Africa’s cities and towns may not all have ancient castles hidden in the clouds, but we do have jaw-dropping architecture, top-notch artwork, and winding cobblestone lanes that look like they belong in your favorite story book.
Africa is unique for a variety of reasons, among them its charming towns with fascinating histories and beautiful architecture.
In fact, they are as incredible as those places you read about when you were little.
So, from Kenya’s traditional town of Lamu to Morocco’s dazzlingly blue town, here are the fairytale towns in Africa to visit RIGHT NOW.
These places will provide you with a sense of escape into a fantastical world.
Stone Town, Zanzibar
Stone Town is a historic town located on the west coast of Zanzibar. Coral stone buildings line the town’s winding labyrinthine streets and alleyways, reflecting the town’s rich offer Arabic and Indian cultural heritage.
This charming town continues to draw tourists from all over the world with its magical and romantic vibe thanks to its distinctive blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen, also known as the “Blue City,” is located in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco. Its blue-washed buildings and narrow streets make it one of the most picturesque towns in the world.
The city’s winding lanes and streets are what give it its fable-like charm. Visitors can get lost in the maze of narrow passageways, which are lined with vibrant markets, colourful shops, and beautiful gardens.
Chefchaouen is also surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, breath-taking views, and opportunities for outdoor pursuits like mountain biking and hiking.
Visitors can go on a beautiful hike to the nearby Akchour Waterfalls or tour the stunning Talassemtane National Park.
Lamu, Kenya
Lamu is a small island town located off the coast of Kenya. Its Swahili architecture, narrow streets, and donkey transport make it a unique and charming destination.
Its fairytale charm comes from its beautiful atmosphere, rich cultural history, and unique Swahili architecture.
One of the most unique things about Lamu Town is its architecture, which is a mix of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European styles.
With intricately carved wooden doors and shutters, the traditional Swahili houses are built from coral stone and mangrove poles.
The town’s winding, narrow streets are adorned with exquisite arches, balconies, and verandas, giving the area an otherworldly feel.
READ ALSO: Reasons To Visit Lamu, Kenya–I Fell in Love with the Island!
Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
Sidi Bou Said is a town perched on a cliff not far from Tunis. It is one of Tunisia’s most picturesque towns thanks to its white-washed buildings with blue door and window frames, narrow streets, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
The blue and white buildings in Sidi Bou Said, which look like the buildings on Greek islands, are one of the most charming things about the city. The bright blue sky stands out against the whitewashed buildings of the town, which have blue doors, shutters, and ironwork.
When you walk around the town, you’ll find a maze of winding streets with lots of shops selling pottery, textiles, and other handmade goods. The pretty flowers and plants that grow along the streets add to the town’s cozy feel.
Goree Island, Senegal
Goree Island is a small island located off the coast of Senegal. One of the most unique things about Goree Island is its architecture, which reflects its colonial past.
Most of the colonial-style buildings are peach-pastel-coloured with elaborate balconies and shuttered windows, standing in stark contrast to the sky’s clear blue.
In addition, the island has many lovely beaches, including Plage de l’Est, where tourists can unwind and take in the warm African sun.
Walvis Bay, Namibia
For some people, Walvis Bay may not be a place out of a fairy tale, but for me, it is. This port town is one of my favourites because I believe it can be a magical place to make memories.
The coastal city in Namibia is well-known for its stunning scenery, unusual wildlife, and enjoyable outdoor pursuits. It has its own charms even though it’s not typically thought of as a fairytale town.
Walvis Bay has stunning natural scenery that will make you fall in love with it. The city is located on the edge of the Namib Desert, the oldest desert in the world. The Namib Desert stretches into the distance and is known for its distinctive red sand dunes.
The protected Walvis Bay Lagoon is home to a variety of birds, including flamingos and pelicans, which contrast beautifully with the Atlantic Ocean’s azure hue.
READ ALSO: Fun Things To Do In Namibia
Harar, Ethiopia
Located in eastern Ethiopia, the historic walled city of Harar is one of the fairytale towns in Africa. Its narrow streets and colorful buildings reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage and make it a unique and enchanting destination.
Your heart will melt for Harar’s endearing character. One feature that distinguishes Harar is its architecture, which reflects the city’s lengthy history and diverse cultural heritage.
In addition to more than 100 mosques and numerous traditional Harari homes with distinctive architectural features like intricately carved doors and windows, the city’s walled old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Harar also has a number of markets and bazaars where people can buy handicrafts, textiles, and spices made in the area.
The city is well-known for producing traditional baskets and Ethiopian coffee, and then exported to many countries.
Simons Town, South Africa
One of the most memorable towns I visited in South Africa was Simons Town, and I love the town.
Simon’s Town is a coastal suburb of Cape Town, South Africa. It may not have the classic fairytale appeal of some other towns mentioned above.
But it’s a charming town with interesting history, beautiful architecture, beautiful nature, and places for recreation.
Simon’s Town is famous for its charming structures that blend Cape Dutch and British colonial architecture. St. George’s Street, the town’s main street, is lined with Victorian buildings, art galleries, and unique shops.
Due to the town’s location on False Bay, visitors can take in breath-taking views of the bay and the nearby mountains.
The endangered African penguin colony at Boulders Beach and the Cape Point Nature Reserve, which has hiking trails and scenic drives through rocky coastal landscapes, are both nearby attractions.
Fairytale towns in Africa
These fairytale towns in Africa are the perfect place to visit if you want a truly magical and captivating travel experience.
Every one of these places, from the vibrant streets of Chefchaouen in Morocco to the charming colonial architecture of Goree Island in Senegal, has its own special charm and personality that is sure to transport you to a different planet.
There is something in these fairytale towns in Africa for everyone, whether you enjoy history, architecture, culture, or the outdoors. You can walk around the narrow streets, and soak in beautiful buildings. You can also visit museums and cultural centers, eat delicious local food, or just enjoy the natural beauty around you.
But don’t just take my word for it—pack your bags and experience the magic for yourself!
So why wait? Plan your trip now to begin living out your own fantastical journey!
