Choose from 633 Fun Things to Do in Middle East And Africa
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Khan al-Khalili
Jaundiced travelers often dismiss the Khan al-Khalili as a tourist trap; there's no ignoring the fact that it's a favored stop of tour buses and has all the associated annoyances (touts and tat) that come with them. But it's worth remembering that Cairenes have plied their trades here since the founding of the Khan in the 14th century - the buying and selling didn't begin with the arrival of the first tour group.
Today the market still plays an important role in the day-to-day commercial life of thousands of locals. In its narrow streets you can buy anything from shoes to souvenirs to clothes, chess sets, cushions, ceramics, brass, gold, silver, rugs, fabrics and on it goes.
Practical Info
The Khan al-Khalili is in the center of Cairo and the easiest way there is to grab a taxi. The most important thing to take with you are your bargaining skills. Leave a few hours to really explore.
Address: al-Azkar Street, Cairo, Egypt
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 11
Kazuri Beads Factory
Kazuri Beads is a fair trade success story in Nairobi that dates back to 1975, when it was founded. Kazuri was the brainchild of Lady Susan Wood, who was born to English parents in Africa. She began with two local women who made ceramic beads by hand – the word “kazuri” means “small and beautiful” in Swahili – and soon realized she could expand and help many more unemployed women.
Today, Kazuri Beads employs more than 300 women, makes over five million beads a year, and exports beads to 20 different countries. The women have also begun to make other pottery goods with the same colorful designs.
Practical Info
The Kazuri Beads Factory is on the Karen Blixen Estate, well-known as the setting for “Out of Africa,” and visitors can see where the beautiful beads are made during a trip to the estate.
Address: Mbagathi Ridge, Nairobi, Kenya
From $ 45
Kejetia Market
Kejetia Market, the commercial heart of Kumasi, is considered the largest open-air market in West Africa. Each day, some 12,000 stalls open for business, selling food, clothing, handmade glass beads, souvenirs, Ashanti sandals, fabric and things you wouldn't even know you wanted until you saw them.
Kejetia Market is very much a bustling local shopping hub, and while tourists do visit from time to time, they often find themselves the objects of curiosity. Despite—or perhaps because of—the congestion, jostling, noise and riot of color everywhere you look, a visit to the market remains one of the best opportunities to experience a slide of authentic Ghana.
While it’s perfectly possible and reasonably safe to visit the Kejetia Market on your own, enlisting the help of a guide who can explain some of the trade goods and help you bargain for purchases will enrich the experience.
Practical Info
It’s quite easy to get separated in the chaos of the market, so try to stay close to your traveling companions, and choose a meeting spot outside the market ahead of time in case you get split up.
Address: Kumasi, Ghana
From $ 43
Kik Plateau
The rugged highlands of the Kik Plateau make a popular destination for hiking in the High Atlas Mountains, with numerous trails running from nearby Berber villages like Asni, Moulay Brahim and Ourigane, and easily accessible from Marrakech.
Renowned for its unique limestone topography, the plateau is a scenic spot, blanketed with alpine wildflowers and wheat fields, and offering magnificent views over the surrounding peaks, including the looming Mount Toubkal, Northern Africa’s highest peak.
Practical Info
The Kik Plateau is located close to Mount Toubkal in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains.
Address: Morocco
From $ 46
Kigali Genocide Memorial
During the spring and early summer of 1994, hundreds of thousands of Rwandan Tutsis were slaughtered in a mass genocide planned by the country’s Hutu majority government. Some 259,000 victims of the massacre were laid to rest at what is today the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Opened in 2004 on the tenth anniversary of the beginning of the genocide, the memorial not only commemorates lives lost, it also serves as the base of operations for Aegis Trust, a UK-based genocide prevention organization.
The sober yet impressive site includes a peaceful garden where victims were laid to rest, as well as a museum examining the Rwandan genocide as well as other instances of genocide throughout history. Particularly moving is a gallery telling the story of how Rwanda’s children were impacted by this terrible chapter in history.
While the memorial itself is free, the English audio tour is very much worth the fee for the informative background information it provides.
Practical Info
During your visit, keep in mind that families of the victims come to the memorial to mourn their loved ones.
Address: KG 14 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda
Hours: 8am to 5pm
Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
From $ 2,990
Kidron Valley
The Kidron Valley is known for its stunning views, as well as its historic and religious significance. It’s a destination for travelers seeking a Biblical touchstone, thanks to its starring role in the story of David in the Books of Samuel, Kings and Chronicles, in Orthodox, Jewish, Protestant and Catholic traditions.
