Top 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Africa

Africa is home to some of the most breathtaking and culturally rich UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. From ancient civilizations and timeless traditions to awe-inspiring natural landscapes, these destinations promise an unforgettable journey through the heart of the continent. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or cultural explorer, these top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Africa should be at the top of your travel bucket list.

1. Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela – Ethiopia

Best Time to Visit: October to March
Ideal For: Cultural travelers, spiritual pilgrims, history enthusiasts

The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela are one of the most iconic religious sites in Africa. Carved directly into solid rock in the 12th century, these 11 medieval churches were designed to resemble a “New Jerusalem” and are still active places of worship today.

Highlights:

• Visit the famed Church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis), shaped like a perfect cross.

• Explore the underground tunnels and chambers connecting the churches.

• Witness ancient Ethiopian Orthodox rituals still practiced today.

Travel Tip: Fly into Addis Ababa and take a short domestic flight to Lalibela. A local guide is highly recommended for context.

2. Serengeti National Park – Tanzania

Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season and Great Migration viewing)
Ideal For: Safari lovers, wildlife photographers, nature enthusiasts

A crown jewel of African wildlife experiences, the Serengeti National Park is a natural wonder famed for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the plains.

Highlights:

• Witness the Big Five in their natural habitat.

• Enjoy sunrise hot-air balloon safaris.

• Explore diverse ecosystems from savannas to riverine forests.

Travel Tip: Book your safari through a reputable operator that includes guided game drives, park fees, and lodging.

3. Timbuktu – Mali

Best Time to Visit: November to February
Ideal For: History lovers, cultural heritage explorers, off-the-beaten-path adventurers

Once a legendary center of learning and trade in West Africa, Timbuktu was home to one of the world’s oldest universities and vast collections of Islamic manuscripts. Though recent conflict has affected tourism, restoration efforts continue to preserve this heritage site.

Highlights:

• Tour the ancient Sankoré Mosque and university.

• Visit the Ahmed Baba Institute to learn about ancient manuscripts.

• Experience traditional Tuareg architecture and culture.

Travel Tip: Check travel advisories and work with a knowledgeable tour provider experienced in Sahel travel.

4. Okavango Delta – Botswana

Best Time to Visit: May to September (dry season)
Ideal For: Eco-tourists, nature photographers, bird watchers

The Okavango Delta is one of the world’s largest inland deltas and a pristine ecosystem teeming with wildlife. This watery paradise is a sanctuary for elephants, lions, leopards, and over 400 bird species.

Highlights:

• Mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris through the delta channels.

• Game drives in Moremi Game Reserve.

• Guided walking safaris with expert trackers.

Travel Tip: Stay at eco-lodges or mobile camps to minimize environmental impact and support local conservation efforts.

5. Great Zimbabwe National Monument – Zimbabwe

Best Time to Visit: May to September
Ideal For: Archaeology fans, cultural heritage seekers

Great Zimbabwe is the largest ancient stone structure in sub-Saharan Africa. Built between the 11th and 15th centuries, it was the capital of a powerful kingdom and remains a symbol of African ingenuity and resilience.

Highlights:

• Explore the Great Enclosure, one of the largest ancient structures in Africa.

• Climb to the Hill Complex for panoramic views and historic ruins.

• Learn about the Shona civilization through museum exhibits.

Travel Tip: Easily accessible from Harare or Bulawayo; guided tours provide essential historical context.

6. Forts and Castles, Volta, Greater Accra, Central and Western Regions – Ghana

Best Time to Visit: November to March
Ideal For: Diaspora travelers, history seekers, heritage tourism

Ghana’s Forts and Castles along the coast—including the iconic Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle—are powerful UNESCO World Heritage Sites that preserve the memory of the transatlantic slave trade. These structures, built by European powers from the 15th century onward, now stand as somber monuments to a painful yet essential chapter of African and global history.

Highlights:

• Tour the Cape Coast Castle, including the "Door of No Return," a deeply emotional experience for many in the African diaspora.

• Explore the dungeons, chapels, and battlements of Elmina Castle, the oldest European building in sub-Saharan Africa.

