Our recommendations on the best travel books for Africa
Discover the wonders of Africa, where ancient traditions meet modern marvels. Lose yourself in the thunderous roar of wildebeest crossing the Serengeti in Tanzania, or find serenity atop Table Mountain overlooking Cape Town, South Africa. Dive into the vibrant coral reefs off the coast of Zanzibar, and let the rhythms of Senegalese sabar drums move your spirit in Dakar. The continent beckons with its own allure: wander through the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia, marvel at the mighty Victoria Falls between Zambia and Zimbabwe, or sip palm wine in a Ghanaian village. From the Sahara to the Okavango Delta, each destination offers a unique blend of sights, sounds, and flavors. Engage with warm locals in the bustling markets of Marrakech, uncover hidden historical gems in the ancient city of Great Zimbabwe, and challenge your perceptions in the vibrant metropolis of Lagos, Nigeria. These diverse African lands promise not just a trip, but a transformative experience that will stay with you long after you've returned home.
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Our Travel Book Recommendations - Africa
Our Travel Book Recommendations - Africa
Out of Africa, by Karen Blixen
Out of Africa, a memoir by Danish author Karen Blixen (published under the pen name Isak Dinesen), vividly recounts her experiences on a Kenyan coffee plantation during the waning days of the British Empire. Praised for its lyrical prose and nuanced portrayal of African culture, the book offers a respectful and insightful view of the local people and celebrates the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. Blixen's evocative storytelling captivated readers worldwide, leading to a critically acclaimed film adaptation in 1985. Directed by Sydney Pollack, the movie starred Meryl Streep as Blixen and Robert Redford as her lover, Denys Finch Hatton, and went on to win seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Lonely Planet
We recommend Lonely Planet as one of the best travel guidebook series for Africa. The continent can be intimidating for travelers, and Lonely Planet does an excellent job providing practical advice for all budgets. As the world's largest publisher of travel books, they're renowned for their comprehensive local knowledge and passion for culture and exploration. Lonely Planet offers guides for most African countries, so be sure to select the most appropriate book for your specific destination.
Bradt Travel Guides
Another way to discover Africa's hidden wonders is with the unrivaled Bradt Travel Guide series. This gem among travel companions excels in illuminating lesser-known treasures. For intrepid souls exploring off-beaten paths, Bradt often provides the only comprehensive guide to enigmatic locales. Each page brims with insights from passionate experts. While this boutique publisher updates less frequently than larger rivals, its quality shines through. Remember to check your guide's publication date – even timeless Africa evolves.
Dark Star Safari, by Paul Theroux
Paul Theroux's masterful travelogue, Dark Star Safari, reflects his deep connection with Africa, rooted in his Peace Corps experience. Widely considered one of his best works, the book showcases Theroux's perceptive observations and engaging storytelling. His vivid descriptions and insightful reflections both enlighten and entertain, cementing his status as a top-tier travel writer. Dark Star Safari blends personal experience with cultural exploration, offering readers a rich, nuanced portrait of Africa that few others could capture. Click here to see our full review of Dark Star Safari.
A Long Way Down, by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman
Long Way Down chronicles the epic motorcycle odyssey of Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, two friends better known for their work in film and television. In 2007, the pair traversed Europe and Africa, starting from the rugged landscapes of Scotland. This travelogue serves as a sequel to their 2004 adventure detailed in Long Way Round, where the duo covered over 20,000 miles from London to New York. Written in an engaging, conversational style, the book offers readers an entertaining blend of humor and excitement, giving fans a glimpse into their off-screen camaraderie and shared passion for adventure. See our full book review by clicking here.
Green Hills of Africa, by Ernest Hemingway
Green Hills of Africa, Ernest Hemingway's lesser-known travelogue, offers a vivid account of his big-game hunting safari in East Africa. While not as celebrated as his novels like The Sun Also Rises or The Old Man and the Sea, this work provides invaluable insight into the legendary author's psyche and the allure of trophy hunting. Hemingway's crisp prose, a hallmark of his contribution to travel writing, brings the savannah to life, allowing readers to experience the thrill of the hunt and the raw beauty of the African landscape. Through his unflinching observations and reflections, the book serves as a window into both Hemingway's complex personality and the controversial world of big game hunting.