretoria on the . You can also reach Gaborone from other cities and towns in Botswana, either by mini-bus or intercity coaches, some operated by . Botswana Railways in April 2009.
Gaborone Hotels
Hotels in Gaborone are modern and most have little personality. Recommended hotels include: ; ; Oppi-Koppi Bed and Breakfast; Mokolodi Backpackers.
11. Freetown, Sierra Leone
Basic Facts about Freetown
Freetown is the capital of Sierra Leone in West Africa and just over one million residents live there. Freetown was founded in the 1780's as a home for freed slaves from North America and the Caribbean. The freed slaves who settled Freetown were called Krio and they brought their with them (also called Krio or Creole) which is the predominant language of Freetown today.
Freetown is situated on a peninsula jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean and is Africa's largest natural harbor.
Freetown is etched in many people’s minds as the backdrop to one of the world's most horrendous civil wars which included a military operation called "Operation No Living Thing". lasted from 1991-2002 and left hundreds of thousands of civilian’s dead and many more maimed for life. The war was basically about controlling the lucrative diamond trade. Check out 's incredible documentary "" for more.
Claim to Fame
In 1792 when freed slaves came to settle Freetown, they built their houses around a cotton tree which .
Travel to Freetown
Freetown bears the scars of the civil war but it is slowly regaining its vibrancy. There are still lots of war refugees in town but there is optimism present despite the noise, traffic jams and general Lumley Beach is particularly popular. Many of the better hotels are situated on, or close to the beach. Lush, green mountains provide a nice backdrop to the city.
Major sights in Freetown include The Cotton Tree (see above), the National Museum, several churches and mosques that date back to the 1820's, and West Africa's oldest University, founded in 1827. Markets in Freetown offer lots of color, bargaining and relatively inexpensive tourist trinkets.
The best way to get around Freetown is by taxi. Getting from Lungi International Airport to Freetown requires a ride in a , ferry or hovercraft, an exciting way to enter a city.
12. Libreville, Gabon's Capital City
Libreville, the capital of on the west coast of Central Africa, is a modern African city with plenty of 5 star hotels, decent French wine, good beaches, malls and fast-food restaurants. The markets, Musée des Arts et Traditions du Gabon and National Museum are worth a look. The nightlife is vibrant, check out hotel bars for live music and numerous nightclubs around town for dancing. Libreville will host the . More about Libreville below...
's capital city Libreville is a vibrant city with a population of around half a million people. Compared to other regional capitals, Libreville is a fairly modern looking town in parts, with casinos and large hotels lining the best beaches in town. It's not cheap, but the beer and wine is plentiful and the restaurants are very good if you can afford the French/African upmarket restaurants.
History of Libreville
Libreville was founded as a town by freed slaves in 1848. The French navy had stopped a Portuguese ship carrying the slaves to Brazil, and let the liberated men and women settle in Libreville. "Libreville" means free town in French. The city grew slowly up until independence from France in 1960, and since has steadily increased its population, whereby almost half of all Gabonese now live in the capital.
Libreville's Top Attractions
Libreville is a mixed bag of a city; wide boulevards with modern buildings can give way to ramshackle neighborhoods and areas showcasing soviet architecture at its most drab. The best way to get around Libreville to all the attractions is by taxi.
Musée des Arts et Traditions offers a good insight into Gabon's thriving traditional arts scene. Plenty of masks, sculptures and traditional crafts on display. To buy your own masks and curios, head for the artisan market.
Traditional Ceremonies - traditional Bitwi performances and ceremonies are offered by several associations in town, one that comes recommended is the .
L’Eglise St-Michel (St Michael Cathedral) has 31 carved wooden columns that depict various biblical scenes. (It’s said that a blind craftsman carved the columns.)
Beaches in Libreville are plentiful; a little outside of town is the popular Pointe Denis and Ekwata Island. In town, head for the fancy hotels to use their pools and beaches.
Presidential Palace, built in 1970, is an interesting building that rises from the low-lying landscape of the city.
Best Time to Visit Libreville
The drier cooler months between June - August is the best time to visit Gabon, or the short dry period between Decembers - January. It is warm and tropical year round.
Getting to and from Libreville
Most visitors will arrive by air, and land at the Leon M'ba International Airport in Libreville. Airlines with regular flights to Gabon include: Air France, KLM, Lufthansa and Emirates. Regional destinations are covered by: Gabon Airlines, South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Air Moroc, Rwandair Express and Kenya Airways.
