Africa is increasingly becoming a popular destination for digital nomads seeking remote working opportunities. With its stunning natural beauty, affordable cost of living, and improving internet connectivity, Africa offers a unique and enticing experience for those looking to combine work and travel. In a recent study conducted by Resume.io, the most popular remote working destinations in Africa were determined
1. Cape Town (South Africa)
Cape Town has emerged as the undisputed leader in attracting digital nomads as the premier remote working destination on the African continent. The city has breathtaking natural beauty, pristine sandy beaches, and an exquisite culinary landscape. In a city that prides itself on being digital nomad-friendly, co-working spaces, internet cafes, and ample accommodations are readily available. These offerings guarantee that individuals living a location-independent lifestyle have access to all the essential resources required for a delightful stay.
2. Marrakech (Morocco)
Marrakech has firmly clinched the highly coveted second spot on the list. Known for its enchanting markets, intricate architecture, and vibrant arts scene, the city offers digital nomads a fusion of work and cultural exploration. In the bustling metropolis, a plethora of co-working spaces await professionals seeking a productive haven.
This urban landscape, known as the Red City, exudes an invigorating ambiance that serves as a wellspring of inspiration for remote workers. Within this dynamic environment, creative juices flow freely, allowing professionals to harness their innovative potential.
Serving as the gateway to the Western Sahara desert and the landmark Atlas mountain range, one of the tallest peaks in the entire continent, it is easily Morocco’s most popular city break and perhaps the best-equipped and most culturally-diverse destination on this list.
3. Nairobi (Kenya)
The Kenyan capital has recently gained recognition as an exciting hub for remote working. This bustling city seamlessly blends the convenience of urban living with awe-inspiring natural landscapes. Nairobi acts as a crucial entry point to Kenya’s internationally acclaimed national parks. Here, digital nomads have a unique chance to witness wildlife in their undisturbed natural environments.
The number of co-working spaces is also on the rise, providing professionals with a conducive environment for work while immersing themselves in the city’s lively social scene. With over 30 co-working spaces to choose from and 200 plus grassroots social enterprise start-ups, the remote working infrastructure is really taking off in Nairobi.
Hiking trails and safaris keep nomads busy during their downtime. Another positive for digital nomads is the cost of living, with an index of 37.20 and a groceries index of 33.75, making staying here very addictive.
4. Zanzibar (Tanzania)
Low living costs, good food and warm weather all year round in Zanzibar make for a digital nomads dream. There are markets full of fresh fruits and charming stone buildings everywhere. Nomads can pick a café or hotel to work from and then enjoy the white sandy beaches. The downside is the slow internet speed that averages 4.54Mbps.
5. Cairo (Egypt)
Cairo is inexpensive with a good metro system, and there is a big start-up scene compared to the rest of Egypt. A plus for nomads, the city has one of the lowest living costs in this list, with an index score of 32.01.
Although the internet has improved a lot in recent years, it is still on the slow side with download speeds of 4.71Mbps. Groceries and happiness indexes in Cairo averages 26.58 and 4.088, respectively.
6. Luxor (Egypt)
Luxor, located along the Nile River, is a captivating metropolis that transports modern-day digital nomads to ancient Egypt. The city is adorned with magnificent temples and archaeological marvels, offering an unparalleled backdrop for remote work.
Nomads can explore the Valley of the Kings, and the Karnak Temple, and enjoy a leisurely felucca ride along the Nile for tranquillity and relaxation.
7. Hurghada (Egypt)
This beautiful beach town on the Red Sea is the ideal place for digital nomads to work and unwind. Hurghada is a great place to get away from the daily grind. The city has beautiful beaches and lots of places to explore underwater.
Remote workers can dive into the crystal-clear waters to see the rich marine life, or they can relax on the beach and get ideas from the peacefulness of the sea.
8. Agadir (Morocco)
Agadir, on the Coast of Morocco, is a great destination for digital nomads. Getting some work done from the beach in Agadir’s relaxed atmosphere is easy. Agadir is a tranquil location for remote work thanks to its abundance of co-working spaces, spas, and Atlas Mountain excursions.
9. Dakar (Senegal)
Dakar, Senegal’s cultural and economic capital, is becoming a popular destination for digital nomads. The city is a hub for commerce, cuisine, and culture. Dakar provides an inspiring and fruitful setting for remote workers to advance their careers. Additionally, Dakar offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with live music venues and trendy bars where digital nomads can unwind after a productive day. The city’s history and architecture also provide ample opportunities for exploration and cultural immersion.
10. Kigali (Rwanda)
Kigali was announced the safest Africa city in Africa in 2020 by WEF. Digital nomads visiting can happily stroll along the park-line boulevards, valleys and distant hills. Rwanda’s median download speed is 30 Mbps. Some alluring places to see in Kigali are Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, National Volcano Park, Inema Art Centre, King’s Palace Museum, Akagera National Park. There are more than five co-working hubs in Kigali.
Digital nomads visiting Rwanda can obtain any of the following visas depending on the class, reason and duration of their stay: single entry visa, multiple entry visa and business.