• Visit local museums and participate in cultural festivals that celebrate Ghanaian identity and resilience.

Travel Tip: Fly into Kotoka International Airport in Accra and take a 2.5–3-hour drive to Cape Coast or Elmina. Many guided tours are available, especially during "The Year of Return" and "Beyond the Return" heritage programs.

Why These Sites Matter

These UNESCO World Heritage Sites represent the extraordinary cultural and natural diversity of Africa. From ancient cities and spiritual sanctuaries to wildlife havens and archaeological treasures, they offer a chance to connect with the continent’s past, present, and future.

Start planning your African adventure today and experience the magic of these timeless landmarks.

Maximize Your Points Travel: Chase and Aeroplan’s 20% Transfer Bonus

If you’re a savvy traveler who loves getting the most value out of your airline miles and credit card points, this is a golden opportunity you won’t want to miss. From now until June 17th, Chase cardholders can enjoy a 20% transfer bonus when moving Ultimate Rewards points to Aeroplan, Air Canada’s award-winning frequent flyer program.

Why This Matters for Points Travel Enthusiasts

In the world of points travel, timing is everything. Transfer bonuses like this don’t come around often—and when they do, they can unlock major savings for flights booked with airline miles. This particular bonus can help stretch your points even further, making now the perfect time to start planning your next trip.

Whether you're a DIY planner or work with travel agents, knowing how to leverage these opportunities can make the difference between an ordinary trip and a luxury vacation booked entirely with points.

Why Aeroplan is a Top Choice for Travel Redemptions

Aeroplan is one of the best programs out there for redeeming miles on Star Alliance airlines, which include carriers like United, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and Singapore Airlines. With Aeroplan, you have access to over 45+ airline partners, giving you incredible flexibility whether you're flying to Asia, Africa, or anywhere else in the world.

Even better? Right now, Aeroplan is offering some high-value redemption deals on award travel to both Asia and Africa. This is especially exciting for travelers looking to book long-haul international flights using points.

Ideal for Travel Agents and Frequent Flyers Alike

Whether you're a professional travel agent helping clients get the best bang for their buck, or a seasoned points travel junkie booking your own adventures, this transfer bonus is a strategic tool in your travel planning arsenal. You can use this window to top off an Aeroplan account, book a complex multi-city itinerary, or score a premium cabin seat for a fraction of the cost.

Pro Tips for Making the Most of This Deal

• Act Fast: The 20% bonus is only available until June 17th. Make sure to transfer your points before then to secure the added value.

• Do Your Research: Before transferring, check Aeroplan's website for current award availability and redemption rates. Use tools like AwardHacker or point.me to find the best routes.

• Look for Deals: Aeroplan often runs limited-time promotions on specific routes. Right now, you can find discounted mileage rates to destinations in Asia and Africa, making this a double-win.

• Be Strategic: Pair this transfer bonus with a low-season travel period for even greater savings.

Final Thoughts

In the ever-evolving world of airline miles travel, keeping an eye on transfer bonuses like this one can significantly enhance your travel experiences without draining your wallet. Whether you're flying economy or aiming for that first-class suite, this Chase-to-Aeroplan bonus offers serious value for points travelers.

Don’t let this opportunity fly by—start planning your trip now, and turn your points travel dreams into reality!

Get This New Luxury Hotel for 110k Points

Discover Sax Paris: A Luxe Stay for Your Next Paris Vacation Using Hilton Points

Planning a Paris vacation can feel like a dream come true—but also a bit overwhelming. With so many things to do, see, and explore, Paris travel requires thoughtful planning, especially when it comes to finding the perfect hotel. If you're searching for luxury accommodations that won't drain your points balance, Hilton’s newly launched LXR Hotels & Resorts property, Sax Paris, might just be the answer.

Nestled in the charming 7th Arrondissement, Sax Paris is ideally located near some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you’re planning a romantic Paris tour of the Eiffel Tower, wandering the art-filled halls of the Louvre Museum, or taking in the grandeur of the Notre Dame Cathedral, this hotel offers convenience, elegance, and exceptional value.