Where to Stay in Libreville
Libreville is home to several European chain luxury hotels; all offer similar facilities at high prices. The better ones include: , . Good options for those on a budget or paying their own way include: Hotel Tropicana, and .
13. Dakar, Senegal
Basic Facts about Dakar
Dakar is the capital city of in West Africa. Over 1 million people live in Dakar (double that for the whole metropolitan area) making it Senegal's largest city. Dakar is located on the Cape Verde peninsula that juts into the Atlantic Ocean. It was first settled in the early 15th Century and the Portuguese arrived just a few decades later to set up slaving forts on . Dutch, French, British and Portuguese colonialists vied with each other over the next 250 years for control over the slave-trade until it was permanently abolished by the French in 1815.
Today, Dakar is a sprawling, lively cosmopolitan city. Modern buildings stand side by side with impressive colonial architecture. Bustling markets selling everything from second hand clothes to livestock are scattered throughout. The nightclubs are legendary. It's a big African city so it's chaotic, crowded, and dusty and hustlers abound especially around the beaches and markets.
The central Place d’Independence is a good place to orientate yourself from. If you speak French, you'll have no problem conversing with anyone in Dakar.
Travel to Dakar
Getting There:
Direct flights from the US can be found on Delta and SAA. Fly direct from Paris (AF), Brussels (SN), and Amsterdam (KLM). Dakar is a regional hub and you can get to most West African capitals. is the national airline. And once you are in Dakar, the best way to get around is by taxi, or try a scooter tour.
Recommended hotels you can stay in include: (luxury); (mid-range, boutique); Hotel du Phare Les Mamelles (budget/mid); Senegal Style B&B(budget).
What to See:
: One of Africa's oldest art museums, IFAN is a treasure trove of masks, musical instruments, carvings and more from all over Africa. Sandaga Market: The biggest market in Dakar, a great place to get some clothes but watch out for the hustlers. : It's just a boat ride away to this tranquil island that was a major slave-trading post. Visit the "House of Slaves" for a poignant reminder of the horrors of slave-trading.
14. Tunis, Tunisia's Capital City
Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, is often ignored by the many European tourists who flock to Tunisia's beach resorts. But they're missing a true gem of a city, particularly the , which rivals that of and in . The main avenue leading to the medina is lined with tropical trees giving shade to the numerous sidewalk cafes. Perfect to enjoy a coffee and watch the world walk by. Tunis is a very modern town, safe and pleasant. The restaurants are good and offer fine cuisine that's a mix of Arab and French. Enjoy a local if you're brave and want a good scrub and massage.
Tunis is home to one the best museums in North Africa, , which is housed in a beautiful palace filled with the treasures found at numerous ancient sites dotted around Tunisia. It's easy to get to, just jump on tram number 4. The local tourist offices have maps and are helpful; their employees speak fluent French and decent English.
While there are many hotels in Tunis, a light makes it very easy to stay in the gorgeous, picturesque village of on the coast, just 20 minutes away. En route are the ancient ruins of .
Getting around Tunis is easy by foot, or taxis. Just make sure the taxis use their meters.
15. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Basic Facts about Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa is the capital city of in . Around 3 million people live in Addis Ababa. Addis (as it's commonly referred to) was founded by Emperor Menelik 11 in 1887.
Addis is the third highest capital in the world at 2440m. It's a sprawling city that takes some getting used to. Mud huts, Italian facist architecture, glitzy hotels, cathedrals and Marxist billboards provide the backdrop to Africa's fourth largest city. Nightclubs and restaurants serving international cuisine rub shoulders with bars serving traditional honey wine (Tej). Despite its mix of wealth and poverty, tradition and modernity, Addis is a safe city with little violent crime but lots of petty theft.
Travel to Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa's is the entry point for most visitors to Ethiopia and a major regional transport hub.
What to see
You'll need at least 2 days to enjoy the major sights of Addis, are available.
National Museum -- See the 3.5 million year old hominid fossil skeleton, .
Ethnological Museum -- Cultural museum located in 's former palace
St George's Cathedral -- Built to commemorate the defeat over Italy in 1896 and the site of 's coronation (as the King of Kings) in 1930.
Holy Trinity Cathedral -- Important place of worship and final resting place of .
Merkato -- Shop 'til you drop in one of Africa's largest markets, but watch out for pickpockets and go with a local to guide you.
Addis Travel Resources
Hotels: Business travelers usually opt for the high-end or the . Mid-range try Adot-Tina and . Budget hotels in the Piazza district include Taitu Hotel and the Baro Hotel.
