The Ultimate Guide to Unique Gifts for People Going to Africa

Is a friend, family member, or colleague embarking on an exciting journey to the vibrant continent of Africa? You want to get them the perfect gift—something thoughtful, practical, and truly unique that will enhance their trip. But finding the right thing can be a challenge. Do you go for something practical? A sentimental souvenir? Something that speaks to the culture?

You’re in the right place! We understand you’re looking for more than just generic travel gear; you’re searching for unique gifts for people going to Africa that show you’ve put real thought into it. This guide is packed with fantastic African gift ideas, from budget-friendly essentials to premium, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Let’s find the perfect gift that will make their African adventure even more unforgettable.

Essential Travel Gear (Budget-Friendly: $15-75)

These are the practical, can’t-go-wrong gifts that every traveler needs. They combine functionality with a touch of African flair.

1. AfricanThings Adire African Print Backpack ($49.27)

• Why it’s a great gift: It’s a chic and compact alternative to a purse, featuring the beautiful Nigerian Adire tie-dye print. This stylish backpack keeps daily essentials secure while adding a pop of authentic African artistry to their outfit.
• Use Cases: Perfect for city explorations, market visits, or day trips where they only need to carry a wallet, phone, water bottle, and a small camera.
• Who would appreciate it: The fashion-forward traveler who prefers to pack light for the day, or anyone who loves unique, handcrafted accessories.

Order Now

2. AfricanThings African Print Duffle Bag ($63.34)

• Why it’s a great gift: A highly stylish and functional travel bag that stands out from generic luggage. The iconic Bògòlanfini (Mud Cloth) pattern makes a bold statement, and its size is perfect for short trips.
• Use Cases: Serving as a weekend bag for a quick getaway, a spacious carry-on for the flight, or for packing essentials for a 2-3 day safari adventure.
• Who would appreciate it: The frequent traveler, the weekend adventurer, or anyone who appreciates a blend of modern utility and traditional African design in their travel gear.

Order Now

3. “I Love Nigeria” Fridge Magnets ($4-8)

• Why it’s a great gift: A small, delightful token to build excitement before they leave or a lovely piece of memorabilia to come home to. It’s an affordable and charming African souvenir.
• Use Cases: Decorating a fridge or office board, serving as a constant, happy reminder of their upcoming (or past) adventure.
• Who would appreciate it: Anyone with a connection to Nigeria, or as a small add-on to a larger gift for any occasion.

Order Now

4. AfricanThings African Print Crossbody Sling Bag ($35-50)

• Why it’s a great gift: It’s the perfect blend of style, security, and convenience. The vibrant African print is eye-catching, while the crossbody design keeps valuables like phones, passports, and cash safe and accessible.
• Use Cases: Navigating busy markets, city tours, or day trips where they need their essentials handy without the bulk of a large backpack.
• Who would appreciate it: The style-conscious traveler, the practical minimalist, or anyone who needs a reliable day bag. A fantastic birthday or farewell gift.

Order Now

5. AfricanThings Kente Flip-Flops ($22.54)

• Why it’s a great gift: This gift combines everyday comfort with a vibrant Kente design. It’s a simple, stylish, and practical item that’s easy to pack and incredibly useful.
• Use Cases: Lounging by the resort pool, walking on the beach, or as easy-to-wear shoes at the hotel or safari lodge after a long day of exploring.
• Who would appreciate it: The laid-back traveler, anyone heading to a coastal destination, or as a great add-on to a beach-themed gift set.

Order Now

6. Universal Travel Adapter with USB Ports ($20-35)

• Why it’s a great gift: This is a non-negotiable travel essential. Gifting a high-quality one shows you’re thinking about their practical needs.
• Use Cases: Charging phones, cameras, and other electronics simultaneously, regardless of the country’s plug socket type.
• Who would appreciate it: Literally every single international traveler. It’s a foolproof gift for any occasion.

7. Packing Cubes Set ($40-60)

• Why it’s a great gift: It’s the gift of organization! Packing cubes transform a messy suitcase into a neatly organized wardrobe, making it easy to find things without unpacking everything.
• Use Cases: Separating clothes by type (shirts, trousers, underwear), keeping clean and dirty laundry apart, and maximizing suitcase space.
• Who would appreciate it: The super-organized traveler, the over-packer, or anyone going on a multi-destination trip.

8. High-SPF Sunscreen Travel Kit ($20-35)

• Why it’s a great gift: A thoughtful gift that says “I care about your well-being.” A travel-sized kit is convenient and ensures they’re protected from day one.
• Use Cases: Essential for daily use, whether on a mountain trek, a coastal visit, or a city tour.
• Who would appreciate it: Everyone! This is a universally practical and caring gift.

