July has been a vibrant and inspiring month for travelers across Africa. From bustling cities to serene coastlines, remote safaris to high-tech travel tools, Tapmigo Africa brings you the top five highlights that shaped how, where, and why people explored the continent this month. These picks are based on what trended, what travelers loved, and what we believe defines the spirit of African travel.
1. Destination of the Month: Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar was July’s most talked-about travel destination, and for good reason. This island paradise continues to captivate travelers with its turquoise waters, coral reefs, historical spice tours, and Stone Town’s cultural charm. What makes Zanzibar stand out in July is its mid-year dry season, offering warm weather without the humidity, perfect for beach lovers, divers, and cultural explorers.
Travelers from across Africa and the world flocked to Zanzibar to enjoy a mix of history and luxury. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offered walking tours that took visitors through winding alleys, ancient doors, and bustling marketplaces. Beach resorts in Nungwi and Paje were at full capacity this month, catering to honeymooners, backpackers, and families alike.
Zanzibar’s culinary scene also saw a surge in attention, with rooftop dining in Forodhani Gardens and the now-famous Rock Restaurant gaining international buzz again. For those seeking water adventures, July brought excellent conditions for snorkeling, kitesurfing, and sunset dhow cruises.
Zanzibar continues to balance heritage and hospitality, attracting travelers who want more than just a beach—it’s a complete experience. As international travel to Africa increases, Zanzibar remains a top-tier destination combining African culture, Indian Ocean beauty, and a spirit of adventure all in one place.
2. Best Stay of the Month: La Mamounia, Marrakech, Morocco
In the world of luxury and timeless design, La Mamounia in Marrakech claimed the spotlight in July. Known as one of the most iconic hotels in Africa, La Mamounia has hosted royalty, celebrities, and global elites. But this month, it resonated deeply with discerning travelers from across the continent looking for opulence, service, and cultural flair.
The property blends Moroccan architecture with Art Deco elegance, set amidst expansive gardens, mosaic fountains, and rich courtyards. Guests in July praised the hotel’s refined customer service, attention to detail, and signature experiences like the traditional hammam and afternoon tea under orange trees.
What made La Mamounia trend in July wasn’t just its heritage appeal but a wave of digital creators who showcased their stays through immersive content. Its intricate design, perfect lighting, and decadent dishes made it a favorite among luxury influencers and high-end travelers. Several African travel publications featured La Mamounia in their “Hotels of the Year” lists, further cementing its status.
As North Africa repositions itself post-pandemic for high-value tourism, La Mamounia remains a benchmark in combining legacy hospitality with modern luxury. If Marrakech is on your travel radar—or even if it’s not—this property is worth experiencing at least once for its rare blend of history, culture, and grandeur.
3. Travel App of the Month: Bolt—Expanding Across Africa
Bolt continues to make major moves in Africa’s ride-hailing and mobility landscape. This month, it recorded significant growth in cities like Lagos, Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Abidjan. With a footprint in over 15 African countries, Bolt has positioned itself as the go-to app for reliable and cost-effective transport—especially in cities where traffic congestion and public transport challenges dominate.
July saw Bolt roll out new safety features, including SOS buttons and real-time ride tracking, making it especially attractive for solo female travelers. In West Africa, its food delivery service and low-cost ride options saw significant uptake. In East and Southern Africa, Bolt Business gained traction among professionals booking airport pickups and intercity rides.
The app’s success in July is also tied to its flexible payment systems—accepting mobile money, cards, and cash, depending on the city. With fuel prices rising and urban mobility becoming more complex, Bolt’s affordability and ease of use made it a top download this month.
While global competitors like Uber exist in the same space, Bolt’s local partnerships and pricing models have allowed it to localize effectively. It’s not just about transport—it’s about accessibility, job creation, and connecting communities. For travelers navigating African cities, Bolt remains the most efficient app to get from point A to B without complications.
