Unearthing the Rich Geography of Northern Africa: A Comprehensive Guide

Northern Africa is a vast and varied land comprising many different cultures, traditions, and landscapes. From the imposing peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the wide and golden sands of the Sahara Desert, Northern Africa is a rich and rewarding destination for travelers looking for an authentic and unique experience.

Northern Africa’s Geological Diversity

The terrestrial region of Northern Africa is home to a myriad range of geological components and landscapes. The Earth here has been sculpted by wind and water over millions of years, forming a unique and fascinating landscape.

The principal geographic regions are towering mountains, vast deserts, rolling savannas, and a sparkling coastline. Northern Africa is a land of great contrasts, where the dry desert meets the sea and the Sahara meets the Mediterranean. Each region has its character and charm waiting to be explored.

A wide variety of valuable crops including cereals, rice, and cotton, and woods such as cedar and cork, are grown. Typical mediterranean crops such as olives, figs, dates, and citrus fruits also thrive in these areas. The Nile valley is particularly fertile, and most of Egypt’s population lives close to the river.

Northern African Deserts and Oases

The Northern African region is home to one of Earth’s most diverse and spectacular geographies. North Africa is a land of great contrasts, from the vast and forbidding Sahara Desert to the fertile Nile River Valley and the sun-drenched Mediterranean coastline.

Within this diversified landscape, you’ll find an equally diverse mix of peoples, cultures, and religions. The Berbers inhabit the rugged mountains of Northwest Africa, while the Copts are the largest Christian community in Northern Africa. The cultures of the Maghreb and the Sahara, therefore, combine indigenous Berber, Arab, and elements from neighboring parts of Africa and beyond. One of the most interesting features of Northern Africa is its series of ancient oases. These oases are natural reservoirs that provide water and shelter in the middle of the desert.

Northern Africa’s Mountains and Plateaus

Northern Africa is home to a diverse landscape, and its geography is one of its defining features. The region is made up of mountains, plateaus, and the Sahara Desert.

The Atlas Mountains stretch across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. These mountains are among the oldest in the World and have played a significant role in the region’s history. The highest peak of the Atlas Mountains is Jebel Toubkal, which reaches a height of 4,167 meters.

Meanwhile, the Sahara Desert covers a large part of Northern Africa. This desert is one of the largest in the World, and it is home to sand dunes that can reach heights of up to 300 meters.

Northern Africa’s Crystal Rivers and Lakes

Contrary to popular belief, the North African Continent terrain is characterized by the colossal wilderness of its deserts and includes many rivers and lakes. The Nile River, one of the World’s longest rivers, flows through countries in North Africa like Sudan, Egypt, and Ethiopia. It provides an abundance of freshwater for millions of people along its banks.

The region also contains a variety of lakes, such as Lake Nasser in Egypt and the Great Man-Made River in Libya. The Great Man-Made River is an enormous irrigation project designed to channel water from underground aquifers to coastal cities. Land and sea Sheltered valleys in the Atlas mountains, the Nile valley and delta, and the Mediterranean coast are the main sources of good farming land. Expeditions such as Lake Chad in Chad and Niger are some of the other large bodies of water found in this part of the World.

Unique Flora and Fauna of Northern Africa

Northern Africa is home to diverse and unique flora and fauna. It is a hotbed for different species of plant, bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian life. The region is also full of wildflowers and orchids that attract migratory birds from around the World.

The Sahara Desert alone is home to some unique species of plants, including the Desert Date Palm, known for its ability to survive in extreme temperatures. Some other native species include the Giant Acacia tree, cacti, and cape aloe.

The wide variety of flora and fauna present in Northern Africa provides an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts to explore different ecosystems in one place.

A Rich Tapestry: Uncovering the History and Culture of North African nations

Ancient History from the Pharaohs to the Ottoman Empire

The history of the North African continent is as rich and varied as the continent itself. From the ancient Pharaohs to the Ottoman Empire, the region has seen many cultures come and go.

This means that there’s something for everyone when exploring North African history. Whether you’re interested in ancient civilizations or more recent events, a wealth of information is just waiting to be explored. North African States have retained a distinct cultural identity.

