Pius IkeThe cheapest countries in Africa to visit present a chance for intending visitors to have a taste of the continent without going broke. They are also interesting places for Africans to go when they want to experience a different corner of the continent than the one they were born in.
This information will no doubt be very welcome to those who have somewhat tight budgets, and whose budgets may restrict them from travelling. These are some of the nicest places with the most welcoming people, and the best part is that the small budget does not impact on the quality of the visit.
Top 20 Cheapest Countries In Africa To Visit
1. Mauritania – Avg. Daily Cost: $0.00
Mauritania offers a raw, untouched desert experience with ancient caravan towns like Chinguetti and vast Saharan dunes. With virtually no tourist infrastructure, costs are minimal, especially for adventurous travelers. Local transport and meals are incredibly cheap, and wild camping is common. It’s ideal for those seeking solitude, nomadic culture, and surreal landscapes. While basic, the experience is deeply authentic and budget-friendly for seasoned explorers.
2. Mozambique – Avg. Daily Cost: $0.00
Mozambique is a coastal gem with turquoise waters, coral reefs, and colonial charm. Despite its beauty, it remains one of Africa’s most affordable destinations. Backpackers can enjoy fresh seafood, local transport, and beachside lodging for next to nothing. Highlights include Tofo Beach, Gorongosa National Park, and Ilha de Moçambique. With low costs and high adventure, it’s perfect for budget travelers craving sun, surf, and culture.
3. Zimbabwe – Avg. Daily Cost: $0.00
Zimbabwe is a budget-friendly safari destination with world-class attractions like Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park. Despite economic challenges, travel costs remain low, especially for local buses, guesthouses, and street food. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, wildlife reserves, and vibrant cities like Harare without overspending. It’s a great choice for nature lovers and history buffs seeking affordable adventure in Southern Africa.
4. Rwanda – Avg. Daily Cost: $23.96
Rwanda combines affordability with stunning natural beauty and modern infrastructure. Known for its mountain gorillas and clean, safe cities, travelers can enjoy budget guesthouses, local meals, and scenic hikes. Kigali offers cultural museums and vibrant markets, while Volcanoes National Park provides unforgettable wildlife experiences. With a modest daily cost, Rwanda is ideal for eco-tourists and solo travelers seeking value and safety.
5. Ethiopia – Avg. Daily Cost: $26.31
Ethiopia is a treasure trove of history, culture, and landscapes at a low cost. From the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the Simien Mountains and coffee ceremonies, it’s rich in experiences. Budget travelers can enjoy hearty meals, shared taxis, and affordable lodging. With its unique calendar, cuisine, and heritage, Ethiopia offers a deeply immersive journey for under $30 a day.
6. Ghana – Avg. Daily Cost: $33.83
Ghana is West Africa’s cultural heartbeat, offering castles, beaches, and vibrant cities at budget-friendly prices. Travelers can explore Accra’s art scene, Cape Coast’s slave forts, and Kakum’s canopy walk without spending much. Street food is delicious and cheap, and transport is widely accessible. With friendly locals and rich history, Ghana is perfect for backpackers and cultural explorers.
7. Burkina Faso – Avg. Daily Cost: $38.08
Burkina Faso is an off-the-beaten-path destination with a strong artistic soul. Known for its music, dance, and traditional villages, it offers low-cost travel through cities like Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso. Accommodations and meals are inexpensive, and festivals provide vibrant cultural immersion. Though less touristy, it’s ideal for those seeking authenticity and affordability in West Africa.
8. Egypt – Avg. Daily Cost: $40.65
Egypt blends ancient wonders with budget travel ease. From the pyramids of Giza to Nile cruises and Red Sea beaches, it’s packed with iconic sights. Hostels, street food, and local transport keep costs low. Cairo’s museums, Luxor’s temples, and Aswan’s charm offer rich experiences for under $50 a day. Egypt is a top pick for history lovers and budget adventurers.
9. Mali – Avg. Daily Cost: $42.26
Mali is a cultural powerhouse with legendary cities like Timbuktu and Djenné. Despite political instability, it remains affordable for intrepid travelers. Costs are low for local meals, transport, and guesthouses. Music festivals, mud-brick architecture, and desert landscapes make it a unique destination. Mali suits those seeking deep cultural immersion and budget-friendly exploration.