The valley is also home to hundreds of ancient tombs located near the village of Silwan. It is widely recognized as the main burial ground in the city during historic times. The most significant tombs in the Kidron Valley include the Pillar of Absalom, the Tomb of Benei Hezir and the Tomb of Zechariah. Travelers who explore these tombs on a visit to the valley will gain a deeper understanding of Jerusalem’s culture, history and religious traditions while taking in some truly incredible views.
Practical Info
The Kidron Valley is located between the Mount of Olives and the Eastern Wall of the Temple Mount and the City of David. It runs through the Judean Desert towards the Dead Sea and stretches some 20 miles.
Address: Jerusalem, Israel
From $ 49
King Abdullah Mosque
Stunning King Abdullah Mosque was built between 1982 and 1986 as a memorial to the late King Hussein’s Grandfather, His Majesty As-Sayyid Abdullah I, King of Jordan.
A fine example of modern Islamic architecture the mosque is capped by a magnificent blue mosaic dome, beneath which 3,000 Muslims can offer prayer at any one time. Inside the dome are verses from the Quran, along with a chandelier also inscribed with Quranic verses. A red carpet represents fertile land and its patterns direct people towards Mecca.
There is a small museum inside with a collection of pottery and photographs of His Majesty King Abdullah I. Visitors to the mosque are welcomed but should remember to remove shoes and dress modestly.
A fine example of modern Islamic architecture the mosque is capped by a magnificent blue mosaic dome, beneath which 3,000 Muslims can offer prayer at any one time. Inside the dome are verses from the Quran, along with a chandelier also inscribed with Quranic verses. A red carpet represents fertile land and its patterns direct people towards Mecca.
There is a small museum inside with a collection of pottery and photographs of His Majesty King Abdullah I. Visitors to the mosque are welcomed but should remember to remove shoes and dress modestly.
Address: Jordan
From $ 106
Kasbah of the Udayas
On your visit to Rabat’s medina, take a few steps farther north to explore the 12th-century Kasbah of the Udayas, the city’s oldest quarter, which was built during the Almohad dynasty. Also called Kasbah les Oudaias, the tightly packed neighborhood has evolved through the centuries, with many of its signature, whitewashed and blue-based houses built by Moroccan refugees from Spain during the 16th century.
Today, there are many highlights to behold during a visit to Rabat’s wall- and tower-surrounded Kasbah. Entrance through the grand 12th-century Almohad gate of Bab Oudaia hints at the discoveries to come, including a walk down the neighborhood’s main street Rua Jamaa and past the city’s oldest mosque, El Atiqa; a visit to the palace-located Museum of Oudayas; and especially the unparalleled views of the river and sea (and inviting shoreline), best taken in from the various terraces.
Practical Info
Though the neighborhood can be explored guide-free, be advised that unofficial guides (especially located at the Bab Oudaia gate) may try to convince you otherwise. Therefore if you wish to explore the Kasbah with an expert, be sure to book a trusted guide in advance.
Address: Morocco
From $ 51
Katutura Township
In the local language of Otjiherero Katutura means “The place where people do not want to live”. In 1961, when apartheid practices took hold and black Namibians were moved from their homes into this far flung location, its name not only stung—but also rang true. Roughly 7,000 people were forced to give up land they owned and move to Katutura, where all homes were rented from the municipality and public transport was essential to travel to work.
Today, this once oppressed area of Windhoek is a thriving neighborhood that’s alive with energy, traditions and culture. Visitors can explore Sam Nujoma Stadium, tune in to Katutura Community Radio, or visit Katutura State Hospital—one of two public hospitals in the city. While the area is mostly residential, travelers will find food stalls, guesthouses and city tours throughout the neighborhood.
Practical Info
Katutura is located in the Khomas Region of Namibia, just outside of Windhoek. Travelers can take taxis from the city center to the Township. Because few tourists venture to this destination, visitors should be mindful of their belongings—and their person—while wandering the streets here.
Address: Katutura Township, Windhoek, Namibia
From $ 26
King David's Tomb
The remains of Israel’s famous King David sit on the holy site of Mount Zion. Pilgrims flock to pay their respects to the Old Testament king who is credited with writing many of the Psalms. At nearly 1,000 years old, it is highly debated whether or not King David is actually buried here. Nonetheless, the place remains highly significant, particularly to Jews. Before the state of Israel was founded, Jews did not have access to the Western Wall (Wailing Wall) and would instead visit the Tomb of David to pray.
The tomb can be seen on the ground floor of what remains of the Byzantine church Hagia Zion. It is estimated that parts of the structure date back to the time of the Crusaders. Men and women must visit the stone tomb separately, though members of all faiths are welcome.
Practical Info
The tomb is located on Mount Zion, outside of the Old City walls and 100 meters southwest from Zion Gate. It is open from 8 am to sunset daily. Admission is free. It is requested that men cover their heads before entering.