Northern Africa is a fascinating region with a rich history that’s well worth uncovering.

Traditional Music of Northern Africa

When you think of Northern Africa, what comes to mind? If ancient architecture, bustling markets and camel caravans are some of the images that come to mind, you’re on the right track. But there’s so much more to this fascinating region of the World than first meets the eye.

Northern Africa is home to a rich and diverse culture reflected in its traditional music. This music is a blend of indigenous styles with influences from other parts of Africa, the Middle East and Europe. It’s often characterized by its complex rhythms and melodies, as well as its use of traditional instruments like the oud, lute, and drums.

So, if you’re ever in Northern Africa, be sure to take in a performance of traditional music. You won’t regret it!

Artistic Expression in Northern African Cultures

Take a closer look at the artistic expressions of Northern African exhibit in their cultures, and you’ll find a stunning array of artifacts, crafts, music and stories. Music plays an important role in Northern African culture and is often intricate in its melodies and instrumentation.

The types of art found in this region also reflect the complexity of the cultures that inhabit it, from spectacular weavings to intricate hand-painted ceramics or detailed metalwork.

These tales are often symbolic and reflect the culture’s beliefs and values—they tell tales of courage, honor and selflessness that have been around for generations.

Cultural Landmarks and Sites of Interest

The Ghardaïa’s Kasbah is an incredibly well-preserved part of the Algerian Sahara Desert. While strolling its streets, you’ll get a look into a traditional Islamic way of life that has been hidden away for centuries.

Further south in Algeria, you will find Tipaza, with its mix of Roman and Berber influences. You can visit the ancient sites at Tipaza’s archeological park or stroll along its incredible seashore. Beautiful mosques, bustling markets, and ancient ruins lie between the Mediterranean coast and the Sahara Desert.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Oman is an exquisite display of Islamic architecture with its intricate patterns on domes and minarets – definitely worth seeing!

In Morocco, you can explore the ruins at Volubilis – one of Northern Africa’s most important Roman sites. And let’s not forget about the Pyramids of Giza! They are perhaps one of the most iconic landmarks in Northern Africa.

Contemporary Values and Beliefs in Northern African Cultures

Northern Africa has rich cultural history, contemporary values and beliefs, and deep-rooted traditions. While many of us might be well aware of the dominant religions in the region—Islam and Christianity—it is important to appreciate the underlying beliefs that shape societies today.

Additionally, hospitality is deeply ingrained within Northern African cultures. It is customary for families to gather around a table at least once a week for celebrations or just to spend time together, with food being an essential part of the gathering.

Let’s visit the wonder places of Northern African Countries.

1. Algeria

Capital: Algiers
Currency: Algerian Dinar (DZD)
International Airport: Houari Boumediene International Airport, Mohamed Boudiaf International Airport, Batna Mostefa Ben Boulaid Airport, Chlef International Airport, and so on.

Algeria

Algeria is the largest country in the entire Africa. The Mediterranean Sea borders it on the north, Mali and Niger on the south, Tunisia on the east, Morocco, Western Sahara, and Mauritania on the west. The Sahara Desert is one of Algeria’s main attractions and the second-largest desert in the World. Algeria has also been a member of the World Tourism Organization (WTO) since 1976.

Several extremely amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be found in Algeria. The ancient ruins of Al Qal’a of Beni Hammad, what’s left of the beachfront Islamic city of Kasbah of Algiers, and more can be found among the seven that the country boasts. One can also visit the famous Djamaa El Djazair mosque in Algeria. It is also home to the endangered Saharan cheetah.

• Basilique Notre Dame d’Afrique, Bologhine: 46 stained-glass windows were constructed in the basilica throughout the 19^th century. They have been reconstructed twice after being destroyed during a site bombardment in April 1943. It has a fascination with history.
  

  Basilique Notre Dame d’Afrique

• Le Jardin d’Essai du Hamma, Belouizdad: Le Jardin d’Essai du Hamma, founded by the French in 1832, is a 140-acre botanical garden home to 1,200 different varieties of plants from all over the World. It is adorned with a beautiful flower garden and is a must to visit.
  