10. Malawi – Avg. Daily Cost: $43.22
Malawi, the “Warm Heart of Africa,” offers lakeside serenity and mountain adventures at a low cost. Lake Malawi is perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing on a shoestring budget. Local buses, simple lodges, and fresh produce make travel affordable. With friendly locals and scenic beauty, Malawi is ideal for backpackers and nature lovers.
11. Botswana – Avg. Daily Cost: $71.97
Botswana is a safari paradise that’s surprisingly affordable for budget travelers. While luxury lodges exist, self-drive safaris and camping in places like the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park keep costs down. Local transport and basic accommodations are accessible. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts seeking value without sacrificing adventure.
12. Namibia – Avg. Daily Cost: $83.09
Namibia offers surreal landscapes—like Sossusvlei’s dunes and Etosha’s wildlife—at moderate prices. Self-drive tours and camping make it budget-friendly. Local meals and guesthouses are affordable, and the country’s safety and infrastructure appeal to solo travelers. Namibia is ideal for road trippers and photographers seeking dramatic scenery on a budget.
13. Lesotho – Avg. Daily Cost: $85.35
Lesotho, the “Kingdom in the Sky,” is a mountainous escape with pony trekking, hiking, and village life. Costs are low for homestays, local food, and transport. It’s a peaceful destination for nature lovers and cultural explorers. With dramatic landscapes and friendly communities, Lesotho offers a unique experience for under $90 a day.
14. Cameroon – Avg. Daily Cost: $90.07
Cameroon is Africa in miniature—rainforests, savannahs, mountains, and beaches all in one. Travel is affordable with shared taxis, street food, and budget hotels. Highlights include Mount Cameroon, Limbe’s coast, and Bamenda’s culture. Cameroon suits adventurous travelers seeking variety and value in one destination.
15. Morocco – Avg. Daily Cost: $91.42
Morocco offers exotic charm at a modest price. From Marrakech’s souks to the Sahara’s dunes and Chefchaouen’s blue alleys, it’s rich in experiences. Budget riads, street food, and trains keep costs low. Morocco is ideal for solo travelers, couples, and culture seekers wanting a taste of North Africa without overspending.
16. Madagascar – Avg. Daily Cost: $104.84
Madagascar is a biodiversity hotspot with lemurs, baobabs, and pristine beaches. Travel is affordable with local buses, guesthouses, and street food. Highlights include Avenue of the Baobabs, Nosy Be, and rainforests. Madagascar suits eco-tourists and adventurers seeking unique wildlife and landscapes on a budget.
17. South Africa – Avg. Daily Cost: $109.64
South Africa offers world-class experiences—Cape Town, Kruger safaris, wine tours—at reasonable prices. Backpacker hostels, budget airlines, and local eateries make travel affordable. With diverse cultures, landscapes, and activities, it’s perfect for all types of travelers. South Africa balances luxury and value, making it a top pick for budget-conscious explorers.
18. Tanzania – Avg. Daily Cost: $117.08
Tanzania is a safari and beach dream. While Serengeti tours can be pricey, budget options exist. Zanzibar offers affordable paradise, and Mount Kilimanjaro attracts trekkers. Local buses, guesthouses, and street food help keep costs manageable. Tanzania is ideal for nature lovers and backpackers seeking iconic African experiences.
19. Uganda – Avg. Daily Cost: $129.35
Uganda is an adventure hub with gorilla trekking, white-water rafting, and lush landscapes. Budget travel is possible with local transport, hostels, and market meals. Highlights include Lake Bunyonyi, Murchison Falls, and the Rwenzori Mountains. Uganda suits thrill-seekers and eco-tourists looking for value and variety.
20. Kenya – Avg. Daily Cost: $139.72
Kenya blends wildlife, beaches, and culture at a mid-range price. Maasai Mara safaris, Nairobi’s museums, and coastal towns like Mombasa offer rich experiences. Budget travel is possible with matatus, hostels, and local cuisine. Kenya is perfect for first-time visitors to Africa seeking iconic sights and affordable adventure.
Final Thoughts
Africa’s diversity is unmatched—and so is its affordability. From the deserts of Mauritania to the beaches of Mozambique and the wildlife of Uganda, these destinations prove that unforgettable travel doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Whether you’re a backpacker, culture seeker, or nature lover, this list offers budget-friendly gateways to adventure, history, and beauty. So pack light, plan smart, and let Africa surprise you—one affordable journey at a time.