There are many African Myths. But what is true about it?

We have collected the 3 most persistent African Myths, and you can read them below.

African Myths: Africa is one big country

Of all the myths that exist about Africa, this is the most persistent.

Most people know that Africa is not one big country.

And that the African continent is gigantic. In fact, it is the second-largest in the world.

Africa consists of about 54 countries. From Egypt and Algeria in the north, Ghana and Sierra Leone in the west,  Kenya and Tanzania in the east, Congo, and Chad in Central Africa, to Namibia and South Africa in the south.

Although it can be difficult to tell them apart, there are major differences between these 54 countries.

More than 2,000 languages ​​are spoken in Africa and there are 3,000 different peoples.

Each country has its own flag and national anthem.

If you want to visit different countries during your trip, you must also bring different currencies with you. All African countries have their own currency.

The African continent covers about 20% of the Earth’s surface. In fact, the surface of Africa can contain more than the US, China, Europe, Japan, and India combined, or 30,221,532 km2.

African Myths 2: It’s always hot in Africa

Of course, there are countries in Africa where it is always warm.

But Africa is more than just desert and savannah. The nature of Africa ALSO consists of the coast, rainforest, forest, grassland, mountains, and much more.

And the 54 countries have different seasons, just like the Netherlands.

The African continent has several climate zones.

The countries around the equator do not have such great temperature fluctuations during the year. But in North and South Africa, the temperature varies much more. In the north of the continent, there are 8 degrees between the highest and the lowest temperature. While in the south of Africa it is about 13 degrees here.

Most of the continent has a tropical climate, but parts of the north and south have a subtropical climate, just like southern Europe and large parts of Australia.

There are also places in Africa where the climate is moderate, just like in the Netherlands. One such place with a temperate climate is the East African Mountains.

That is why you cannot say that it is always warm in Africa. The temperature depends on the travel time and the country.

African Myths 3: You only go to Africa to go on safari

Africa is often considered a place to go on safari. And although a safari is an unforgettable experience, Africa has more to offer than just a safari. Experiences that you can combine with a safari, for example.

Go on a beach vacation

If you need relaxation on a white sandy beach with swaying palms and clear blue water, Africa is the ideal destination.

Africa has huge stretches of coastline and therefore you will find many picturesque beaches, crystal clear water and fairytale coral reefs. For example, go to the islands of Mauritius and Zanzibar or the coastal town of Mombasa which is in Kenya.

Unforgettable nature

Africa has countless places with a unique nature.

In Namibia, you can visit the enchanting sand dunes of Sossusvlei, while in Tanzania you can climb the highest freestanding mountain in the world, Kilimanjaro, which is 5,895 meters high. Victoria Falls on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe has a waterfall that is 1,700 meters wide and 100 meters high.

And that’s just a handful of the things you can see. Africa is a real nature mecca.

Experience the bustling big cities

In Africa, you will find a whole range of exciting and intense big cities that have a lot to offer.

For example, you can experience all kinds of things in Cape Town, the parliamentary capital of South Africa. After your whole day of cultural activities, enjoy a nice glass of South African wine in one of Cape Town’s many restaurants.

A trip to Africa can provide all kinds of experiences. And you decide what you prefer to do. Read more about our various trips to Africa here.