Africa Archives - Awesome Places to Visit

The Dead Sea – Relax at our Earth’s Lowest Place

Crystalline formations of salt along the shores of the Dead Sea, reflecting the intense sunlight

Nature is the greatest architect and has created some of the most jaw-dropping and mystical places on the earth, and the Dead Sea is mesmerizing.

Wondering about the unknown facts and information about the Dead Sea? Thinking to visit this place? Read this entire article to find all your answers!

With the hypersaline water and the only source of water, the Dead Sea is an extraordinary place on earth with the beauty of nature and the soothing water.

The astounding opportunity that one gets here is Floating without any support.

With the unique beauty, and the crystal of the salt shining in the bright sun, the cool breeze flowing around, and the amazing Dead Sea Mud exfoliating your skin, this place is incredible.

How got the Dead Sea its name?

The Dead Sea, surrounded by Israel and Jordan, is a perplexing beauty of nature. The beauty of the sea with the calming sky above the head and the cool breeze flowing, the place creates a perfect time for peace. The mystifying feature of this Dead Sea salt has given a lot of names to this place.

The Hebrew Scriptures profoundly called this the Salt Sea based on the amount of salt it contains.
The Roman Era gave this sea the name as this sea is devoid of life-forms.
The Joshua in the Bible named this sea as the sea of the Plains.
Not only that the phenomenal Dead Sea salt is known by numerous other names as well which includes, the Primordial Sea, the East Sea, the Sea of Lot, the Sea of the Arabah, the Sea of Sodom, the Stinking Sea, the Sea of Asphalt and the Devil’s Sea.

Visitors floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea's salty waters, enjoying the natural buoyancy. — “Float effortlessly in the saline waters of the Dead Sea, a natural wonder enhanced by the high salt content.

What to do at the Dead Sea?

The stunning area around Israel and Jordan is a breathtaking place to visit. With the clear sky, and the water perfects to float upon, and the beach, the place is flabbergasting and charming.

With the immense beauty trapped here, the best things to do here are:

Discover the caves of Qumran
Get spa at the Dead Sea Mud
Explore the Wadi David, Wadi Bokek, and Wadi Arugot
Take entry at the En Gedi Beach
Visit the southwestern shore, Ein Bokek Beach
Explore the rock-salt mountain, Mount Sodom
Don’t forget the floating in this salt sea
Explore the lowest place on earth, 426 meters below the sea level

Salt-encrusted items on the Dead Sea shore, illustrating the high salinity that characterizes this unique body of water. — Encounter salt-encrusted items along the Dead Sea shore, illustrating the extreme salinity that defines this unique body of water.

Why a wellbeing vacation at the Dead Sea with climate cure is a good idea?

No matter if Israel or Jordan, it is a popular destination for health trips of all kinds due to its natural healing powers. The sun as well as the salty water with numerous minerals – let yourself be enchanted by the unique effect.

The natural active ingredients of the sea still serve today as the basis for many products such as bath salts, soaps, or lotions. However, these products cannot replace the feeling to feel even the effect of this wellness oasis. The climate at the Dead Sea is not only good for your health but is also an all-rounder for your beauty.

It is not without reason that the Dead Sea is called a treasure trove of natural healing powers: the 30% salt and mineral content is particularly skin-friendly, the bromine-rich air with low moisture content is ideal for allergy sufferers, and the black mud cares for the body from head to toe through packs or baths, thereby delaying skin aging. The interaction of the remedies creates the perfect starting point for a spa stay.

A tranquil sunrise over the Dead Sea, with salt deposits creating a unique landscape. — Experience a tranquil sunrise at the Dead Sea, where the salt deposits create a landscape like no other on earth.

Why is the Dead Sea so salty?

The salt content is so high because the lake is located in a hot desert climate in which much more water evaporates than through rain and is added by the rivers. Only the water vapor escapes, while the salts and other minerals remain behind and accumulate in the water.

