Best Hikes in West Africa: 12 Trails You Shouldn’t Miss

Best Hikes in West Africa

West Africa isn’t the first place most people think of when it comes to hiking. Much of the region is relatively flat and it can be difficult to travel around unless you have your own vehicle (particularly if you’re trying to get remote)!

However, that’s not to say that there aren’t some amazing hikes in West Africa! In fact, there are plenty that you should check out!

Once you start looking beyond the obvious, you’ll find some of the most underrated landscapes on the continent – from misty highlands and tropical waterfalls to remote border peaks and desert canyons. It’s not always easy to access, but that’s part of what makes it feel so rewarding when you do get there.

So if you’re searching for the best hikes in West Africa, or just wondering whether hiking in West Africa is actually worth it, here are some of the best walks and treks in the region that are genuinely worth your time.

Overview: Best Hikes in West Africa

Hikes in Liberia

Nimba Region (Mount Nimba & Tri-Border Point)

The Nimba region in north-eastern Liberia is one of the most interesting and unique hiking areas in West Africa.

Home to the UNESCO-listed Mount Nimba massif, it’s a rugged, green mountain region which feels completely different to the surrounding lowland landscape. The Nimba region is remote and quiet with forested trails (often filled with mist) that make it the most scenic hiking area in Liberia.

Here you can either climb Liberia’s tallest peak (Mount Nimba) or even hike to the tri-border point of Guinea, Ivory Coast and Liberia! There are even longer trekking opportunities here, but often require permits and more planning.

It’s not the easiest place to hike independently (a guide is usually required), but it’s easily one of the most rewarding hiking areas in West Africa if you can make it work!

I drove from Monrovia (the capital) and stayed in Nimba Lodge whilst I hiked in the area.

Hikes in Ivory Coast

Man (Dent de Man)

Situated in western Ivory Coast, Man is one of the best places in the country for hiking and nature walks. Surrounded by lush green mountains and rainforest, it’s a region known for its waterfalls, viewpoints, and dramatic rock formations.

One of the most popular hikes in the area is La Dent de Man, a sharp granite peak overlooking the town, which offers a challenging but rewarding climb with panoramic views across the surrounding hills.

There are also several shorter waterfall hikes in the region, which are easier to access, and often done with a local guide.

It’s one of the most accessible hiking regions in Ivory Coast and a great stop if you’re exploring the west of the country. It very conveniently fitted in with my West Africa overland route as we crossed the border from Liberia to Ivory Coast.

Taï National Park

Beyond Man, nearby Taï National Park also offers nature walks and forest trails where you can spot wildlife, including chimpanzees.

Access is more controlled and requires planning.

Mount Richard Molard

Located on the border of Guinea and Ivory Coast, this is the highest point in both countries – standing at 1752m!

It’s part of the same Nimba mountain range (mentioned above), but the most common route is from Danane in Ivory Coast where local guides can help you. It’s a challenging hike, with steep sections, forested paths, and an overnight camp required near the summit.

Because of its location in a protected area, you’ll need a guide and permission to access the mountain. Conditions can be tough, especially during wetter months when the trail gets muddy and visibility drops, but the reward is standing on the highest point in both Guinea and Ivory Coast.

Hikes in Guinea

Fouta Djallon

Fouta Djallon in central Guinea is home to some of the best hiking in West Africa! It’s potentially my personal favourite hiking destination in West Africa!

It’s a highland region filled with dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, river valleys and some of the most impressive waterfalls in the region.

Most people use small villages like Doucki or Labé as bases. Then local guides suggest trekking routes directly from your accommodation. One of the most popular hikes (and my favourite) is the “Wet & Wild” hike from Doucki.

Unlike more structured hiking destinations elsewhere in the world, Fouta Djallon is very much a local-guided experience. You’ll typically hike through landscapes that feel untouched, stay in simple guesthouses or homestays, and have food provided by your accommodation.

It’s remote (…and takes forever to get there), but once you make it, it’s logistically easy and has hikes for all standards! Easily one of the most rewarding hiking areas in West Africa.

Check out my guide to hiking in Fouta Djallon here.

Mount Richard Molard

As mentioned above, Mount Richard Molard is on the Ivory Coast and Guinea Border (hence it’s included again). However, the experience from the Guinean side is a bit different.

If you want to access it from the Guinean side, the terrain and logistics are a bit more of a challenge.

NOTE: If you’re thinking about doing it from Liberia – don’t bother!

