While travelling to your favourite destinations across Africa during vacation and short-term trips is splendid, moving for a long period of time is an entirely different ball game. It involves deep planning.
One of the pros of being a digital nomad is the luxury of freedom it gives you — seeing amazing cities worldwide. However, if you're considering settling within Africa in the long term, this article will guide you in making a decision on the best affordable cities for digital nomads in Africa.
Before we explore these incredible cities and their enticing advantages, let's make sure you're well-prepared with some key factors to consider before making your move.
As the popular saying goes, "Not planning is planning to fail." A well-thought-out plan is critical before moving to a new city, which comes with its new way of life, so you must be ready for any situation. While there is room for spontaneity, following a laid-down plan helps reduce mistakes and challenges you might face.
Your visa documents are among your most important documents, and ensuring they are arranged, complete, and correct will save you unforeseen headaches. Some countries issue visas on arrival, while others require you to apply for one in advance; this differs from country to country and region to region. You might also need to consider the visa length, which typically ranges from 90 days to a year.
Working remotely means you must always be plugged in. As a digital nomad, you must conduct detailed research on this region's internet quality and speed. Without reliable high-speed internet, it'll be difficult to consistently deliver top-notch work.
This covers the expenses needed for day-to-day life. Having an idea of the cost shapes your budget, including where you stay, eat out or cook in, and things to splurge. With a long-term view, you must ensure your income can sustainably cover costs and leave room for saving and investing.
Exploring new cities can be an adventure, and your safety should be a priority. You also need to ensure your apartment is secured for your valuable belongings. It might cost you extra, but will pay off in the long run.
Here are some of the cities you can live in for a long period of time:
Egypt is structured to cater to digital nomads. With a budget-friendly cost of living, around $180-$1000 monthly, and a vibrant environment, you're off to a great time.
Cairo has several hubs and co-working spaces with strong internet connectivity, which helps you meet those deliverables. As beautiful as the city is, you need to be careful during your stay. For proper safety, you can use a licensed mode of transportation to tour the city and keep your valuables safe from petty pickpocketing.
Morocco offers a high-speed internet connection. With an average of 7.34 Mbps, you can live in Marrakech and work with zero hassle. The city has well-built hubs and working spaces, and accommodation is budget-friendly, ranging from $500 to $1000 monthly.
When you're not working, it is a great time to explore the city. Marrakech is known for its delicious cuisine that is rich in flavor and spice. Also, while living here, you must avoid crowded spaces, avoid having too much cash, and use a well-lit ATM area.
The city's beauty is something to look forward to. Digital nomads living and working in Windhoek enjoy great views while working. As a tourist, you get a visa for up to six months, which can be renewed for up to a year.
The city boasts beauty, but internet connectivity is not a core strength. While living in Nambia, you can find a great internet connection and a hub in Windhoek. You can also spend like a local with cost of living ranging from $300 to $900 monthly.
Johannesburg, known as the ‘New York of Africa,' is one of Africa's most popular digital nomad destinations. It hosts rich cultural experiences such as museums, theatres, art galleries, and live shows, which are a must-see while residing in the city.
It also caters widely to digital nomads with affordable cost of living ranging from $400 to $1000 monthly, stable internet connectivity, and fantastic hubs and co-working space.
Also read: The best digital nomad jobs to earn from anywhere in South Africa
If you are looking for a region with excellent connectivity, Nairobi should be on your list. With one of Africa's best 4G networks, you can stay connected whether you're in or out of the city. The city also offers jaw-dropping scenery with amazing parks and wildlife.
Visiting tourist attractions such as parks, museums, and art galleries should also be on your to-do list when you reside here. As a digital nomad, you can comfortably work and explore Kenya.
Moving to a new region is an uncomfortable move with so many parts. However, one thing you want to settle is spending easily in these countries. Using Grey, you can create a free foreign account in minutes and transfer funds like a local.
Happy moving!
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