The Dead Sea also has no outlet with which the salts could be washed away, because it is 426 m lower than sea level, making it the lowest point on earth.

For 80 years, the sea level has been sinking particularly fast, by one meter per year, because a large part of the water from the main tributary Jordan is used for irrigation and water supply. As a result, the salt content is also slowly increasing.

When to visit the Dead Sea?

Floating on the water under the infinite sky is bliss. And when the climate is soothing, the experience can turn out to be enchanting. The best time to visit this place is during the months of September-November when the temperature falls. The lowest place on earth surrounded by desert beaches, mineral spas, and oases, this place is jaw-dropping.

The spectacular beauty of the sea and the splendid experience of the spa is just a charm. With the beauty it holds and the experience one gains, the Dead Sea Salt is just soothing.

The opportunity to exfoliate the skin in the lap of nature at the Dead Sea Mud will be a breathtaking experience.
So, to love yourself and experience the unmatched beauty of nature, book your trip to the Dead Sea in Israel today!

Where to stay when visiting the Dead Sea?

Depending on your preference you might find below the most recommended places to stay.

Ma’in Spa Hotel – Jordan: A well-designed hotel with a great thermal pool and view of hot springs waterfall. The public waterfall is only a short walk outside the hotel.

Ein Gedi Kibbutz Hotel – Israel: An excellent place if you like it a bit more luxury and want to be away from the tourist trap.

Dead Sea Spa Hotel – Jordan: Great place for a convenient price, with all facilities needed for a great spa vacation and in walking distance to the beach.

Thara Dead Sea – Jordan: The hotel is somewhat secluded, but if you are on a budget you may be surprised about the value you get.

Abu Simbel – The Unforgotten Home Of The Temple That Moved

"The grand facade of Abu Simbel temples, with colossal statues of Pharaoh Ramses II, against a clear blue sky.

Abu Simbel is a remote and tiny village located in southern Egypt, quite close to its border with Sudan and hardly has 3000 inhabitants. Then what is so special about this village? Let us dig into some interesting facts.

Why is Abu Simbel Important?

The Egyptian Pharaoh Ramesses II built the massive carved out rock temple in 1244 B.C., bragging about his accomplishments. There are two temples at the site – a larger one and a smaller one. The walls of this temple of Abu Simbel depict scenes from the Battle of Kadesh.

Night view of Abu Simbel, with the temple facade dramatically illuminated against the dark sky. — Witness the stunning illumination of Abu Simbel at night, casting a majestic glow against the Egyptian night sky.

What happened to Abu Simbel?

The Abu Simbel temple had to go through quite a lot. Originally constructed in 1244 B.C., it was previously situated at the west banks of the Nile River, in between the first and second cataracts. The concerned authorities decided to relocate it for a reason – They had to construct a dam (now the Aswan High Dam), while the level of the Nile River was already rising. The goal was to prevent flooding and destruction of the Abu Simbel temple.

It was a tough task – breaking the massive structure into pieces that weighed tons, followed by physical transportation. Assembling the pieces and reconstructing the temple as before was the most challenging, though. It took 5 long years and a good 42 million dollars to secure the temple 200 feet above the original location.

The interior of Abu Simbel, showing intricate hieroglyphics and carvings on the temple walls. — Step inside the Abu Simbel temples to discover the ancient hieroglyphics and stunning wall carvings.

How to get to Abu Simbel from Aswan?

The quickest possible way is by flight – it takes hardly 45 minutes. Nevertheless, you can always consider hiring minibusses or private cars as per your choice.

What to do at Abu Simbel?

The number one priority of a traveler would obviously be to visit these magnificent temples. It is spectacular inside out.

Experience a real life time machine as the melodies in the sound and light shows around the temples transpose you to the time of the Pharaohs.

Another landmark is the temple of Wadi El-Sabua, which is also an ancient ruin.

Explore the banks of Lake Nasser as the Lake Nasser Cruise takes you on a memorable ride.

