Sadly, we have limited time on this earth, so many of us would wish to use our time wisely, and experience things that others would only be fortunate enough to see on the TV. A bucket list is basically a list of things that people wish to do before they die (the bucket is in reference to ‘kicking the bucket’ which is an expression for dying). The great thing about human beings is the fact that we are all different and unique, and as a result, we have different likes and dislikes in life. When talking about bucket lists however, Africa experiences become highly relevant, as the continent is one of the most sought-after destinations in the entire world. If you’ve ever considered visiting Africa, here’s a look at a few extraordinary African experiences for you to add to your bucket list for before you die.

Courtesy of WorldFish/Flickr
Bucket List Ideas: Take a canoe trip down the Zambezi
The Zambezi River is one of the most famous rivers in the world, and it is home to a vast array of different forms of wildlife, some of which you may never have even known had existed. For a real insight into why Africa is considered to be such an underappreciated paradise, look no further than the Zambezi Valley. Here you will see small islands, lush green surroundings, more animals than you could have ever imagined, and some of the most beautiful landscapes on the entire planet. As you gently canoe down the river, you will be able to relax as you listen to the sound of gentle water, whilst gazing at animals such as bathing elephants, grazing buffalos on the plains, kingfishers hunting for fish, and plenty more besides. A canoe trip down the Zambezi is, without question, a once in a lifetime activity, and for that reason, you should ideally get it added to your bucket list, sooner rather than later.

Courtesy of Vernon Swanepoel/Flickr
Bucket List Ideas : Gaze at the stars in the Kalahari
When camping, chances are that one of the first things you did when it got dark, was laying on your back and gazing up at the stars, and rightfully so. When you stargaze in the Kalahari however, the views are like nothing you could have ever possibly envisioned. Simply find a comfortable spot, lay down flat on your back, and gaze up in wonder at the stars above you. There is no light pollution dulling things down, or no clouds obstructing your view, so you can simply lay on your back and gaze upwards in awe, as you regard the twinkling light show above you. This African experience is incredibly relaxing, and what’s more, as you will almost certainly see a good few shooting stars, you may even get the chance to make a wish or two.

Courtesy of Ronald Woan/Flickr
Bucket List Ideas : Visit the Pyramids
The Pyramids of Giza, which are one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and truthfully, it doesn’t matter how many pictures of them you see, or how many times you see them on the TV unless you see them in person, you cannot truly appreciate just how fantastic they really are. It is remarkable to consider that they were constructed more than 4,500 years ago, way, way, way, before any form of mechanical machinery was invented, yet somehow, someway, these amazing pieces of architecture were constructed, and have been able to withstand the hands of time for thousands of years. You can walk around the pyramids, and even enter them and see them from a whole new perspective. Although tempting, unless you do wish to receive a ban, as well as a hefty fine, you should ensure that you resist the urge to attempt climbing them.

Courtesy of flowcomm/Flickr
Bucket List Ideas : Visit Robben Island
When visiting Africa, it is often the animals and wildlife that receive much of the attention, as they are considered to be the true stars of the show. So much so, in fact, that we forget that Africa has seen some truly iconic human beings. Nelson Mandela, for example, is a true legend, and by visiting Robben Island, you can see Robben Island prison, where he was incarcerated for so long. Robben Island isn’t just home to Nelson Mandela’s former prison however, it is also home to one of the most spectacular harbours in the entire world, as well as Table Mountain, which rears up above the waterfront of Cape Town itself.

Courtesy of Africa Deluxe Tours/Flickr
Bucket List Ideas : Make your way down South Africa’s Garden Route
South Africa is home to some of the most stunning scenery on the planet, and if you want an example of just how beautiful that scenery is, then look no further than South Africa’s Garden Route. This route gets its name due simply to the fact that it boasts a huge selection of natural flora and fauna that thrives in the region. The climate is mild all year long, the weather is fantastic, the surroundings are like tropical havens, and again, there is a great deal of wildlife on offer. The route stretches from the Western Cape, from Mossel Bay, down to the Eastern Cape of Storms River. It is a stunning route and comes very highly recommended.

Courtesy of gmacfadyenFollow/Flickr
Bucket List Ideas : Take a Zambian Safari on Foot
To truly get up close and personal with some of the amazing creatures residing in Africa, you may wish to visit the South Luangwa National Park, which is one of the best places in the entire region, to see the game whilst standing on your own two feet. Walking safaris are growing in popularity, and if you’re fortunate enough to take part in one yourself, you will instantly understand why that is. Just some of the animals you may be fortunate enough to encounter, including elephants, giraffe, leopard, buffalo, lion, and zebra.
Courtesy of zolakoma/Flickr