  Le Jardin d’Essai du Hamma

• Kasbah of Algiers, Kasbah: Explore the Kasbah of Algiers, the town’s historical quarter and a World Heritage Site primarily constructed during the Ottoman Empire’s administration. It is a charming tangle of little alleys. You can witness Ottoman-style palaces, Moorish homes, Medieval mosques, and the Ruins of a Castle.
  

  Kasbah of Algiers

• Emir Abdelkader Mosquée, Constantine: The Mosque of Emir Abdelkader is the most notable structure in the city; you can see its twin 107-meter-tall monuments as you reach the center. It is one of the largest mosques and Algeria’s first contemporary Islamic university.
  

  Emir Abdelkader Mosquée

• The Palais des Raïs – Bastion 23, Kasbah: The historical palace complex known as Palais des Rais, or Bastion 23, is situated in the Kasbah of Algiers inside the country’s capital, Algiers. Dey Ramdhan Pasha constructed the palace comprising 3 castles and 6 dwellings in the Ottoman era, notably in 1576 AD, to bolster the city’s defenses and maritime security.As a part of the Kasbah of Algiers, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.
  

  The Palais des Raïs

2. Egypt

Capital: Cairo
Currency: Egyptian Pound (E£)
International Airport: Cairo International Airport, Sphinx International Airport, Capital International Airport.

Egypt

The official name of Egypt is the Arab Republic of Egypt. It is in the northeastern corner of Africa. It is famous for the Nile River valley, which was home to the ancient civilization of the Middle East and Mesopotamia, which shows us how modern and systematic thoughts they had. Egypt has borders with the Red Sea, the River Nile, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Egypt shares borders with Sudan to the south, Israel to the east, Libya to the west, and the Gaza Strip to the northeast. Most Egyptians are followers of the Islamic religion, which is home to a variety of rare animals and plants like gazelles, cobras, etc.

• The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, Cairo: A large library of ancient Egyptian artifacts can be seen at the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities in Cairo, Egypt also referred to as the Egyptian Museum or Museum of Cairo. There are 120,000 objects, some of which are on display and most stored away. The new Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza will replace the museum in 2020.
  

  The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities

• Temple of Karnak, Thebes: The Karnak Temple Complex is composed of several temples, chapels, and other structures arranged in a village. Karnak was given this name because, in Arabic, it means “walled village.”

The Karnak Temple was built between 2055 BC and 100 AD. It was constructed as a religious temple for the deities Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. The Karnak Temple, the biggest sacred structure ever built, was referred to by the ancient Egyptians as the “most chosen of locations.”

Temple of Karnak

• Pyramids of Giza, Cairo:The only remaining example of one of the original Seven Wonders is the Great Pyramid. It is a wonder primarily due to its scale and the extraordinary perfection with which the construction was completed, making it possibly the largest tower ever built. It is believed to be Khufu’s tomb, although all that has been discovered is an empty coffin.
  

  Pyramids of Giza

• Ras Mohammed National Park, City of Sharm El Sheikh: This was Egypt’s first national park. Two islands close off the peninsula are included in the protected area, as well as the Red Sea Reef. At the peninsula’s tip, a tiny mangrove forest is protected by the park on the land. Mountains, dunes, wadis, and even coastal mud plains can be found further inland.
  

  Ras Mohammed National Park

3. Libyan Arab Jamahiriya

Capital: Tripoli
Currency: Libyan Dinar (LD)
International Airport: Tripoli International Airport, Mitiga International Airport, Al Abraq International Airport, Benina International Airport, Zuwarah International Airport, Misrata International Airport, Sebha International Airport, and so on.

Libyan Arab Jamahiriya

Tripolitania in the northwest, Cyrenaica in the east, and Fezzan in the southwest make up Libya. They were popular as independent provinces by the Ottoman government. They amalgamated into a single colony under the Italian administration, which gave way to an independent Libya. Libya’s climate is dominated by the Sahara Desert, making it extremely hot and dry, but the Mediterranean Sea moderates it.

• Leptis Magna, Khoms: Septimius Severus, born there and eventually became emperor, expanded and adorned Leptis Magna. With its majestic public monuments, harbor, market, storehouses, shops, and residential neighborhoods, it was among the most beautiful cities in the Roman Empire.
  