Tourists taking a guided tour to learn about the history and relocation of Abu Simbel. — Explore the rich history of Abu Simbel and its monumental relocation on a guided tour.

Some lesser-known Abu Simbel facts

The temple complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nubian Monuments.

The deliberate placement of the colossal statues of Pharaoh Ramesses and of his favorite wife, Nefertari ensure that the rising sun rays fall on them on only two days of the year – the Pharaoh’s birthday and his coronation day. Mark the dates – 22 February and 22 September. Do not miss the phenomenon if you visit here around this time.

Jean Louis Burkhardt rediscovered the temple complex in 1813 by a matter of chance after layers of sand had covered it over time.

Lastly, why bother visiting the Abu Simbel temple?

Visit the Abu Simbel temple and see the fascinating history of its temples come to life – watch the engineering phenomenon and participate in the local events. You just can’t make out that this magnificent monument was ever moved. It looks as if it has always belonged there over the rocks.

Where to stay at Abu Simbel?

Stop reading reviews and visit this magical place one and for all. The reality is grander and more majestic than words can capture!

Some of the best hotels near Abu Simbel include the following:

Serengeti National Park – Make the most exciting Safari experience

Wide savannahs of Serengeti National Park teeming with wildlife, an ideal destination for nature lovers

The Serengeti National park truly justifies its name. A place where the land goes on forever is what this amazing wildlife park symbolizes.

The amazing space creates an iconic and differentiated image of Serengeti based on the perfect blend of nutritious grasslands, sparse woodlands, and grassy areas dotted with Acacia trees.

The Serengeti safari to explore the sheer pure wildlife makes the trip to this national park dotted with perfection.

Let us explore the forever land of Serengeti National Park.

Where is Serengeti National Park?

The Serengeti National park stretches from northern Tanzania to southwestern Kenya. With such a wildland free and open for Serengeti animals, the place is perfect to embrace the beauty of Mother Nature. The wild beasts, mighty elephants, big buffalos, tall giraffes, quick cheetahs, and beautiful antelopes, this place is home to a variety of wildlife. Also, with over species of colorful and vibrant birds, the mornings and evenings at this place sound melodious.

Zebras grazing peacefully in the grasslands of Serengeti National Park — Witness the serene beauty of zebras grazing in their natural habitat on your visit to Serengeti National Park.

The National Park has four major areas:

The Southern Plains
The Central Seronera Valley
The Western Corridor
The Northern Serengeti

Lions resting under acacia trees in Serengeti National Park, showcasing the park's rich biodiversity. — Discover the king of the jungle in its natural habitat on your visit to Serengeti National Park.

How to visit Serengeti National Park?

With such an amazing view of the Serengeti animals and birds, the Serengeti National park is unique. To visit this place the best travel trail is:

Book a flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport, Julius Nyerere International Airport, or Arusha Airport.
Get to the Arusha Town from there.
Start the Serengeti safari from Arusha town either by flight to airstrips inside the park or by bumpy road trip by bus.

When is the best time to visit Serengeti National Park?

To meet wildlife and spend some time with nature, every time is just perfect. With greenery all around, open sky, cool breeze, chirping sound of birds, and the sight of the Serengeti animals, while going for the Serengeti safari is amazing and bliss.

The dry season from late June to October is just perfect. With the wildebeest migration at peak and the beauty of Serengeti antelope running around, the view of wildlife is stunningly beautiful.

Sunrise over Serengeti National Park, illuminating the vast landscapes with golden hues — Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise as you visit Serengeti National Park, a moment of serene beauty.

Why is it called a global sanctuary for elephants?

With the number of wild elephants rising, this National Park is called the global sanctuary for elephants. The care and preservation of the elephants provided at this amazing park is way higher than it can be described by mere words.

Get a chance to meet the raw and pre wildlife of Africa. From massive beasts to beautiful birds, capture everything in your heart during your unforgettable trip to Serengeti National Park!

Where to stay in the Serengeti?

