Our Top Ten List of Movies Shot in Africa

Our Top Ten List of Movies Shot in Africa

Africa’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and abundant wildlife have long inspired filmmakers. From sweeping savannahs to dense rainforests and mystical deserts, the continent offers some of the most spectacular cinematic backdrops in the world. Whether you are a film enthusiast or a safari traveler, exploring the locations of movies shot in Africa gives a unique perspective on the continent’s beauty and history. Here is our curated list of ten remarkable films and the African locations that brought them to life.

1. The Lion King (2019 – South Africa)

The live-action remake of Disney’s classic animated film was inspired by South Africa’s iconic wildlife and landscapes. Although CGI brought the animals to life, filmmakers studied the Kruger National Park and other savannahs to authentically replicate the African ecosystem. The rolling plains, acacia trees, and golden sunsets mirror the habitats of lions, elephants, and giraffes.

2. Out of Africa (1985 – Kenya)

Filmed across Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, Nairobi outskirts, and the Ngong Hills, this epic romance tells the story of Karen Blixen’s life on a coffee plantation. The movie showcases Kenya’s lush highlands, expansive savannahs, and vibrant local culture, providing an authentic depiction of colonial-era East Africa. The cinematography alone inspires travelers to experience the landscapes firsthand.

3. The Ghost and the Darkness (1996 – Kenya)

The film takes place during the construction of the Uganda-Mombasa railway. It tells the thrilling story of the infamous man-eating lions of Tsavo. The scenes were filmed in Kenya. Wide savannahs and winding rivers create a dramatic backdrop. The movie combines history with the raw beauty of East Africa’s wilderness.

4. Blood Diamond (2006 – Sierra Leone)

This gripping drama explores the conflict diamond trade during Sierra Leone’s civil war. Filming in West Africa brought the story to life against authentic landscapes of villages, forests, and rivers, while emphasizing the human and ecological cost of exploitation.

5. Hotel Rwanda (2004 – Rwanda)

Filmed in Kigali and surrounding areas, this powerful film recounts the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. It combines historical accuracy with Rwanda’s urban and rural landscapes, helping viewers understand the nation’s tragedy and resilience while preserving its memory for future generations.

6. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015 – Namibia)

While set in a dystopian future, much of the film was shot in Namibia’s Namib Desert, known for its towering sand dunes and stark desert landscapes. The visuals of endless sands, rocky outcrops, and orange-hued horizons contribute to the film’s post-apocalyptic aesthetic.

7. Queen of Katwe (2016 – Uganda)

This inspiring story of a young chess prodigy from Kampala highlights Ugandan culture and community life. Filming took place in real neighborhoods and schools, allowing viewers to experience the vibrancy, resilience, and everyday life of Ugandan communities alongside the protagonist’s journey.

8. The Constant Gardener (2005 – Kenya & Tanzania)

Based on John le Carré’s novel, this thriller explores corporate intrigue and human rights issues across Kenya and Tanzania. Filming showcased Nairobi’s urban landscapes, rural villages, and sweeping East African plains, blending suspense with visually stunning backdrops.

9. The Last King of Scotland (2006 – Uganda & Malawi)

The movie tells the story of Idi Amin’s regime. Filmmakers shot it in Uganda and Malawi to recreate 1970s East Africa. The film blends political drama with cultural and historical scenes. It offers a vivid setting that draws audiences into a turbulent era.

10. Tarzan (2016 – South Africa)

This adaptation of the classic tale was shot in South African jungles and waterfalls, featuring lush forests and roaring rivers as Tarzan’s home. The natural scenery enhances the adventurous tone while showcasing South Africa’s diverse and cinematic ecosystems.

Why Africa Continues to Inspire Filmmakers

• Diverse Landscapes: Deserts, mountains, savannahs, and rainforests provide limitless cinematic possibilities.
• Abundant Wildlife: Lions, elephants, gorillas, and foreign birds add authenticity and wonder.
• Rich Culture & History: Filmmakers can draw on centuries of traditions, art, and historical narratives.
• Natural Light and Scenery: Africa’s sunlight, rivers, and rugged terrain create cinematic depth and atmosphere.

Plan Your Movie-Inspired Safari

Visiting these film locations allows travelers to relive cinematic magic in real life. From the sweeping savannahs of Kenya to Rwanda’s historical landscapes, you can combine wildlife safaris, cultural exploration, and film tourism for an unforgettable experience.

📩 Contact Gecko Safaris Africa today to plan a safari inspired by your favorite African movies and experience the continent through the lens of cinema.