Why are African Cities Underrated?

On our vlog this week, Fola, Mofe and I talk about travelling within Africa and why it’s sometimes overlooked by (Nigerian) people. We think African cities are worth exploring but we’d love to hear your thoughts.

Do you travel within Africa? If yes, what are your favorite cities and if no, why don’t you? Join the conversation on our YouTube channel and don’t forget to show us some love by subscribing and leaving a comment 🙂

PS: while we are at it, here are some of my favorite cities;

Cape Town: I’ve been here just once but I certainly see myself returning to this beautiful city. Cape Town has something for everyone, it’s definitely a place you want to visit at least once. I wrote all about my trip here and also included a travel cost breakdown for the trip for planning purposes.

Kirstenbosch

Cotonou: I enjoyed all my trips to Cotonou and definitely plan to visit again. One great thing about Cotonou is its proximity to Lagos, making it a great destination for a weekend away and you don’t have to break the bank to have a good time. This trip was made on a shoestring, proving that travel (within Africa) doesn’t always have to be expensive.

[Read: A Journey through 2 Countries on a N20K Budget]

bobs dock benin republic

Lome: I also visited Lome on a shoestring. It’s a much smaller (and laid back) city than all other cities I’ve been to but certainly worth stopping by for a day or two. Most people just pass through Togo and go on to Ghana. But if you give this little country a chance, it might charm you.

[Read: A journey through 3 countries on a N15k budget!]

lome

What are your thoughts about travelling within Africa? What are some of your favorite African cities / which would you like to visit?

8 comments

  1. I haven’t left the shores of Nigeria since I was born. Choi! I really enjoyed watching this video (I only wish the background music wasn’t that loud) .

    You ladies are gorgeous!

    1. Thanks Amaka! Sorry about the background music X_X. We’re working on getting mics improving our editing skills to make our videos better. Thank you so much for watching. And you can plan towards visiting places within until you’re ready to travel across our borders.

  2. I actually haven’t had the opportunity to travel much within Africa. I have to say though that I really want to visit Kenya and South Africa….. maybe add Ghana to that list too! By the way, your outfits are just too gorgeous…loving all the colours!

  3. I wish there was a way, i would just detach a part of me that will be following you around while i am still doing other things. I envy you and all your numerous travel adventures.

    http://www.ijefinelivin.com

  4. Africa has some amazing places and it’s a shame that these aren’t highlighted enough. Being from London, I must say I have only ever visited cities in Ghana (my country of origin) as far as Africa is concerned. But I would like to expand my reach to other beautiful African cities.

    http://www.madelinewilsonojo.blogspot.co.uk

    1. Luckily, there are many options to choose from whenever you’re ready 🙂
      PS: I am exploring Accra next! – Well, some parts of it, for a few days only but I am super excited!

I love to hear from you, Leave a comment here!

Close
The Best of Both Worlds! 🥰

Just took the SGR again, and I got to try out the Premier Class coach - I loved the experience!

I'll be sharing all about this experience in my next blog post on www.travelwithapen.com -  what to expect from this train ride, the best seats for unobstructed views and elephant sightings in Tsavo National Park, and notable changes in the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa and Diani!

#diani #dianibeachkenya #sgr #railtravel #tsavo #tembeakenya
The Best of Both Worlds! 🥰 Just took the SGR again, and I got to try out the Premier Class coach - I loved the experience! I'll be sharing all about this experience in my next blog post on www.travelwithapen.com - what to expect from this train ride, the best seats for unobstructed views and elephant sightings in Tsavo National Park, and notable changes in the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa and Diani! #diani #dianibeachkenya #sgr #railtravel #tsavo #tembeakenya
1 day ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
Bougainvillea in full bloom in Nairobi 🌸, always a highlight of our strolls!
Bougainvillea in full bloom in Nairobi 🌸, always a highlight of our strolls!
3 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
The Ngong Hills make a great day or half-day trip out of Nairobi. Hiking and picnicking opportunities here are pretty good, and the best part is that you can bring your furry friend along, too!

PS: If you plan to hike past three of these hills (I believe there are 7 in total) , it is highly recommended that you hire the services of a KWS guide at the entrance.
The Ngong Hills make a great day or half-day trip out of Nairobi. Hiking and picnicking opportunities here are pretty good, and the best part is that you can bring your furry friend along, too! PS: If you plan to hike past three of these hills (I believe there are 7 in total) , it is highly recommended that you hire the services of a KWS guide at the entrance.
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼 Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
Travel is a personal journey, and here's a little insight into my travel style and experiences 🌍✨

I have a "struggle passport" 😫—meaning *lots* of long, expensive visa processes. But, I make it work 🤷🏽‍♀️

💙 I’m all about exploring Africa, but I'll be the first to tell you that it can be pricey and difficult to do so, which is such a shame! 

