6+ Favorite Books on Travel in Africa (So Far!)

Here is a roundup of my favorite books on travel in africa (so far!). I hope you find something interesting & a little different.

The Last Train to Zona Verde by Paul Theroux
$8.77

In The Last Train to Zona Verde, Paul Theroux takes us on a journey along Africa's west coast, exploring places like Namibia and Angola. I found his writing engaging, filled with rich conversations and historical insights that really brought the region to life. Theroux tackles big topics like colonialism and public health, which add depth to his travels. However, I was a bit let down that he didn't complete his journey as planned, leaving me wondering about his choices. If you’re a fan of his more curmudgeonly takes, this book will resonate, but it might feel heavy for others. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that highlights the contrast between hope and despair in these countries.
Pros:
Paul Theroux is a skilled and thoughtful travel writer.
The book covers new and neglected territories in Africa.
It provides rich historical context and interviews with interesting locals.
The prose is beautiful and reflective of Theroux's talent.
It honestly grapples with difficult social issues.
Cons:
The journey was not completed as originally planned.
The political commentary may be too heavy for some readers.
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09/30/2025 12:06 pm GMT
Dark Star Safari by Paul Theroux
$13.25

In Dark Star Safari, Paul Theroux takes us on a memorable journey across Africa, from Cairo to Cape Town, using various modes of transport. His trip is marked by a mix of beauty and danger, as he encounters both delightful moments and harsh realities. Reflecting on his earlier time in Africa, he finds the continent has changed significantly—more impoverished and corrupt than before. Yet, despite the grim observations, Theroux's wit and keen insight shine through, making the book an engaging read. I can’t recommend it enough; it’s definitely a keeper on my shelf!
Pros:
Engaging journey through Africa from Cairo to Cape Town
Rich and insightful account of experiences
Theroux's masterful observation and humor
Cons:
Nothing - excellent read.
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09/30/2025 12:06 pm GMT
Long Walk To Freedom by Nelson Mandela
$12.99

I recently read A Long Walk To Freedom by Nelson Mandela, and I was pleasantly surprised by how engaging it turned out to be. Initially, I thought it would be just another lengthy biography, but Mandela’s storytelling is captivating. He shares his personal struggles and the broader context of the fight against Apartheid, which I found enlightening. While the book is a bit long and could have used a glossary for the many acronyms towards the end, it’s definitely worth the read. Overall, it’s a profound look at resilience and the power of collective action in the face of injustice.
Pros:
The book is well-written and engaging.
It provides valuable context and details about Mandela's life.
Mandela shares his struggles and humanizes his experiences.
The pacing is generally good, keeping the reader engaged.
It offers an inside narrative of a significant moral struggle.
Cons:
The book is long and a time commitment.
A glossary for acronyms and organizations would be helpful.
The end lacks structure and can be confusing.
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09/30/2025 04:02 pm GMT
Ghost Riders by Richard Grant
$14.03

In Ghost Riders, Richard Grant dives into the nomadic spirit of America, blending history with his adventures among modern drifters and wanderers. I found the book really engaging, filled with compelling stories that highlight the enduring allure of a wandering life. Grant's exploration of cowboys, Native Americans, and even RV-dwelling 'gerito gypsies' brings a unique perspective to the American West. However, I felt it didn’t quite measure up to his earlier works, like Dispatches From Pluto. Overall, it’s a solid read, especially for those intrigued by travel and the stories behind it.
Pros:
The book is engaging and well-written.
It explores a very American impulse that still exists today.
It includes lots of good stories.
Cons:
This book is not as good as the author's other books.
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09/30/2025 02:04 pm GMT
Bill Bryson's African Diary by Bill Bryson
$11.78

In Bill Bryson's African Diary, Bryson shares his journey through Kenya while visiting various aid projects, particularly those run by CARE International, to which he donates all royalties. The book mixes humor with observations on Kenyan culture, politics, and geography. While I appreciated the important work highlighted and Bryson stepping out of his usual comfort zone, I found the tightly scripted nature of his travels a bit stifling. It lacks the spontaneity that typically makes his adventures so enjoyable. Overall, it’s a good read with some laughs, but it feels a bit too polished for my taste.
Pros:
The book highlights good work done by CARE International.
Bryson's humorous tone makes the subject matter engaging.
It offers insights beyond Bryson's usual Anglo-American perspective.
Cons:
The travel feels highly planned and lacks spontaneity.
The writing feels manufactured at times.
There are criticisms regarding the book's length and tone.
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09/30/2025 10:03 am GMT
Blood River by Tim Butcher
$13.18

In Blood River, Tim Butcher recounts his daring journey through the Congo, retracing the steps of Henry Stanley. I found this book captivating because it goes beyond just travel; it sheds light on the Congo's grim history and current struggles, making it a thought-provoking read. Butcher's storytelling is engaging, yet I wished for more depth during his rapid travels, as he often rushed through areas without fully connecting with the local culture. Still, if you're into gripping adventures or want to understand Africa's complexities, this book is definitely worth picking up.
Pros:
Tim Butcher is a skilled author who combines research with engaging writing.
The book provides a unique perspective on the Congo's historical and current issues.
It is a page-turner that captures the intensity of adventure travel.
Cons:
The author moves quickly, limiting exploration of the people and places in the Congo.
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09/30/2025 10:04 am GMT
Crazy River by Richard Grant
$24.71

In Crazy River, Richard Grant takes us on an adventurous journey through East Africa, exploring its diverse cultures and landscapes. I found this book to be one of the best travel narratives about the continent, ranking alongside Blood River and Dark Star Safari. Grant’s ability to connect with locals and capture the region's vibrancy really stood out to me, especially as he navigated complex themes around race and inequality. While I wished for maps to help orient my reading, the book offers a refreshing perspective on Africa beyond just its struggles. Overall, it’s a thoughtful reminder of the world’s complexities and the ongoing challenges of the aid industry.
Pros:
Engaging and entertaining travelogue with diverse routes
Insightful observations on race, class, and place
Captures both everyday life and inspiring stories in Africa
Cons:
I wish there were maps included in the book.
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09/30/2025 02:06 pm GMT