  Leptis Magna

• The Arch of Marcus Aurelius, Oea (Modern Tripoli): Around 165 AD, in the Libyan city of Oea, the Arch of Marcus Aurelius was constructed to commemorate the exploits of Lucius Verus, who had vanquished the Parthian Empire and demolished their country’s capital, Ctesiphon. Even though the arch is in good condition, the Arch of Marcus Aurelius is currently the only Roman-era building in Oea.
  

  The Arch of Marcus Aurelius

• Roman Sabratha, Sabratha: The westernmost of the three ancient towns of Tripolis was Sabratha, also written Sabrata; it was situated in Libya, west of Tripoli, close to the present-day town of Abrtah. It was once a trading port established by the Carthaginians and was first inhabited permanently in the 4^th century BC. These cities functioned as outlets for the trans-Saharan trade route that passed through Ghadames (Ghudmis).
  

  Roman Sabratha

• Ghadames City, Tripoli (Nalut District): Ghadames, also known as “the gem of the desert,” is so well-suited to the sweltering Saharan climate that its former residents frequently return. This advantageous location is closely related to the city’s development. The historic town of Ghadames is fully covered in mud, lime, and palm tree trunks. The houses, which have at least two main stories, are the fundamental building blocks of the city.
  

  Ghadames City

• Tripoli’s Red Castle (Assai al-Hamra), Tripoli: One of the most significant monuments in Tripoli, Libya, is the Tripoli Red Castle, also known as Assaraya Al-Hamra (pictures). It was given this name because some of its components were painted red. It is on the northeastern side of the old city of Tripoli and looks out over the Red Castle Lake, which was once a sea before it was filled in the 1970s, Omar Al-Mukhtar and Al-Fatah streets, Tripoli port, and those areas. In the past, it could protect and defend the city by land and sea.
  

  Tripoli’s Red Castle

• Tripoli’s Jamahiriya Museum, Tripoli: Jamahiriya Museum, also known as the Red Castle Museum or Assaraya Alhamra Museum, is situated in the heart of Tripoli, with an entrance on Green Square (or Martyrs’ Square, as it is now known). Jamahiriya Museum is one of Tripoli’s most popular tourist attractions and a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
  

  Tripoli’s Jamahiriya Museum

4. Morocco

Capital: Rabat
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
International Airport: Mohammed V International Airport, Nador-Al Aroui International Airport, Menara Airport in Marrakech, Al Massira Airport in Agadir, Ibn Battouta Airport in Tangier, Saiss Airport in Fes, Rabat-Salé Airport, and so on.

Morocco

Morocco is a mountainous nation in western Northern Africa that borders Spain on the other side of the Strait of Gibraltar. Today’s date, it is the only monarchy in Northern Africa. Morocco’s largest city and important port are Casablanca, a primary commercial and industrial hub. It was stated by the medieval traveler Ibn Battutah that Morocco is the best of countries as there are plenty of fruits, running water, and nourishing foods that never exhaust. The delicious flavors of Moroccan foods are a must to taste.

Morocco experiences a typical Mediterranean climate with hot dry summer and mild winter. It is known for its Atlas Mountain, also called ‘Idraren Draren’ because of its gigantic presence.The Marrakech medina was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985. Morocco is one of the most diverse countries in the World.

• Jardin Majorelle, Marrakech: A horticultural and artist’s landscape garden measuring one hectare can be found in Marrakech, Morocco. Beginning in 1923, the French Orientalist artist Jacques Majorelle worked on it for over forty years. It includes a Cubist home built in the 1930s by French architect Paul Sinoir.
  

  Jardin Majorell

• Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca: Despite being merely the seventh largest mosque Hassan II claims to have the biggest minaret. It is situated in an almost lighthouse-like location, and it is constructed on reclaimed land that is adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean. The architect did this to recall a phrase from the Qur’an that states that “the throne of Allah was established on water.”
  

  Hassan II Mosque

• Palácio da Bahia, Marrakech: The Bahia Palace is a 19th-century structure with chambers covered with magnificent stuccos, paintings, and mosaics in Marrakech, Morocco. It also has several gardens. The Bahia Palace was built to be the best palace of the period. The Arabic word for the Bahia Palace is “brilliance.” It was meant to capture the spirit of the Islamic and Moroccan styles, just as other structures of the era in other nations.
  

