Seven Natural Wonders of Africa
Victoria Falls
As one of the World’s Seven Wonders of Natural, Victoria Falls is honored to serve as the Ambassador Wonder to the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa Wonders. Congratulations to each of these deservedly named Africa Wonders of Nature.
On February 11, 2013, the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa were officially declared in Arusha, Tanzania. These wonders of nature were determined by insights from experts from around the world with a key focus on conservationists such as members of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Statistically speaking, it is the largest waterfall in the world. This recognition comes from combining the height and width together to create the largest single sheet of flowing water.
Victoria Falls is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and travelers can access the falls through either Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The falls are also close to the border of Botswana. The Zambezi River, which originates in northern Zambia, serves as the fall’s water source.
The name Victoria Falls was given to the falls by the Scottish explorer Dr. David Livingstone. He named the falls after the reining queen at the time. The locals called the falls Mosi-oa-Tunya meaning “smoke that thunders.” Many people still refer to this nickname, which accurately defines the falls.
When Zambia gained independence in 1964, officials went through the entire country and changed the streets, cities and buildings from British names to African names except for the city of Livingstone and Victoria Falls. This reflected the deep respect and appreciation the people of Zambia had for the Scottish missionary.
Zimbabwe established a sister city to Livingstone, Zambia. This city, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, mirrors the name of the falls. Officials of Zimbabwe also kept the name post their independence. View more pictures of Victoria Falls.
Best Ways to See and Experience Victoria Falls
There are numerous activities to add excitement and adventure to a trip to Victoria Falls. However, when it comes to viewing the falls, there are two unique and distinctive views of the falls that should both be explored to help you capture the true splendor and amazement of this wonder of nature.
The first, and potentially the most impressive, view of the falls comes from the air. You can accomplish this by leveraging a flight over the falls using either a helicopter or microlite. The microlite is the more adventurous route, but either will provide you with a breathtaking and spectacular aerial view of the falls and the surrounding area. You will have a fair chance of seeing elephants or other wildlife while taking in the awe inspiring view of the falls. Although there are no guarantees, witnessing wildlife along the way will enhance your natural wonders experience.
The second and almost equally impressive view of the falls comes from the various trails that follow alongside the falls. This unique trail places you face-to-face with the tops of the falls. The falls are head on and only about 200 feet (60 meters) away. As you enter the park and turn the corner you are instantly presented with the magnificence and glory of the falls. As you take the path and hear the water pounding and witness the vapor rising, you quickly understand the name, “smoke that thunders.”
The majority of trails occur on the Zambian side of the falls, however the Zimbabwean side of the falls provides visitors with the greater panoramic view of the falls. Sightseers and photographers can see approximately 80% of the falls as compared to about 25 to 30% from the Zambian side.
You may visit the Victoria Falls Activities page for a comprehensive list of activities of adventures that are available to help you engage, explore and experience this wonder of nature.
Best Times to Explore Victoria Falls
There are basically two seasons for the Victoria Falls area. The rainy season runs from late November to early April with the remaining months accounting for the dry season. One would imagine that the rainy season with more water would make the falls more spectacular, however the additional water and subsequent mist in the air makes it nearly impossible to see the base of the falls.
The months of June and July are probably the best time to view the falls. The water levels are still high enough to showcase the splendor of the falls, but the amount of water is less creating less spray and more visibility of the falls.
As you move into the later part of the dry season, August through October, it is quite possible you will see more rock face than falls. However, this also opens the door for walking across the top of the falls which can be a unique and exhilarating experience as well.
Victoria Falls Photography Tips
During the rainy season and high water, Victoria Falls can be a challenge to capture with a camera because of all of the mist in the air. It is also a challenge to navigate the trails along the gorge with the constant and heavy falling spray from the falls. It is important to have rain gear and something to protect your camera.
The high water levels creates a greater amount of mist in the air. This increases the probabilities that you will be able to capture rainbow images around the falls. More than likely you will want to use a polarizing filter which will help with the reflecting light from the sun and mist in the air.
The lower water levels can create more dramatic pictures with the various rocks cropping out between the falls. You should also be able to see the canyon and base of the falls. You will also be able to walk across the top of the falls and take images down the face of the falls. You can view a series of Victoria Falls Pictures on this page.
Victoria Falls Places to Stay
There are several hotels and lodges to choose from for a great stay at Victoria Falls. Lodges and hotels are available on both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides of the falls. More information on recommended places to stay coming soon.
