When you think of Africa, the usual suspects pop up: Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt, the big, loud, and proud ones always making the headlines.But did you know there are 54 countries on the continent, and some of them are so tiny, remote, or underrated that even seasoned travellers blink twice when they hear their names? These places are beautiful, brimming with culture, and waiting to be explored, but for some reason, they’re hardly ever in the conversation.Let’s introduce you to 10 African countries you probably didn’t even know exist, and why they deserve a spot on your travel bucket list. READ MORE: ‘I go on my knees and pray before a kissing scene’ – Nigerian actor Daniel Etim-Effiong 1. São Tomé and Príncipe – Africa’s hidden cocoa paradise Tucked away in the Gulf of Guinea, just off the coast of Gabon, this twin-island nation is Africa’s second-smallest country with a population of 240,000. It was once a major cocoa producer during Portuguese rule, and the chocolate heritage is still strong today. Fun fact READ MORE: German Embassy confirms Akosua Serwaa as Daddy Lumba’s legal wife amid funeral dispute The name “São Tomé” came from Saint Thomas because the Portuguese discovered the island on his feast day. Why visit Think of an unspoiled tropical dream, golden beaches, green rainforests, waterfalls, and friendly locals who still speak Portuguese Creole. It’s Africa’s answer to the Maldives, minus the crowd. 2. Comoros – The island that smells like perfume READ MORE: Daddy Lumba’s family reacts to reports of joint widowhood rites for Akosua Serwaa, Odo Broni Between Madagascar and Mozambique sits Comoros, a small archipelago floating in the Indian Ocean. It’s nicknamed “The Perfume Isles” because of its ylang-ylang flowers, used in famous perfumes like Chanel No. 5. It has a population of 883,000. Fun fact Comoros has had over 20 coups or attempted coups since independence, yet remains one of Africa’s most peaceful tourist destinations today. READ MORE: ‘I feel sorry for people with just one wife’ – Regina Daniels’ husband says Why visit For its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and the active volcano Mount Karthala, one of the largest in the world. It’s paradise on a budget , and barely anyone’s there. 3. Guinea-Bissau – The rhythm of quiet beauty This small West African country, with a population of 2,264,000, often gets mistaken for its neighbour, Guinea, but it’s a completely different vibe. Portuguese is the official language, and Afro-Portuguese culture runs deep in its music, food, and architecture. READ MORE: Ayisha Modi alleges she spent $8,000 on medicine for Daddy Lumba but was never repaid Fun fact Guinea-Bissau’s Bijagós Archipelago has 88 islands, some inhabited by matriarchal societies where women are chiefs and warriors. Why visit READ MORE: Daddy Lumba’s funeral faces further delay as court adjourns Akosua Serwaa’s injunction case For raw authenticity. There’s no mass tourism, just untouched beaches, Afro-Lusophone rhythm, and the feeling of discovering a secret Africa. 4. Equatorial Guinea – The Spanish-speaking mystery One of Africa’s richest countries per capita (thanks to oil), yet few even know it’s here. It’s also the only African country with Spanish as its official language. Its capital, Malabo, sits on Bioko Island, lush, volcanic, and postcard-perfect. Its population is 1,938,000. READ MORE: Daddy Lumba’s children distance themselves from legal dispute over his death Fun fact The country’s new capital, Ciudad de la Paz, is being built from scratch in the rainforest to replace Malabo. Why visit READ MORE: Regina Daniels reportedly returns to husband Ned Nwoko’s home after reconciliation For colonial architecture, black-sand beaches, and a chance to hear Spanish spoken fluently in Africa, an unexpected twist to the African travel experience. 5. Djibouti – The desert that looks like another planet At the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East, Djibouti is small but mighty, with a population of 1,184,000. It hosts several international military bases because of its strategic location near the Red Sea. But its real charm lies in its surreal landscapes. READ MORE: ‘It’s discipline, not oppression’ – MzGee defends Education Minister’s SHS haircut directive Fun fact Lake Assal in Djibouti is the lowest point in Africa and one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world , so salty you literally can’t sink. Why visit For its otherworldly beauty , think salt flats, volcanic plains, and snorkelling in the Gulf of Tadjoura with whale sharks. 6. Eritrea – The Italy of Africa READ MORE: From Pope John Paul II to Bob Marley: 10 Famous celebrities who survived gunshots Bordered by Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Red Sea, Eritrea is often called “Africa’s North Korea” for its political isolation, but beyond that reputation lies a gem. The capital, Asmara, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of Italian-era art deco buildings and cappuccino cafés. It has a population of 3,607,000. Fun fact Why visit 7. Burundi – Africa’s green secret