  Palácio da Bahia

• Medina of Marrakesh, Marrakesh: Marrakesh, one of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities, is the city with the most tourists. It is known for its vast collection of mosques, palaces, and museums. The medina, the historic walled village around which the remainder of the metropolis was built, is at the city’s center. Its cobblestone alleyways, which are a tangle of congested alleys and fascinating souks and are traveled by walkers and donkey carts rather than by cars, have changed remarkably little over the centuries since they were initially constructed.
  

  Medina of Marrakesh

• Medina of Fez, Fez: It is the best-preserved old city in all of Morocco, with several structures from the 13^th and 14^th centuries still standing. Medina was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. An interesting thing about the medina in Fez is that it is car-free, which opens the path for chariot rides in its 10000 narrow alleys. It has a wide variety of antiques, spices, carpets, trinkets and other crafts to offer you, which are not found everywhere.
  

  Medina of Fez

• Medersa Ben Youssef, Marrakesh: The grandest religious school in Morocco and the biggest and most significant in all of North Africa is THE BEN YOUSSEF MADRASA. It was established in the 14^th century and later expanded. It stopped operating as an Islamic institution in 1960 but is still one of Marrakesh’s finest structures.
  

  Medersa Ben Youssef

5. South Sudan

Capital: Juba
Currency: South Sudanese Pound (SSP)
International Airport: Juba International Airport.

South Sudan

Landlocked South Sudan has borders with Ethiopia to the east, Sudan to the north, Kenya, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.South Sudan is the youngest country known. It has large oil fields, which create the base of the country’s economy. The wealth of each family in South Sudan is measured by the number of cattle they hold. It is a multilingual country where people speak about 60 native languages.

• Wau, Wau: The most numerous tribal groupings in South Sudan are represented in this multicultural city. The city offers plenty, from old colonial structures to rickety houses and markets made from African bush materials.
  

  Wau

• All Saints Cathedral, Juba: The capital’s All Saints Cathedral is a modest church surrounded by towering trees that provide welcome shade on hot days. It is located in a small park. See the modest but aesthetically beautiful cathedral with its two symmetrical brick structures and its brown and white mosaic entrance decorations, which are capped by a large white cross.
  

  All Saints Cathedral

• St. Theresa Cathedral, Juba : St. Theresa’s Cathedral is the cathedral of the Metropolitan Archdiocese and a parish of the Roman Catholic Church. Located in South Sudan. About 5,000 people found shelter in the cathedral even during the civil conflict in southern Sudan, which was forced to remain closed for days due to fierce fighting between opposing national army forces.
  

  St. Theresa Cathedral

• Juba Stadium, Juba: The multipurpose Juba Stadium is located in Juba, South Sudan. It serves as the South Sudanese national football team’s home field. It is currently experiencing restorations, and by the end of 2022, it will be finished and functional. Additionally, it served as the site for some 2009 CECAFA U-17 Championship games. In 1962, the 7,000-seat stadium made its debut. In Juba, a new 35,000-seat stadium is about to be constructed.
  

  Juba Stadium

• Boma National Park: Boma National Park extends north to the Sudd, an inland delta surrounding the White Nile, and west through the Jonglei corridor to Bandingilo National Park. Each year, tens of thousands of white-eared kob, Mongalla gazelle, tiang, and reedbuck migrate north and east from the marshes on the bank of the White Nile into Boma and Gambella National Park in Ethiopia.
  

  Boma National Park

6. Sudan

Capital: Khartoum
Currency: Sudanese Pound (SDG)
International Airport: Khartoum International Airport, Port Sudan International Airport.

Sudan

Africa’s northeast is the home of Sudan. Egypt to the north, the Red Sea to the northeast, Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Sudan, the Central African Republic, Chad, and Libya to the east, south, and west, respectively, are its neighbors. Here, the temperature does not change frequently, and they mostly experience wet and dry periods. There are more pyramids in Sudan than in Egypt. The most well-known location in the nation is arguably the UNESCO-listed Archaeological Sites of the Island of Meroe. There are 100 pyramids on the site, which date from the eighth century BC to the fourth century AD. Another well-known pyramid site is Gebel Gebel Barkal and the Sites of the Napatan Region, which UNESCO designates.

