Must-Take Instagram Pictures on Any African Holiday
If there is one place in the world that is incredibly photogenic, it’s the continent of Africa. Photographers feast on the breath-taking sights and the unique occurrences, that have a way of transforming even the simplest shots, into a masterpiece. As we know, in this day and age – where we’re living in a digital world- the best way to document our unique encounters, is by posting the finished product on social media. The most well known platform for sharing photos is, of course, Instagram.
Most travel bloggers stick to Instagram, especially when their main objective is to reach a grand scope of like-minded individuals, who take interest in what they’re sharing. Scrolling through the app leaves most of us in awe, and perhaps a little green with envy – because their shots are always spectacular and, of course, Instagram-worthy. This means they’ve managed to capture the perfect shot of an object or place, which is utterly beautiful, unique, inspiring – or all three. You see, to get Instagram-worthy pics that rake in the likes, you’ll need to get photo’s of things, places or events that people don’t get to see, do, or experience very often. In terms of travel; intrigue is stirred when one shares incredible encounters and sights that can only be found in certain corners of the world – where most people have yet to tread.
If you have your sights set on being ‘instafamous’, with your outstanding shots – there are more than a few exquisite sights and phenomenons in Africa, that are sure to get you there.
Table Mountain, South Africa
Possibly the most well-known and the most beautiful natural landmark in South Africa, is Cape Town’s Table Mountain. The mountain makes for the most exquisite backdrop to the city bowl and the Indian Ocean, which lays at its foot. Towering over the city of Cape Town, the spectacular sight can be enjoyed from wherever you are in the city – whether you’re driving on the highway, lazing on the beach or dining at a remarkable restaurant (of which there are many). That’s not the only way to enjoy this unique landmark, however, you can take the cable car to its summit, or, if you’re ambitious (and fit enough), you can hike to the top – where you’ll be rewarded with a jaw-dropping view of the city.
The Sossusvlei Dunes, Namibia
The glowing red dunes of Sossusvlei in Namibia, is a sight to be reckoned with. This is not a sight you get to see everyday, and it’s an experience that can’t be found anywhere else in the world – but Africa. The sand in Namibia is known to be the reddest of all the deserts on earth and when the sun goes down, the glow is absolutely breathtaking. The unusual shapes of the dunes, the vast open space, the wildlife and the five star lodges, makes Sossusvlei a hidden gem – literally. We’d highly recommend you take some shots of this magnificent beauty – and don’t fret if photography is not your forte – even if you’re an amateur, we can guarantee you’ll come out looking like a pro. It’s difficult not to take a flawless snap, in this majestic corner of Africa.
The Great Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The Great Pyramids of Giza have stirred intrigue for centuries, and has long since been a hot topic – mainly because it’s existence has left us with many questions that we’re still trying to answer. We have yet to uncover the exact reason for their existence, how they were built and by whom. There are countless conspiracy theories surrounding these structures – some that are fairly reasonable, and others that are utterly strange. Whether we believe the pyramids were built by the Ancient Egyptians, or by aliens, as some people believe – there’s no doubt that they leave us scratching our heads, in wonder. The pyramids are a whopping 139 metres in height, and one stone weighs up to 2.5 tons – of which there are 2,300,000 – and just to remind you, there are three of them!
The Victoria Falls, Zambia
Visiting The Victoria Falls, is a bucket-list experience for most people. It’s situated on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, and is world-renown for being one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It attracts visitors who are eager to marvel at it’s incredible beauty and the power of the water that plunges over the edge – a sight and experience that cannot be explained in words. While there are many lookout points, the most exciting (and a little dangerous) way of experiencing the falls, is by taking a swim in the Devil’s Pool. This pool is situated at the top of the falls, and allows visitors to peer over the edge. It’s deep enough to not fall over the edge, although you still need to be aware, as the power of the water is unrivalled. Capturing a photo in this unusual, and quite unbelievable spot, is likely to get you instafamous – and not just for your courage!
The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
The Makgadikgadi Salt Pan in Botswana, feels (and looks) like you’re standing on the moon, because there is nothing; no life, no sound, no disturbances – for miles! The isolated pan extends for a few thousand kilometres and the only way to enjoy a part of it, is by taking a quad-biking or horse-riding trip. The early Africans – such as the San and Khoi, travelled through this terrain but often never made it out alive, due to its extremity. There is no water, no wildlife and, of course, no landmarks to guide one on their journey. Luckily there are now professional guides who take visitors out on this exciting and incredibly soul-soothing adventure. There are not many places on earth that are so far removed from a city buzz – and are immersed in complete silence. Taking a picture here will certainly leave one questioning where on earth you are – if on earth at all.
The Great Mammal Migration, Kenya and Tanzania
The Great Mammal Migration is one of Africa’s most coveted phenomenons. Taking place on the vast open plains, in the heart of the African bush; in both Kenya and Tanzania – this spectacle attracts the tourists and locals, in their numbers.- and for good reason. These are the only two places in the world, that this soul-stirring phenomenon can be experienced. Over 2 million mammals dart through the plains, in search of greener pastures and water, either migrating to Kenya from Tanzania, or vice versa. The mammals, which consist of zebra, wildebeest, giraffe and elephant need to cross some tough terrain during their migration, as well as dodge the hungry beasts that are waiting in the wings – lions, leopards, hyenas and cheetahs to be exact. It’s a tough journey for them, however, every year at the same time, they make their way; in pursuit of fresh new grass, water, and the perfect place to give birth to their young. Capturing this sight will certainly make you a well-liked photographer on Instagram, (no pun intended).