Africa, the world’s second-largest continent, is indisputably the best trekking destination in the world! Comprised of plateaus, mountains, ridges, and basins, Africa is abundant with an unrivaled diversity of flora and fauna that characterize the wild character of the land. The topographic range and variety of wildlife provide unmatched hiking conditions. Explore Africa’s wild and rugged wilderness by foot on one of these formidable multi-day hikes. From the Great Escarpment in South Africa, the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, Namibia’s Fish River Canyon, and Tanzania’s famed Mount Kilimanjaro, below you will find a variety of amazing adventures that will beckon you to set out exploring.
Some of Africa’s most rewarding journeys are made on foot. From desert trails beneath endless skies to forest paths alive with birdsong and monkeys, our scenic Walking and Trekking holidays offer a slower, more intimate way to experience the continent. These are landscapes best explored at walking pace: quiet, unhurried, and full of detail, where the journey itself becomes part of the adventure.
A trip to Africa is on almost every adventurer’s bucket list. If you are thinking about an incredible African adventure, check out the possibilities, such as Cycling Tours in Africa, or browse the complete portfolio of tours in Africa.
Top Hiking Destinations in Africa
Ready to explore Africa on foot? Here are some of the best hiking destinations the continent has to offer:
1. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
This famed mountain trek is at the top of many bucket lists. Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak on the continent, and the climb up into the clouds is not without its challenges. This incredible hike passes through 5 climate zones to the snow-capped volcanic summit, including forests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. While the terrain is not especially technical, the consistent climb and elevation gain is laborious. That being said, considerable planning is required, including conditioning and altitude training. Check out our preparation guide for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro for an exhaustive training and planning checklist.
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If there’s one African hike to rule them all, it’s Africa’s highest peak, the mighty Kilimanjaro, standing at an impressive 5,895m tall. The hike is tough and you need to have a good level of fitness and stamina, however, it is as mentally challenging as it is physical. You must hire a guide for your Kilimanjaro trek and I’d advise that you also have porters too.
2. Mount Meru, Tanzania
Hike up to the summit of Tanzania’s second-highest peak and the fifth-highest mountain in Africa on the Mount Meru Trek. The Momella Route is the only official trail up to the peak, traveling 45.0 km through the Arusha National Park’s rugged and wild wilderness. Due to the area’s surplus of fauna, a game ranger must accompany trekkers and their guides. Note: this route is a popular warmup for the famed Mount Kilimanjaro Trek, which sits 70.0 km east of Mount Meru, so expect some company. Additionally, the mountain huts that line this route book fast, so reserve your accommodations ASAP or book through a tour company.
Before my first hike on Kilimanjaro, I acclimatized by hiking to the summit of neighbouring Mt Meru, the fifth-highest peak in Africa. This is a shorter hike than Kilimanjaro (at 4 days) and you are accompanied by an armed game ranger due to the presence of wildlife on the lower mountain slopes. This isn’t a technical climb but there are far more exposed ridges than on Kilimanjaro. On Mount Meru, the park ranger has the discretion to cancel the summit attempt for safety reasons in the event of thick fog, rain or if there is too much ice.
Top Tip: Take extra new head torch batteries and keep them warm inside your jacket for use a few hours into the summit attempt.
3. Mount Mulanje, Malawi
Mulanje’s peak is the highest in Malawi, beckoning trekkers and intrepid rock climbers to explore its slopes. Frequently shrouded in fog, the isolated massif has 20 peaks, the highest of which being Sapitwa, which has earned the title as the “island in the sky”. Although there are several day-hikes around the base of the mountain, the most immersive and life-changing experience is a multi-day hike into the clouds. The mist-cloaked mountain has 10 mountain huts and over 18 route options to choose from that are managed by the Mountain Club of Malawi. Though guides are not required, it is wise to book a tour as the vast network of trails can easily make you disoriented.