Sudan was once home to the World’s most intriguing underwater experiments in 1963. Sudan is a sanctuary for marine aficionados and, speaking of underwater sites. Marine mammals, fish, sharks, turtles, manta rays, and dugongs abound in the UNESCO-listed Sanganeb Marine National Park and Dungonab Bay – Mukkawar Island Marine National Park. Sudan is also a part of The Great Green Wall Project, which aims to build an 8000km wall of trees to create the largest living formation in the World.

• Meroe Pyramids, Khartoum: The Meroe pyramids, which are smaller than their Egyptian relatives and have steep angles on the sides and narrow bases, are regarded as Nubian pyramids. Even though the pyramids are one of the top draws for tourists in Sudan, the local tourism industry has been severely damaged by a number of economic sanctions imposed by different Western countries during the country’s civil conflict and the crisis in Darfur.
  

  Meroe Pyramids

• Sudan National Museum, Khartoum: The Sudan National Museum, also known as the National Museum of Sudan or Sudan National Museum, is a two-story building that was built in 1955 and designated as a national museum in 1971. The structure and the grounds around it are home to the World’s largest and most complete collection of Nubian artifacts, which includes items dating from the Paleolithic to the Islamic era and coming from all the important sites in Sudan.
  

  Sudan National Museum

• Gebel Barkal, Khartoum: The flat-topped, 104-meter-tall jebel acquired holy importance both for the ancient Kush and Egyptian occupants. UNESCO designated the mountain and the vast historic site at its base (ancient Napata) as the core of a World Heritage Site in 2003. The Jebel Barkal Museum is located in this region.
  

  Gebel Barkal

• Tuti Island, Khartoum: The White Nile and the Blue Nile meet on Tuti Island in Sudan, where they combine to form the main Nile. The “Three Towns” — Khartoum (the Sudanese capital), Omdurman (the country’s largest metropolis), and Khartoum North — surround it (also known as Bahri, a large industrial center). Despite this, Tuti only has one small settlement (established in the late 15th century), and most of the island is grassland.
  

  Tuti Island

7. Tunisia

Capital: Tunis
Currency: Tunisian Dinar (DT)
International Airport: Tunis Carthage International Airport, Enfidha – Hammamet International Airport, Djerba Zarzis International Airport, Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport, Sfax Thyna International Airport, Tozeur Nefta International Airport, Gafsa Ksar International Airport, Gabès Matmata International Airport, and so on.

Tunisia

Tunisia is a Mediterranean Sea country that borders both Algeria and Libya. The nation and Italy share maritime borders. It is the 4^th most important city in the Islamic World, Kairouan coming after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem. The northern mountainous region is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with moderate, rainy winters and scorching dry summers. As it approaches the Sahara Desert, the southern region experiences a hot, arid, and semiarid environment, whereas the eastern coastal boundary experiences an arid steppe climate.

Tunisia is renowned for its golden beaches, warm climate, and distinctive fusion of Arab and Berber traditions. Nationally, regionally, and locally,

• El Jem, the World’s Largest Amphitheaters, El Jem: One of the most well-known day trip destinations from the beach resorts in Tunisia, this remarkably well-preserved Roman relic is one of the finest examples of Amphitheatre design still in existence. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  

  El Jem, the World’s Largest Amphitheaters

• Carthage, Tunis: Carthage, once the main competitor of Rome, was the port city of the seafaring Phoenicians immortalized in the Punic Wars. Even the largest towns can be turned into ruins, as seen by the atmospheric remnants of this old town standing next to the sea on Tunis’s outskirts today. It is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites depicting the past of Northern Africa.
  

  Carthage

• The National Bardo Museum, Tunis: One of the best museums in Northern Africa, it has one of the most significant mosaic collections in the World, and it is all exquisitely organized. It displays the brilliant, detailed art of the Roman and Byzantine eras, with objects carefully chosen from all of Tunisia’s most important archaeological sites.
  