Currently, you can book a stay at Sax Paris for just 110,000 Hilton Honors points per night—a true bargain considering many other Hilton properties in Paris often start at over 200,000 points per night. With its combination of location, luxury, and value, it’s one of the best ways to enhance your Paris travel experience.

What Is LXR by Hilton?

LXR Hotels & Resorts is Hilton’s elite collection of independent luxury properties, each uniquely tailored to its destination while maintaining Hilton’s trusted level of service. With locations across 13 global destinations, LXR properties promise an upscale and culturally immersive stay, and Sax Paris is no exception.

Opened in June, Sax Paris has already garnered praise for its modern yet elegant aesthetic and refined service. It features 118 beautifully designed rooms, multiple bars and restaurants, and even an outdoor pool—perfect for unwinding during the warmer months. (Pro tip: the best time to visit Paris for outdoor enjoyment is late spring through early fall.)

Maximize Your Hilton Points for Paris Travel

Looking to rack up Hilton Honors points quickly for your next Paris vacation? Right now, American Express is offering a generous sign-up bonus on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card: 130,000 points after spending $3,000. That’s enough for at least one luxurious night at Sax Paris. You can also transfer points from your American Express Platinum card, adding even more flexibility to your travel rewards strategy.

Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime Paris tour or a return trip to your favorite European city, staying at Sax Paris is a savvy way to elevate your experience without overspending. Don’t wait too long—demand is likely to rise, and so will the points rate.

Downgrading Capital One Venture X Card

For years, the Capital One Venture X ranked high among the best travel credit cards, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the Chase Sapphire Reserve, American Express Platinum, and Bilt Mastercard. It delivered exceptional value for those focused on points travel, thanks to solid earning rates, flexible redemption options, and impressive lounge access.

But starting February 1, 2026, Capital One is making changes to its lounge access policy that significantly reduce the card's overall appeal—especially for families, couples, and anyone who values maximizing their credit card points for travel perks.

Capital One Venture X Lounge Access Changes: What You Need to Know

The upcoming policy adjustments strip away some of the Venture X’s biggest advantages in the travel rewards space, particularly for cardholders who frequently bring guests or add authorized users.

Here are the key changes:

1. Authorized Users Lose Lounge Access (Unless You Pay)

Beginning in February 2026, only the primary Venture X cardholder will receive complimentary access to Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass lounges. Authorized users will now be required to pay $125 per year for the same lounge privileges they previously enjoyed for free.

For points travel families who rely on multiple cards and shared access, this is a big loss.

2. Priority Pass Guests No Longer Free

Currently, the Venture X allows up to two free Priority Pass guests per visit. Starting February 1, 2026, you’ll need to pay $35 per guest. That means a family of four could be looking at an additional $70 just to enter the lounge—a hefty charge for something that used to be included.

Why This Impacts Points Travelers

If you're like many savvy travelers using credit card points to book flights, hotels, and upgrades, lounge access is one of the key perks that makes the annual fee worthwhile. But with these devaluations, the Capital One Venture X starts to feel less competitive—especially when compared to other travel rewards programs that continue to offer greater value.

For example:

• The Chase Sapphire Reserve still includes Priority Pass with guest access, a major perk for families.

• The Amex Platinum continues to offer Centurion Lounge access, plus a range of transfer partners for those who are deep into points travel strategy.

Should You Still Keep the Capital One Venture X?

If you’re a solo traveler who doesn’t often bring guests and primarily earns points on everyday spending, the card can still hold some value. With:

• 2x miles on all purchases

• 10x on hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel

• A 10,000-mile anniversary bonus

• $300 travel credit annually

…it’s still a decent contender for points travel enthusiasts looking to rack up miles. But it’s hard to ignore that the overall travel rewards value is slipping.

For most families, couples, or anyone maximizing credit card points for travel, these lounge access changes may be the deciding factor in downgrading or canceling the card.

