Monuments and Landmarks in Africa

Olumo Rock is more like a small hill located inside the city of Abeocuta. It was used by the Egba people as a natural fortress during inter-tribal warfare in the 19th century. The obscure elevator hasn't been working for ages, but the staircases are easy, else there is also no more adventurous route between the boulders (be careful the boulders are smooth). From the top you get nice panoramic views over the ancient city of Abeokuta. You should be able to see the First Church of Nigeria, the Central Mosque, the River Ogu as well. The neighborhood around the rock is actually charming with dilapidated Brazilian and Cuban mansions built by returned slaves.

Clouded in controversies, this monument is considered in eye-sore by many Dakarois. At 52 metres it's the tallest statue in Africa - taller than the Statue of Liberty. To visit the viewing platform on its top is expensive. However, there are decent views of Dakar from its base on top of one of Dakar’s two mamelles – or "breasts". A price tag of €20 million and the fact it's build by the North Koreans are enough to earn the monument some harsh remarks from locals. Add to this that local artists have taking a dislike to its aesthetics and that the religious complaint about the nudity of both the male and female figure. As if all this wasn't enough former President Wade, who initiated the construction, has claimed "intellectual property rights" landing him 35 percent of the entrance income.

L'Agulhas is quaint and somewhat pretty, there is no doubt about it, although it is also exposed and windy. Be that as it may, there is only one real reason for tourists to visit l'Agulhas: to stand and have a picture taken at the southernmost point of the African continent, where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet (as travellers are informed by the plaque marking the spot).

Victoria Falls Bridge spans from Zambia to Zimbabwe over Zambezi River right below Victoria Falls, one of the wonders of the world. The view of the falls from the bridge is just spectacular, making it one of the most scenic border posts on the planet. The 124 m high steel bridge, which was constructed in 1905, is mostly famous for the 111 metres bungee jumping, which many backpackers consider a must-do. In 2011, the cord snapped for an Australian woman, who miraculously survived the accident. Afterwards, the Zambian tourism minister did the bungee jump to prove that the money-making-attraction was again safe. There are border posts at each end of the bridge, but it's possible to walk out without getting stamped out (and the trouble of getting another visa).