With differing definitions from the United Nations and the African Union, the region of North Africa can encompass Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, and the Western Sahara. The three main geographic features of the region are the Sahara desert in the South, the Atlas Mountains in the West, and the Nile River and delta in the East.
The people of North Africa have seen many empires come and go, each bringing wars and lasting contributions to the local culture. At the beginning of the last decade, the region saw a series of anti-government protests, uprisings, and armed rebellions, known as the Arab Spring. Today, the outcomes of these revolts are still varied, with Libya still stuck in a civil war and Tunisia adopting a democratic constitution.
North Africa is rich in history, mixed with diverse subcultures, and filled with must-visit locations. Read on to find out our top nine places you must visit in the region.
Morocco
Jardin Majorelle / The Majorelle Gardens
Away from the bustle of Marrakesh, the Majorelle Gardens is a small haven of peace. Surrounded by high walls, lush greenery and bright colours, you can enjoy a tranquil walk through the majestic surroundings.
Flora fans will particularly love the attraction as the gardens boasts 300 species of plants from five continents, including cactus palms and aquatic plants.
The Majorelle Gardens were designed by the French artist Jacques Majorelle in 1924. Nearly 60 years later, the property was purchased by French fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent, in 1980.
Now open to the public to visit, one can enjoy walks, take a look inside the art deco villa labelled, House of Illustres, and take a tour of the museum about the history of Berbers.
This square can easily be defined as the heart of Marrakesh, if not Morocco. It is a hub of Moroccan cultural tradition performed through musical, religious, and artistic expressions. Although it is repeated daily, each performance is different, which is why it has been inscribed as a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
A variety of services are offered here including fortune-telling, preaching, henna tattooing, traditional medicine, and dental care. In addition, one can enjoy performances from poets, storytellers, snake charmers, Berber musicians, Gnaoua dancers and senthir players. Lastly, food, water and fruit can be bought.
Designed by Michel Pinseau under the guidance of King Hassan II, and built by Moroccan artisans from all over the kingdom, this is the second largest functioning mosque in Africa.
Positioned majestically on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it is the pinnacle of Casablanca. It includes 60 stories and the world’s second tallest minaret, topped with a laser that beams in the direction of Mecca to help believers position themselves accurately during prayers.
With its hand-crafted marble walls and retractable roof, it is one of the most beautiful mosques in the world.
It can hold a maximum of 105,000 worshippers who can gather for prayer (25,000 inside the mosque hall and another 80,000 on the mosque's outside ground). Non-Muslim visitors can also enter the mosque on tours that are held several times a day in English.
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Algeria
Located in the Sahara desert, the Tassili n’Ajjer stands on a bed of rock that makes up one of the largest and best preserved groupings of prehistoric cave art in the world. There are more than 15,000 drawings and engravings that record the climatic changes, the animal migrations, and the evolution of human life on the edge of the Sahara from 6000 BC to the first centuries of the present era.
Natural erosion poses a threat to this otherworldly attraction so you should definitely see it while it is still here.
Hammam Maskhoutine Thermal Springs
The dramatic, multicoloured travertine walls of this hot spring are an Algerian must-see. Formed with water, which has a temperature of 98°C, and saturated with minerals, such as calcium carbonate and iron, the stunning hot spring has been regarded to be therapeutic for people who deal with ailments such as arthritis and rheumatism.
Tunisia
This beautiful coastal and cultural destination captivates tourists with its beach resorts, buzzing nightlife, and picturesque souks that sell authentic food, spices, jewellery, fabrics, and perfumes.
The Medina of Sousse is a Medina quarter in Sousse, Tunisia (Governorate of Sousse). Named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, it is a typical example of the architecture of the early centuries of Islam in Maghreb. It includes a Kasbah, fortifications and the Great Mosque.
Located in the middle of Sousse, the Great Mosque is a surprisingly tranquil place that was built in 850 AD in the Aghlabite style. Non-Muslims are allowed to go inside the Great Mosque, although you will be given robes to wear if your clothing is deemed inappropriate.
The Amphitheatre of El Jem is one of the remnants of the Roman Empire’s presence in Tunisia. After the Colosseum of Rome, the El Jem Colosseum is the second largest in the world, and the third largest ever built. It is free-standing with no foundation, and built entirely of stone blocks. It is a remarkable reminder of Roman engineering which is still well preserved, and it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Open to the public, you can walk around the attraction and explore all the different levels until 6.30pm from Monday to Sunday, which makes it a unique experience for sunset.
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Egypt
What was once a sleepy little fishing area has transformed into a year-round holiday destination with 5 star, all-inclusive beach resorts that cater to all. Hurghada is also a hotspot for scuba diving and snorkelling.
Known for containing one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and holding UNESCO World Heritage site status, you have probably already heard about the Giza Pyramid Complex in the Greater Cairo area of Egypt.
The complex includes the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khafre, the Pyramid of Menkaure, the Great Sphinx of Giza and their associated pyramid complexes. They were all built between 2600 and 2500 BC by the Ancient Egyptians, and are marvellous symbols of the history, tradition, skill, and genius of a community.
This is the oldest of the Ancient Wonders, and the only one still in existence so it is most definitely worth visiting!
Things to know before you visit North Africa
Muslims fast from dawn to dusk every day for the duration of the month. Non-Muslims are not expected to fast or follow Islamic practices but they should be aware and respectful of the country’s social customs and local laws. For example, they should still refrain from eating or drinking in public. During Ramadan, you might find that food and drink stalls are closed. If you are in an area where food is served for travellers during Ramadan, it would be appropriate to tip generously.
Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr which may last several days (usually three in most countries). Do note that during Eid al-Fitr locals traditionally spend time celebrating the festival with family and friends, so most businesses may be closed for the duration.
Conduct
Furthermore, homosexuality is taboo and illegal in many Muslim countries.
Everyone is expected to dress more conservatively in public, especially during Ramadan. Note that uncovered arms, legs, shoulders, or hair may offend others. Even in more liberal areas, it is a good idea to be respectful of the country’s culture.
Travel Warnings
As of May, 2022, Egypt has a Level 3 which means “Reconsider Travel” due to terrorism risk.
Furthermore, Libya is on Level 4, which means “Do not travel”. This indicates the current situation (crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict) is too dangerous for tourists.
Please always read the travel advisory before visiting any country.