Travel guide giant Lonely Planet has included 3 African countries among the top 10 destinations for 2020. eSwatini (Swaziland), Liberia, and Morocco are among the top 10 tourism destinations the travel publisher has recommended to travelers for the year ahead.
eSwatini was ranked 5th on the list and top in Africa, while Liberia and Morocco were ranked 8th and 9th respectively are the only African countries that appeared on the list.
The list is topped by the mountain kingdom of Bhutan followed by England, North Macedonia, Aruba, Costa Rica was ranked sixth followed by the Netherlands while Uruguay is the last on the list in addition to the 3 African countries?
Why made eSwatini, Liberia and Morocco make the list?
Here is what Lonely Planet wrote about the 3 countries
eSwatini (Swaziland)
The South African kingdom nation’s culture, adventure, and wildlife were among the key highlights pointed out for their inclusion on the list.
Here is what Lonely Planet wrote about the 3 countries
“Petite, pleasant and packed with culture, adventure and legendary wildlife, the newly named Kingdom of ESwatini (formerly Swaziland) is one of South Africa’s most underrated (and least visited) destinations. A new international airport, as well as improved road infrastructure between it, conservation areas and the capital, are aimed to increase visitor numbers in the years ahead – get here in 2020 to ensure yourself a front seat.”
“The varied landscapes within its parks and reserves provide one exciting revelation after another, whether its zip lining, trekking, whitewater rafting or mind-blowing rhino encounters. Mix in a pervading sense of peace and enthralling cultural festivities and you’ll be smiling all the way home.”
Liberia
“For most outsiders, Liberia is a bit of a mystery. But those in the know wax lyrical about the optimism of its people and the country’s natural wonders. There are idyllic beaches, washed by some of West Africa’s best surf at low-key resorts such as Robertsport. Then there’s Sapo National Park, the second-largest area of primary rainforest in West Africa. In these dense forests, you stand a chance of running into chimpanzees, forest elephants and Liberia’s famous pygmy hippos – no larger than a Shetland pony.”
“Better still, a groundbreaking development deal with Norway to halt all deforestation by 2020 looks set to keep this natural treasure safe for generations.”
Morocco
“Morocco is having a moment, with time-honored attractions complemented by sustainable-yet-stylish lodging, restaurants serving up seasonal produce and coastal wellness retreats mixing up yoga and surfing. And thanks to improved infrastructure it’s easier to get around by road, while Africa’s first high-speed train means that you can zip from Casablanca to Tangier in just two hours. Ancient medians are getting a makeover in Fez, Essaouira, Meknes, Tetouan, and Marrakesh, which will be crowned Africa’s first Capital of Culture in 2020 in celebration of its rich heritage. And you can still escape the crowds in Berber mountain villages, deserted Atlantic beaches and far –flung desert outposts.
