Africa is vast and filled with adventure, yet many of its most extraordinary destinations remain relatively unknown. Beyond the popular safaris and well-trodden hiking trails, some landscapes provide solitude, raw beauty, and a sense of discovery.
For those seeking experiences that combine nature, wildlife, and culture, Africa’s emerging adventure destinations offer journeys unlike any other.
This guide focuses on three types of adventures: remote trekking, offbeat safaris, and desert excursions. Each of these options presents unique challenges and rewards for those willing to venture beyond the familiar.
Remote trekking
Chimpanzee mother and child at Mahale Mountains National Park/Ryan Al Bishri rybkstudio, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Mahale Mountains, Tanzania
The Mahale Mountains, perched on the edge of Lake Tanganyika, are among East Africa’s most secluded wilderness areas. Known for chimpanzee trekking, this forested region offers a rare chance to walk through dense jungle, observe wildlife, and enjoy lake beaches far from crowds. Hiking here requires a guide, but the reward is the sense of entering a world untouched by tourism.
Mulanje Massif, Malawi
Mulanje mountain/Wetcha116/Wikimedia Commons
Malawi’s Mulanje Massif is a granite fortress of cliffs, peaks, and waterfalls. Less known internationally, it is ideal for hikers seeking solitude, dramatic views, and challenging climbs. Several routes take you through remote villages, giving a glimpse of local life in Malawi’s highlands.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
A gorilla at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest/2H Media/Unsplash
Famous for gorilla encounters, Bwindi also offers remote trekking trails for those who want to explore the forest beyond the main visitor routes. The biodiversity here is astonishing, from rare primates to a myriad of bird species, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience.
Offbeat safaris
Serra Cafema, Namibia
Situated on the Kunene River, Serra Cafema is a wilderness area at the edge of the desert. Safari here focuses on remote river landscapes, desert dunes, and encounters with the Himba people. Activities include river boating, guided walks among the dunes, and cultural experiences that reveal a side of Namibia rarely seen.
Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe
White rhino at Matobo National Park/Susan Adams/Wikimedia Commons
Matobo is a landscape of ancient granite hills and caves adorned with rock art. Wildlife viewing here is intimate rather than grand, with opportunities to spot leopards, rhinos, and smaller antelope species. Hiking through the hills combines adventure with history, offering insight into Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage.
Iona National Park, Angola
Iona National Park/Edward Middleton/Wikimedia Commons
Iona National Park offers vast desert landscapes and unique flora such as the Welwitschia plant. Wildlife is re-emerging in this remote corner of Africa, and safaris here are intimate and off the grid. The park’s rugged terrain and solitude make it ideal for those seeking an adventurous safari experience without crowds.
Desert excursions
Chalbi Desert/Filiberto Strazzari/Wikimedia Commons
Chalbi Desert, Kenya
The Chalbi Desert is a stark, unspoiled landscape of ancient lake beds and lava hills. It is rarely visited, giving a sense of true remoteness. Walking or driving through the desert reveals its geological wonders and a fragile ecosystem adapted to extreme conditions.
Namib Desert Experiences, Namibia
Namib Skeleton Coast/Joshua Kettle/Unsplash
Beyond the famous Sossusvlei dunes, regions like the Namib Skeleton Coast and remote camps along the Kunene River offer a combination of desert exploration, wildlife spotting, and star-filled nights. Desert excursions here can include dune walks, 4×4 adventures, and river explorations.
Practical tips
- Best Times to Visit: Research each destination, as seasons affect wildlife viewing, hiking conditions, and desert temperatures.
- Access: Many of these locations are remote. Local flights, boats, or 4×4 transport may be required.
- Guides and Permits: Always hire certified guides where required. Some regions need entry permits or park fees.
- Safety and Health: Check for vaccinations, malaria precautions, and carry sufficient water and first aid gear.
- Responsible Travel: Support local communities, follow park regulations, and minimise environmental impact.
Africa’s emerging adventure destinations offer more than sightseeing. They are about discovery, connection with nature, and experiences that remain with you long after the journey ends. From trekking dense forests and climbing isolated peaks to exploring deserts and offbeat safaris, these destinations invite bold and curious adventurers to see a side of Africa few have experienced.
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