The African continent boasts exceptional beauty that never ceases to amaze visitors from all corners of the world. Its sparkling blue beaches, oases, dramatic cliffs, and extraordinary canyons make it a true hidden gem of the globe. Its savannahs sheltering thousands of the most remarkable species, and its mountainous sites with their picturesque landscapes — everything is on hand to organise the most unforgettable treks in Africa.
6 trek ideas in Africa: fantastic landscapes and sporting challenges
The great Namibia hiking trail
Hiking in Namibia is one of the most popular choices for treks in Africa. This detour begins with a walk through the dark Tiras mountains to reach Aus and its desert landscape, home to wild horses. The visit then continues to Etosha National Park, one of the most accessible game reserves in southern Africa, with its 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 not to be missed are the rock engravings and paintings over 2,000 years old that have preserved their authenticity to this day.
Kilimanjaro: exploring the Machame Route
Exploring Kilimanjaro is one of the most adventure-rich treks in Africa. On the southern flank of the Machame route, the great glaciers that tower above the forests and giant groundsels are not to be missed. Still on foot, the volcanic canyons are there to explore on the Breach Wall, a 1,000-metre ice wall where the most demanding trails on Kilimanjaro converge. The final push targets Uhuru Peak, the 5,895-metre summit known as the "Peak of Freedom", from which visitors are treated to one of the most extraordinary views in the world.
The great Makay traverse, one of the finest treks in Africa
For a stay rich in discovery, a trekking deep in the heart of the Makay massif is a must. This lost paradise of Madagascar is best explored from south to north, following the Ranohira track to reach Andringitra National Park. Dense forests with rivers and mountain lakes, each more surprising than the last, await before you reach Isalo National Park. The hiking continues towards Beronono for a visit to the caves, ridges, and canyons of the region. Finally, head to the far north of the Makay massif to reach the highlands and admire the thermal springs of Antsirabe.
The Drakensberg Mountains: a true change of scenery
Exploring the Drakensberg Mountains is one of the most promising treks in Africa. Through the Drakensberg range, head out on a hike to admire the majestic waterfalls and countless cirques in all their splendour. Continue the safari by heading into the rolling Hluhluwe-Imfolozi reserve to take in its caves and verdant valleys before exploring its wildlife reserve. Finish with a short detour to the campsite areas at the foot of the mountains, where you can discover the way of life of those who have chosen to immerse themselves in this nature of extraordinary contrasts.
Exploring the four 4000m peaks of Toubkal
This African trek stands out for its originality. A traverse through the wild regions and high-altitude valleys of the Atlas leads to Toubkal, situated just above Marrakech. Crossing from east to west, this route over four 4000m summits takes in Toubkal — the highest point in North Africa — Adrar Derm, the magnificent African viewpoint, Ouanoukrim, and Bouguinoussen. After this exploration, the walk continues on to villages nestled between cornfields and large vegetable gardens bursting with varied produce.
The Merzouga Erg and Kasbahs
On foot, the Merzouga erg is well worth exploring, with its towering dunes, sand in varying colours, and the gentle breath of wind that drifts across 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 a must-see for their traditional architecture, characteristic of southern Morocco. A little further on, the visits continue with a stop at the kasbah of Telouet, which once served as the home of the Pasha of Marrakech. The climbs that follow the downhill stretches give easy access to the colourful villages of the region and offer a chance to meet locals who are remarkable for their hospitality. This detour ends with a trip to Ouarzazate, an earthly paradise at the gateway to the desert, offering a breathtaking and magnificent landscape.