  The National Bardo Museum

• Kairouan, Kairouan: The skyline is dotted with thick domes and slender minarets, creating a beautiful example of Arabic architecture. But the city’s medina’s back alleys most likely take center stage.
  

  Kairouan

• Dougga, Téboursouk in northern Tunisia: One of the most significant Roman sites in Northern Africa is Dougga. Travelers laud the location for its restored significant monuments and serene rural setting amid the surrounding hills.
  

  Dougga

• Tunis Medina, Tunis: The medina’s most remarkable landmark, Umayyad-era-Olive tree Mosque, must be visited on your checklist. It’s fun to wander through the narrow lanes of this old town area, which is home to mosques, souks (shopping streets), and monuments.
  

  Tunis Medina

• Matmata, Southern Tunisia: The main draw of Matmata is its traditional troglodyte-style homes. Locals dug down into the ground, digging a big circular pit beneath the surface, which would serve as an abbey, and then tunneled into the pit walls to carve out cave rooms for their dwellings to escape the intense heat of the region’s desert plateau.
  

  Matmata

The highest peak in Tunisia is Mount jebel Ech Chambi, covered by pine forest. Kairouan has the holy mosque of Ugba, a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are many other UNESCO World Heritage sites in Tunisia, like Dougga, Ichkeul Lake, and Sousse, which are also worth visiting.

8. Western Sahara

Capital: Laayoune
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MD)
International Airport: Hassan International Airport, Dakhla International Airport.

Western Sahara

Western Sahara is a thinly populated, primarily arid region on Africa’s northwest coast. It was a former Spanish colony that Morocco acquired in 1975. Since then, Morocco and its native Saharawi population, controlled by the Polisario Front, have been involved in a protracted territorial dispute. It experiences hot and dry summers with scarce rain. Sand-laden sirocco wind may arise during winter and spring. Western Sahara is mostly a low, flat desert with large rocks rising to small mountains. The natural resources are Iron ore and phosphates. Spanish and the Ḥassānīya dialect of Arabic, also widely spoken in northern Mauritania, are the official languages of Western Sahara.

• Spanish Sahara, The historical Border, Dhakla: This infamous wall symbolizes the fierce international war between the two Sahrawi groups, the locals and the Spanish. It is a significant monument that shows the importance of the Green march. There is no actual border between Morocco and Western Sahara, just a western Sahara Flag to mark the border.
  

  Spanish Sahara

• Boujdour Port city, Cape Bojador: The Portuguese civilization that dominated the region in the past can be seen in everything from the old lighthouse to the architecture of the buildings. The myriad variety of fish dishes will leave the flavors in your mouth.
  

  Boujdour Port city

• Ostrich farm, Dhakla: The second biggest city after Laayoune in this country. There are about 460 ostriches in that park which would surely let you experience the touch of wildlife here as the ostrich roam about freely in their habitat and are only separated by a fence. In Dhakla, you can also go for a therapeutic massage at Dhakla’s thermal spring.
  

  Ostrich farm

• Smara (Es Semara), Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra: The earlier presence of Ma el Anin, the “Blue Sultan,” who attempted to drive out the French colonialists in the early 20^th century, is well shown in this place which was a caravan stop in the past. The sole traces of the past are the ruins of the palace and the enormous mosque of the “Blue Sultan.” Normally closed, the adjacent zaouia is accessible on Fridays. This is one of the top tourist destinations in Western Sahara.
  

  Smara

• The White Dunes of Laayoune: The Western Saharans often lead a carefree lifestyle, with a calm dune and a cup of tea as typical pastime. The Laayoune white dunes offer an impressive dessert experience.
  

  The White Dunes of Laayoune

A Guide to Planning a Trip in Northern Africa: When Is the Best Time?

What Are the Local Transportation Options?

Once you’ve chosen your destination and planned your trip, it’s time to consider transportation. In Northern Africa, you have several options to get around: buses, trains, cars and even camels!