Victoria Falls Travel Tips
Daily flights are offered from Johannesburg, South Africa to the towns of Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe which provides easy access to the falls. Easy access is also provided with flights from Windhoek, Namibia. Less inviting options include flights to Lusaka, Zambia or Harare, Zimbabwe with bus rides to Livingstone or Victoria Falls.
7 Natural Wonders of Africa
Victoria Falls, as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, serves as the Ambassador to the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa. The Seven Natural Wonders of Africa were declared February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. The official wonders of nature for Africa include the following:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Red Sea Reef
- Nile River
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Sahara Desert
- Okavango Delta
- Serengeti Migration
The world and Africa is full of amazing wonders of nature. Add these to your bucket list and start your travels. You can track them easily on The Travel Tracker, which also has other bucket list ideas even if you are not tracking these natural wonders.
Endangered Species
There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the wonders of nature special. Endangered Species is one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.
African, Zambian and Zimbabwean Resources
African resources for conservation, tourism, safaris, wildlife and more are located on the African Resources page of the Seven Natural Wonders site. Zambia and Zimbabwean Resources will be located there too. You will find access to UNESCO and other professional resources along with leading tour guides, travel programs, and more.
Victoria Insights and Resources
Victoria Falls Travel Packages: Complete travel packages to both Zambia and Zimbabwe sides of the falls
Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world who noted the key statistical significance. Mount Kilimanjaro is the pinnacle wonder of nature and is affectionately known as the rooftop of Africa.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Quick Facts:
- Tallest mountain in Africa at 19,340 feet (5,895 m)
- Tallest free standing mountain in the world
- 7 peaks with Uhuru Peak being the highest
- Kibo peak features a 1.5 mile wide crater
- Greatest view of earth’s surface in one view
- Pictures of Kilimanjaro
7 Natural Wonders of Africa: Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world who noted the key statistical significance. Mount Kilimanjaro is the pinnacle wonder of nature and is affectionately known as the rooftop of Africa. View images of Kilimanjaro.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the largest stratovolcanoes in the world reaching 19,340 feet (5,895 m) into the air. As the tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro is also the tallest free standing mountain in the world. Kilimanjaro is a composite volcano that includes layers of lava, tephra, and volcanic ash. The volcano is currently inactive with no known history of eruptions.
Mount Kilimanjaro has seven distinctive peaks with Uhuru Peak accounting for the mountains highest elevation at 19,341 feet (5,895 m). A 1.5 mile wide crater is featured as part of the Kibo portion of the mountain.
The high elevation and proximity to the equator allows visitors to experience a variety of climate types. Kilimanjaro also features a year round snow-topped peak. Although the volcano is isolated, it is part of the line of volcanoes that reach across northern Tanzania. You can visit our Kilimanjaro Resource page for more information and access to resources to experience this natural wonder.
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania just south of the border between Tanzania and Kenya. Specifically, it is located at the coordinates of latitude: 3°4′33″S and longitude: 37°21′12″E. Mount Kilimanjaro is found just outside the city of Arusha, Tanzania. Although many people fly into Arusha when visiting Tanzania, there is an international airport near the mountain appropriately named, Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Best way to see and experience Mount Kilimanjaro
The best view of Mount Kilimanjaro comes from approaching the mountain from the northern Kenya side. The majority of pictures seen in magazines and travel guides feature this view. However, the best way to experience Mount Kilimanjaro is through taking a trek up and around the mountain
The six official trekking routes include Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, Rongai, Shira, and Umbwe. The easiest trek comes from the Rongai route, however this is also the least scenic. Machame is one of the more challenging treks, however it does offer the most attractive and scenic views. No matter which route you take, you will need to plan at least 5 to 7 days for the trek allowing for both travel and more importantly acclimation to the altitude.Image of Kilimanjaro from the Marangu Route
Visitors who plan to trek up Mount Kilimanjaro need to evaluate their own physical abilities. It is imperative to understand that even experienced trekkers will fall victim to some level of altitude sickness. The summit of Kilimanjaro is high enough that either high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) can occur. You should at least expect to experience shortage of breath, headaches and some elements of hypothermia. Taking 7 days versus 5 days creates a better chance for you to acclimate easier and reduce the altitude effects.
