Best hiking destinations in Africa

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Africa's hiking ranges from the glaciated summit zone of equatorial high peaks and the vast plateau trails of the south to rainforest routes in the centre and dramatic coastal walking along both the Atlantic and Indian Ocean shores. The continent's protected wilderness areas are enormous and in many zones the trail experience overlaps directly with big game territory, adding a dimension found almost nowhere else in the world.

The most internationally recognised routes are volcano summit climbs on the east side of the continent, which draw large numbers of hikers annually and are supported by established guiding and porter industries. Southern Africa has a well-developed network of multi-day wilderness trails with reliable infrastructure. Much of the rest of the continent requires more independent planning, but experienced local operators are available and the remoteness is often the point.

Altitude, heat and sun exposure vary sharply by region and season, and research into the specific conditions of any route is essential. Malaria and other mosquito-borne illnesses are present in lowland and jungle zones and require appropriate precautions. Your money goes a long way across much of the continent, particularly outside the premium safari and guided climbing circuits. Guided hiking is required or strongly recommended in many areas, both for safety and for regulatory reasons.