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Africa is a continent that has shaped the way I think about travel, history, and global connection, undoubtedly, more than any other region I’ve explored. Though I have only been to three countries: Egypt, Rwanda, and Morocco, the depth, diversity, and complexity of the continent is impossible to miss.
Across these three countries alone, you encounter vastly different histories, ethnic groups, languages, religions, and landscapes. From North Africa to East Africa, the contrasts are striking, yet there is a shared sense of cultural richness and resilience that leaves a lasting impression.
Africa was also my regional focus during my graduate studies, which gave me the chance to engage with the continent beyond travel. Studying African political economy, development, and history alongside firsthand experiences helped me build a more nuanced perspective, one that goes far beyond headlines or stereotypes. It taught me how important context is, and how much there is to learn by listening, observing, and staying curious.
As a continent, Africa is immense. It is made up of 54 countries, spanning more than three times the land area of the United States. Within that scale exists extraordinary geographic diversity, from the Sahara Desert in the north, to rainforests and jungles in Central Africa, to the mountains and savannas of East Africa, and the coastlines stretching along the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.
One of the things that continues to inspire me most is Africa’s cultural richness. With thousands of ethnic groups and more than 2,000 languages, the continent holds an incredible variety of music, art, cuisine, traditions, and ways of life. Despite a history marked by colonial exploitation and the reality of ongoing challenges in some regions, Africa remains deeply vibrant, dynamic, and welcoming.
I am excited to continue exploring the continent and look forward to future travels to Madagascar, Tanzania, South Africa, and Ghana. For now, I’m excited to share insight into the three incredible countries I’ve already had the chance to experience: Morocco, Rwanda, and Egypt, each of which left a lasting mark on the way I see the world.
Standing inside one of the tombs in the Valley of the Kings, where Egypt’s New Kingdom pharaohs were buried for nearly 500 years. The walls are covered in detailed inscriptions (perfectly preserved) meant to guide rulers through the afterlife.
Spotting a golden monkey on a trek through the Virunga Mountains. This trip was the first time I truly understood how complex conservation is, where protecting endangered species exists alongside the daily realities of farming and local livelihoods.
Spending time in a nomadic camp in Morocco’s Sahara Desert. I was absolutely blown away by the resilience and ingenuity required to live in this climate and survive in such an unforgiving environment.
**All photos are mine unless stated otherwise**
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