Best nightlife destinations in Africa
Best nightlife destinations in Africa
Lively music districts and central entertainment zones in Africa
West Africa has emerged as one of the world's most energetic nightlife regions, built around the global rise of homegrown music genres and a club scene that runs deep into the early morning. Southern and northern African cities each offer their own, considerably different versions.
The destinations on this list range from major club capitals with internationally recognised music scenes to rooftop bar cultures built around spectacular city or coastal views. Some scenes lean heavily on live music. Others centre on DJ-driven club nights.
Asking locals which night a venue is actually busy matters considerably across the continent, since the best nights can shift unpredictably between weekdays and weekends. Live music venues remain central to the scene across much of West Africa.
Lists by region
City in Nigeria
Lagos
Buzzing Metropolis with Coastal Charm
By the lagoon in Ikoyi, WBar Lounge is an upscale venue with seafood and a nightclub. Sailor's Lounge in Lekki is a floating bar on the lagoon. The View Rooftop in Lekki has views of the Atlantic coast. Bature Brewery on Victoria Island has local craft beer and live local artists.
City in Kenya
Nairobi
Where urban life meets wild adventures
Zanze Bar on Moi Avenue is busiest at weekends and quieter on weekdays. It is a top floor bar with pool tables and cheap food. Lord Delamere Terrace at the Norfolk Hotel is known for sundowners and gin and tonics. GoDown Arts Centre in this city shows contemporary African music, dance and theatre.
City in South Africa
Cape Town
Mountains, Beaches and a Vibrant Culture
Converted warehouses in Woodstock now hold breweries and edgy bars in this city. Sweeties Beer Hall on Long Street has beer pong, karaoke and DJs. The Blue Room on Bree Street is a live music spot with Talent Tuesdays. The Pink Panther Nightclub in De Waterkant is inclusive and high energy.
City in South Africa
Johannesburg
Vibrant city life meets rich history
Kwaito and jazz play on the roof deck at The Rock in Soweto. Tokyo Star on Fourth Avenue in Melville is a nightclub with Japanese pop culture decor and sushi. Radium Beer Hall in Orange Grove is a long running bar. Reality on Jeppe Street is a rave venue with three dance floors.
City in Ghana
Accra
Vibrant Culture and Coastal Charm
The +233 Jazz Bar and Grill has live band music six times a week. Oxford Street in Osu is a busy strip about 3 kilometres from the centre of this city. Blue kiosks on many streets serve local drinks such as palm wine and akpeteshie. Brazil House in Jamestown hosts weekly poetry slams.
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