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10 Of Africa’s Best Mountain Hikes

10 Of Africa’s Best Mountain Hikes

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Africa’s best mountain hikes have some of the most stunning and varied natural landscapes in the world, from Morocco’s Atlas Mountains to South Africa’s Drakensberg. And there’s no better way to get a close look than on foot. Here are 10 of the best. Some are for beginners, others only for the steady footed, but all will make you feel accomplished.

This article was first published Dec. 12, 2013.

paxgaea.com
paxgaea.com

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Africa’s most-visited hiking spot, Mount Kilimanjaro reaches 19,336 feet into the sky and is Africa’s tallest peak. On your way to the top, you’ll pass through five different climates, and you can choose a number of routes varying in difficulty, foot traffic and scenery. The easier routes are Machame, Shira and Limosho, but the lengthier routes will get you more acclimatized, meaning your chances of making it to the top without getting altitude sickness are better. The hike will run you between $2,500 and $5,000.

gotomountkenya.com
gotomountkenya.com

 

Mount Kenya, Kenya

Africa’s second tallest peak, Mount Kenya will require a little technology if you want to reach the top since parts of the peak are covered in forest and moorland, rock, ice and snow. January and February are ideal to make the climb, as well as between July and October. There are huts available for your stay on your way to the top, or you can camp. The trek will cost you about $850.

puretravel.com
puretravel.com

 

Atlas Mountains, Morocco

The High Atlas Mountains are home to Jebel Toubkal, North Africa’s tallest peak. This is a more challenging hike, but well worth it for the view from the top. Going up to the summit and back down to the town of Imlil can be done in a day, but try to stretch it out over three days to truly soak it in. The Atlas Mountains span a huge territory, and there are routes in the Middle-, High- and Anti-Atlas Mountains.

things.co.il
things.co.il

Simien Mountains, Ethiopia

This massive set of mountains in Ethiopia features multiple summits over 13,000 feet. The tallest peak is Ras Dashen. At 14,901 feet, it’s Africa’s fourth-highest mountain. The hike offers stunning landscapes with gorges and streams, as well as rare wildlife like the gelada baboon and walia ibex.

wallpaperdev.com
wallpaperdev.com

 

The Drakensberg, South Africa

The Drakensberg is South Africa’s tallest set of mountains. The lower ranges are ideal for day hikes, horse riding and checking out San rock art. For more challenging treks visit the routes on the higher passes like the Drakensberg Traverse. This is a two-to three-week hike that crosses multiple giant peaks and includes the gorgeous Tugela Falls. For a shorter hike, try the path from the Sentinel to the Cathedral peaks.

amani-tours.com
amani-tours.com

Mount Meru, Tanzania

Mount Meru is a volcano and the second-tallest mountain in Tanzania at 14,980 feet. Those hoping to climb nearby Mount Kilimanjaro often use Mount Meru as a training run to get acclimatized. The trek to the top takes three-to-four days and will take you through lush rain forests and past fig trees, heather, and rocky moors, buffaloes, baboons and giraffes. The best time to go is between August and October. Expect to stay in huts along the way.

geog.ucl.ac.uk
geog.ucl.ac.uk

Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda

Rwenzori sits just north of the equator on the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. Sometimes called Mountains of the Moon, at least two of its summits are more than 5,000 meters. On the top of the peaks you’ll see permanent snow, and on the way up you’ll pass dense forests, bogs, boulders, glaciers and elephants. The main trail — the Central Circuit—takes between four and 10 days depending on your pace. The best time to go is between December and February, and June and August.

tripadvisor.co.uk
tripadvisor.co.uk

Mount Elgon, Uganda and Kenya

This massive, inactive volcano sits on the border between Kenya and Uganda and has five major peaks. Better for the more experienced hiker, the routes take you along gorges, waterfalls and caves. The best time to go is between December and March, and you’re required to hire an official guide. You can pick up equipment, information and trekking permits at Mbale, Uganda.

commons.wikimedia.org
commons.wikimedia.org

Mount Cameroon, Cameroon

The locals call this range Mongo ma Ndemi which means Mountain of Greatness. It is an inactive volcano and West Africa’s highest peak at 13,255 feet. There are several paths to choose from, with the oldest and most challenging, the Guinness Trail, named for the yearly marathon race that used to be sponsored by Guinness beer. You’ll need a guide for the two-to-three-day hike, and you’ll stay in huts or camp on the way up.

malawivoice.com
malawivoice.com

Mulanje Mountain, Malawi

This is a huge granite massif in Southern Malawi with several routes to hike, all leading up to charming huts. A great hike for families, it traverses tons of explorable streams and peaks. Try to stay two nights on the mountain. The Mountain Club of Malawi has great information on the multiple paths and related fees. Members of the club can use the cooking facilities on the hikes. The best time to visit is between May and October.