7 Hidden Waterfalls in Africa You Can Hike or Camp Near
Among the African continent’s many hidden gems, waterfalls stand out as awe-inspiring natural wonders. Whether you’re an avid hiker, or simply seeking a calm escape in nature, these waterfalls provide the perfect setting for an adventurous getaway.
Although these waterfalls aren’t the largest in Africa (the Victoria Waterfalls are), 7 hidden waterfalls in Africa are perfect for hiking or camping near.
1. Lepelle Waterfall – South Africa
Located in the Limpopo province of South Africa, Lepelle Waterfall is one of the country’s hidden treasures. It sits in a scenic part of the Waterberg Mountains and offers visitors a peaceful retreat surrounded by pristine wilderness.
Activities:
Hiking: The trail to Lepelle Waterfall is an enjoyable hike through dense bush and rocky terrain. The hike offers fantastic views of the surrounding area, making it a rewarding experience.
Camping: There are a number of campsites nearby where visitors can enjoy the serenity of the bush while listening to the sound of the waterfall.
2. Kalambo Falls – Zambia/Tanzania Border
Kalambo Falls, located on the border of Zambia and Tanzania, is one of the tallest waterfalls in Africa, plunging an impressive 221 meters (725 feet).
Activities:
Hiking: Kalambo Falls can be reached by a rugged trail that takes you through lush forests and hilly terrain. The hike offers the opportunity to enjoy diverse ecosystems and beautiful landscapes.
Camping: There are camping areas located near the falls, where visitors can pitch tents and camp in the midst of nature’s beauty.
3. Tugela Falls – South Africa
Tugela Falls, located in the Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa, is a series of five distinct waterfalls. With a height of 948 meters (3,110 feet), Tugela is the second-highest waterfall in the world.
Activities:
Hiking: The hike to Tugela Falls is challenging but rewarding, taking you through alpine meadows, rocky terrain, and steep inclines. The hike rewards you with stunning views of the falls and the surrounding mountains. Because of the ladder climbing, it has one of the most dangerous hikes in Africa.
Camping: There are various camping options near the falls, such as the nearby campgrounds within Royal Natal National Park, where you can camp and enjoy the dramatic landscape.
4. Buhoma Waterfall – Uganda
Nestled in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda, Buhoma Waterfall is a hidden gem that offers a more tranquil and secluded experience. The waterfall is part of the larger Bwindi ecosystem, which is home to mountain gorillas and other fascinating wildlife.
Activities:
Hiking: The trail to Buhoma Waterfall winds through lush forests and bamboo groves, offering the chance to spot a variety of birds and small mammals along the way. It’s a moderate hike, making it accessible for most visitors.
Camping: Visitors can camp nearby in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, with camping sites that allow you to immerse yourself in the natural environment.
5. Murchison Falls – Uganda
Murchison Falls, located in Murchison Falls National Park, is one of Uganda’s most spectacular natural attractions. The Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating a powerful cascade as it tumbles down a cliff, creating a thunderous roar.
Activities:
Hiking: Visitors can take a short hike to the top of the falls for panoramic views or enjoy a boat ride on the Nile to get up close to the falls.
Camping: Murchison Falls National Park has several campsites that provide comfortable accommodations for those looking to spend the night in the park.
Cascade de Banfora, located near the town of Banfora in southwestern Burkina Faso, is a beautiful and secluded waterfall that provides a serene environment for hiking and camping. The falls are surrounded by a lush green landscape, which contrasts nicely with the dry savanna of the region.
Activities:
Hiking: The trail to Cascade de Banfora is a moderate walk that leads you to the waterfall. Along the way, you can enjoy the scenery and observe local flora and fauna.
Camping: There are campsites near the waterfall, offering an opportunity to experience the tranquil atmosphere of the area and enjoy the natural beauty.
7. Sipi Falls – Uganda
Sipi Falls is located in the eastern region of Uganda, near Mount Elgon National Park. The falls consist of three distinct waterfalls that cascade down the steep cliffs of Mount Elgon, creating an enchanting scene amidst the misty, lush surroundings.
Activities:
Hiking: Sipi Falls offers a variety of trails, from short walks to longer treks that take you to all three waterfalls. The hike provides a great chance to enjoy the surrounding forests and local villages.
Camping: There are a number of campsites around Sipi Falls where visitors can stay overnight, offering a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the falls.
Final Conclusion
Africa is filled with hidden waterfalls that offer a unique combination of hiking and camping opportunities. From towering cascades to hidden gems tucked away in lush rainforests, these natural wonders offer unforgettable experiences for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Feel free to ask any questions or share your thoughts below, and don’t forget to connect with me on social media.
Wishing you safe and unforgettable travels in Africa!
Who am I? Well, the least you can say is that I am quite crazy about Africa, its nature, its climate, its culture, and more.
As a young woman in my twenties, I had already traveled to several African countries by traveling along in an overlander on my own and mostly camping ( or glamping ) and just fell in love with the diversity of it all.
So much, so that at the age of 26, I went back to university to study biology, which, unfortunately, I couldn’t finish because of health reasons (yes, I got sick from a tropical disease, oh cynicism). But this did not stop my dream of traveling back to Africa several times, and I still do.
My dream was back then to leave Europe and go study animal behavior, especially the elephants (sure, that’s every girl’s dream haha), but I am also very much intrigued by hyenas and other “ugly African animals“.
So, I “kind of” have a little bit of a scientific approach to my articles, when I write about African birds, for example. And most of all: the passion.
But life goes on, you move from one side of the country to the other, you get sick again and top it off with lower back problems, and before you know it, you are over 50 hahaha!
Now, I still travel to Africa, but take it a bit “easier” than the good old camping days, and stay in comfortable, yet affordable accommodations, together with my husband Wouter.
These are some of the countries I have traveled to: Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Tunisia, and a little bit of Lesotho LOL .
While clearly not being African territory, but Spanish, I also visited Gran Canaria and Tenerife, and location-wise, I consider them “African”, because of their climate and nature, sue me :-p
The last trip I took was to South Africa in the year 2023, and it sure got the fevers for Africa back! From the Barberton mountains to the Drakensberg and the Southcoast, one month wasn’t enough at all to see the whole country, so we’ll be back! At ease and with a little bit more luxury than in my younger days haha!