Hikes in Ghana

Wli Waterfalls

Wli Waterfalls, located in the Volta Region of Ghana, is the highest waterfall in West Africa and one of the most popular nature spots in the country.

But if you’re looking to hike, it’s way more than just the waterfall! There are multiple hiking routes to choose from – which you can check out in my Wli Waterfalls hiking guide.

The main attraction is the short jungle walk to reach the lower falls viewpoint. It’s an easy and scenic hike through a protected nature reserve filled with birds, butterflies, and monkeys.

However, if you continue further, a steeper trail leads to the upper falls, which feels more remote and less visited.

While most people come for the waterfall itself, the surrounding area offers more hiking potential, including forest walks and nearby trails in the Volta highlands. The region is also close to Mount Afadja (Afadjato), which is the highest peak in Ghana and a popular day hike for visitors looking for something more challenging.

It’s one of the most accessible hiking areas in West Africa and a great introduction to trekking in the region.

Mount Afadja

Mount Afadja, often called Afadjato, is the highest peak in Ghana (885m) and one of the most popular hikes in the Volta Region.

Despite being Ghana’s highest mountain, it’s surprisingly achievable for most fitness levels.

The trail is relatively short but quite steep in sections, taking you through forested paths and village farmland before reaching the summit. At the top, you get wide views over the surrounding hills and into neighbouring Togo on a clear day.

It’s usually done as a short half-day hike and frequently combined with a visit to Wli Waterfalls, making it one of the easiest hiking combinations in West Africa.

While it’s not the most challenging trek on this list, it’s one of the most accessible “summit-style” hikes in the region and a good introduction to hiking in Ghana.

Kakum Nature Reserve

It’s debatable whether Kakum Nature Reserve offers a hike or more of an experience.

Either way, here you can walk through the jungle to reach the high ropes. It’s a short walk and covers 7 sets of high-rope bridges, but it’s a great day out and a unique way to get some steps in.

Hikes in Togo

Mont Agou (Togo Mountains)

The Togo Mountains run along the western side of the country near the Ghana border and are one of the most underrated hiking areas in West Africa.

This is a region of rolling green hills, small villages, and quiet dirt trails that are best explored with a local guide. Most hikes here aren’t official routes, but rather informal paths connecting communities, viewpoints, and forested areas.

One of the most popular experiences is hiking around the Kpalimé region, which is often considered the base for trekking in Togo. From here, you can explore nearby peaks, waterfalls, and coffee-growing villages, all within relatively short driving distance.

For summit chasers, Mont Agou, is the highest peak in Togo (986m), but there are several other trails aound Kpalimé.

The Togo Mountains aren’t a formal trekking destination in the way places like the Atlas Mountains might be, but that’s part of the appeal. It feels raw, local, and far less visited than neighbouring Ghana.

If you’re looking for quiet, scenic hiking in West Africa without crowds, the Togo Mountains are one of the best places to do it.

Hikes in Mauritania

Terjit

Given that Mauritania is almost all desert, you might be surprised to find a hike here!

Terjit is a small oasis village in the Adrar region of Mauritania and one of the more unusual places to stretch your legs in West Africa.

Here you’ll find short, unmarked walking routes through rocky canyon terrain, as well as a few natural springs to cool off after! It’s less of a structured hiking destination and more of a place for exploration on foot.

It’s not a major hiking destination, but it’s a refreshing contrast to the surrounding desert and a unique stop if you’re travelling through Mauritania.

Ben Amera

This is Africa’s largest rock, and the world’s second largest monolith, standing at 633m tall!

It’s truly in the middle of nowhere, in the Sahara desert!

Sadly I didn’t hike it, merely rode past on the Iron Ore Train. However, I can imagine the views would be pretty unique overlooking endless dunes!

One of the reasons so few people climb Ben Amera is not just the remoteness… But also the technicality and the need for a climbing permit, 4×4 transport and guide. But I’m sure the views are worth it!

Hikes in Morocco

Mount Toubkal (Atlas Mountains)

Morocco is technically considered North Africa, but I’ll include it here since the Atlas Mountains are some of the most impressive mountains on this side of the continent.

Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa (4167m) and one of the most popular multi-day hikes in the region. It also holds a special place in my heart as my first adventure outside of Europe (once I turned 18)!