Further note: Although the summit of Kilimanjaro can be reached through a walk and is not technically a climb, it is still a strenuous trek. According to the Kilimanjaro National Park, only 41% of trekkers actually reach the peak. Plan, prepare and train if you look to explore Mount Kilimanjaro and experience this wonder of nature to the fullest. Visit our Kilimanjaro Resource page for connection to additional information and services for climbing Kilimanjaro.
Kilimanjaro Wildlife
For all practical purposes, you should plan on experiencing the trek and the views versus encounters with wildlife. Although in the forested area of the mountain there are reports of baboons, civets, leopards, mongooses, honey badgers and servals, they are rarely seen. You could see blue or colobus monkey as they scamper the trees.
Your best bet is to focus on the trek, views and acclimation to the altitude. You will have a better chance to view wildlife after getting down from the mountain and exploring Ngorongoro Crater or the Serengeti.
Kilimanjaro Climbing and Exploring Resources
If you follow this page, you will find a list of resources that will help you learn more about Mount Kilimanjaro as well as discover resources to help you climb and explore this wonder of nature. These resources are members of Seven Natural Wonders reflecting their commitment to protect the natural wonders of Africa.
Mount Kilimanjaro is neighbors with the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater which are both havens for wildlife. If time permits you should plan on visiting both the crater and the plains of the Serengeti. Ngorongoro Crater can be experienced in a day and this unbroken caldera serves as a wildlife sanctuary with a chance of seeing the Big 5. Learn more through our Kilimanjaro Resources page.
Endangered Species of Africa
There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the various wonders of nature special. The endangered species of Africa are one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.
Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest unbroken caldera. Often referred to as “Africa’s Garden of Eden,” the crater is home to over 30,000 animals including elephants, lions, cheetahs, wildebeests, buffaloes, and the rare black rhinos. View Wildlife of Ngorongoro Crater to learn more about the wildlife and View Birds of Ngorongoro Crater to discover some of the many species that are found in the area.
Ngorongoro Crater
Quick Facts:
- Largest unbroken caldera in the world
- Also referred to as “Africa’s Garden of Eden”
- Crater is 12 miles (19 km) across and covers 102 square miles (264 sq km)
- Rises over 2,000 feet above the caldera floor
- Home to over 30,000 animals including the rare black rhino
Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest unbroken caldera. Often referred to as “Africa’s Garden of Eden,” the crater is home to over 30,000 animals including elephants, lions, cheetahs, wildebeests, buffaloes, and the rare black rhinos. View Wildlife of Ngorongoro Crater to learn more about the wildlife and View Birds of Ngorongoro Crater to discover some of the many species that are found in the area.
Ngorongoro Crater was created from a volcano that exploded creating the caldera wilderness haven. The crater is 12 miles (19 km) across and consumes 102 square miles (264 sq km) of wilderness. The rim of the crater rises just over 2,000 feet (610 m) above the caldera floor reaching an elevation of 7,500 feet (2,286 m).
7 Natural Wonders of Africa: Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world. Voters referenced the largest unbroken caldera statistic along with the unique encounter with wildlife as the primary factors drawing their votes. Ngorongoro Crater joined the Serengeti Migration and Mount Kilimanjaro as wonders of nature that call both Africa and Tanzania home.
Best way to see and experience Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater as the largest unbroken caldera in the world, it serves as a wildlife haven. It is considered one of the best wildlife encounters. The caldera is home to the Big 5, however the leopard tends to be atop the crater and in the jungle along the outside of the crater.
The best way to experience Ngorongoro Crater is by leveraging the expertise from one of the local guide or safari services. Most of the crater lodges have professional guides as part of the safari and accommodation experience they provide to you. Your vehicles may vary, but you should be in a safari vehicle that has a removable or raisable roof that allows you to stand inside the vehicle and look out over the wildlife. Ideally, there will just be no more than 3 or 4 in the vehicle or you might be squeezing and wrestling for space when it comes to viewing some of the wildlife you might encounter.
More than likely, your guide will have secured a packed lunch to take along with you so that you can explore the crater floor the entire day. There is a great watering hole that features a place to stop to take a break and enjoy your lunch. Don’t close your eyes and do continue to pay attention because you may encounter more wildlife. Learn more through ourNgorongoro Craterpage.
Ngorongoro Crater Places to Stay
The Ngorongoro Farm House is a colonial style farm house and actual working coffee plantation. The cottages are nestled in the grounds and gardens of the plantation. Learn more through our Ngorongoro Craterpage.Endangered Species of Africa
There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the various wonders of nature special. The endangered species of Africa are one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.