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There are a number of different trails around the mountain that can be explored in anything from 1 to 6 days. The most popular hike, however, is the 3 to 4 day trek to Sapitwa Peak. At 3002m this is the highest peak in Central Africa. The best time to go is early in the dry season between April to August. As with most African Mountains maps aren’t available, so the only way to avoid getting lost is to take a guide. Alongside the spectacular scenery, one of our favourite things about Mulanje was the Mountain Huts. There are 10 different huts at various points on the mountain which provide overnight shelter for hikers. The huts themselves are basic, but they’re cosy and a great way to meet other hikers. Each hut is staffed by a watchman who will make you a fire, provide you with hot water for washing and cook you a hearty dinner.
4. Mount Toubkal, Morocco
Located in the heart of Morocco’s Atlas Mountain Range, Mount Toubkal stands tall at 4,167 m above sea level. A magnet for adventure enthusiasts, the Toubkal Trek is quite esteemed and requires only a 2-3-day commitment, making it great for adventurers on a tight schedule. Explore rocky valleys and mountain pastures, interact with Berbers in remote villages, and indulge in a traditional cup of mint tea as you climb into the Atlas Mountains. While this is a hot trekking destination, the hospitality and rugged wilderness remains unspoiled. Although this climb can be completed without a guide, booking a tour is wise to avoid getting lost and to ensure a bed in the mountain refuges. Distance: Approx.
Specifically, Mount Toubkal is a spectacular climb to the top - at 13,000 feet. It’s strenuous but doable by most climbers who had some experience, as long as the weather cooperates. If you want something a little tamer, you can make a goal of simply reaching the Kasbah du Toubkal. It’s reachable by jeep, then a small trek to the property. They also have a few day and overnight hikes that start from the kasbah and are easier than a full trek.
Mount Toubkal Trek Morocco
5. Fish River Canyon Hike, Namibia
Explore the second largest canyon in the world along the Fish River Canyon Hike. This 85km trek explores the rugged river canyon in Namibia, progressing through billions of years of geological history. Wander along the meandering river past pinnacles and sculptures, sulfur hot springs, and through rock fields. This arduous trek requires some athleticism and significant preparation. Hikers will have to carry all their equipment and food as there are no en-route facilities. Additionally, while water is plentiful along the trail, hikers require water tablets or a purifier. Although the trek itself is demanding, it is perhaps more of a challenge to secure a hiking permit and campsite reservations through the Namibia Wildlife Resorts.
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6. Otter Trail, South Africa
The Otter Trail is the most popular trekking route in South Africa. Located on the Garden Route, this one-way trail stretches 42.0 km from Tsitsikamma to Nature’s Valley over the rugged coastal headlands, through lush forests, along pristine beaches, and past tumbling waterfalls. This spectacular route is well-loved; thus, the Garden Route National Park has implemented a reservation system to safeguard the environment from overuse. Because of this, hikers must obtain an Otter Trail reservation at least a year in advance. Accommodations along this amazing trail include comfortable huts at each overnight stop along the route.
The Otter Trail on South Africa’s Garden Route is probably the most famous hike in the country and is often mentioned as one of the most beautiful hikes in the world. With a bit of luck, some patience and a good eye you can see plenty of wildlife while hiking the Otter trail. The Otter Trail is an unguided 5-day hike with a total distance of 45km. The days are relatively short, but there are some steep climbs and a moderate level of fitness is required. Hikers stay in overnight huts with good facilities. Food, stove and cooking utensils must be brought for the duration of the hike, so pack light! The main challenge of the trail is the Bloukrans river crossing on the 4th day. The hike can be done all year round and is very popular.
7. Amatola Trail, South Africa
The Amatola Trail is another glorious trekking route in South Africa, though this hike is remarkably more challenging than the above-mentioned Otter Trail. Exhibiting the other-worldly beauty of the continent’s southern region, this trek travels 100.0 km from Maden Dam near King Williams Town to the village of Hogsback. Earning the title of one of the toughest hikes in South Africa, those hoping to explore the Amatola Trail are required to do some conditioning and training before heading out. This undulating trail will test you both physically and mentally, but the exceptional scenery and feeling of accomplishment at the trail’s end are unrivaled! While the terrain is primitive and technical, hikers will indulge in the luxury of sleeping in shelters along this hut-to-hut trek.
