For years, flights from the US to Africa meant enduring multiple layovers and navigating complex routings through Europe or the Middle East. But that’s starting to change.
With the number of US airlines increasing, this year it launched non-stop flights to major African cities, making the continent more accessible than ever for American travelers. This is something you need to know about the new route to Africa.
Ghana, Accra, Delta
Starting December 1, 2025, Delta will launch daily seasonal services from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in Georgia to Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana to Kotoka International Airport (ACC) for Airbus A330-900neo aircraft. The new flights complement Delta’s existing annual non-stop flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York to Accra.
What to do in Accra
We will begin by visiting Kwame, Nukulma and Spirits US, which honors Ghana’s first president and the country’s independence movement. Then wander around the artistic and historic Jamestown area. For shopping, Makola Market is packed with vibrant textiles, handmade beads and everyday essentials. Meanwhile, Calcul and Nakoi Showcase are packed with boutiques such as contemporary, upcycled Ghanaian fashion. If you’re craving a beach day, head to Labadi Beach, the city’s most famous sandy sandy beach where you can watch live music, horseback riding and the best people in town. For tours, consider a world expedition that just began highlighting your trip to Ghana, Togo and Benin in 2025.
Where to stay in Accra
When it’s time to relax, there are plenty of stylish stays in town, from the luxurious Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City to the Boutique Villa Monticello. The Hilton Accra Canton is also scheduled to open later this year.
Dakar, Senegal, United
United Airlines will be launching direct flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) in Dakar, Senegal, to Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) this summer. The service, which will launch on May 23, 2025, will run three times a week on the Boeing 767-300ER. Participates in existing seasonal services offered by Delta from IAD kicked off in May and JFK airport in New York.
What to do in Dakar?
Start your trip with a visit to Il de Gore, a UNESCO-listed island that looks calm in the history of the transatlantic slave trade. Then, he jumps into the energetic markets of cities like Marche Kermel and Marche Sandaga for colorful textiles, handmade gems, woven baskets, and tidaic apparel (having a deep cultural significance in West Africa). The Dakar art scene is equally convincing, from the Ifan African Art Museum, one of West Africa’s oldest museums, to the more than 50 active galleries of village death art.
Companies such as Intrepid, Explore Worldwide Offer Group and Land Based Tours are building custom private trips. Similarly, the variety cruise will take you deep into Senegal’s coast and the river of the same name in the Gambia on a seven-night “West Africa River Cruise: Dakar to Dakar” sailing, which also spends time in Senegal’s Cineraum Delta and River Gambia National Park.
Where to stay in Dakar
For hotel stays, consider a stylish beach resort with trendy bungalows, or Boma.
Marrakech, Morocco, Delta and United
Delta will be flying to Morocco for the first time from October 25th, 2025. This route connects the Boeing 767-400ER aircraft Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) and ATL three times a week. Similarly, United began flights to Marrakech from Newar Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey on October 24, 2024.
What to do in Marrakech
When you’re in Marrakech, Gemmaa El Fnaa is a vibrant square filled with street performers, market stalls and sizzling Tagin scents, a place you should not miss. From there, we wander the maze-like medina, where artisan-made fabrics, leather goods and brass lanterns fill the souks that have stood for centuries. History enthusiasts can explore the stunning Bahia Palace and the medieval Ben Yousef Madrasa, while plant enthusiasts can visit Jardin Majorre, a creative hub in the city for a long time. Art lovers should head to Armaden, a museum of contemporary art in Africa, which reopened on February 2, 2025 after a major renovation after the 2023 earthquake.
Where to stay in Marrakech
In the Atlas Mountains’ hilly areas, Marrakech is known for its historic palaces, traditional Hammam spas, vast gardens and exceptional hotel scenes. Favorites include the recently reopened Kasbah Tamadot and 102-year-old Ramamounia, and Park Hyatt Marrakech, which opened in July 2024.
