You might not be able to travel to Africa right now, but that doesn’t mean you can’t dream right? Home to 54 countries, more than 2 000 languages and a billion people, the African continent is being discovered from a local perspective and from culture to culture thanks to African writers such as Thomas Mofolo and Namwali Serpell.
If you’re hankering for a taste of Africa’s unique ambiance and culture, try these tales of African travel, culture, and adventure to whisk you off to distant lands instead, one page at a time:
Chaka by Thomas Mofolo
Travel to the lesser-known kingdom of Lesotho, with its stunning parks, waterfalls, and mountains in an action-packed fictional account of the bloodthirsty reign of the Zulu King Chaka.
A River Called Time by Mia Couto
In this work by Booker prize nominee, Mia Couto, you’ll take a deep dive into the real-life struggles of families torn asunder by civil war in Mozambique.
Writing Namibian: Literature in Translation edited by Sarala Krishnamurthy & Helen Vale
This well-curated, inclusive anthology of Namibian works provides valuable insights into the many cultures of Namibia with narratives from Oshiwambo, German, Ju'hoansi, Otjiherero and Afrikaans female authors.
An Imperfect Blessing by Nadia Davids
Explore Cape Town from a new angle by immersing yourself in the life and times of the city’s Muslim families of colour as they navigate the challenges of modern-day South Africa.
Follow their experiences from mosques to dive bars and everything in between in this eye-opening novel.
Double Negative by Ivan Vladislavic
Follow the African travels of the fictional photojournalist Neville Lister as he wanders the streets of 1980s and 90s Johannesburg through the transition from apartheid, capturing images of life as it truly was during this landmark phase of South African history.
The Old Drift by Namwali Serpell
Setting out from the travel hub of Victoria Falls, Serpell's novel meanders through a century of conflict and intrigue centred on three Zambian families.
This Mournable Body by Tsitsi Dangarembga
Another Booker nominee, Tsitsi Dangarembga, continues her beloved tale of Tambudzai as she negotiates the pitfalls of working as a woman in the tourist industry.
Write Your Own Story
The best way to satisfy your craving for African travel is to book your place in the heart of the action right away.
Explore our blog for more information about where best to explore Africa’s finest attractions and get in touch for assistance booking your custom African adventure.