Reaching this beautiful wildlife destination and embracing nature is perfect. With the cozy stay facilities and lodges, the Serengeti National Park proves to be the best place to spend time in the middle of nature. With the land stretch over forever, you can literally explore and praise every nook and corner of Serengeti. The beautiful sigh of the Serengeti animals running around freely will make your heart throb with pride.

The best locations to stay are:

Stay in Ndutu Region from January to March and December
Prefer Grumeti/Western Corridor from April to May
Book Central Serengeti during June and October to November
Visit Northern Serengeti from July to September

The best and the luxurious hotels and lodges to book are:

Kenzan Ndutu
Ndutu Safari Lodge
Kati Kati Ndutu
Ndutu Under Canvas
Sanctuary Kusini
Grumeti Migration Camp
Beyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp
Serena Kirawira Tented Camp
Thorntree Camp
Kiota Tented Camp
Sopa Serengeti
Kubu Kubu Tented Camp
Four Seasons Serengeti Safari Lodge

Petra in Jordan – Stunning and elongated caves made of pink stones

The ancient Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) in Petra, Jordan, seen through the narrow canyon of Al-Siq

The phenomenal architectural site built by carving in the pink stones that creates an alluring beauty and the stunning art, Petra in Jordan is no less than the heaven of rock-carving. Keep reading this article ahead to dig deep inside the spectacular beauty of this place.

The stunningly long and elongated caves of pink stones cut and carved, polished and decorated, with the beautiful pink-hued sky above the head, the atmosphere turns here to be a dreamland of rocks.

With half-built and half-carved in stones, the mesmerizing beauty of Petra in Jordan will leave you speechless. The jaw-dropping carving on stones creates an alluring effect. With such a beauty of nature and the efforts of humans to make it even more astounding, this article is all you need, to know about the wonderful Jordan Petra.

Aerial view of the Monastery (Ad Deir) in Petra, showcasing its large facade carved into the pink sandstone — Explore the panoramic beauty of Petra in Jordan, an enduring symbol of ancient Nabatean culture.

When and who built Petra in Jordan?

The famous rock-cut architecture and the wonderful pink beauty spread all over, this place is awe-interesting. With every nook and corner carved to its utmost beauty and everything sparkling pink dust in the hued-orange sunshine, the aura created here is alluring.

Built between 400 B.C. and 106 A.D, the Petra Jordan, was the capital of the flourishing and glorious Nabateans Empire. Camels in the doorway of the Petra Jordan treasury and great temple are enough to display the enormity and luxury of the Empire.

How to get to Petra in Jordan?

The stunningly built and carved beauty in stone, the pink fascinating architect of nature and human, the caves of calmness, and the sky of infinity, generates the vibes of positivity that you look for.

The best way to reach this gigantic rose city is:

Fly to Queen Alia International Airport just half an hour from Amman
Book a card ride of three hours to reach Jordan Petra

Ancient tombs and houses carved into the pink cliffs of Petra, reflecting the Nabatean engineering skills — Unveil the secrets of Petra’s carved tombs and houses, a testament to Jordan’s ancient Nabatean civilization.

Why is Petra Jordan one of the wonders of the world?

The historical beauty and the classic piece of architecture, built by carving the pink stones and the alluring appearance, the Petra Jordan is just stunning.

The emerging attraction of the tourists for the rose-red sandstone rock facades, tombs, and temples became so much more prominent after the Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade in 1989.

The most visited tourist attraction, that collected 100 million votes, is one of the wonders of the world now.

Journey through the Siq to Petra – Jordan's majestic entrance to an ancient world — Discover the Monastery, Petra’s hidden gem, perched high in Jordan’s desert landscape.

What to do in Petra?

The illuminating rock-cut marvel and the pink-rosed beauty this ancient place is mind-blowing. The beauty of the sun, when blends with the pink alluring color of rocks, the sparkling aura is formed.

