In the third part of my “Vacation for Free” series, I reveal how I used 137,000 Amex and Chase points to book a 7-day adventure to Kenya—covering flights from Charlotte and a full week at a stylish Hyatt hotel in Nairobi. With just under $500 in out-of-pocket costs, this trip proves you can explore East Africa without breaking the bank.

Discover the top 6 must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Africa—from Ethiopia’s rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the wildlife-rich Serengeti in Tanzania and the rich history of Cape Coast Ghana. Explore ancient cities like Timbuktu, the pristine Okavango Delta in Botswana, the sobering slave history of Cape Coast Ghana and the historic ruins of Great Zimbabwe. This guide highlights Africa’s most breathtaking cultural and natural wonders for history lovers, safari seekers, and adventure travelers alike.