Better Alternatives for Points Travel in 2026

If lounge access and flexibility matter to you, consider switching to a card with more generous benefits. The following are still top-tier picks in the best credit cards for points travel category:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve: Excellent transfer partners, flexible redemption, solid lounge perks

• Amex Platinum: Strong for luxury travelers, especially those leveraging airline and hotel point transfers

• Bilt Mastercard: Ideal for renters who want to earn points on rent and access to valuable transfer partners

Final Thoughts

With these changes, the Capital One Venture X card has lost much of its competitive edge in the points travel and rewards credit card market. If you're focused on extracting maximum value from your credit card points—whether for solo adventures, family vacations, or business travel—this might be the right time to reevaluate your strategy.

Don’t let downgraded perks cost you extra in the long run. When it comes to maximizing travel rewards, flexibility and guest-friendly benefits still matter.

Why we like the new Delta-Indigo Partnership

If you're planning to book international flights to Asia or searching for cheap airfare to India, a new airline partnership may offer exactly what you need. On June 1, Delta Air Lines, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic officially announced a strategic collaboration with IndiGo Airlines, India’s largest budget carrier. This partnership opens up exciting opportunities for travelers seeking affordable flights, loyalty rewards, and seamless connectivity across Asia.

Whether you're using points or hunting for the latest flight deals, this partnership will expand your options—and potentially your savings.

Why We Like It

✈️ What the New IndiGo Partnership Includes

This multi-airline agreement goes beyond just code-sharing. Delta, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic will collaborate with IndiGo on:

• Network planning

• Sales and cargo initiatives

• Loyalty and frequent flyer program integration

• Expanded booking channels across all partners

As a result, travelers will soon be able to book IndiGo flights directly on the websites of Delta, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic—and vice versa. This will greatly streamline the booking experience for anyone flying to or within Asia.

🌏 Why This Matters: More Flight Options & Better Deals Across Asia

Historically, SkyTeam flights to Asia have been limited to a few carriers such as China Airlines, Korean Air, Vietnam Airlines, and Garuda Indonesia. Now, with the addition of IndiGo, travelers gain access to a wider network of flights, especially within India and neighboring Asian countries.

IndiGo services over 100 destinations across Asia, including top-tier tourist spots and under-the-radar gems. Many of these domestic and regional flights cost under $200, making it a top choice for budget-conscious globetrotters searching for cheap flights to Asia.

If you’re planning to visit multiple cities in India, or explore countries like Thailand, Nepal, or Sri Lanka, this new alliance offers a cost-effective and reliable way to do it.

💳 Points Travel Gets a Boost

One of the biggest benefits for frequent flyers is the increased potential for points travel. Thanks to this partnership, you’ll soon be able to:

• Redeem your Delta SkyMiles, Flying Blue Miles, or Virgin Points for IndiGo flights

• Earn points when flying on IndiGo as part of a SkyTeam itinerary

• Combine flights from different airlines in one seamless booking

This integration opens up more doors for travel rewards enthusiasts looking to stretch their miles even further—especially when planning multi-city trips in Asia.

🌟 Final Take: A Win for Budget Travelers and Points Collectors

For travelers seeking budget airlines in Asia, cheap international flights, or ways to maximize their travel rewards, this partnership is a game-changer. The inclusion of IndiGo into the SkyTeam network will not only enhance flight availability but also improve affordability and points redemption flexibility.

So, whether you're planning a backpacking adventure, a luxury trip, or a family vacation across India and Asia, be sure to check Delta, Virgin Atlantic, or Air France when searching for flight deals. You might just score the perfect combo of comfort, convenience, and price.

Why You Should Consider A Trip To Saudi Arabia

The first time that I went to Saudi Arabia, the war in Israel had just begun a month before. As a woman traveler, I was incredibly nervous, not only by the war, but also the customs that I had only read about in the news. I can positively say that what I heard in the news was not what I saw once I arrived.

