Things to Do in Middle East And Africa

Once known as “Lion’s Rump,” Signal Hill is a relatively flat peak next to Lion’s Head and Table Mountain. The summit of this landmark once flew flags to signal changing weather and anchoring directions for ships that came to port. A well-paved road takes visitors to the top of Signal Hill, where spectacular Cape Town views await.

Along the way, travelers can stop at the impressive tombs of several Muslim missionaries or spend the night at Appleton Scout Campsite. Those venturing to Signal Hill for a mid-day trip will likely hear the Noon Gun—two massive cannons signaling the strike of twelve—fire, too.

In addition to its incredible views, Signal Hill is home to the last bit of the endangered Peninsula Shale Renosterveld vegetation in Cape Town, which means it is one of the few places nature lovers can find the extremely rare Moraea aristata flower and Medusa’s Head succulents in the wild.

Set about 18 miles (30 km) south of Cairo, Saqqara (Sakkara) was the burial site for the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis, now in ruins. The site features a small sphinx, smaller than that at the Pyramids of Giza, and several pyramids, the most famous of which is the stepped pyramid of Djoser dating from 2650 BC, which represented a major advance in building techniques.

25 miles (40 km) south of the capital city of Beirut lies Sidon, grand city of the Phoenicians and third largest city in modern day Lebanon. Traditionally a sleepy fishing village on the Mediterranean coast, Sidon has flourished in the past century to become a regional hub of commerce and the de facto capital of southern Lebanon.

While the air of industry and modernization abounds, relics from the Phoenician era and vestiges of old world charm are nonetheless available for inquisitive Sidon travelers. At the Sidon Sea Castle visitors are able to peruse the well-formed walls of a seaside fortification constructed in 1228 by invading Crusaders, only to be later decimated by conquering Mamluks in 1291. With two towers still standing and connected to the shore by a renovated causeway, the castle provides a platform for panoramic views stretching back towards the port. Adjacent to the sea castle are the narrow alleyways and souks of the old town, a labyrinth of stonework and wafting aromas where street side markets and food stalls still flourish.

Just outside of Sidon rests the forgotten Temple of Eshmoun, a Phoenician holy site from the 7th century BC named for the Phoenician God of Healing. It was inhabited for nearly a thousand years, but the temple was eventually abandoned as the spread of Christianity eclipsed the need for complexes dedicated to pagan worship. Rediscovered in the early 20th century, Eshmoun is considered to be among the best preserved Phoenician sites in all of Lebanon.

Notorious for being one of the swankiest, hippest streets in all of Tel Aviv, Sheinken Street (שיינקין) is home to some of the best shops and restaurants in town. Elegance and culture reign in this bustling district, and if you're looking for a great shopping experience, this is the place to be.

Speciality stores and boutiques for every visitor line the streets along with delicious restaurants and charming cafes. If you're looking for a calmer experience, people-watching on Nafha Street (רחוב נפחא) is the prime location, with beautiful al fresco cafes. Whatever you're looking for, Sheinken Street is sure to have something for you. 

The Sharjah Aquarium is a vast aquarium sprawled across two levels. It’s home to a huge variety of underwater species native to the waters around the UAE. Here you can discover everything from the largest marine life to the smallest of ocean creatures, all without getting your feet wet.

With over 250 species and a number of lagoon, coral reef, and mangrove habitats recreated, there’s certainly plenty to see here. From tiny tropical fish, jellyfish, and seahorses, to the moray eels, eagle rays, and reef sharks, it’s wise to dedicate a good amount of time to wander around and take it all in.

Zulus form the largest ethnic group in the Rainbow Nation of South Africa, and the province of KwaZulu-Natal (formerly Zululand) is their heartland. Shakaland is an open-air museum, or “cultural village” providing a first class introduction to Zulu culture. It tells the tale of its namesake, the famous warrior king Shaka, who fought both tribal rivals to finally become the area’s uncontested ruler, as well as later Zulus who fought colonial aggressors.

But it’s not all spears and battles. Shakaland gives an overview of all aspects of Zulu culture, including tribal social structures, music, dances and ceremonies. You’ll also see how the distinctive colorful Zulu beadwork is made, as well as traditional beer, an important component in festivities. All of this in an authentic village, in what is still very much a vibrant, living community of Zulus, supervised by the local chief.