The Waterfalls of the Fouta

As the water tower of West Africa, the Fouta Djallon highlands of central Guinea are threaded with spectacular waterfalls, among the region's most beautiful natural sights. Fed by the abundant highland rainfall and the rivers born here, cascades tumble dramatically over the sandstone escarpments and cliffs. Among the finest are the towering, veil-like Ditinn Falls, plunging over a sheer cliff, the powerful Kambadaga Falls, spectacular in full flow, and the Kinkon Falls near Pita. Reached on scenic drives and hikes through the green highlands and Fulani countryside, these waterfalls, often gloriously uncrowded, are a highlight of exploring the Fouta Djallon.

What you actually see

• Ditinn Falls - the towering, veil-like cliff waterfall.
• Kambadaga Falls - the powerful cascade in full flow.
• Kinkon Falls - the falls near the town of Pita.
• The highland setting - the green scenery and Fulani countryside.

When to go

The waterfalls are fullest and most spectacular during and just after the rainy season, roughly October to December, though heavy rains can make roads difficult, while the dry season eases travel but reduces the flow; the shoulder of the rains offers the best balance. The falls are reached on drives and hikes through the highlands, best with local guides.

Honest expectations

Reaching the falls involves rough tracks, local guides arranged on the spot and walks that are longer and steeper than the distances suggest, with almost no signage or facilities anywhere. For the reward of spectacular, often uncrowded waterfalls tumbling over escarpments in the green Fouta Djallon highlands, they are well worth the effort.

Nearby

The Fouta Djallon highlands and the towns of Dalaba and Pita are within reach.