I’m also a huge advocate for budget travel 💰 (as long as it’s within reason and doesn’t compromise the experience). "Budget" is relative, so I do what works for me. 

And when it comes to "poverty tourism"—absolutely not! Is detest too strong a word?

Finally, because I'm navigating the world with my struggle passport, you best believe I’m seeking out the best spots to explore at my new destination! 🌍✨

#TravelWithPurpose
Travel is a personal journey, and here's a little insight into my travel style and experiences 🌍✨ I have a "struggle passport" 😫—meaning *lots* of long, expensive visa processes. But, I make it work 🤷🏽‍♀️ 💙 I’m all about exploring Africa, but I'll be the first to tell you that it can be pricey and difficult to do so, which is such a shame! I’m also a huge advocate for budget travel 💰 (as long as it’s within reason and doesn’t compromise the experience). "Budget" is relative, so I do what works for me. And when it comes to "poverty tourism"—absolutely not! Is detest too strong a word? Finally, because I'm navigating the world with my struggle passport, you best believe I’m seeking out the best spots to explore at my new destination! 🌍✨ #TravelWithPurpose
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles! Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit... Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon! ✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha. 🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM 🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc... ⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand. Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
Why Japan has one of the best visitors' visa application experiences I've encountered as a Nigerian passport holder.

Have you applied for a Japanese visa before? What was your experience like?
Why Japan has one of the best visitors' visa application experiences I've encountered as a Nigerian passport holder. Have you applied for a Japanese visa before? What was your experience like?
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
When reality exceeds expectations 🪄✨️

In a trip filled with many highlights, the landscapes in Sossusvlei stand out. Here's a mini guide if you plan to visit ⤵️

🛻 How to Get There: The best way is to rent a car and drive down to Sesriem. Google Maps is pretty accurate in terms of directions (not time 🚫). So leave Windhoek early ⚠️

🚍If you do not have a car, then joining a tour or shuttle service is the only other option.

From Sesriem entrance gate, Sossusvlei is another ~1hr drive to reach the 2WD parking lot.  You can continue driving to the 4WD parking lot or take a shuttle from here if you're not comfortable driving on sand 🏜.

🛏 Where to stay: Budget camping ⛺️ - NWR Sesriem Campsite, Sesriem Oshana Camp. Luxury 💰 - Dead Valley Lodge, Sossus Dune Lodge

⏳️ Best Time to Visit: May to September. Plan to visit at sunrise🌤or later in the evening for the best weather conditions and light. 

A detailed guide is available on my blog: www.travelwithapen.com. Leave me a comment below if you'd like to receive the link.

#explorenamibia #sossusvlei #dunesofnamibia #sossusvleisunrise #desertdreaming #namibiatravel
When reality exceeds expectations 🪄✨️ In a trip filled with many highlights, the landscapes in Sossusvlei stand out. Here's a mini guide if you plan to visit ⤵️ 🛻 How to Get There: The best way is to rent a car and drive down to Sesriem. Google Maps is pretty accurate in terms of directions (not time 🚫). So leave Windhoek early ⚠️ 🚍If you do not have a car, then joining a tour or shuttle service is the only other option. From Sesriem entrance gate, Sossusvlei is another ~1hr drive to reach the 2WD parking lot. You can continue driving to the 4WD parking lot or take a shuttle from here if you're not comfortable driving on sand 🏜. 🛏 Where to stay: Budget camping ⛺️ - NWR Sesriem Campsite, Sesriem Oshana Camp. Luxury 💰 - Dead Valley Lodge, Sossus Dune Lodge ⏳️ Best Time to Visit: May to September. Plan to visit at sunrise🌤or later in the evening for the best weather conditions and light. A detailed guide is available on my blog: www.travelwithapen.com. Leave me a comment below if you'd like to receive the link. #explorenamibia #sossusvlei #dunesofnamibia #sossusvleisunrise #desertdreaming #namibiatravel
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
A beautiful country with the friendliest people! 🛺🇹🇭🪷🐘🌺
A beautiful country with the friendliest people! 🛺🇹🇭🪷🐘🌺
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
Latest Posts
  • 7 Best Day Trips to Take from Nairobi!

  • Naivasha Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know!

  • My 2025 Wish List: 10 Places I Hope to Visit

  • An Afternoon at the Picturesque Kiambethu Tea Farm

  • 2024: The Year in Review

Translate
Become an Insider!
Archives
Close

Travel with a Pen

Seek out New Adventures, Travel Differently

Travel with a Pen © Copyright 2025
Close