9. Portable Phone Charger/Power Bank ($25-45)

• Why it’s a great gift: It’s a lifeline in the modern travel world. It ensures they can navigate with maps, take photos, and stay in touch, even after a long day of exploring with no power outlets in sight.
• Use Cases: Long bus rides, safari drives where vehicles may not have charging ports, or full days of sightseeing.
• Who would appreciate it: The tech-savvy traveler, the photographer, or anyone who relies on their phone for travel.

10. Travel-Sized Mosquito Repellent ($15-25)

• Why it’s a great gift: A practical and thoughtful gift that shows you care about their health and comfort. In many parts of Africa, mosquito protection is essential, and a travel-sized bottle is easy to pack and carry everywhere.
• Use Cases: Applying before evening activities like sundowners or dinner, during jungle treks or visits to lakes and rivers, and for peace of mind in malaria-prone regions.
• Who would appreciate it: Every single traveler heading to a tropical or subtropical destination. It’s a highly practical and caring “bon voyage” gift.

11. Quick-Dry Microfiber Towel ($20-40)

• Why it’s a great gift: It’s a space-saving marvel for any traveler. This towel is incredibly absorbent yet lightweight and dries in a fraction of the time of a standard cotton towel, preventing a damp, musty item in their luggage.
• Use Cases: After a swim at the beach or a waterfall, as a primary towel in hostels, or for drying off after an unexpected downpour during a city tour.
• Who would appreciate it: Backpackers, adventure travelers, and anyone looking to pack light and efficiently for their trip.

Cultural Immersion Items (Mid-Range: $25-120)

These African gifts help the traveler connect more deeply with the local culture, either through fashion, knowledge, or personal expression.

12. AfricanThings Dashiki Shirt ($20-30)

• Why it’s a great gift: It’s a comfortable, stylish, and iconic piece of West African fashion. Gifting one provides a beautiful garment they can wear to feel more connected to the local culture.
• Use Cases: Wearing to a local festival, a casual dinner, or as a comfortable top for exploring. It also makes for fantastic photos.
• Who would appreciate it: The fashion-forward traveler, someone interested in cultural immersion, or anyone looking for a unique, wearable souvenir.

Order Now

13. AfricanThings African Print Swimwear (for Men & Women)

• Why it’s a great gift: Stylish and unique, this swimwear allows them to hit the beach or pool in vibrant African fashion. From Dashiki one-pieces for women to Kente swim trunks for men, it’s a confident and fun gift that stands out.
• Use Cases: Swimming in the ocean, sunbathing by the pool, or pairing the men’s shorts with a t-shirt for a casual beach town walk.
• Who would appreciate it: The beach lover, the fashion-conscious traveler, or as a fun “get excited for your trip” gift for a couple’s holiday or honeymoon.

Order Now

14. AfricanThings Kente Unisex Beach Cardigan/Kimono ($49.33)

• Why it’s a great gift: An elegant and incredibly versatile layering piece. It adds a splash of African sophistication to any simple outfit, taking them from the beach to the bar with ease.
• Use Cases: As a stylish cover-up over swimwear, a light jacket for breezy evenings, or a chic accessory to dress up a plain top and jeans.
• Who would appreciate it: The stylish traveler, the minimalist packer who loves multi-functional items, or anyone who appreciates boho-chic fashion.

Order Now

15. AfricanThings Modern Dashiki/Kente Print Hoodie ($35.24+)

• Why it’s a great gift: The perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional design. It’s a cozy and practical gift for cooler moments during their travels.
• Use Cases: Staying warm on a chilly airplane, early morning game drives, or cool evenings in destinations with higher altitudes like the Nigerian Jos Plateau.
• Who would appreciate it: The practical traveler, students, or anyone who loves comfortable, stylish streetwear. A great Christmas gift.

Order Now

16. AfricanThings Dashiki Men’s Mesh Sneakers ($101.55)

• Why it’s a great gift: These are functional statement shoes. They combine the comfort of a modern sneaker with bold Dashiki art, perfect for a trip that involves a lot of walking.
• Use Cases: City walking tours through Lagos or Accra, comfortable travel days through airports, or as a stylish everyday shoe that showcases their love for African design.
• Who would appreciate it: The urban explorer, the sneakerhead, or the traveler who values both comfort and unique style.

Order Now

17. African Field Guides: Mammals and Birds ($35-60)

• Why it’s a great gift: This transforms a regular safari into an educational experience. It helps them identify the incredible wildlife they’re seeing, enriching their game drives.
• Use Cases: Flicking through during a game drive to identify an antelope, learning about bird species at the lodge, or studying up before the trip.
• Who would appreciate it: The nature lover, the aspiring zoologist, or any first-time safari-goer.

Photography & Documentation (Premium: $100-500)

For the traveler who wants to capture every breathtaking moment of their African journey.

18. Travel Camera (e.g., Canon T8i or Sony RX100V) ($600-1000)

• Why it’s a great gift: A significant upgrade from a smartphone, this allows them to capture their African adventure in stunning, high-resolution detail. It’s a premium gift that will be used to create cherished memories for a lifetime.
• Use Cases: Capturing detailed wildlife shots on safari from a distance, shooting breathtaking landscapes at sunrise, and filming high-quality videos of their experiences.
• Who would appreciate it: The aspiring photographer, a loved one celebrating a milestone birthday or graduation before their trip, or anyone serious about documenting their travels beautifully.

