As of the time of writing, the total number of African sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List is 106, including the three new sites announced in July 2025: Mulanje Massif, Diy-Gid-Biy, and the Bijagos Archipelago.
Now that UNESCO has added three stunning new African sites to its World Heritage list, it’s time to enjoy the natural wonder of Africa and its cultural depth.
Let’s take a look at the newest additions that put Africa’s historical sites on the global map.
1. The Mulanje Massif in Malawi
The Mulanje Massif is the third Malawi site added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, following the Lake Malawi National Park and the Chongoni Rock Art Area. The Mulanje Massif is recognised for both its cultural meaning and breathtaking natural beauty, and has now joined the ranks of Africa’s most treasured destinations.
According to Malawi Tourism, the Mulanje Massif is believed to have spiritual significance with some deeply spiritual traditions among the Yao, Mang’anja, and Lhomwe people. Over time, the massif’s peaks, waterfalls, caves, and shrines have become sacred features tied to ancestral rituals, which are also used for rain‑calling ceremonies, offerings, and ceremonial dances like Gule Wamkulu.
What to expect
While visiting the Mulanje Massif, some things to look forward to are the challenging hikes, rock climbs, lush montane forests and the tea plantations. You may also come across the iconic West Face of Chambe Peak, which features the longest rock climb in Africa.
Other highlights include crystal‑clear mountain pools, waterfalls, and tea estates that blanket the foothills in vibrant green. Overall, the Mulanje Massif is a setting where nature, culture, and adventure intersect, and you would surely enjoy it.
2. The Diy-Gid-Biy Cultural Landscape in Cameroon
The Diy-Gid-Biy is an archaeological site located around the Mandara mountains of Northern Cameroon and Nigeria, and it translates into “place of chiefly presence”. According to UNESCO, the historical sites were most likely built between the 12th and 17th centuries, and have been inhabited by the Mafa people since the 15th century.
Diy-Gid-Biy comprises sixteen archaeological sites spread across seven villages, and is Cameroon’s first-ever recognised cultural World Heritage Site. The site is unique for its structures, including platforms, terraces, stairs, silos, and dwellings, which were built using dry-stone architecture and carefully fitted local granite.
What to expect
You may wander through the Diy-Gid-Biy’s hillside villages like Kuva, Bigide, and Mudukwa, exploring dramatic ruins perched above terraced farmlands. These are all set within the rich Mandara Mountains terrain.
Visitors will have a fantastic time marvelling at the dry‑stone craftsmanship of the terraces, platforms, stairways, and silos.
3. The Bijagos Archipelago in Guinea-Bissau
Bijagós Archipelago’s coastal and marine ecosystem, Omati Minho, has just been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This marks Guinea-Bissau’s first-ever World Heritage recognition.
This remarkable archipelago consists of around 88 islands and islets spanning nearly 13,000 km² and is enriched with mangroves, mudflats, palm forests, coastal savanna, sandbanks, and aquatic zones. Bijagos Archipelago was previously designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1996 and is now celebrated as the only active deltaic island chain on Africa’s Atlantic coast.
What to expect
Visitors experience many exceptional wildlife encounters, through nesting turtles, pods of dolphins, hippos, and flocks of migratory birds across pristine shorelines and mudflats. There are also diverse habitats to explore, from shimmering sandbanks and mangrove forests to open coastal savannas.
Visit islands like Orango, João Vieira, and Poilão to experience traditional Bijagó villages, matriarchal leadership traditions, and sacred rites upheld by local communities. Also, enjoy the fresh air through a boat ride or trekking between remote islands.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Below are some helpful travel tips for first-time visitors, travelling to the UNESCO sites in Africa.
- Plan around the best season. Each destination has its ideal window. For instance, Mulanje Massif (Malawi) is best between May and October during the dry season, and is perfect for hiking.
- Check the visa requirements early, and apply in advance through consulates or e-visa platforms.
- Bring lightweight, breathable clothes, hiking shoes, insect repellents, and sun protection. Try to dress modestly when visiting sacred or rural areas, especially in Cameroon and Guinea-Bissau, where traditions remain strong. You may check with the residents to properly understand the concept of “modest dressing” within the community.
- Support sustainable tourism by staying in community-run lodges when possible. Also, respect sacred spaces, as some islands or heritage sites may be off-limits without local permission.
- Know the basics before you go. These include the local currency, exchange rates, and languages. French and Portuguese are widely spoken in Cameroon and Guinea-Bissau, respectively, while English is common in Malawi.
Final Thoughts
While Africa is often associated with safaris and iconic landmarks, these newly recognised UNESCO sites reveal a deeper, more soulful side of the continent. They are all rooted in heritage, tradition, and raw natural beauty.
If you’re looking to travel with meaning, adventure off the beaten path, and truly connect with the places you visit, then the hidden gems discussed in this blog post deserve a spot on your bucket list.
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FAQs
Why are these African sites considered UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
The three African sites are considered UNESCO World Heritage Sites, because they meet specific UNESCO criteria. Mulanje for its natural and cultural significance, Diy-Gid-Biy for its archaeological and ancestral heritage, and Bijagós for its rich marine biodiversity and indigenous conservation practices.
Are these sites safe to visit for tourists?
Yes, these sites are generally safe for travellers. However, it’s always advisable to check travel advisories, use local guides, and respect local customs, especially in remote or sacred areas.
What kind of wildlife can I see in the Bijagós Archipelago?
Expect to see green and leatherback sea turtles, West African manatees, dolphins, hippos, and hundreds of thousands of migratory birds.
What cultural practices are preserved at Diy-Gid-Biy in Cameroon?
The Mafa people at Diy-Gid-Biy maintain ancestral rituals, dry-stone architecture, and sacred sites used for ceremonies tied to rainmaking and spiritual protection. The site blends heritage with living tradition.
Can I visit multiple UNESCO sites on one African trip?
Yes, you can combine these sites into a regional itinerary with good planning. For example, combine Malawi with Zambia or Mozambique, or plan a West Africa tour including Guinea-Bissau and Senegal.
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