4. Culinary Spot of the Month: Gold Restaurant, Cape Town, South Africa
Gold Restaurant in Cape Town stood out this July as one of Africa’s most immersive and theatrical dining experiences. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a sensory journey through 14 African countries in one sitting. Located in the heart of Cape Town, the restaurant offers a pan-African dining experience with storytelling, live drumming, traditional dance, and dishes that reflect the continent’s culinary diversity.
Guests this month raved about Gold’s curated tasting menu, which includes meals from North, West, East, and Southern Africa. Dishes like Moroccan harira, Mozambican peri-peri prawns, Ethiopian lentil stews, and South African bobotie are served in succession, paired with local wines and African-inspired cocktails.
July brought in a mix of international tourists and regional travelers, many seeking to reconnect with the continent’s roots through flavor. Social media content from visitors showed vibrant table setups, energetic drum circles, and heartfelt customer service.
What makes Gold special is its commitment to preserving and celebrating African traditions in a contemporary setting. The staff—often performers themselves—educate guests on the stories behind each dish. In a world of fast dining, Gold offers a slow, meaningful, and unforgettable experience that stays with you long after the final course.
Whether you’re new to African cuisine or a seasoned foodie, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone exploring Cape Town or looking for a cultural culinary event.
5. Hidden Gem of the Month: Lake Retba (Lac Rose), Senegal
Senegal’s Lake Retba, also known as Lac Rose, became one of the most talked-about natural wonders this July. Located just 30 kilometers northeast of Dakar, this pink-hued lake gets its unique color from a high concentration of salt and a particular kind of algae that thrives in salty environments. During July’s dry season, the lake’s color is at its most vibrant, drawing both photographers and curious explorers.
Although well-known locally, Lake Retba still qualifies as a hidden gem in the global travel scene. This month, Tapmigo’s analytics showed a sharp rise in search interest, especially among travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences in West Africa.
Visitors can float effortlessly on the lake due to its high salinity, similar to the Dead Sea. The surrounding landscape is dotted with salt harvesters, who continue to work using traditional methods. Several eco-lodges and community-based tours around the lake offer authentic experiences, including sunset boat rides, cultural performances, and local food tastings.
July’s visitors highlighted the warmth of the local guides, the surreal beauty of the landscape, and the peaceful energy of the place. For travelers looking to explore West Africa beyond the usual beaches and cities, Lac Rose presents an unexpected and breathtaking encounter with nature.
As the continent continues to open up for regional and international tourism, destinations like Lake Retba remind us of the hidden magic that still exists across Africa, waiting to be discovered.
Conclusion: A Month of Movement, Culture, and Discovery
July has shown us just how diverse, vibrant, and dynamic Africa’s travel scene truly is. From the tranquil beaches of Zanzibar to the architectural wonder of La Mamounia, the seamless convenience of Bolt to the culinary storytelling at Gold Restaurant, and the pink waters of Lake Retba, Africa offers far more than just destinations. It offers experiences rooted in heritage, innovation, and natural beauty.
These top picks reflect not only where people went in July but also how travel across the continent is evolving. Travelers today are looking for more—more meaning, more authenticity, and more connection. Whether through sustainable stays, immersive cultural dining, or hidden gems off the beaten path, July’s highlights captured the soul of modern African travel.
At Tapmigo Africa, we continue to spotlight the places, people, and platforms shaping the way the world explores this continent. As we move into August, we look forward to even more discoveries, stories, and experiences from across Africa.
Be sure to check back for our monthly roundups, travel guides, and curated insights. The journey across Africa is just beginning—and Tapmigo is here to guide every step of the way.
Explore More. Discover Africa. Travel with Tapmigo.
Website: www.tapmigo.africa
#TapmigoTopPicks #TapmigoAfrica #TravelAfrica #ExploreAfrica
Top 10 Road Trip Routes in Africa
Top 10 Must-Visit Cities in Africa
