The Fouta Djallon Highlands

The Fouta Djallon, a vast highland region of rolling green plateaus, dramatic sandstone escarpments and deep, lush valleys in central Guinea, is the scenic heart of the country and one of the most beautiful landscapes in West Africa. Known as the water tower of West Africa, its highlands give rise to the great rivers of the region, including the Niger, Gambia and Senegal, feeding countless streams and waterfalls. Cool and green, dotted with the villages of the Fulani people who herd cattle and farm its terraces, and laced with hiking trails through spectacular scenery, the Fouta Djallon is a wonderful, off-the-beaten-path destination for trekkers and lovers of highland beauty.

What you actually see

• The highland plateaus - the green plateaus and dramatic escarpments.
• The Fulani villages - the highland herding and farming communities.
• The hiking trails - the treks through spectacular scenery.
• The rivers and valleys - the deep valleys and river sources.

When to go

November to April, the dry season, for the best hiking weather and passable roads, as the wet season brings heavy rain that swells the waterfalls but hampers travel; the highlands are cool and green, a refreshing contrast to the coastal heat. The region is reached by road, and local guides greatly enhance trekking and village visits.

Honest expectations

Infrastructure is minimal: rough roads, simple village guesthouses, no marked trails and guides arranged locally rather than booked ahead. Trekking here means real self-sufficiency and some French. For the reward of one of the most beautiful highland landscapes in West Africa, cool and green with dramatic escarpments, waterfalls and Fulani villages, the Fouta Djallon is a genuine hidden gem.

Nearby

The waterfalls of the region, the town of Labé and the capital Conakry are within reach.