Address: Mount Zion, Jerusalem, Israel
From $ 32
Katara Cultural Village
“Katara” was the ancient name given to the Qatar Peninsula — a fitting name for this collection of Qatari-style buildings that comprise the Katara Cultural Village. The venue seeks to connect Qatar’s ancient heritage with its modern status as a cultural hub through this cluster of theaters, performance venues, galleries and restaurants serving Qatari and international cuisine.
The Katara Cultural Village also maintains its own private beach — a mile-long (1.5-km) strip of sand complete with a children’s play area. For an extra fee, visitors can water ski, kneeboard, parasail or take a boat ride from the beach.
Practical Info
Check the Katara Cultural Village website before your visit to see what special events, performances or exhibitions might be taking place. Many of them are free.
Address: Doha, Qatar
From $ 50
King's Highway
Running north-south along the squiggling spine of the Dead Sea rift, a road trip along the King’s Highway from biblical Madaba to Petra is to journey along a 2,000-year-old trade route bursting with history. Check out the Crusader castles at Karak and Shobak, and the ancient town of Madaba. Pop into Roman forts and visit a Nabataean temple. Or if you’re more into nature, Jordan’s Dana Nature Reserve is famous for its hiking, and in April the region is known for its black irises. Then there’s Wadi Mujib. Reaching nearly 1000 meters downwards, it’s known as the Grand Canyon of Jordan, and the King’s Highway crosses its upper reaches.
Not really a highway but more of a quiet, country road with amazing views around and alongside its 280-km route, you’ll get a glimpse of rural life in Jordan as you drive between the villages which collect at the top of the mountains.
Practical Info
Stretching 280 km, no public transport runs the length of King’s Highway, but you can always charter a taxi for the day, join a day tour, or even rent a car and make the trip last 4 or 5 days.
Address: Amman, Jordan
From $ 34
Khayelitsha Township
Khayelitsha is thought to be not only the largest township in South Africa but also the fastest-growing. It was established in 1985 as part of a 1950 law assigning difference racial groups to different residential areas, when black residents were forcibly moved to the new township, sometimes violently.
Today, Khayelitsha has a population of more than 390,000 people. Living conditions in the township have improved a great deal since the fall of apartheid, but even as recently as 2001 most of the residents still lived in shacks and did not have easy access to fresh water. Tourism to Khayelitsha is increasing, with visits to the craft market and township tours on offer.
Practical Info
Khayelitsha is about 15.5 miles southeast of Cape Town. As with any township, it's best to visit with an official guided tour, as navigating townships can be extremely confusing if you aren't familiar with the layout.
Address: Khayelitsha, South Africa
From $ 46
Kenyatta International Conference Center
The Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) is a 28-story building located in the central business district of Nairobi. At 105 meters tall, the KICC is the third tallest building in Kenya and is used for national and international conferences and exhibitions, along with a variety of other meetings and events.
This terracotta, cylindrical tower reflects traditional African architecture, as does the use of cuboids inside many of the main rooms and halls inside. The KICC features a revolving restaurant with panoramic views of the city, and a number of different conference and meeting rooms. The main auditorium has a capacity of almost 800 people across tiered seating, including three balconies.
Practical Info
The Kenyatta International Conference Centre is located on Harambee Avenue in central Nairobi. It is close to a number of five-star hotels in the area, making it a popular choice for events and meetings for both national and international visitors alike.
Address: Harambee Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya
From $ 46
Kibera
Kibera, the largest slum both in Nairobi and Africa, is home to more than a million residents packed into an area less than a square mile (2.6 square kilometers). While life here isn’t easy—it’s one of Nairobi’s poorest neighborhoods and the lack of running water and electricity are constant problems—the slum has its own buzzing industries, which include rows of tilted shacks selling produce, charcoal, homemade breads, secondhand clothes, and shoes.
The Basics
While the thought of visiting one of the world’s largest urban slums might sound overwhelming, the experience of spending a few hours in this vibrant, multifaceted community is an educational one. With its maze-like network of unmarked streets and narrow alleys, Kibera is best visited on a small-group or private tour led by a guide from the community who can shed light on the inspiring creativity, resilience, and ingenuity employed by Kibera residents to survive under challenging circumstances in what they call the “city of hope.”
Things to Know Before You Go
- A Kibera tour can be an education experience, allowing for a better understanding of Nairobi and its history.
- Wear closed-toed shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- It’s best to leave unnecessary valuables like jewelry and large cameras in your hotel room.
- Profits from Kibera tours sometimes go toward funding community projects.
How to Get There
Catching a bus or matatu from center city to the outskirts of Kibera is easy, but without a tour guide, finding a bus for the return trip can be difficult. Travelers can walk the streets alone safely, but traveling with a tour guide familiar with the narrow passes and abandoned railways can make navigation easier and the experience more insightful.
