If you’re thinking of taking the leap to live and work abroad, think beyond the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Head to a continent teeming with over 1 billion people, cultural and ecological diversity, gorgeous landscapes, and emerging markets. Consider living and working in Africa. Challenge your misconceptions and get to know what Africa’s really like below the surface and beyond the news ticker tape.
The sprawling continent is so large that it’s divided into subregions where jobs are plentiful: North Africa, East Africa, West Africa, and South Africa. You can work short term with international organizations on local projects like the UN, Oxfam, and Red Cross. On the other hand, if you’re thinking of getting a more permanent gig, hit up multinationals for more perks and better pay. The most popular career fields in Africa for expats include business, trade, education, healthcare, and sustainable development.
Live and work in Africa, and gain a totally new perspective—not to mention dozens of new friends.
You may be asking yourself, “What’s the best place to live in Africa?” Like any other poll, these things are subjective, but bear in mind that the cost of living is significantly cheaper in African countries than in other developed countries. Also, when it comes to amenities, you’re more likely to find small luxuries, like regular hot water and internet access, in urban rather than rural areas. Remember that many countries in Africa are still postcolonial, so adjust your expectations and go with an open mind.
But you will be rewarded for your humble willingness and adventurous spirit. You will taste new flavors, see goofy animals (Google bush baby—we’ll wait), and enjoy the fruits of self-discovery. Remember though, while it’s exotic to you, this is their “normal.” You’re not there to save the day, or to be someone’s hero, or to be a constant onlooker instead of a participant. You are there to learn, to earn some money, and to hopefully make a difference, however big or small.
When it comes to trending destinations amongst meaningful travelers and expats next year in Africa, these are favorites. Here are the eight best countries in Africa to live and work in 2018.
1. Egypt
Swap your coffee breaks for tea breaks while you work in Egypt
When it comes to the most advanced cities in Africa, Cairo is up there with the best of them. Not only is it an ancient city, it’s also one that’s comfortable with the 21st century. Over 30,000 expats call Egypt, particularly Cairo, a home away from the home—if you choose to work there, you’ll be in good company. In spite of its desert heat, tourist touts, and chaotic cities, Egypt is a dream destination for anyone who wants to live in an African Islamic society, take tea breaks on the reg, and see the pyramids of Giza IRL.
See ALL jobs in Egypt
2. South Africa
Live and work in South Africa, the rainbow nation!
South Africa is definitely one of the best countries in Africa to visit, work, and live. With miles of coastline, mountains, cities, and savannahs, what’s there not to love? Cape Town is one of the most advanced cities on the entire continent, and is perfect fit for anyone seeking work in media, advertising, and technology. Other popular locations for foreign workers are Jozi (Johannesburg) and Durban. Teach English or work with a multinational or in government.
Recommended program: Teach in South Africa with ACT
See ALL jobs in South Africa
3. Kenya
Don’t worry, we’re sure ‘stuck in traffic’ is a legitimate excuse for being late to work in Nairobi
Forget what you think you know about Kenya from The Lion King. It is so much more than a safari destination or elephant graveyards. In fact, Kenya is one of the eastern region’s major movers and shakers, which means there are plenty of jobs to be had. This nation is the best place to live in Africa because it’s not only ecologically diverse, but also home to thriving world cities, like Nairobi. Work in finance, journalism, or economics in palm-fringed port city Mombasa or step into the wild side while working with the cool cats in Kenya’s national parks and reserves.
Recommended program: Become a stadium reporter in Kenya with MS Data Agency
See ALL jobs in Kenya
4. Tanzania
Office-wide retreats to Stonetown on Zanzibar? Yes please!
Right next door to Kenya is another delightful East African nation, Tanzania. Although poor by Western standards, Tanzania more than makes up for its lack of wealth with stunning natural resources including white sand beaches, dazzling coral reefs, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Serengeti National Park. Teach English to underprivileged kids in Dar Es Salaam, work with the disenfranchised Maasai people, or get involved in environmental conservation projects. Weekend in Zanzibar, anyone?
See ALL jobs in Tanzania
5. Ghana
Your walk to work will probably look a little different when you find jobs in Ghana
Did you know that West Africa’s Golden Child is also one of the best countries to live in Africa? As one of the continent’s most stable economies, Ghana is your gateway to some of the best jobs in the region. Help construct schools and health centers for local communities and urban housing projects in the capital, Accra. Teach English across the country or work with international and local NGOs to fight poverty and other social issues. Trust us, you’re ghana love it!
See ALL jobs in Ghana
6. Senegal
Who said living in Senegal was all work and no play?
Why is Senegal often considered the best place to live in Africa? Terenga, the local tradition of hospitality and welcome, might have something to do with it. You’ll definitely feel right at home there in no time. Senegal should be on your radar if you’re thinking about working in international development, healthcare, medicine, and education. Work in Dakar, one of West Africa’s most vibrant cities, or Saint Louis, a romantic colonial style port city. While you’re there, use the time to brush up on your French and learn some Wolof too!
Recommended program: Teach in Senegal with International TEFL Academy
See ALL jobs in Senegal
7. Morocco
Explore Morocco’s dreamy markets and souks after you clock off for the day!
If you’d like to work in one of the more historic parts of North Africa, consider Morocco. This French and Arabic speaking nation is also home to some of the most developed cities in Africa. Do names like Fez, Marrakech, and Casablanca ring any bells? If they do, they’re all found in Morocco! While you’re there, get gigs teaching English or working with healthcare and women’s rights NGOs. Life as an expat in Morocco definitely won’t souk.
See ALL jobs in Morocco
8. Rwanda
Lucky for you and your mid-day slump, the coffee scene is poppin’ in Rwanda
Rwanda may not be everyone’s choice as the best place to live in Africa, but that doesn’t mean you should discount it entirely. Choose to work abroad in this progressive country to make a real difference instead. The multicultural and international offerings within Kigali will blow your mind (there’s even a burrito restaurant here!). Work as a fellow to promote healthcare access, child and maternal health, HIV/AIDS awareness, and other healthcare issues. Want to get up close and personal with our ancestors? Work to conserve mountain gorillas in Rwanda—it’s home to almost a third of the world’s population!
A note from GoAbroad
We’d like to thank our community for not only inspiring us daily, but for also giving us enough insight to share accurate predictions for meaningful travel in 2018.
Learn more about our research methodology, recommended programs, and links here.
Browse more of this year's report on top destinations for working abroad
- Best Destinations to Find Jobs Worldwide in 2018
- Best Destinations to Find Jobs in Europe for 2018
- Best Destinations to Find Jobs in the Americas for 2018
- Best Destinations to Find Jobs in the South Pacific & Asia for 2018
- See ALL top destinations for ALL travel