Sahara Desert - Africa

Africa is the second largest continent after Asia, covering 20% of the world’s total land mass approximately 30.3 million km2. Africa stretches from the northern temperate zone to the southern temperate zone and is crossed by the equator, encompassing several climates from its arctic peaks to its arid desert plains. The shape of the continent is dominated by uplands which cover 70% of the continent. In the north-west are the Atlas Mountains and in the east are the volcanic Kilimanjaro Mountains. Victoria Lake is also the world’s largest tropical lake.

In spite of the fact that Africa has the highest population growth at 24% per annum, yet it is inhabited only by 14% of the world’s population, and nearly half of these are children. Africa is the poorest and most under-developed continent in the world, it has the lowest Gross Domestic Products per capita (895$), the shortest life average (47 years) and the largest number of people infected by HIV (64,3% of all infected people in the World). The situation of hunger, malnutrition, poverty and AIDS is exacerbated by the spread of diseases, lack of literacy, corrupt governments and military conflicts. There are many civil wars within African nations and conflicts between nations that are considered dangerous, like the nations of Sudan, Angola, Burundi, Kongo, Czad, The Ivory Cost, Liberia, Somalia, Zimbabwe and South-Eastern Nigeria.

Nevertheless, Africa in spite of its wild nature and inner conflicts attracts many visitors with its unspoiled beauty and natural environment that is protected by the creation of numerous National Parks, a couple of the most famous are the Bontebok National Park and the Kgalagafi Transfrontier Park. Africa, with  its long and rich history is a perfect place for those looking for exceptional attractions such as the Blombos Cave which became famous thanks to discovery of 75 000-year-old beads made from Nassarius shells. It should be noted that Africa was also a cradle of great ancient civilizations who’s symbols can be admired to this today, especially the 5000-year-old Egypt, the Pyramids in Tebes, the Luxor Temple, the Great Sphinx or the Great Pyramid of Giza to name a few of the many great monuments that are revered in Africa.

Gallery - Monuments of Africa

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