African city breaks: Cape Town, Nairobi, Accra, Lagos and Addis Ababa

By the Safarly team · Updated 1 November 2026 · 6 min read

Cape Town, Nairobi, Accra, Lagos and Addis Ababa are all easy to build into a trip. Check entry rules and health requirements well before you fly, and choose the season that suits what you want to do.

Africa is a continent of 54 countries, so no single guide fits every trip. These five cities are well connected by air and each offers something different. Whatever you choose, check the official entry and health rules for your passport before you book, because they change.

Cape Town, South Africa

Known for Table Mountain, the coastline and the nearby wine region. Its summer is roughly November to March, which many visitors prefer for the beaches and outdoor plans. It is in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons are the reverse of Europe's.

Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi National Park sits right next to the city, so you can see wildlife with the skyline in the background. The city is also a gateway to safaris elsewhere in Kenya. The drier months, roughly June to October and January to February, are popular. Kenya uses an online travel authorisation for most visitors, so check the current requirement before you fly.

Accra, Ghana

A coastal capital with beaches, markets, music and the historic Jamestown area. Many visitors also travel to the old forts and castles on the coast, such as Cape Coast Castle, which is a few hours away by road. The drier months run roughly from November to March. Ghana asks for proof of yellow fever vaccination from many arriving travellers, so check this early.

Lagos, Nigeria

One of Africa's largest cities, known for its music, food and art scene. Traffic can be heavy, so allow plenty of time between plans and arrange airport transfers in advance. The drier months are roughly November to March. Check the visa and health requirements for your passport well ahead, since processing can take time.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

The home of Ethiopian Airlines, one of Africa's biggest carriers, which makes it a useful connecting point for many African routes. The city sits at around 2,400 metres above sea level, so you may feel the altitude for the first day. It has a rainy season roughly from June to September.

What to check before you book any of them

1. Entry rules. Visa, e-visa or travel authorisation requirements for your nationality, from the official government source.
2. Health. Yellow fever certificates, malaria advice and routine vaccines. Ask a doctor or travel health service in your country.
3. Passport validity. Many countries need several months of validity left, and blank pages.
4. Baggage. Compare fare types for checked bags, since you may add gifts or shopping on the return. See our guide to fare types and baggage.
5. Connections. Many routes connect in a hub such as Addis Ababa, Dubai, Doha, Istanbul or Johannesburg. Keep both flights on one ticket if you can.
6. Your government's travel advice. Read it for each city before you go.

Ask us for a quote

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Quick answers

Do I need a visa for these cities?

It depends on your nationality. Check the official government source of the country you are visiting, and apply early where an e-visa or authorisation is needed.

Do I need a yellow fever certificate?

Some countries require proof of vaccination for arriving travellers, depending on where you have been. Check the current rule for your destination with an official or health source.

What is the best time to visit?

It depends on the city: Cape Town is warmest from about November to March, while Nairobi, Accra and Lagos are usually drier in specific months. Check the seasons for your dates.

Rules, fees and entry requirements change. This guide is general information, not legal advice. Always check official sources and your supplier's terms before you book.

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