There are various routes depending on the number of days you have. But broadly speaking, the trail climbs steadily through rugged valleys, rocky switchbacks, and traditional Berber villages before reaching the Toubkal Refuge, where most hikers stay overnight.

The final push to the summit is a steep, high-altitude climb, but on a clear day you’re rewarded with panoramic views across the entire High Atlas range and far into the Sahara in the distance.

Unlike many of the hikes in West Africa on this list, Toubkal is very well established, with clear routes, plenty of guides available, and strong hiking infrastructure. This makes it one of the most accessible big mountain treks in Africa.

It’s challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding summit hikes you can do in the region.

More hikes in West Africa

Sadly I’m yet to explore more of West Africa but some on my list are:

• Mount Cameroon (Cameroon)
• Plateau of Jos (Nigeria)
• Lopé National Park trails (Gabon – borderline Central Africa but works well)

Best time to go hiking in West Africa

The best time for hiking in West Africa is generally during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April depending on the country.

During this period, trails are more accessible, river crossings are easier, and forest paths are less muddy and overgrown. Visibility is also much better in mountainous regions like Fouta Djallon and the Nimba Range, where mist and heavy rain can otherwise limit views.

The rainy season (roughly May to October) can make hiking much more challenging. Trails become slippery, some remote areas are harder to reach, and heavy downpours can cut hikes short or make them unsafe in certain regions.

That said, the landscape is at its most lush and green during the wet season, so if you don’t mind the conditions, it can potentially be the most beautiful time to explore! Just expect slower travel and more unpredictability.

Is hiking in West Africa safe?

Hiking in West Africa is generally safe, but it comes with a different set of considerations compared to more established hiking regions.

Many of the hikes on this list require a local guide, especially in remote or cross-border areas. This isn’t just for safety on the trails, but also because many routes aren’t officially marked or maintained.

The main risks tend to be practical rather than dangerous: heat, humidity, difficult terrain, and logistics rather than wildlife or crime.

In most cases, travelling with a guide, respecting local advice, and planning ahead makes hiking in the region very manageable. It’s also worth being flexible – infrastructure isn’t always predictable, and conditions can change quickly, especially in rural areas.

As always with hiking, don’t take any unnecessary risks!

What to expect hiking in West Africa

Hiking in West Africa feels very different to more established trekking destinations. It’s not polished, it’s not simple but it is different, unique and very rewarding!

• Trails: One of the best things about hiking in West Africa is that you’ll almost always have trails to yourself! Those trails are rarely marked and can sometimes be overgrown or simply disappear!
• Guides:
  • With fewer marked trails and unreliable maps, there’s more reliance on local knowledge, and a much more community-led experience. In most places, hikes are guided by locals from nearby villages rather than formal trekking companies.
  • As someone who usually likes hiking independently, I found a balance. Some areas you could negotiate not having a guide, whilst some places really do stress that you need one! You have to accept it in several cases, and that’s part of the experience!
• Accommodation: Completely depends on exactly where you are. It can range from basic guesthouses to homestays or camping, through to ‘luxury’ lodges. On average, facilities are usually pretty basic, and part of the experience is embracing that level of remoteness.
• Landscapes: West Africa varies considerably from the deserts in the north to the jungles and mountains further south! What they all have in common is that they feel pretty raw and untouched! Any interaction with local communities also often becomes a highlight.

What to pack for hiking in West Africa

Packing for hiking in West Africa is all about balancing heat, humidity, and remote travel conditions.

Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, along with sturdy hiking shoes that can handle mud, rock, and uneven terrain. A lightweight waterproof layer is also useful, especially in forested or mountainous regions where weather can change quickly.

A daypack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent is important for shorter hikes, while multi-day treks may require additional gear like a sleeping bag, torch, and power bank.

It’s also worth carrying cash (ideally in small denominations), as many rural areas won’t have card facilities. Having offline maps downloaded in advance can make navigation much easier.

Finally, a basic first aid kit and any personal medication are strongly recommended, as access to supplies can be limited outside major towns. Even if it’s not with you on the hike, having access to blister plasters, antibiotics etc… in your main bag is super helpful!

Before you go

Thank you for reading my guide on the best hikes in West Africa. If guides, itineraries and travel content like this interest you, head over to my Homepage to find out more.

If you are new to Matt’s Next Steps, check out my About page to find out a bit more about who I am, my travel adventures, and why I wanted to become a travel writer.

Please comment below and let me know your thoughts and experiences, or if there is anything else you want information on.

Happy hiking!