The African continent is home to exceptional natural beauty that never ceases to astonish visitors from all corners of the world. Its dazzlingly blue beaches, its oases, its remarkable cliffs, and its extraordinary canyons make it a true gem of the globe. Its savannahs, sheltering thousands of the most extraordinary species, its mountainous areas with their picturesque landscapes — everything is in place for organising unforgettable treks in Africa.
6 trek ideas in Africa: breathtaking landscapes and sporting challenges
The great hiking trail of Namibia
Hiking in Namibia is one of the most popular choices for trekking in Africa. This remarkable journey begins with a walk through the dark Tiras Mountains towards Aus and its desert landscape with wild horses. The route then continues to Etosha National Park, one of the most accessible game reserves in southern Africa, home to zebras, lions, giraffes, and elephants. To finish, a hike to Twyfelfontein is a must — for the discovery of the ritual practices of hunter-gatherer communities, and to take in rock engravings and paintings over 2,000 years old that have remarkably preserved their authenticity to this day.
Kilimanjaro: exploring the Machame Route
Exploring Kilimanjaro is one of the most adventure-packed treks in Africa. On the southern Machame Route, the vast glaciers towering over forests and giant groundsels are a sight to savour without restraint. Still on foot, volcanic canyons await on the Breach Wall — a 1,000-metre ice wall combining the most demanding sections of Kilimanjaro. The final push targets Uhuru Peak, the summit at 5,895 metres known as the "Peak of Freedom", from which visitors are treated to one of the most extraordinary panoramic views in the world.
Grand traverse of the Makay, one of the most beautiful treks in Africa
For a stay rich in discovery, a trekking expedition deep in the heart of the Makay massif is the way to go. This lost paradise of Madagascar is explored from south to north along the Ranohira track to reach Andringitra Park. Dense forests with rivers and mountain lakes, each more surprising than the last, unfold until you reach Isalo Park. The hiking trail continues towards Beronono for visits to the caves, ridges, and canyons of the region. To finish, head to the far north of the Makay massif and into the highlands to admire the thermal springs of Antsirabe.
The Drakensberg Mountains: a genuine escape from the everyday
Discovering the Drakensberg Mountains is one of the most rewarding treks in Africa. Through the Drakensberg range, set out hiking to admire the majestic waterfalls and countless cirques in all their splendour. Continue your safari into the rolling Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Reserve to explore its caves and lush green valleys before entering its wildlife reserve. Finish with a detour to the campsite areas at the foot of the mountains to discover the lifestyle of campers who have chosen to immerse themselves in this nature of dramatic contrasts.
Discovering the four 4000m peaks of Toubkal
Originality is very much on the agenda for this other trek in Africa. An itinerant walk through the wild regions and high-altitude valleys of the Atlas leads to Toubkal, situated just above Marrakech. Crossed from east to west, this route across the four 4,000m summits takes in Toubkal — the highest point in North Africa — Adrar Derm, the magnificent African viewpoint, Ouanoukrim, and Bouguinoussen. After this extraordinary journey, the walk continues to villages nestled between maize fields and large kitchen gardens growing a wide variety of vegetables.
Erg de Merzouga and Kasbahs
On foot, the Erg de Merzouga is there to be explored — its towering dunes, its sands in shifting shades, and the gentle breath of wind that sweeps through it. This island of sand in the heart of a rocky hamada can be crossed in a few hours to reach the Ounila Valley and the kasbah at Aït Benhaddou. These dream destinations are best explored for their traditional architecture unique to southern Morocco. A little further on, the visit continues with the Telouet kasbah, once the residence of the Pasha of Marrakech. Ascents and descents give easy access to the region's colourful villages and introduce you to locals whose hospitality is truly remarkable. The journey ends with a trip to Ouarzazate — an earthly paradise on the edge of the desert, offering a breathtaking and magnificent landscape.
