Uganda, Zanzibar and Madagascar are among the top 15 places to visit in 2024, according to Bradt Guides.
What fascinating experiences are on offer in these places?
Uganda
Uganda is about embracing the wild side of life, the travel guide said. You can venture into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where endangered mountain gorillas roam free, offering lucky visitors the chance for heart-pounding encounters that will stay with you forever.
There is also the majestic Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge, creating a spectacle that leaves you in awe of nature's power. And let's not forget about the Rwenzori Mountains, whose snow-capped peaks beckon adventurers to trek into the unknown and discover the beauty that lies beyond.
No trip to Uganda would be complete without a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Lions, elephants, and even tree-climbing lions await those brave enough to embark on the wild expedition.
The country scores extra points for facilities, Bradt Guides noted, as Uganda hosted the Third Southern Summit in January, creating modern hotels and conference facilities for business travelers, among others.
Zanzibar
The Zanzibar archipelago, off the east coast of Africa, is already considered one of the best places for winter sun in 2024, according to the guide.
With its powdery white beaches that make you wonder if you're walking on sand or clouds, Zanzibar is the ultimate destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.
But Zanzibar isn't just about lazy days on the beach, as there's a real aquarium to be discovered beneath the waves. Grab your snorkel or scuba gear and dive into the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean, where pods of dolphins, tropical fish, and coral reefs await.
In addition, under the green canopy of the island's interior, Zanzibar’s only national park, Jozani Forest, is where red colobus monkeys swing from tree to tree, will give you major Tarzan vibes.
"For a beach to bush experience, Zanzibar is the gateway to the mainland of Tanzania. A visit here pairs well with a trip to the safari parks of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, and the chance to climb the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro," the guide added.
Madagascar
Madagascar, is renowned for its pristine beaches, biodiversity and endemic flora and fauna - where an estimated 70 percent of the 250,000 species are endemic to the island.
The island stands out as a playground for marine enthusiasts, where colorful fish dart between coral gardens and dolphins playfully dance in the waves.
Madagascar isn't just about what lies beneath the waves – it's what's hidden within its lush rainforests and otherworldly landscapes that truly sets it apart, for instance, the Masoala Peninsula, where the island's ecosystems are like nowhere else on earth.
It's the only place on the planet where you can see lemurs, which have become the island's unofficial ambassadors, seven species of baobab trees, and a vast array of color-changing chameleons.
In addition to the three African destinations, Bradt Guides recommended Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, Greenland, and other places to visit in 2024.