There have been recent reports that have highlighted that the flourishing tourism industry in Africa is having an increasingly positive effect upon the continent’s economy, and is aiding in providing millions of individuals with employment, while adding billions of dollars to national economies. According to the UN Conference on Trade and Development, a continued robust growth in tourism figures is expected to continue for the foreseeable future and provide dividends across Africa.
This is highlighted by the highly impressive forecasted growth figure in Africa’s tourism sector, which has projected that the total contribution of tourism to Africa’s GDP will increase to $296 billion by the end of 2026. This increase in expected to lead to the creation of nearly 29 million employment opportunities across the continent, an increase of eight million compared to the 21 million in 2016.
The considerable increases detailed above have been fuelled a considerable shift away from the continent's dependency on the traditional markets of the USA and Western Europe. There have been significant increases in tourists from the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China) and the Middle East looking to visit the continent and go on luxury African safari holidays. This continued growth has proven to be incredibly important for the wider pan-African economy.
One of the most important outcomes of this increase in tourism is the fact that it is fuelling growth and development, which is being channelled back into further developing the safari experience for visitors. This has led to further growth in additional areas, particularly in business tourism throughout Eastern African, while increased income and urbanisation of the region has led to increased growth and development in domestic inter-African travel links and facilities.
If you are part of the increasing trend, and considering undertaking a safari holiday, below are five countries which offer some of the most incredible safari experiences in Africa.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is Africa’s second largest country, which ensures that there are ample opportunities to keep any African-enthusiast occupied and offer a life-changing experience and delve into the heart of the real Africa. The complicated history of this country is well-documented, but the DRC is now an incredibly diverse country and has a multitude of offerings, including dense jungles, volcanos and mesmerising savannahs.
The main area to visit is Virunga, which
stretches from the slopes of the Virunga Mountains in the south, to the majestic
Rwenzori Mountains, which are located on the border between Uganda and DRC. The
Virunga is Africa’s most biologically-diverse reserve, its forests, grassland,
and wildlife – including gorillas and elephants – has led to it being
designated UNESCO status. This is the ideal location for those wishing to
experience the continent at its wildest.
Madagascar is the world’s fourth largest island and is often referred to as the eighth continent by ecologists due to its ever-increasing number of endemic species and its incredible amount of flora and fauna. This, combined with a hugely fascinating culture and diverse geography, ensures that Madagascar should be at the forefront of the minds of those wishing to be immersed in the some of the World’s most stunning and unique wildlife. This eclectic mix of wildlife is perfect for those wishing to have an up-close experience with a range of different animals and enjoy a very much hands-on safari experience on arguably the World’s most beautiful islands.
Uganda is the source of the White Nile and continues to be one of the last refuges of the increasingly-rare mountain gorilla. Encompassing the majority of the northern shores of Lake Victoria and the Mountains of the Moon and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, it is not difficult to ascertain why the former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, described the country as a "fairy tale".
As previously discussed, the country remains famous for its gorillas, and offers numerous captivating gorilla trekking safaris for those with a particular interest in this majestic animal. This ensures that one of the most popular destinations is Bwindi due to its lush forests that the gorillas inhabit. Those in search of further thrills should embark on a voyage to Lake Victoria, which offers a sublime opportunity to hop between various islands, and experience some of the World’s best rafting in the World in Jinja.
The tourist infrastructure is one of the most developed and well-maintained across the whole of Africa, and when combined with its incredibly diverse terrains and landscapes, ensures that it is the ideal locations for those wishing to undertake a range of differing experiences and enjoy the ultimate in luxury safaris.
As one would
expect, this means that there are ample diverse and slanderous opportunities available
to the discerning traveller. The most captivating locations include Victoria
Falls and the two wildernesses of Luangwa: The Lower Zambezi river basic and
Kafue National Park, which is the country’s oldest national park.
The expansiveness
of the country and its vast and almost empty locations mean that the majority
of destinations are usually remote and somewhat inaccessible making it the idea
location for those experience wishing to experience a safari
helicopter tour.
Zimbabwe
Those in search of an authentic off-the-beaten track safari experience should consider visiting the landlocked southern Africa country of Zimbabwe with its extensive wealth of enchanting landscapes. Those looking to undertake their first safari should consider the Eastern Highlands due to its scenic driving routes, charming walking opportunities and captivating birdlife.
The most famous of the national parks is Hwange due to its large number of wildlife, including 100 mammals and 400 species of birds. The park contains all of the country’s specially protected animals and it is the only protected area where gemsbok and brown hyena are evident in significant numbers.
Those wishing to delve into absolute peace and tranquillity, Chizarira, a remote park in the Zambezi valley is the ideal destination. There are ample gorges and ravines to explore, which will provide an invigorating challenge for even the most experienced hiker.
Comments
Post a Comment