List of Countries in East Africa

East Africa is a region located on the eastern coast of the African continent, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east and the Great Rift Valley running through its interior.

East Africa comprises seventeen countries, including Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.

1. Burundi

Burundi, often referred to as the “Heart of Africa,” is a small landlocked country nestled in the Great Lakes region. Despite its size, Burundi boasts stunning landscapes, including lush green hills, pristine lakes, and fertile valleys. The country’s rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality make it a hidden gem for travelers seeking authentic experiences in East Africa.

Key Facts:

  • Capital: Gitega (official), Bujumbura (economic)
  • Population: Approximately 11.8 million
  • Official Languages: Kirundi, French
  • Currency: Burundian Franc (BIF)
  • Government: Unitary dominant-party presidential republic
  • Famous Landmarks: Lake Tanganyika, Rusizi National Park, Gishora Drum Sanctuary
  • Economy: Agriculture (coffee, tea, cotton), mining (nickel, cobalt), hydropower
  • Culture: Traditional drumming and dance, Intore warriors, Kirundi cuisine (beans, plantains, cassava)

2. Comoros

The Comoros, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is known for its volcanic landscapes, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture. With its rich history and diverse ecosystems, Comoros offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Key Facts:

  • Capital: Moroni
  • Population: Approximately 869,000
  • Official Languages: Comorian, French, Arabic
  • Currency: Comorian Franc (KMF)
  • Government: Federal presidential republic
  • Famous Landmarks: Mount Karthala, Mohéli Marine Park, Mitsamiouli Beach
  • Economy: Agriculture (vanilla, cloves, ylang-ylang), fishing, tourism
  • Culture: Islamic heritage, traditional music (twarab), cuisine (pilaou, langouste à la vanille)

3. Djibouti

Djibouti, a small country on the Horn of Africa, is known for its strategic location, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. From the salt lakes of Lac Assal to the bustling streets of Djibouti City, Djibouti offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Key Facts:

  • Capital: Djibouti City
  • Population: Approximately 988,000
  • Official Languages: French, Arabic
  • Currency: Djiboutian Franc (DJF)
  • Government: Unitary dominant-party presidential republic
  • Famous Landmarks: Lake Assal, Day Forest National Park, Moucha Island
  • Economy: Port services, logistics, tourism, geothermal energy
  • Culture: Somali and Afar heritage, traditional music (dhaanto), cuisine (skoudehkaris, lahoh)

4. Eritrea

Eritrea, located in the Horn of Africa, is known for its ancient history, diverse culture, and stunning Red Sea coastline. From the historic streets of Asmara to the archaeological sites of Adulis, Eritrea offers a journey through time and tradition.

Key Facts:

  • Capital: Asmara
  • Population: Approximately 6.1 million
  • Official Languages: Tigrinya, Arabic, English
  • Currency: Eritrean Nakfa (ERN)
  • Government: Unitary one-party presidential republic
  • Famous Landmarks: Dahlak Archipelago, Massawa Old Town, Debub Region archaeological sites
  • Economy: Agriculture (sorghum, barley), mining (gold, copper), fisheries
  • Culture: Tigrinya and Tigre heritage, traditional music (guayla), cuisine (injera, zigni)

5. Ethiopia

Ethiopia, often referred to as the “Cradle of Humanity,” is a land of ancient civilizations, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultures. From the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia offers a journey through history and natural beauty.

Key Facts:

  • Capital: Addis Ababa
  • Population: Approximately 117 million
  • Official Language: Amharic
  • Currency: Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
  • Government: Federal parliamentary republic
  • Famous Landmarks: Lalibela Churches, Lake Tana, Danakil Depression
  • Economy: Agriculture (coffee, teff), tourism, manufacturing
  • Culture: Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, traditional music (ethio-jazz, eskista), cuisine (injera, doro wat), coffee ceremony

6. Kenya

Kenya, known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a top destination for safari enthusiasts and adventure seekers. From the savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the beaches of Diani, Kenya offers a blend of wilderness and relaxation.

Key Facts:

  • Capital: Nairobi
  • Population: Approximately 54.8 million
  • Official Languages: Swahili, English
  • Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
  • Government: Unitary presidential republic
  • Famous Landmarks: Maasai Mara National Reserve, Mount Kenya, Lamu Old Town
  • Economy: Agriculture (tea, coffee, horticulture), tourism, telecommunications
  • Culture: Maasai and Kikuyu heritage, traditional music (benga, taarab), cuisine (ugali, nyama choma), safari culture

7. Madagascar

Madagascar, the fourth-largest island in the world, is known for its unique biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the lush rainforests of Masoala to the Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar offers a journey through a world unlike any other.

Key Facts:

  • Capital: Antananarivo
  • Population: Approximately 27.7 million
  • Official Languages: Malagasy, French
  • Currency: Malagasy Ariary (MGA)
  • Government: Unitary semi-presidential republic
  • Famous Landmarks: Avenue of the Baobabs, Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
  • Economy: Agriculture (vanilla, cloves, rice), tourism, mining (chromite, graphite)
  • Culture: Malagasy heritage, traditional music (hira gasy), cuisine (romazava, ravitoto), famadihana (turning of the bones)

8. Malawi

Malawi, known as the “Warm Heart of Africa,” is a landlocked country known for its friendly people, stunning lake, and diverse wildlife. From the shores of Lake Malawi to the heights of Mount Mulanje, Malawi offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Key Facts:

  • Capital: Lilongwe
  • Population: Approximately 19.1 million
  • Official Language: English
  • Currency: Malawian Kwacha (MWK)
  • Government: Unitary presidential republic
  • Famous Landmarks: Lake Malawi, Liwonde National Park, Cape Maclear
  • Economy: Agriculture (tobacco, tea, sugar), tourism, mining (uranium)
  • Culture: Chewa and Yao heritage, traditional music (gule wamkulu), cuisine (nsima, chambo)

9. Mauritius

Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is known for its stunning beaches, turquoise lagoons, and multicultural society. From the colonial architecture of Port Louis to the underwater wonders of Blue Bay Marine Park, Mauritius offers a paradise for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.

Key Facts:

  • Capital: Port Louis
  • Population: Approximately 1.3 million
  • Official Languages: Mauritian Creole, French, English
  • Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
  • Government: Unitary parliamentary constitutional republic
  • Famous Landmarks: Black River Gorges National Park, Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths, Île aux Cerfs
  • Economy: Tourism, sugar, textiles, financial services
  • Culture: Creole heritage, traditional music (sega), cuisine (curry, dholl puri), Diwali and Chinese New Year celebrations

10. Mozambique

Mozambique, located on the southeastern coast of Africa, is known for its stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture. From the pristine waters of the Bazaruto Archipelago to the historic streets of Maputo, Mozambique offers a blend of adventure and relaxation.

Key Facts:

  • Capital: Maputo
  • Population: Approximately 32.8 million
  • Official Language: Portuguese
  • Currency: Mozambican Metical (MZN)
  • Government: Unitary dominant-party presidential republic
  • Famous Landmarks: Bazaruto Archipelago, Gorongosa National Park, Ilha de Moçambique
  • Economy: Agriculture (cashews, cotton), mining (coal, natural gas), tourism
  • Culture: Portuguese and African heritage, traditional music (marrabenta), cuisine (matapa, peri-peri prawns)