Nile River
The Nile River was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world who noted the key statistical significance. The Nile River is the longest river in the world stretching 4,132 miles (6,650 km) while crossing 10 countries in northern Africa.
Nile River
Nile River Quick Facts:
- Longest river in the world stretching 4,132 miles (6,650 km)
- Traverses across 10 countries
- Mouth of the river is in Egypt
- Two Sources with one in Uganda and the other in Ethiopia
7 Natural Wonders of Africa: Nile River
The Nile River was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world who noted the key statistical significance. The Nile River is the longest river in the world stretching 4,132 miles (6,650 km) while crossing 10 countries in northern Africa.
Nile River
The Nile River is located in northern Africa spanning across 10 countries that include Uganda, Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and ending in Egypt as it feeds into the Mediterranean Sea.
The Nile River is the longest river in the world beating out the Amazon by 155 Feet. The Nile is considered to have two sources of which one originates in Uganda and the other in Ethiopia. Upon receiving the official recognition as a natural wonder, Uganda Minister of Tourism declared the source as a protected area. Uganda is also home to Murchison Falls which is an incredible waterfall on the Nile. The tremendous Nile River forces its way between narrow canyon walls to create the thunderous Murchison Falls.
Much of the Nile River meanders through the Sahara Desert as it makes its way north towards the Mediterranean. The Nile starts with two sources in the south and finishes with two branches as it splits as it completes the journey in Egypt. The west branch is known as Rosetta whereas the east is called Damietta. This area is known as the Nile Delta.
Where is the Nile River
The Nile River is located in northern Africa. The river originates in Uganda and Ethiopia as two different sources and then it meanders through nine countries where it ends in the Mediterranean Sea. The mouth of the river at the Mediterranean Sea is located in Egypt. The mouth of the river is often the first place people think of when they envision the Nile River.
Best way to see and experience the Nile River
The best way to experience the Nile River depends on your interest. One of the most popular ways is to take a river cruise. There are more adventurous ways to engage the Nile such as river rafting, kayaking, and canoeing. Uganda features activities near the source that include bungee jumping out over the water.
Nile River Wildlife
Most people think of crocodiles when it comes to the Nile River, and they are there. The Nile crocodile is one of the largest crocodiles in Africa reaching around 20 feet. When travelers look to see the Big 7, the Nile crocodile is usually the ideal sighting. The river is certainly home to fish, but more importantly it is home to another one of the Big 7 , the hippopotamus.
Elephants, buffalo, wildebeest, gazelle and other wildlife will use the Nile as a source of water. When some of these animals make their way to the river’s edge, they can easily become victim to the crocodile. Murchison Falls National Park is home to 76 mammal species and around 450 species of birds.
Endangered Species of Africa
There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the various wonders of nature special. The endangered species of Africa are one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.
Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is argued as the world’s largest inland delta. The delta is created from the rains that fill the Okavango River which is delivered to the basin of the Kalahari Desert. This is caused from the rainy season that occurs between January and February. The waters begin filling the delta in March and rising to the peak months of July and August.
Okavango Delta
Quick Facts:
- Largest inland delta in the world
- Created from seasonal flooding which peaks in July and August
- Flat with less than 7 feet of variation
- Under consideration for a World Heritage site
7 Natural Wonders of Africa: Okavango Delta
The Okavango Deltas was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world who noted the key statistical significance, uniqueness and splendor. Although there are two inland deltas in Africa that rival and possibly surpass Okavango Delta in size, they have been diminished with poaching and war. Okavango Delta is a protected area with an investment to protect the wildlife and her uniqueness for all to experience.
Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is argued as the world’s largest inland delta. The delta is created from the rains that fill the Okavango River which is delivered to the basin of the Kalahari Desert. This is caused from the rainy season that occurs between January and February. The waters begin filling the delta in March and rising to the peak months of July and August.
The majority of water is lost to evaporation and transpiration. Plants and transpiration account for 60% of the water lost followed by evaporation with 36%. The delta is extremely flat with less that 7 feet (2 meters) of elevation change. Every year the delta features 11 cubic kilometers, or 11,000,000,000,000 liters, of water flow. Visit our Okavango Delta Resource page to learn more about the delta and options for exploring this wonder of nature.
