Underrated Destinations In Northern Africa

North Africa is one of the most underrated and unexplored regions. Even with some glances, not enough travellers share an interest in exploring the vast, culturally diverse countries in this warm and sunny area! Read on to learn more about some underrated destinations in North Africa.

Agricultural Museum of Cairo, Egypt

As Egypt was home to one of the oldest civilizations on Earth, there is a plentiful amount of agricultural and natural history that follows Ancient Egypt. The museum spans over 120 thousand square meters, with different halls that invite you to learn more about how Ancient Egyptians thrived and struggled in terms of access to basic resources. Not only was this museum one of the oldest in the world, completed in 1930, but it is officially the oldest agricultural museum in the world. Yet even with all the interesting artifacts that tell a historical tale, this museum is sadly becoming abandoned due to accidental damage and low tourist interest.

Farafra & White Desert Park, Egypt

While many people only think of the Pyramids or the River Nile when picturing the sights of Egypt, Farafra is often missed, even though it arguably surpasses the natural beauty of the aforementioned sights. Farafra and the Bahariya depressions provide a unique desert landscape for those willing to drive off the beaten path for an adventure. Even though they make up a minimal part of the Sahara desert, they provide some of the most unique views. Along with amazing limestone boulders that were formed with soil erosion that paint a picture of history, there is a stunning oasis that contrasts the desert heat. Overall, this amazing natural wonder is a once-in-a-lifetime visit.

Wadi Al-Hitan, Egypt

Another beautiful attraction in Egypt is the UNESCO heritage site, Wadi Al-Hitan, otherwise known as Whale Valley. Located in the deep parts of the Western Desert lies fossil remains of an extinct species of whale, as per its namesake. The site was awarded UNESCO heritage due to the records of biological life on Earth, displaying the growth and evolution of one of the most influential species in the region. It is fascinating to see the natural life cycle of the largest animal in the world.

Richat Structure, Mauritania

Known as the “Bull’s Eye” or the “Eye of the Sahara”, the Richat Structure is recognized for its beauty on Earth and its recognition in the universe, mainly through NASA. According to the space organization, the structure is a domed anticline with the hole representing rock layers. While this might not be the most well-known observatory for geological discovery, getting the opportunity to discover igneous and sedimentary rock formations is truly phenomenal. In a country that few people know, this is definitely a wonderful place to see.

Ouarzazate, Morocco

If you are an old-time film enthusiast, including movies such as Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia, visiting Ouarzazate is the place to be. While this is not one destination in specific, there are many things to see and do in this town that is underlooked due to its competition with cities such as Chefchaouen, Casablanca, Marrakesh, and Tangier. Besides the aforementioned movie sets scattered throughout the city, other great places to see include the small village of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, the beautiful Fint Oasis, and the Noor 1 Solar Plant. Ouarzazate is definitely a place to check out for any type of traveller.

Hotel Sidi Dress, Tunisia

Hotel Sidi Dress is the number one place for a Star Wars to have the best galaxy adventure! The hotel, which is available at a very cheap price/night, was built in a giant cave in the Tunisian desert. Not only is it cool to see the underground areas, but many of the Star Wars scenes were filmed in and surrounding the hotel. Definitely the best fan experience for any true Jedi!

Overall, these destinations should give you a glimpse into the culture and nature of North African nations. We hope you enjoy your travels!