- Most major African cities have coworking spaces with fast internet connections.
- Getting a visa in most African countries is easy and renewable once it expires.
- The weaker currencies compared to the dollar make your money stretch further
Africa is a great option for digital nomads looking to explore affordable, new destinations for working. Not only do you get the full remote working experience, but you also get to go on great safaris and explore Africa’s great wildlife, nature and rich culture.
Fun fact: The remains of the ‘first’ human is traced back to Africa. Specifically, Ethiopia.
Africa is on a steady and incredible journey of building its remote work infrastructure, with some destinations already offering fantastic opportunities for digital nomads such as state of the art co-working spaces.
While a few countries may still face challenges such as inconsistent internet connections and limited modern amenities, efforts are underway to improve these aspects.
Additionally, electricity supply in some areas can be intermittent, but many African nations are making significant strides to create a more reliable and supportive environment for remote workers.
The Best African cities for digital nomads
These are the best cities for digital nomads who want access to modern life without breaking the bank.
Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi is one of the most popular travel destinations in Africa. Fortunately, Kenya introduced a digital nomad visa in 2024. The visa states that you need to earn a minimum of $24,000 annually which is $2,000 per month. The processing fee is $200 and the annual renewal fee is $1,000.
The main languages are Swahili and English. The city has a stable internet connection and is as modern as some developed countries’ major cities. Additionally, it is centrally located and only a few miles from a main airport hub in Africa. The current exchange rate is $1 = to Ksh 129. And the average cost of living is $1000 per month. Which means you can live like a king for $2000.
You can also make lots of friends by attending professional meetups and events. Lastly, there is a wide variety of nomad-centric accommodations such as co-living spaces, hostels, long-term rental hotel apartments, Airbnb, and guesthouses. Lastly, it has a wide range of co-working spaces and hotels.
Related: New Kenya Work Permits
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is the most popular digital nomad destination in Africa. It was ranked the 2nd best city to live in worldwide in 2024 and is home to all major designer brands. It has some of the most luxurious shopping malls in the world. It is home to a large number of expatriates working in South Africa.
It is popular because of its climate, beautiful nature, and active nightlife. Additionally, hundreds of restaurants serve most cuisines from around the world. Not to mention easy access to wine farms and a beautiful coastline. The cost of living is considered to be manageable, especially with the minimum annual income required for the nomad visa.
It boasts up to 6 months of summer weather and has steady internet connections, many accommodation options, and many coworking spaces. The currency exchange rate is $1= 17.87 RAND.
To be eligible for the visa, you must show proof of employment from a non South African company, and a minimum annual income of about $37,000.
Related: The Digital Nomad Visa in South Africa – How to Get it & Costs
Windhoek, Namibia
Windhoek is the capital city of Namibia, which recently launched a digital nomad visa that granted for 6 months and not renewable. That is one of the downsides of the Namibian nomad visa. One can only reapply 12 months after the expiry of the original nomad visa.
You must prove you make at least $2000 per month to get the visa if going alone, $3000 if going with a spouse and an extra $500 per child. The cost of living in Namibia is low, and Internet coverage needs to be better.
The country used to be a major hub for expatriates working in the oil industry. $1 is equivalent to NAD 17.90 (Namibian Dollar). The main language spoken is English. The country has the most beautiful desert beaches in the world and some of the most rugged mountains in Africa.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar is a coastal town in Tanzania that features Arab architectural influence and tropical beauty. You will notice the Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences in the island.
Tanzania does not have a dedicated digital nomad visa but offers a business visa that remote workers can use. The visa is a single entry and is valid for up to 90 days.
The main languages spoken are English and Swahili. However, most people only speak Swahili, so you may experience a language barrier when speaking to locals. The currency is fairly weak as the exchange rate is $1 = TZS 2,335.
Port Louis, Mauritius
Mauritius, in 2020, introduced a digital nomad visa valid for 1 year and offers an additional year for renewal.
The digital nomad visa is, however, not available for everyone, only to citizens of 114 countries.
The country requires a monthly income of at least $1,500 to support yourself. If applying with a spouse, that figure jumps to $3,000 per month and an additional $500 per month per child. Medical insurance is also a requirement.
The cost of living is relatively high (compared to other African nations but relatively low if compared to countries in the West), and $1 is equivalent to MUR 46.66 (Mauritian rupee). The main languages spoken are Mauritian Creole, French, and English.
Related: The Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa – Requirements & Costs
Praia, Cape Verde
Praia is the capital of Cape or Cabo Verde, an archipelago located off the west coast of Africa.
The downside of this remote work visa is that it is not open for everyone.
The country offers a six-month renewable visa for US citizens, Europeans, embers of Portuguese-speaking countries, and West African state citizens. You need to prove that you make at least $1500 per month.
The main language is Portuguese, but most citizens can speak fluent English. The cost of living is moderately affordable. The city has modern amenities and facilities, with current accommodation options. Additionally, they have fully furnished resort cottages that you can rent long-term at affordable prices. The exchange rate is currently $1 For CVE 105 (Cape Verdean Escudo).
Conclusion
Before relocating to a new country, take the time to research some of your top pics. Do you prefer the coastal cities or concrete jungle?
Some of the things to keep in mind include the cost of living, internet connectivity, coworking spaces, and housing options that suit the lifestyle you want to live.
The most important factor is – Reliable internet. This is crucial for remote work, and having multiple options can save you from unnecessary stress.
For most of the countries offering remote work visas, the visa process is pretty straightforward and easy, however, ensure there are no surprises, and familiarize yourself with renewal requirements to avoid getting stressed or stranded.
Africa is a beautiful continent. It offers incredible opportunities for digital nomads, from amazing city life to serene beaches with a mix of affordability, culture, and adventure.
It’s time to get packing and move to Africa!