Getting around Addis:
Churchill Avenue is the main thoroughfare in Addis and it's best to orient yourself around it since street names either don't exist or have changed. Minibuses and taxis are readily available, give the driver the name of a place rather than an address.
16. Pretoria, Administrative Capital of South Africa
South Africa has 3 capital cities. Pretoria is the administrative capital, is the legislative capital and Bloemfontein is the judicial capital.
About Pretoria (Tshwane)
Pretoria (Tshwane) is South Africa's administrative capital and is located in Gauteng Province. Over 2 million people live in Pretoria and this is also where all the foreign embassies are located. It's a well-planned out, large city, . The main street, Church Street is 26 km (16 miles) long. Many of the hotels, museums and restaurants are in the center around , to the east in Arcadia and south in the upscale suburb of Waterkloof.
Getting to Pretoria/Tshwane
The about a 40 minute drive from Pretoria and shuttle buses offer frequent service.
run from Jo'burg, Durban, and Cape Town. You could splash out and get the famous, ultra-luxurious from Cape Town.
is easy, it's about a 40 minute drive from Johannesburg, 5 hours from Bloemfontein, and 15 hours from Cape Town. Five major highways meet nearby, so it's easy to get to from anywhere in the country.
Catch a long-distance bus on the , , or .
While in Tshwane stay in a or at one of Pretoria's many . For budget travelers check out the Hatfield area.
Pretoria has lots of excellent restaurants, for a good list . For bars and nightlife head over to the near the University.
Getting Around
Buses, taxis and a train will get you from city center to the Loftus Versfeld stadium.
What to See in Pretoria/Tshwane
-- where South Africa's Presidents are sworn into Government
and .
17. Lusaka, Zambia
Basic Facts about Lusaka
Lusaka is the fast-growing capital city of in . Around 3 million people live in Lusaka making it Zambia's largest city and commercial center. The British established Lusaka as the capital of Northern Rhodesia in 1935, it remained the capital once Zambia gained independence in 1964.
Lusaka has a modern looking business area, lots of scrambling shanties on its outskirts, lively markets, decent nightlife and some upscale hotels and restaurants. Cairo Road is the main avenue in town, lined with shops, banks and businesses, west of Cairo Road is considered the center of town. for a basic tourist map.
Main languages spoken in Lusaka are English and Nyanja.
Travel to Lusaka
Lusaka is not an unsafe city but petty theft is common given the high number of unemployed, so don't walk around with valuables and take a taxi at night.
What to see in Lusaka
Most people arrive at Lusaka's international airport and continue on to the or one of Zambia's many excellent game reserves like . Lusaka is a friendly, relaxed city with some interesting sights:
- Zambian history, ethnography and contemporary art is on display.
has an impressive botanical garden, wildlife sanctuary, and swimming pool.
for your fill of snakes, crocodiles, tortoises, and chameleons. Sample a crocodile burger.
for local handicrafts, lots of wood carvings to bargain for.
Markets - check out City Center and Soweto Markets.
Where to Stay in Lusaka
(high end, business, good Indian food), (high end), (high-end, diplomatic district) (high end, boutique hotel); (mid-range and central); KuOmboko Hostel (budget, backpacker accommodation); and (formerly Chachacha - popular, budget).
Getting Around Lusaka
Minibus taxis are everywhere and ply set routes, a cheap way to get around. Private taxis can be called and will get you from A to B more efficiently.
18. Monrovia, Liberia
Basic Facts about Monrovia
Monrovia is the capital city of Liberia in West Africa, it's located on the Atlantic Coast. Just over 1 million people live in Monrovia making it Liberia's most populated city. Monrovia was founded in 1822, named after US President James Monroe, who was in favor of re-settling freed African-American slaves. As the city grew during the next century it was divided into two sections, one for the returning African-Americans and the other for the existing local population. The city continued to grow as more people moved into Monrovia from the countryside. Things were looking up in the late 1970's as Monrovia's public housing and education system saw significant improvements. Unfortunately this came to a dead halt in 1980, when led a military coup and Liberia was caught in two consecutive , infamous for their destructive violence.
Today, Monrovia is at peace and Africa's first female is in charge. Monrovia is a working port, but it's sprawling neighborhoods are generally poor with intermittent electricity. Despite its past, Monrovia has a friendly reputation thanks to its warmhearted residents.
The most common languages you'll hear in Monrovia are English, Bassa and Kru.