• Buses are usually the most convenient and economical way of getting around. Most cities have a robust public transportation system, with many routes available to take you wherever you need.
• Trains can be a good option for shorter trips to nearby cities as they’re faster and more comfortable than buses. Many countries also operate high-speed rail services between their major cities. Although they may be more expensive than buses, the convenience and comfort make them worth considering if you’re on a tight schedule or don’t want to take an uncomfortable ride on rural buses.
• Renting a car is also an option in Northern African countries if you want to explore the countryside at your own pace.
• Finally, riding a camel is always an option if you want an authentic experience and don’t mind going slow. For example, you can find camel rides in Morocco or Egypt – just remember not to forget the sunscreen!

How Can You Get Around Limited Travel Restrictions?

If your itinerary involves multiple countries, it’s important to look into the individual entry requirements and ensure you have the necessary documents. It is worth taking the time to research and familiarize yourself with each country’s specific requirements before you book your trip. It’s also a good idea to check if any additional travel restrictions are in place upon arrival. And also remember to plan your everyday routine beforehand.

Traditional Food and Drink of Northern Africa Continent

When you think of Northern Africa, what comes to mind? If you’re like most people, the probability you imagine a desert landscape with camels and Bedouins. But there’s so much more to this region of the World than that.

Take the food, for example. Northern African cuisine is a delicious fusion of Arabic, Turkish, Berber and French influences. Some of the most popular dishes include COUSCOUS , TAGINE and BAKLAVA. And then there are the drinks. Mint Tea is a staple in Northern Africa and is often served with sweet pastries called Bajia. Fermented honey wine (called Medhu) is also popular, as is Ginger beer (made from ginger, lemon juice, sugar and yeast).

Some of the main cuisines which you must taste while being in Northern Africa are:

• Couscous: The main dish of North Africa is couscous, a classic Berber dish made of steamed semolina. Couscous can be eaten alone or as a side dish with tajine or vegetable plates.
  

  Couscous

• Tajine: The tajine dish is a slow-cooked stew that can be created with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, lamb, beef, fish, or vegetables. It is eaten with breads and couscous.
  

  Tajine

• Shakshouka: The Tunisian dish shakshouka, also known as chakchouka, has become popular throughout North Africa and in Israel as well after being introduced there by Maghrebi Jews. One of the most vibrant meals on this list, it is made of chopped onions, chili peppers, tomatoes, and cumin, which are heated in a skillet to make a rich sauce.
  

  Shakshouka

• Ful Medieval: The national dish of Egypt is ful medames, which is frequently sold on the streets of Cairo and Giza. Fava beans are cooked in a pot and then served with cumin, garlic, onions, peppers, and hard-boiled eggs in a dish called ful medames.
  

  Ful Medieval

• Matbucha: Another North African dish that has made its way to Israel and Syria is matbucha. It consists of a thick dip made with tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, and chili pepper.
  

  Matbucha

Some of the best restaurants to make your stomach happy are:

• Sachi, Cairo, Egypt
  

  Sachi, Cairo, Egypt

• Kazoku, Cairo, Egypt
  

  Kazoku, Cairo, Egypt

• La Grande Table Marocaine, Marrakech, Morocco
  

  La Grande Table Marocaine, Marrakech, Morocco

•  Iloli, Casablanca, Morocco
  

  Iloli, Casablanca, Morocco

• Zooba (Zamalek), Cairo, Egypt
  

  Zooba (Zamalek), Cairo, Egypt

• La Closerie, Tunis, Tunisia
  

  La Closerie, Tunis, Tunisia

• +61, Marrakech, Morocco
  

  +61, Marrakech, Morocco

Top Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Travel in Northern Africa

Planning a trip to Northern Africa? Here are a few top tips for safe and enjoyable travel:

• Choose the right time of year to visit. The best time to visit Northern Africa is in the winter months (November-March), when temperatures are moderate, sunny days, and minimal rainfall.
• Consider transportation options. Flying is usually the most convenient option in Northern Africa, but buses and trains are also available in many cities. Renting a car is a  way to explore the more remote regions of Northern Africa.
• Bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent with you, as both can be difficult to find in some areas. Also, bring enough cash with you as not all places will accept credit cards or other forms of payment.
• Before visiting any destinations, check with your embassy or consulate for any advisories related to travel in the area. They will have the most up-to-date information about possible dangers or areas you should avoid traveling to for your safety.