The Best Places to Play Poker in Africa

Texas Hold ‘Em is one of the most popular casino games not just in the United States of America and Europe but all across the world. The classic card game is enjoyed by businessmen in Burundi, teachers in Tahiti, butchers in Brazil and many, many more around the globe.

One continent where poker is growing in popularity is Africa, which up until a few decades ago cut a fairly barren landscape for poker lovers. Increasingly liberal laws throughout the continent have seen the laws pertaining to poker and gambling loosened in many African countries.

Whilst there are still many places where you cannot enjoy a game of cards within the law, there are other amazing poker venues in Africa that are a must-visit. If poker and Africa are two of your passions, why not combine them by visiting the following destinations?

• Montecasino
• Johannesburg, South Africa
• Opened: 2000

There are two countries really leading the way at the moment when it comes to poker on the continent, Morocco and South Africa. The former arguably has the best poker venue but the latter has the largest variety, and you can do a lot worse than visiting Johannesburg to play poker.The city is one of the best to visit in South Africa if you’re looking for a friendly welcome from the locals and the perfect blend of art, culture, history and weather. On top of that, you can visit what is widely regarded as the best casino in South Africa and indeed, the continent.

Montecasino was designed to replicate an ancient Tuscan village and the 26 hectare leisure complex manages that with aplomb. After wondering in awe at the exterior of Montecasino you will step into the main entrance which is bedecked with a painted sky ceiling.

In addition to the massive gaming space at Montecasino there is a purpose-built theatre which is amongst the largest in Africa and regularly features some of the biggest artists in world entertainment.

Then of course, there is the poker. Due to the size of South Africa, it’s no surprise that most of the continents best professional poker players come from the country. Almost all of them love visiting Montecasino to play in the various tournaments that run throughout the year, with Texas Holdem being the most popular with players.

South African Gambling Laws:

Casino gambling and some forms of sports betting are legal in South Africa; however online gambling of any kind is strictly prohibited. Unlike in other African countries, online gambling is actively prosecuted by the government in South Africa.

• Casino de Marrakech
• Marrakech, Morocco
• Opened: 1952

The Casino de Marrakech was the first casino to officially open its doors in Morocco almost seventy years ago and is an absolute gem. Situated in the same area as the Es Saadi Hotel, Palace and Villas this casino has an air of tradition and history that belies its relatively young age.

Inside the resort is large, up-to date and full of all the usual trappings that you would associate with the best casinos in Las Vegas and Macau. Casino de Marrakech is a slot machine and poker lover’s paradise.

Not only are there hundreds of slots on offer, but there are also regular high-profile poker tournaments that attract players from all over the world. World Poker Tour Nationals, WSOP Circuits and WPT Main Events have all been held at Casino de Marrakech.

In addition to that, Morocco is a fantastic country to visit, brimming with exoticism, natural beauty, and a distinct culture. The WSOPC was held in Casino de Marrakech earlier this year

Moroccan Gambling Laws:

Despite being a Muslim nation gambling is legal in Morocco and can be enjoyed in the country’s seven land-based casinos and even online.

• Casino Flamingo
• Nairobi, Kenya
• Opened: 2014

Kenya is one of the best countries in Africa that you can visit with stunning views, amazing nature and succulent cuisine almost everywhere you go. Fortunately it is also a great country to visit if you’re a casino lover.

In particular, you’ll want to visit Casino Flamingo which is the biggest and perhaps the best in the entire country. The venue prides itself on professionalism and high-levels of customer service which will make you feel like a king, even if you’re playing low-stakes poker.

The interior has been designed with an eye to traditionalism and history, with ornate furnishings helping to create a regal setting for players. The gambling facilities on offer here are not as extensive as in other casinos but they are top-quality.

Casino Flamingo is the ideal place to enjoy a relaxed and friendly game of poker against players of all skill levels. Seasonally throughout the year the venue is also host to a couple of high-profile national tournaments which provide a great opportunity to win big cash.

Kenyan Gambling Laws: Kenya was one of the first countries in Africa to legalise gambling and as such has a very modern approach to the industry. Within the past decade, laws have been modernised to allow for online gambling which is not only legal but licensed by the country’s national governing body, much like in the United Kingdom.

Source: africanexponent.com