8. Outeniqua Trail, South Africa
The Outeniqua Trail is another amazing hut-to-hut thru-hike in South Africa. This hidden gem on the Garden Route stretches over 100.0 km through the National Park’s Knysna section from Beervlei to Harkerville. Compared to other routes in South Africa, such as the Amatola Trail, this adventure is more accessible and even novice trekkers with a decent fitness level should be able to manage the route. Along the way, hikers lay their heads to rest in backcountry huts that line the trail.
9. Naukluft Hiking Trail, Namibia
The Naukluft Hiking Trail is a dynamic and demanding trek that circles the perimeter of the Naukluft Nature reserve. Considered to be one of the toughest trails on the continent, this route undulates through the Naukluft Mountains, descends into steep gorges via chains anchored into the rock faces, and visits the occasional waterfall or swimming hole. Hikers will also have to be self-sufficient and will need to arrange for a resupply box to be delivered on day 4 of the trek. Considerable preparation and proper gear are required when attempting this feat, including a sturdy pair of footwear. Those who wish to tackle this taxing trek must present a medical record attesting to their fitness competencies.
10. Drakensberg Grand Traverse, South Africa/Lesotho
The Drakensberg Grand Traverse is the quintessential South African hiking experience. From the Sentinel Car Park to Bushmans Nek Border Post, this trek travels roughly 220.0 km from South Africa, into Lesotho, and back into South Africa. This scenic route climbs above the clouds and travels along the crests of the mist-shrouded Drakensberg Mountains, passing through the shrubbery, rock fields, river crossings, and past magical waterfalls. While the terrain is not overly technical, the significant elevation gain is burdensome. Don’t forget your camping gear, the huts along this route are limited and camping is the most popular accommodation option.
In the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa, there are also a wide variety of hikes from a few hours to multi-day expeditions. The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in South Africa.
The Sentinel Peak hike in the Drakensberg in South Africa provides sweeping, impressive views not just of the canyons and plateaus nearby, but of the incredible Tugela Falls. The biggest challenge, especially for those who don’t like heights, is the chain-link ladder to the top. It’s worth the effort, though, because the waterfall view across the way is absolutely stunning! From there, you’re high up on a plateau that shares a border with Lesotho. You may even come across some horsemen, which we did. If you have the time, walking along the plateau offers incredible views as well. The Drakensberg in general is incredibly green, with dramatic rock formations and valleys. This hike gives you a nice panorama.
Other Notable Hikes in Africa:
- Lion’s Head, South Africa
- Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
- Simien National Park, Ethiopia
- Mount Olokwe, Kenya
- Mount Longonot, Kenya
- Mount Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Mount Elgon, Uganda
- Robberg Peninsula, South Africa
- Table Mountain, South Africa
- Livingstonia, Malawi
- Ameln Valley, Morocco
Tips for Hiking in Africa
Here are some essential tips for hiking in Africa:
- Wear appropriate footwear: Always wear supportive, closed footwear suited to the terrain.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Use sun protection: a wide-brimmed hat, high-factor sunscreen, and lightweight long sleeves are ideal.
- Stay hydrated: Carry sufficient drinking water; this is especially important in hot, dry regions.
- Pack essentials: Take a small daypack with snacks, a map (if provided), and some basic first aid.
- Inform someone of your plans: Let someone at camp know your planned route and expected return time.
- Use insect repellent: In forested or highland areas, insect repellent can be useful too.
That said, even in safe areas, it’s always important to check in with lodge or camp staff before setting out. They’ll offer up-to-date advice on the route, terrain and conditions, and may suggest alternatives if the weather is hot, trails are overgrown, or recent wildlife sightings affect access.
| Destination | Difficulty | Best Time to Visit | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Kilimanjaro | Challenging | June-October, December-March | Highest peak in Africa, diverse climate zones |
| Fish River Canyon | Arduous | May-September | Second largest canyon in the world, geological history |
| Otter Trail | Moderate | All year round (book in advance) | Coastal scenery, lush forests, pristine beaches |
| Mount Toubkal | Strenuous | May-September | Atlas Mountains, Berber villages |
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