The first African country I visited, Kenya is a fantastic introduction to the region. Nairobi has a lot of culture to discover, while Mombasa is fascinating historic seaside city. The Masai Mara is an ideal first safari destination to try to spot the Big 5, and learn more about the Masai people while you’re there. Amboseli is a photographer’s dream with Mount Kilimanjaro looming in the background. To get a little further off the beaten path, head to Lake Nakuru for water-loving wildlife, Samburu for lesser known creatures, or Tsavo for luxury lodges.