Al Ula
The first stop on this exciting trip was to the enchanting destination of Al Ula. However, to get there, you had to either take a flight to Riyadh or Jeddah from the United States. I decided to take the flight to the United States and then a short connecting flight over to Al Ula. Al Ula is located about an hour outside the main airport. I chose to rent a car to take me to Al Ula, and I’m so glad I made that decision. First, renting a car was incredibly easy and hassle-free, and second, I was able to explore many more attractions and hidden gems because I drove myself around the area. To my pleasant surprise, no one looked at me in a strange manner as a woman driver in Al Ula. During my stay, I opted for two of the top hotels in the region - Habitas and Banyan Tree. The hotel grounds were absolutely spectacular, and there was so much to do in and around the area! During my travels, I had the lovely opportunity to meet a black family from Jeddah who were traveling to Al Ula for a vacation. They had never met a black American before, and conversely, I had never met black individuals from Saudi Arabia before. We talked and laughed for what seemed like hours, enjoying our cultural exchange. One notable thing I observed was that women were playing prominent roles in the tourism industry in Al Ula. I have visited many countries, and only have had a handful of tours led by women, which made this experience all the more unique and noteworthy.

Riyadh
After leaving the beautiful Al Ula, I returned to the bustling city of Riyadh. While there are many English speakers in Al Ula, this was not the case in Riyadh. That didn’t matter, though, as the locals were incredibly friendly and eager to assist. I vividly remember getting lost late at night while trying to find an Uber to get back to my hotel. Thankfully, kind passersby stopped to help me find my bearings, ensuring I made it back safely. I didn’t feel unsafe at all while walking around late at night in Riyadh, which further added to the positive experience of my visit.

Final Thoughts
I would definitely recommend travel to Saudi Arabia for anyone seeking a unique experience. The country is clean, safe, and the people are warm and inviting. For women, I would not be apprehensive about visiting here, as many of the laws and regulations have changed significantly to foster inclusivity. Of course, you will need to dress conservatively to respect the local customs, but I didn’t find that to be a hindrance at all. In popular places like Al Ula, it is permissible to wear bathing suits while on the resort property and to have more revealing clothing in certain areas. The best time to travel would be from late October to February, as temperatures during that period are much more agreeable and pleasant.

Journey To Your Roots-West Africa edition

All of the group trips at AWFT are special. However, our Journey To Your Roots trip was probably our best.

The Journey To Your Roots trip crossed five different countries in two weeks.We flew to Kenya from New York and then journeyed to Ghana and Senegal by flight, Gambia by bus and finally Portugal by flight. The entire trip covered nearly 15,000 miles.

On our stop in Kenya we journeyed to a safari in Nairobi National Park. It was amazing to see wildlife set in the back drop of Nairobi City.

Our next stop was to Ghana. We arrived to fanfare with dancers and drummers! The Journey the took us to the “Last Bath.” The Last Bath was the place that slaves took their last bath before being taken to the slave forts. It was a movie experience that left us in tears.

Four of the guests, standing together and posing for a photo on the historic site known as the Last Bath, shared a moment that was deeply profound. This was an incredibly moving experience that resonated powerfully with all of us, ultimately bringing us to tears as we reflected on the significance of the location and what it represents.

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Before we left the beautiful country of Ghana, we made a heartfelt stop at a charming local village, where we took the opportunity to deliver much-needed school supplies to the eager elementary age children. The entire village came out to meet us with smiles and open arms, celebrating our arrival with a warm sense of community. The young kids, filled with excitement and enthusiasm, remarked that they could hardly wait to go to school the very next day, looking forward to using the new supplies to aid their learning.

Our next stop was Senegal. We toured the slave fort at Goree Island and after set off for Gambia. The 9 hour ride to Gambia allowed us to explore parts of Senegal.

Our trip to Gambia included stops at Kunte Kinteh Island where we were met one of Kunte Kinteh's relatives. It brought the 1970s Roots movie to life.

Finally, in Senegal we met with the lions! Each person got a chance to walk with lions and take pictures at the Fathala Lion Reserve. Before the trip, people were nervous about this experience, but it turned out to be the highlight of our trip.

On our Journey home, we made a stop in Portugal, where people were able to put together all of the history that they learned over the previous two weeks.

We’ve been asked if we will do this trip again and the answer is yes! Stay tuned for the updates!