The Best Hikes in Africa– I love being out in nature, and there’s nothing better than hiking to truly experience the great outdoors. The African continent is full of beautiful and challenging hikes for adventurous travelers.
Climbing Kilimanjaro was a dream come true, and Mount Nyiragongo in the Congo was one of the most epic adventures I’ve ever undertaken—but there are so many more great treks on this vast continent.
If you’re planning an African hiking adventure, here’s a guide to some of the best and most scenic trails across Africa.
Table of Contents
-
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
-
Lion’s Head, South Africa
-
Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
-
Simien National Park, Ethiopia
-
Mount Olokwe, Kenya
-
Mount Longonot, Kenya
-
Mount Nyiragongo, DRC
-
Mount Elgon, Uganda
-
Sentinel Peak, South Africa
-
Robberg Peninsula, South Africa
-
Table Mountain, South Africa
-
Otter Trail, South Africa
-
Livingstonia, Malawi
-
Mount Mulanje, Malawi
-
Ameln Valley, Morocco
-
Mount Toubkal & the Atlas Mountains, Morocco
1. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Africa’s highest peak, the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m), is one of the most iconic hikes in the world. You’ll pass through rainforests, alpine deserts, and glaciers on your way to the summit. Popular routes include the Machame Route (6 days) and the scenic Lemosho Route (8 days).
The trek is both physically and mentally demanding, so go pole pole (slowly in Swahili) and ensure you trek with an ethical guiding company.
2. Lion’s Head, South Africa
Located in Cape Town, this short yet scenic hike offers 360° views of the city, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean. The trail begins gently but becomes steeper toward the top, with ladders and chains for support. Hike early for sunrise or sunset and bring water and sunscreen.
3. Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
One of the most surreal places on Earth, the Danakil Depression is home to colorful salt flats, volcanic landscapes, and the Erta Ale lava lake—one of the few permanent lava lakes in the world. Tours usually last 2–4 days and include guided treks and overnight camping under the stars.
4. Simien National Park, Ethiopia
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Simien Mountains offer jagged peaks, deep valleys, and a chance to see Gelada monkeys. Multi-day treks take you through breathtaking highlands with views of cliffs and waterfalls.
5. Mount Olokwe, Kenya
A sacred mountain of the Samburu people, Mount Olokwe rises dramatically from the desert plains of northern Kenya. The hike is steep but rewarding, with panoramic sunrise views from the summit.
6. Mount Longonot, Kenya
Located in the Great Rift Valley, Mount Longonot is a dormant volcano perfect for a day trip from Nairobi. The 13 km hike takes you up to the crater rim and around its edge, offering stunning views of the valley below.
7. Mount Nyiragongo, DRC
Famous for its massive lava lake, Mount Nyiragongo in the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of Africa’s most thrilling hikes. The 6-hour trek climbs steep volcanic terrain, ending at the crater rim where hikers can camp overnight and witness the glowing lava below.
8. Mount Elgon, Uganda
Straddling the Uganda–Kenya border, Mount Elgon (4,321m) is home to Africa’s largest volcanic base and the world’s second-largest caldera. The 4-day Sasa to Sipi route ends at the stunning Sipi Falls, blending adventure with beautiful scenery.
9. Sentinel Peak, South Africa
Located in the Drakensberg Mountains, the Sentinel Peak trail is short but unforgettable. The highlight is climbing the chain ladders that lead to breathtaking views of Tugela Falls—the second-highest waterfall in the world.
10. Robberg Peninsula, South Africa
A coastal trail near Plettenberg Bay featuring beaches, cliffs, and seal colonies. Choose from three routes, with the 6 km loop offering a great balance of ocean views and dune walking.
11. Table Mountain, South Africa
Table Mountain offers numerous trails, but the Skeleton Gorge route is one of the most exciting. It combines jungle-like forests, ladders, and waterfalls before opening to spectacular views over Cape Town.
12. Otter Trail, South Africa
South Africa’s most famous hike, the Otter Trail follows 45 km of pristine coastline along the Garden Route. The 5-day trek features rivers, forests, and sea cliffs. Due to its popularity, only 12 hikers are allowed per day, so book early.
13. Livingstonia, Malawi
A steep but rewarding 3-hour climb from Lake Malawi up to the town of Livingstonia offers breathtaking views and cultural encounters. Start early to avoid the heat, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere at the top.
14. Mount Mulanje, Malawi
Mount Mulanje, known as the “Island in the Sky,” rises to 3,002m and offers multi-day treks through tea plantations and granite peaks. Hikers can stay overnight in rustic huts managed by local communities.
15. Ameln Valley, Morocco
This scenic half-day hike near Tafraoute in the Anti-Atlas Mountains features red cliffs, palm groves, and Berber villages. It’s an easy but rewarding walk that showcases Morocco’s desert beauty.
16. Mount Toubkal & the Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Standing at 4,167m, Mount Toubkal is North Africa’s highest peak. The 2-day trek from Imlil village leads through rocky paths to breathtaking summit views. The hike is best done between May and September.
Final Thoughts
Africa is a hiker’s paradise—offering everything from volcanic summits to coastal trails and lush mountain forests. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping climbs or peaceful nature walks, the continent promises unforgettable adventures surrounded by beauty, wildlife, and culture.
Happy hiking! 🌍🥾