Travel to Monrovia
You can fly to via Belgium on , or via London on . Regional airlines include and . Delta may operate flights in June 2010 from NY.
What to See
- looted during the war, but some interesting items remain.
Providence Island - where the freed American slaves first arrived.
Waterside Market - bustling with activity and goods for sale
Beaches - Kendeja, Silver Beach, Ellen's Beach.
Where to Stay in Monrovia
; ; ; (just out of town, where the old cultural center ).
While in Monrovia Taxis is the best way to get around town.
19. Port Louis, Mauritius Capital City
Port Louis - bustling port, market town, horse racing capital, former home to the Dodo, offers much more.
Basic Facts About Port Louis
Port Louis is the capital city of , an island in the Indian Ocean, east of . Around 150,000 people live in the capital, a bustling port on the north-west coast of the island. Port Louis is one of Africa's busiest commercial ports; it's also a popular landing spot for cruise ships. It has a rich history; the harbor was in use by traders as early as the 1630's. The French made it the administrative capital as early as 1735 and used it as a provisions center for their ships sailing around the stormy Cape of Good Hope. Port Louis was named after the French King Louis the XV (1710-1774).
Port Louis is truly a microcosm of the world today. Its population is total melting pot of cultures, languages, traditions and religions. The grandest architecture reflects its early colonial history which is now battling for sea views with sky-scrapers. The modern concept of a "waterfront mall" is alive and well in the form of Le Caudan. But the heart and soul of the place can be found in its bazaars (markets). This is where housewives and restaurant owners mingle in the early hours of the morning to buy their fresh produce for the day.
Traffic is chaotic in the small capital, but you can easily escape the fumes and head into the Port Louis Moka Range that surrounds the port, or one of the numerous .
What to See in Port Louis
Port Louis has many attractions including:
- , , and Kaliammen Kovil (Hindu Temple).
- A great Saturday out watching the horses race and mingling with the locals.
Natural History Museum - Featuring the
Central Market - From fish to key chains, Farquahar Street is still the shopping heart of the city.
- Restaurants, bars and duty-free shops.
Where to Stay
If you're spending a few nights in Port Louis, check out: , , and .
Where to Eat
Mauritian cuisine is absolutely delicious, especially if you like seafood and/or spicy, Indian cuisine. Try the snack food available at little stalls in the central market, Dhal Puris Stall is popular. For Chinese food, head to Chinatown and check out the . For views and international cuisine check out .
20. Ouagadougou - Burkina Faso's Capital City
Basic Facts about Ouagadougou
Ouagadougou is the capital city of Burkina Faso in West Africa. Almost 1.5 million people live in Ouagadougou, making it Burkina Faso's largest city and its commercial capital. Ougadougou was founded in the mid-15th century by the Yonyonse tribe who named the area “Wogodogo,” meaning "where people get honor and respect". It soon became the capital of the . When the French colonized what was then called French West Africa in the 1890's, (later Upper Volta and now Burkina Faso), they gave Wogodogo a French accent, and named the capital Ougadougou.
Today, Ouagadougou (commonly called Ouaga - pronounced wa-ga) is a sprawling city with a lively economy. The city is also a major cultural center and hosts the biennial FESPACO film festival. The heart of the city is focused around the , newly built since the last one burned to the ground in 2003. Ouagadougou is laid out in a grid-like pattern and is easy to navigate from the Place des Nations Unies (pictured above) where the city's 5 main roads converge.
In Ouaga most people speak French, More, Dyula and Fulfulde.
Travel to Ouagadougou
Ouaga is home to Burkina's international airport. is the national airline serving domestic and regional cities. You can also fly direct from Paris on .
What to see in Ouaga
- Housed in a new complex, you'll find tribal artifacts, masks and textiles.
Moro-Naba Palace - You can't go in, but do attend a traditional ceremony held outside the gates at 7am every Friday.
- newly reconstructed after a fire burned it down, the market is still a lively place for bargaining.
- a good selection of traditional musical instruments.
- Great place to watch local craftsmen at work.
Hotels Luxury - ; Mid-range - Hotel OK Inn and ; Budget - Le Pavillon Vert.
Transport Ouaga is easy to get around by taxi. You can travel to and from the capital by train or long-distance bus to Burkina's other main towns as well as Ghana, Cote D'ivoire, Benin, Mali and Niger.
21. Lilongwe, Malawi's Capital City
By renowned writer
Language: English ISBN: N/A ISSN: N/A 2018 | DOI: N/A
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