East Africa is a popular travel destination, which means it can often get crowded and expensive. However, there are many hidden gems in East Africa that are still underrated and undiscovered, making them cheaper to visit and much more thrilling as well!
Here are 5 underrated East African destinations that you should visit:
- Mafia Island, Tanzania
Mafia Island is a beautiful and pristine island that’s part of the Zanzibar Archipelago. It’s relatively secluded compared to other tourist hotspots in Tanzania, which means you can have all the privacy you need here. The island offers many fun activities that you can participate in, which include:
- Swimming with the whale sharks – enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
- Go scuba diving – The Chole Wall, Kinasi Pass and Milimani Reef are interesting diving spots.
- Go windsurfing
- Have fun kayaking
- Enjoy birdwatching
- Watch baby turtles hatch – there are many nesting sites on the island. Ask you guide to take you there!
- Lamu Island, Kenya
Lamu Island is the secluded and hidden version of Stone Town. Both these places have many historical ruins, a rich culture, fresh seafood and lots of activities to explore. However, with Lamu Island, you don’t get the crowd along with the experience and you can enjoy it all by yourself! That, too, for a much lower price.
- Hell’s Gate National Park, Kenya
Although the name of this National Park might imply that it’s dangerous, the reality is quite the opposite. Hell’s Gate National Park doesn’t have any of the dangerous predators that Africa is known for, which means you can go on a biking safari here and get up close with zebras, gazelles and buffaloes.
You can also explore the Hell Gorge Canyon and hike around it. There are many geothermal springs inside the gorge that are collectively called the “Devil’s Shower.”
If you feel like one day isn’t enough to explore this National Park, you can always camp at any of the three camping grounds here.
- Kitulo National Park, Tanzania
Kitulo National Park is the “Serengeti of Flowers.” It’s a stunning park that’s home to over 300 wildflower species that give the park its beautiful flower-carpet appearance. The best time to visit is from November to April because that’s when the flowers bloom!
The Park is also home to numerous bird species, making it a great place for birdwatching.
- Suguta Valley, Kenya
The Suguta Valley is infamously called the “Valley of Death” owing to the high temperatures, rugged landscape and harsh weather conditions that you can find here. However, the place is definitely worth a visit owing to its sheer natural beauty. The sand dunes and rock craters that you can find here are picturesque and unchanged.
Experience Kenya Adventure here and at the numerous other thrilling destinations in Kenya.
So, what are you waiting for? Visit these 5 underrated East African destinations that are away from the crowds, but equally, if not more, rewarding.
