Being such a vast and diverse continent, you’re probably wondering how we can pick just three of Africa’s many incredible destinations. But we have managed just that, choosing three of Africa’s must-sees before you hit the big 3-0.

1. The Okavango Delta, Botswana
The most popular on our list, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, is often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Kalahari’, and it’s easy to see why. As the world’s largest inland delta, it’s not surprising that the Okavango delta is home to an impressive collection of wildlife including elephants, buffalo, wildebeest, leopards, cheetahs, lions, rhinoceroses and hippopotamuses (plus many other mammals), 400 species
of bird and 71 species of fish, all of which reside in an area that peaks at 16,000km². Although not yet the most popular African safari destination, it’s arguably the most unique, as most of the wildlife (during the peak wet season) can be viewed from a traditional canoe, the mokoro.

2. Fish River Canyon, Namibia
As the largest canyon in Africa (and the second largest in the world, just behind the Grand Canyon), it’s surprising that many people have never even heard of the Fish River Canyon in Namibia. This granite canyon stretches for 100 miles, and is most commonly explored by foot along the Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail which covers 53 miles of the ravine (the remaining section is privately owned). Those who aren’t keen hikers can view the canyon from the Hobas campsite viewpoint, or via one of the many shorter routes available.

3. The Virunga Mountains, DRC, Rwanda and Uganda
Found along the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Uganda are The Virunga Mountains, most famous for their population of the endangered mountain gorillas. The mountains themselves are made up of dormant volcanic peaks and luscious (but disappearing) forest. But really people are drawn to the Virunga Mountains to spot one of the only 480 remaining mountain gorillas, which is most often achieved on the guided ‘Golden Monkey’ gorilla trek which leads to a group of about 40 gorillas which have become used to their human visitors.

Where would you like to see before you’re 30?