Where is the Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is located in the southern part of Africa in the country of Botswana. Botswana is found north of South Africa, south of Zambia, southwest of Zimbabwe, and east of Namibia. The Okavango Delta is located in the northern part of Botswana nestled in the basin of the Kalahari. The delta is just southwest of Chobe National Park.
Okavango Delta Wildlife
The Okavango Delta is an amazing home to a variety of wildlife. Some of the wildlife are seasonal following the rains while others call the area home year round. For visitors, safari goers and nature lovers it is a wildlife haven. Some of the wildlife that may be experienced include: giraffes, buffalos, hippos, rhinos, lions, and a variety of antelopes. The historical Big 5 along with 6 of Africa’s Big 7 can all be experienced in the Okavango Delta.
Those fascinated with predators will be glad to know that the delta is home to lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, and crocodiles. Some of the more sought after creatures you may find include both the black and white rhino, ostrich, hippo and the elephant.
The Okavango Delta is also a sanctuary for over 400 species of birds making this a great destination for bird watchers as well. Some of the birds that may be encountered include the ostrich, African Fish Eagle, Crested Crane, Lilac-Breasted Roller, among many other amazing birds.
Best way to see and experience Okavango Delta
Visitors to the Okavango Delta usually have one thing in mind and this is viewing and experiencing wildlife. One unique way to experience the delta and view game is taking a hot air balloon ride over the basin. However, the greatest way to see the most wildlife comes from taking a safari game drive through the park. Another option is to take one of the canoe type options through the channels of the delta. Each of these provide unique and engaging ways to experience the wildlife of Okavango Delta. Visit our Resourcespage for more information.
Endangered Species of Africa
There are 100’s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna, and flora are much of what makes the various wonders of nature special. Theendangered species of Africa are one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.
Red Sea Reef
The Red Sea Reef stretches over 1,240 miles along the coast of Egypt, Sudan, and Eritrea. There are more than 1,100 species of fish that call this Red Sea Reef home and nearly 10% of these are exclusive to this region. The reef features include abundant aquatic life, platforms, lagoons, and cylinders.
Red Sea Reef
Quick Facts:
- Home to over 1,100 species of fish
- Approximately 1 in 10 are exclusive to the area
- The reef extends over 1,200 miles
Red Sea Reef
The Red Sea Reef stretches over 1,240 miles along the coast of Egypt, Sudan, and Eritrea. There are more than 1,100 species of fish that call this Red Sea Reef home and nearly 10% of these are exclusive to this region. The reef features include abundant aquatic life, platforms, lagoons, and cylinders.
7 Natural Wonders of Africa: Red Sea Reef
The Red Sea Reef was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world who noted the key statistical significance. The Red Sea Reef is home to over 1,100 species of fish with approximately 10% being exclusive to the area. Factors that voters noted included being the largest reef related to Africa and the third largest reef system in the world, the significant percentage of species exclusive to the area, and the resilience of this reef system to the changing environment.
Best way to see the Red See Reef
The best way to see and experience the Red Sea Reef is through snorkeling and diving adventures. Egypt is the most popular access point for the reef, buy access is available through neighboring African countries as well as Israel and Jordan across the sea.
Reef systems are fragile and require care and protection. Although snorkeling and diving are the best ways to encounter the life of the reef, they are also one of the leading threats to the reef and the life that calls her home. It’s imperative that visitors take all precautions to experience the reef responsibly. Y ou can visit our Resource Page to learn more and access resources that serve and support the Red Sea Reef.
Endangered Species of Africa
The Red Sea Reef is home to 1,100 species of fish with 10% of those being exclusive to this reef system. It is imperative that we do everything possible to protect the Red Sea Reef and the life calling her home. There are 100’s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna, and flora are much of what makes the various wonders of nature special. The endangered species of Africa are one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.
Sahara Desert
The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world and the largest desert following Antarctica and the Artic. Most people think of hot dunes of sand when they envision a desert. However, according to the dictionary a desert is a barren area with little to no precipitation. Antarctica and the Artic are technically deserts and larger than the Sahara.
Sahara Desert
Sahara Desert Quick Facts:
- Largest hot desert in the world
- Covers 11 countries and accounts for 3,500,00 square miles (9,000,000 sq km)
- Sand dunes as high as 600 feet (180 meters)
- Home to several features which could be considered “wonders” themselves
Sahara Desert
The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world and the largest desert following Antarctica and the Artic. Most people think of hot dunes of sand when they envision a desert. However, according to the dictionary a desert is a barren area with little to no precipitation. Antarctica and the Artic are technically deserts and larger than the Sahara.