The best things to do at Jordan Petra are:

Start Petra Jordan tours from Bab As-Siq
Explore Siq – tectonic forces breaking mountain into two pieces
Visit the Petra Jordan Treasury and Great Temple
Walkthrough the Street of Facades
Hike through the Petra complex
Visit the Royal tombs
Explore The Monastery (Al-Deir)
Visit the High Place of Sacrifice
Love the Petra at sunset and sunrise
Visit Aaron’s tomb

What is the kind of weather Petra observes in Jordan?

With the summer long, warm, and arid; and the winters cold, dry, and clear, the temperature at Petra is soothing. The weather it observes round the year makes the place one of the best for tourism.

The amazingly cut and carved gigantic city of rose pink, the charismatic look, and the alluring sight makes this place just sensational. The beauty of the tomb and the luxury of camels at the door sings the songs of prosperity.

With such charm and the alluring climate, a trip to this pink city must be on your bucket list!

Avenue of the Baobabs – The stunning roads of Madagascar

Sunset casting golden hues over the Avenue of the Baobabs in Madagascar, with majestic baobab trees lining the road

Avenue of the Baobabs is a breathtaking natural beauty that extends to just 260 meters and with just 25 trees, making the place a serene beauty. Through this article, find out the complete guide of the stunning and phenomenal Baobab tree of Madagascar.

The place is daunted by the symmetrical lining of the trees on either side of the long dirt road. Located somewhere in between Morondava and Belon’i Tsiribihina, in Western Madagascar, the place is sparklingly charming.

The long stretch of the dirt land under the clear sky and the extraordinary Madagascar trees, the view is just awe-interesting. The beauty and charm of the Avenue of Baobabs are ready to give you butterflies in the stomach.

How to get to Morondava?

The stunning architecture of nature in the form Avenue of Baobabs is just charming. The stunning trees standing upright on both sides of the dirt road creates a stunning view and gives you a daunting experience.

The best and the quickest way to reach the Morondava is to book a flight of 45 minutes from Antananarivo. Shared taxi is also an option, but it will take half a day by giving you the joy of exploring the untapped beauty on the way.

Panoramic view of the Avenue of the Baobabs, with the baobabs stretching towards the horizon — Embrace the grandeur of Madagascar’s Avenue of the Baobabs, a panoramic spectacle of nature.

Where is the Avenue of the Baobabs?

The land of stunning biodiversity and some of the exclusive and rare animals, Madagascar is famous for wildlife and biodiversity. The startling nature spread across the infinite land, and the infinite sky shining above the head creates an alluring experience at this place.

The Avenue of the Baobabs is one such miracle of nature. These majestic trees standing proudly northeast of Morondova, on either side of the 260-meter long dirt road.

Towering Baobab trees along the Avenue in Madagascar, showcasing their unique and ancient forms — Walk among the giants at the Avenue of the Baobabs in Madagascar, where history meets nature.

What to do at Avenue of the Baobabs?

The mystical land of Baobab tree Madagascar will leave you surprised and speechless. The beauty and alluring nature, the classic sky, and the biodiversity make the land sheer and pure paradise.

With the astounding nature and beauty, the various things to do at Avenue of Baobabs are:

Get a chance to see Adansonia Grandidieiri, the famous Baobab tree Madagascar
Fall in love with the charming sunset
Stargaze at Allee des Baobabs
Praise the hues of the sunrise
Visit the twisted Baobabs in love
Have the stunning cultural experience at Betania fishing village

Early morning light illuminating the Baobab trees along Madagascar's Avenue, highlighting the serene landscape — Catch the first light of day at Madagascar’s Avenue of the Baobabs, a peaceful natural escape.

What are the types of Baobab trees Madagascar?

The connection between the nature of Madagascar is not new. With the nature pouring its love to this place and the place preserving and caring nature, the duo is perfect. The Baobab tree Madagascar in the Morondava is just phenomenal.

With the maximum variety of Baobab trees standing with pride. This is home to the maximum variety and beauty. The astonishing fact is that out of nine, six baobab trees are indigenous to Madagascar and can be found in Morondava.

What is the best time to visit the Avenue of Baobab?

