Are you an American who wishes to explore the wonders of Africa? As a US citizen, there are many countries in Africa that you can travel to without having to go through the rigmarole of applying for a visa.

Here are some of the visa-free African countries (or visa on arrival) that you can visit.

Botswana

Seasoned safari pros tend to agree that Botswana is home to the best safaris in Africa. Look at a map and you’ll see vast tracts of wilderness including the Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi Pans and Chobe National Park.

• Maximum stay of 3 months
• You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months

Mauritius

Mauritius is famous for its white sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs and a wide variety of water sports. But this sunny island offers more than just a beach holiday: explore the markets in Port Louis, Pamplemousses Gardens and Black River Gorges National Park.

• Maximum stay of 6 months
• You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months

Namibia

Namibia is an extraordinarily beautiful country. A handful of reasons to start planning your Namibia holiday include Sossusvlei sand dunes, Etosha National Park, quad biking and desert tours in Swakopmund, and the unbelievably starry night skies.

• Maximum stay of 3 months
• You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months

Rwanda

Rwanda is one of the few places in the world where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild. Head to Volcanoes National Park where guided treks through thick rainforest are rewarded with the thrill of an hour spent with these incredible creatures.

• Visa on arrival
• Maximum stay of 30 days
• You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months

Seychelles

The Seychelles has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. And while you may see no reason to leave your closest stretch of sand; we’d recommend a bit of island hopping to laidback La Digue or on a snorkelling trip to Ste Anne Marine National Park.

• Visa not required
• Maximum stay of 1 month
• You will need a passport that is valid for the duration of your stay

South Africa

No travels to South Africa would be complete without a few days Cape Town. And from there? Maybe a gourmet escape in the Cape Winelands, a slow drive up the beach-lined Garden Route, or a short flight north to the Kruger Park and private reserves of the Sabi Sands.

• Maximum stay of 90 days
• You will need a passport that is valid for at least 30 days and has two blank pages

Tanzania

Tanzania is classic safari country from the sweeping plains of the Serengeti to wildlife-packed Ngorongoro Crater. More adventurous may also be tempted to summit Africa’s highest peak, snow-capped Kilimanjaro.

• Visa on arrival
• You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months and has at least one blank page

Zambia

Visit not-to-be-missed Victoria Falls, one of the Seven natural wonders of the world Zambia is also one of Africa’s up-and-coming safari destinations with highlights including game drives in the South Luangwa and river safaris in the Lower Zambezi.

• Visa on arrival
• Maximum stay of 90 days
• You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months and with 2 or more blank pages

Zimbabwe

Around two thirds of Victoria Falls lies in Zimbabwe. You’ll also find that the safari guides in Zimbabwe are some of the best in the business, so whether you’re exploring Hwange or paddling down the Zambezi in Mana Pools - you know you’ll be in excellent hands.

• Visa on arrival
• Maximum stay of 3 months
• You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months and with 2 or more blank pages

These are just some of the visa-free African countries for US passport holders. Now, all that’s left is to pick your destination and start booking your trip!

This article is based on information provided by the U.S. Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs. For the most up-to-date visa information, either contact the relevant embassy or ask your Travel consultant when planning your African adventure.

Story credit to Staff Writer @ http://southernafricatravel.com