19. Quality Binoculars (e.g., Vortex Crossfire HD 8×42) ($150-250)

• Why it’s a great gift: Binoculars are a game-changer on safari. They bring distant animals into sharp focus, allowing the traveler to see details like the twitch of a lion’s ear or the vibrant plumage of a rare bird.
• Use Cases: Spotting wildlife from a safari vehicle, birdwatching from the lodge balcony, or getting a closer look at landscapes.
• Who would appreciate it: Any safari-goer, birdwatching enthusiast, or nature lover. This is a top-tier gift for people going to Africa.

20. Extra Camera Batteries and Memory Cards ($50-100)

• Why it’s a great gift: There’s nothing worse than a “memory card full” or “low battery” message at a crucial moment. This practical gift ensures they never miss the perfect shot.
• Use Cases: Full-day excursions where charging isn’t possible, capturing high-resolution photos and videos without worry.
• Who would appreciate it: Any and every photographer, from the casual smartphone user to the seasoned professional.

21. Professional Lens Cleaning Kit ($25-50)

• Why it’s a great gift: The African bush can be dusty! A proper cleaning kit keeps lenses spotless, ensuring every photo is crisp and clear.
• Use Cases: Cleaning dust off a camera lens after a game drive or removing smudges before a sunset shoot.
• Who would appreciate it: The dedicated photographer who cares about the quality of their equipment and images.

22. Portable Tripod for Landscape Photography ($80-150)

• Why it’s a great gift: It empowers them to take professional-quality photos. A tripod eliminates camera shake, crucial for sharp images of sunsets, waterfalls, and starry night skies over the savanna.
• Use Cases: Setting up for a long-exposure shot of a sunset, taking group photos with a timer so everyone can be in the picture, or shooting stable video footage.
• Who would appreciate it: The serious photography enthusiast who wants to capture the full beauty of Africa’s stunning landscapes.

23. Portable Photo Printer ($150-300)

• Why it’s a great gift: It provides the instant joy of a physical photo. They can print their favorite shots on the spot, creating tangible souvenirs to keep or share with new friends they meet along the way.
• Use Cases: Printing a photo to give to a local family as a thank-you gesture, creating a physical travel journal by adding photos to a notebook, or decorating their lodge room with memories from the day.
• Who would appreciate it: The scrapbooker, the sentimental traveler, or anyone who loves sharing physical mementos in our digital world.

24. Waterproof Camera Case ($30-60)

• Why it’s a great gift: This gift offers peace of mind by protecting expensive camera gear from the elements. It ensures their equipment stays safe from water, sand, and dust.
• Use Cases: Protecting a camera from the immense spray of Victoria Falls, keeping it sand-free at the beach, or ensuring it stays dry during a sudden downpour on a trek.
• Who would appreciate it: The adventure photographer, anyone traveling during the rainy season, or a traveler visiting coastal or river-based destinations.

Experience & Educational Gifts (Various Ranges: $30-1000+)

Sometimes the best gifts aren’t things, but memories. These gifts create lasting impact and deep connections.

25. Wildlife Tracking Bracelet (Fahlo Conservation) ($15-20)

• Why it’s a great gift: This gift gives back. The traveler gets a beautiful bracelet and an exclusive link to track a real, specific animal (like an elephant or sea turtle) in the wild.
• Use Cases: Wearing a stylish piece of jewelry that connects them directly to conservation efforts and allows them to follow their animal’s journey online.
• Who would appreciate it: The eco-conscious traveler, animal lovers, and anyone who would appreciate a gift with a deeper meaning.

26. Elephant Fostering Program Donation ($50-500/year)

• Why it’s a great gift: A truly heartwarming gift that supports the conservation of Africa’s iconic elephants. The recipient often gets updates and photos of their fostered animal.
• Use Cases: This is a gift of pure goodwill, allowing them to contribute directly to protecting the wildlife they are traveling to see.
• Who would appreciate it: Conservationists, families traveling with children, or anyone who has a special place in their heart for elephants. Perfect for Christmas or a milestone birthday.

27. African Cuisine Cooking Class Voucher ($100-250)

• Why it’s a great gift: This is an immersive, hands-on experience that engages all the senses. They’ll learn to cook local dishes, understand the culture through its food, and bring new skills home.
• Use Cases: A fun and educational activity during their trip, providing a break from traditional sightseeing.
• Who would appreciate it: The foodie, the curious cook, or anyone who loves interactive cultural experiences.

Whatever you choose, the most important thing is that it comes from the heart. The perfect African gift is one that reflects the traveler’s personality and adds a little extra joy, comfort, or meaning to their incredible journey. Happy gift-giving!