Africa is traditionally divided into 5 major geographic regions, each with distinct cultures, climates, languages, and histories. From the Sahara Desert in the north to the savannas of the south, from the tropical rainforests of central Africa to the coastal plains of the west and east, explore the incredible diversity of the African continent.
Click on any region below to discover detailed information about the countries, cultures, geography, and characteristics that make each region unique.
Home to the Sahara Desert, ancient civilizations, and the Nile River. Predominantly Arab-speaking and part of the MENA region.
Countries: Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Sudan, Tunisia
Explore North Africa →Africa's most populous region, featuring tropical coastlines, the Niger River, and vibrant cultural diversity.
Major countries: Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali
Explore West Africa →Known for the Great Rift Valley, Mount Kilimanjaro, wildlife safaris, and the birthplace of humanity.
Major countries: Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda
Explore East Africa →Dominated by the Congo Basin rainforest, the second-largest rainforest in the world, and the mighty Congo River.
Major countries: DR Congo, Cameroon, Angola, Chad, Gabon
Explore Central Africa →The most developed region, featuring diverse landscapes from deserts to coasts, rich mineral resources, and advanced economies.
Countries: South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini
Explore Southern Africa →While the 5-region model is most common, Africa can be divided in various ways: