Africa is seldom a traveler’s first choice, not least because of the health and poverty issues we hear so much about. But the continent is rich with its own natural and cultural treasures, from the pyramids of Egypt to the beaches of South Africa. Even if you’ve seen Europe, danced across South America, hopped around Asia and driven through North America, Africa may still hold more than a few surprises.

The first thing that comes to mind is probably an African safari, and for good reason. Kenya offers some of the best safari routes with its diverse wildlife, untouched surroundings, and warm weather. It is also home to the continent’s most popular safari destination, the Masai Mara National Reserve. If you go in the peak season from July to October, zebra and wildebeest sightings are pretty much guaranteed. Sign up for a tour with one of the tribesmen to…