Trekking across Africa offers some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth — from snow-capped equatorial peaks and volcanic craters to endless desert dunes. This guide covers four iconic trekking destinations: Mount Kenya, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Longonot, and Dune 45 in Namibia. Each trek is unique in terrain, difficulty, scenery, and cultural experience, making them perfect for different types of adventurers.
- Mount Kenya (Kenya)
Africa’s Second-Highest Mountain – 5,199 m
Mount Kenya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most scenic trekking destinations. Unlike Kilimanjaro’s single massive cone, Mount Kenya is rugged and jagged, with dramatic peaks, alpine valleys, glaciers, and rich wildlife zones.
Trekking Routes
Sirimon Route – Gradual ascent, excellent acclimatization, scenic and popular
Chogoria Route – Most scenic; waterfalls, gorges, and dramatic views
Naro Moru Route – Fastest and steepest; includes the infamous “Vertical Bog”
Burguret Route – Remote, wild, and rarely used (for experienced trekkers)
Ideal For
Nature lovers, photographers, trekkers seeking fewer crowds and diverse ecosystems. - Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)
Africa’s Highest Mountain – 5,895 m
Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world and Africa’s most famous trek. No technical climbing is required, making it accessible to determined hikers — but altitude is the main challenge.
Popular Trekking Routes
Marangu Route – “Coca-Cola Route,” hut accommodation, shorter and busier
Machame Route – “Whiskey Route,” scenic and challenging, high success rates
Lemosho Route – Best acclimatization, quieter, highly recommended
Rongai Route – Drier and less crowded, approaches from the north
Northern Circuit – Longest route, highest summit success
Ideal For
Bucket-list adventurers, first-time high-altitude trekkers, group climbs. - Mount Longonot (Kenya)
A Volcanic Crater Hike – 2,776 m
Mount Longonot is a dormant stratovolcano located in the Great Rift Valley, just about an hour from Nairobi. It’s a perfect day hike offering intense exercise and stunning views.
Trekking Experience
Steep ascent from the gate to the crater rim
Optional crater rim circuit (8 km) for panoramic views
Views of Lake Naivasha, Rift Valley, and surrounding plains
Ideal For
Day hikers, fitness enthusiasts, travelers with limited time.
- Dune 45 (Namibia)
Dune 45 is one of the most photographed sand dunes in the world, located in Sossusvlei, Namib Desert — the oldest desert on Earth. This is not a mountain trek, but a unique desert hiking experience.
Trekking Experience
Soft sand ascent requiring stamina
Best climbed at sunrise or sunset
Stunning contrasts of orange dunes, blue skies, and white salt pans