The Avenue of Baobab is perfect to visit at any time of the year. With July to August being the peak season, and September to October being comparatively quieter, the time is exotic to explore.

The stunning and phenomenal trees of Baobabs standing upright on either side of dirt roads and welcoming you with open arms. The nature at the avenue of the Baobabs brings the biodiversity of life. With the clear sky, the splendid sunrise, and the hue of the sunset spread around, the place turns paradise.

Exploring the mystic Madagascar trees needs to be planned before, and so, it is the time to pick a date to reach Avenue of Baobabs today!

Okavango Delta – See the gorgeous Inland Delta of Botswana

Elephants bathing in the clear waters of the Okavango Delta, exemplifying the region's rich wildlife

When UNESCO qualified Okavango Delta as the 1000th World Heritage site, the world truly took notice. This prominent wildlife location was catapulted to overnight popularity in 2014. In northern Botswana, this delta originates out of the Okavango River and spans over 15.000 square kilometers of the Kalahari Desert.

Okavango Delta, Botswana has slowly but steadily climbed the charts to be the location of African lodges and camps due to the adventure activities that it offers.

Where is the Okavango Delta to find on a map?

This Delta is naturally formed in the area of Botswana where the Okavango African river creates a tectonic trough in Kalahari’s endorheic basin. It is believed that the Delta constitutes a part of what used to be Lake Makgadikgadi, a lake from which all water had evaporated in the early Holocene era.

Aerial view of the Okavango Delta in Botswana, showcasing its vast, intricate network of waterways and lush greenery — Explore the breathtaking aerial perspective of the Okavango Delta, a gem of Botswana’s natural landscape.

What is so unique about Okavango Delta?

Okavango Delta is one of the few inland deltas on Earth. It is exceptionally unique because the Okavango River discharges water to open land, unlike other deltas that empty into an ocean.

This African river floods the savanna with 11 * 10¹³ liters of water on average, thereby creating an inland delta that is always changing. Seasonal flooding, therefore, is often witnessed from March to June.

Consequently, small islands are formed and the Chief’s Island becomes more prominently visible. This African delta has single-handedly made Botswana water safaris a reality. It is also known for the diverse wildlife, including 530 bird species, giraffes, elephants, hyenas, buffaloes, leopards, crocodiles, zebras, and antelopes.

"Local guide leading a walking safari in the Okavango Delta, offering an up-close experience with nature — Join a guided walking safari in the Okavango Delta for an unforgettable encounter with Botswana’s wilderness.

How to get to Okavango Delta?

You can reach the Okavango Delta in Botswana by opting for flight service. There are airstrips located just a few minutes away from the Kasane and Maun airports. These flights are often included with tours that also incorporate overnight stay in a hotel. You can also opt for inter-camp air transfer or charter flights. Most of these flights cover the entire journey within one hour at a maximum.

What is the best time to visit Okavango Delta?

Okavango Delta allures tourists with its diverse attractions throughout the year. However, the best time to visit this delta in Botswana is during the dry season, that is, from June to September. This is because you will be able to spot wildlife easily while you are on a Botswana safari due to the lesser vegetation. Furthermore, the mosquito population retreats during this time, thereby paving the path for bright and clear skies.

Sunset over the Okavango Delta, with the sky painted in vibrant hues, reflecting in the water — Experience the stunning sunsets of the Okavango Delta, where the sky meets the water in a spectacular display.

Where to stay in Okavango Delta?

We recommend the following hotels and lodges for accommodation when visiting Okavango:

Crocodile Camp Safari & Spa
Okavango Hidden Gems
Jumbo Junction Camp
Maun Lodge
Laha Hotel.

You might want to avoid visiting Okavango Delta Botswana during the months of January and February, which comprise the wet season peak.

Botswana is oriented toward protecting the thriving ecosystem of the Okavango Delta to ensure its relevance in the future. Even the walking, riding and photographic safaris are uniquely crafted for the tourists’ pleasure.