When to Get There
The best time to visit the Kibera slum is during daytime business hours when it’s possible to see the neighborhood’s inventive industries in full swing. January, February, and July through October are the driest and most pleasant months weather-wise.
A Note on the Ethics of Slum Tourism
We are sensitive to the issues and concerns surrounding slums, and we understand that tours of them may not be suitable for everyone. We strongly believe that these tours are educational and allow for a better understanding of life inside Kibera.
Address: Nairobi, Kenya
From $ 50
Kibale National Park
One of the richest areas of biodiversity in all of Uganda is Kibale National Park, known primarily for its chimpanzees but equally for its tropical forest. Kibale National Park covers just under 300 square miles in southwestern Uganda, with the much larger Queen Elizabeth National Park just to the south of it. These adjacent parks give wildlife lots of room, which makes this part of Uganda particularly popular for safaris.
Chimpanzees are the most sought-after sight in Kibale, but they're not the only wildlife to see. Other animals in the area include elephants, buffalo, warthogs, bushbucks, leopards, mongoose, and more than 375 species of birds. There are also other primates, such as the Uganda mangabey, red colobus monkey, and L'Hoest's monkey.
Practical Info
Chimpanzee tracking is available year-round in Kibale National Park, though it's more difficult (and less comfortable) during the rainy season (usually October-December and March-May). These safari trips are done on foot, not in vehicles.
Address: Kabarole, Uganda
Admission: Permits required for chimpanzee tracking
From $ 743
Kasbah Amridil
Travelers seeking the typical Kasbah experience will find it at the 17th-century destination known as Amrdil. This well-preserved (and equally well restored) structure offers impressive views of nearby landscapes, including the Skoura palm groves, and showcases an ancient slice of life that’s difficult to find anywhere else.
Visitors can tour the grounds of the main sand-colored structure and visit the popular museum, where handmade tools, historic wells and traditional bread ovens. It’s possible to explore the grounds solo, but travelers will likely find local and informal guides eager to offer up their services at a reasonable price.
Practical Info
Amridil is located a short walk from the well-traveled “Road of the One Thousand Kasbahs” en route to Dadès Gorge. There are hotels nearby but travelers say it’s possible to explore the Kasbah in about 30 minutes.
Address: Kasbah Amridil, Ouled Yaacoub 45500, Morocco
From $ 220
Karen Blixen Museum
Better known by her pen name, Isak Dinesen, Karen Blixen is the woman behind the colonial-era love story Out of Africa. Her historic farm, located at the foot of the Ngong Hills just outside Nairobi, was the setting for her timeless story of a broken marriage, cross-cultural romance and adaptation to a new foreign land. Today, literary buffs, history junkies and nature lovers can all enjoy a visit to Blixen’s former home and farm. The museum, which explores her life within the context of Kenya’s rich history, is situated on a portion of the original 4,500 acre plantation where scenes from the movie were also filmed.
Practical Info:
The museum is open every day from 9:30am until 6pm. Just 10 kilometers outside the city center, it’s easy to reach by matatu or taxi.
Address: Karen Road, Nairobi, Kenya
Hours: Daily: 9:30am - 6pm
Admission: Nonresident Adult: $8; Child: $4
From $ 12
Khor Fakkan
Perched on the Gulf of Oman on the eastern shores of the United Arab Emirates, Khor Fakkan is most famously known as a major container shipping port; there are almost always ships lining up to load, unload or refuel.
But Khor Fakkan offers appeal beyond the port. The palm tree-lined Corniche extends from the port to the Oceanic Hotel, with gardens, parks, playgrounds and kiosks scattered along the beach. A fish and produce souk gives visitors a glimpse into local life, while the Badiyah Mosque, located just outside of town, has a history dating back to the fifteenth century, making it one of the UAE’s oldest places of worship.
Practical Info
While there are a couple of accommodation options in Khor Fakkan, it’s also convenient to visit as part of a day trip along the coast from Dubai.
Address: Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates
From $ 99
Kenyan National Archives
Visitors to the Kenyan National Archives will find its name only somewhat accurate. Sure, it houses an expansive collection of documents on almost any area of government. But it’s also home to two huge galleries, which showcase pre-colonial artifacts and the largest collection of Africana from across the continent. Travelers can choose to page through volumes of Kenya’s history and public records, or they can stroll through hallways and explore the artwork, crafts and weaponry that makes this nation’s past so rich.
Practical Info:
The National Archives are located at the edge of Nairobi’s central business district near Moi Avenue, next to the Ambassador Hotel.
Address: Moi Avenue, Nairobi 0010, Kenya
Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:15am - 4:15pm
Sat: 8:15am - 1pm
Admission: Nonresident General: $3
From $ 46