The Sahara Desert covers over 3,600,000 square miles (9,400,00- sq km). In comparison, this is approximately the size of the United States or China. This makes the Sahara the largest sandy or hot desert in the world
The boundaries of the Sahara Desert stretch from the Red Sea on the east, the Atlantic Ocean on the west, the valley of the Niger river on the south, to the Mediterranean Sea on the north. The desert encompasses, at least in part, the countries of Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Western Sahara, Sudan, and Tunisia.
The Nile river runs through the Sahara Desert throughout the year, but all other rivers only exist seasonally. Grasslands may be found in the northern and southern parts of the desert, but the center region is extremely arid. The geography of the desert includes tremendous sand dunes and dune fields which may be described as a sea of sand. Additionally, there are unusual and unique landforms, stone plateaus, salt flats, gravel plains, and arid valleys.
7 Natural Wonders of Africa: Sahara Desert
The Sahara Desert was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world who noted the key statistical significance. Voters noted that the Sahara Desert is so much more than sand with many key facets of nature calling her home. Recognized as the largest dry desert in the world, this key statistic served as the leading draw for votes.
Best way to see the Sahara Desert
More will follow on the Sahara Desert as it is declared an official or notable wonder of Africa.
Best way to experience the Sahara Desert
More will follow on the Sahara Desert as it is declared an official or notable wonder of Africa.
Endangered Species of Africa
There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the various wonders of nature special. The endangered species of Africa are one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.
Serengeti migration
The Serengeti migration is the longest and largest over land migration in the world. The Serengeti plains account for over 18,641 square miles and the migration itself travels 500 miles on the path from Tanzania to the Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya. Approximately 80% of the Seregeti plains are protected by the Tanzanian and Kenyan governments.
Serengeti Migration
Quick Facts:
- Migration crosses Tanzania and Kenya
- Spans 18,641.1 square miles (30,000 sq km)
- Longest and largest over land migration in the world
- The name Serengeti means “endless plains”
Serengeti Migration
The Serengeti migration is the longest and largest over land migration in the world. The Serengeti plains account for over 18,641 square miles and the migration itself travels 500 miles on the path from Tanzania to the Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya. Approximately 80% of the Seregeti plains are protected by the Tanzanian and Kenyan governments.
The Serengeti is home to over 70 larger mammals and approximately 500 different types of birds. Probably the most impressive part of the migration is the herds of wildebeests that blanket the plains. The migration will kill off around 250,000 wildebeests each year.
7 Natural Wonders of Africa: Serengeti Migration
The Serengeti Migration was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world who noted the key statistical significance. The Serengeti Migration is a wonder of nature shared between Tanzania and Kenya. The Serengeti Migration received the most votes along with the most #1 votes making it the most recognized wonder of nature.
Best way to see and experience the Serengeti Migration
The most intimate encounter with with wildlife of the Serengeti and the migration will come from the exploration inside a safari jeep. If you are looking at watching the wildebeest and other animals crossing the river, then you will need to plan on having patience. The animals may graze for hours and days on end before taking the swim across the river. It may mean just sitting in your Land Rover or other safari vehicle and watching.
If you are fortunate to experience the river crossing, keep your eyes peeled to river banks and wildlife swimming because the crocodiles have been waiting and know they are coming. Witnessing a crocodile capture a wildebeest and wrestle their prize home is an exhilarating experience.
The same could be said for following the migrating animals. The lions and other predators know the season and in the hunting mode. Keep your eyes on the stragglers and loners because the predators have their eyes on those too. Witnessing a lion hunting and killing part of the migration is usually more exciting than the crocodiles making their kill. All of this usually requires lots of patience and watching.
Another serene experience is ballooning over the Serengeti. This adventure allows you to recognize the grandeur and size of both the Serengeti itself and the expanse of the migrating wildlife. The balloon will usually land somewhere with a breakfast waiting for you out in the Serengeti. Visit our Serengeti Resources page for more information and resources to help you plan your trip.
Visiting the Serengeti
For those traveling to the Serengeti, you probably have questions about where to stay, what to do, and how to best experience the Serengeti migration. For more information on the Serengeti, the migration, and the tourist resources available to help you experience this natural wonder of Africa, you are invited to visit our Serengeti Resources page.
Endangered Species of Africa
There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the various wonders of nature special. The endangered species of Africa are one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlif
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