Barth is one of the great explorers of Africa – and one of the least well known to the public. He traveled throughout North and Central Africa in the early 1850s – often disguised as an Arab. He spoke fluent Arabic and learned several African languages. Barth was a true scholar who was interested in African culture and history. His amazing journeys would take him more than 10,000 miles – making him one of the most prolific explorers of Africa. And he did it all without firing a shot.
Episodes
Heinrich Barth – Part 1 – Africa Calls
In part one of our series, German explorer Heinrich Barth cuts his teeth learning from some of the great scientists of the age – including the famed Alexander von Humboldt. He survives (barely) an attack by bandits in Northern Africa and conducts a journey through frontiers of three continents, before setting out on an epic expedition that will lead him across the Sahara Desert and into heart of unknown Africa. It is the start of a journey that will last five years and cover more than 10,000 miles.
Heinrich Barth – Part 2 – Across the Sahara
In part 2 of our series, Heinrich Barth sets out from Tripoli in an attempt to cross the deadly Sahara desert. He will find ancient ruins and mysterious artifacts; face deadly desert bandits, sandstorms, and an unforgiving sacred mountain that will nearly claim his life.
Heinrich Barth – Part 3 – Into the heart of Central Africa
In part 3 of our series, Heinrich Barth, traveling alone, becomes to first European to visit the legendary city of Agadez. He then journeys into the heart of Central Africa, going to the cities of Katsina, Kano, and Kukawa. But war will rage throughout the kingdom of Bornu, and a year of hard living will claim one of the members of the expedition.
Heinrich Barth – Part 4 – Kingdoms of Africa
In part 4 of our series, Heinrich Barth travels throughout central Africa, visiting the kingdoms of Adamawa, Bagirmi, Mandara and Musgu – many never before visited by a white man. He will ride with notorious Arab bandits, see devastating slave raids, discover the secrets of a great river, and escape death on numerous occasions.
Heinrich Barth – Part 5 – The long road to Timbuktu
After the death of his fellow scientist, Heinrich Barth – now alone – heads off on his most audacious journey yet – a 1,500 miles trek across war-torn Central Africa.
Heinrich Barth – Part 6 – Sheikh Ahmad al-Bakkay al-Kunti and Timbuktu
Barth has reached the legendary city of Timbuktu. But now he is trapped – as local rulers set out to capture – or kill – the Christian who has dared to come to their lands. But Barth forms a unique friendship with Sheikh Ahmad al-Bakkay al-Kunti – who protects our explorer. Then, after nearly nine months – he finally will set off for Bornu – only to find that everyone believes him to be dead. Thus, to get home, he must march 1,500 miles through hostile lands with no money or supplies, and fighting increasingly debilitating illnesses.
Heinrich Barth – Part 7 – Journey home and later years
In the final part of our series, Barth crosses the Sahara a second time – this on his way home – ending his epic 5+ year journey through Central Africa. We then look at Barth’s efforts to find recognition amongst his peers – as well as put together his massive book on his travels.
Maps
Barth’s route (click to enlarge) Source
Resources
A Labyrinth of Kingdoms: 10,000 Miles through Islamic Africa by Kemper, Steve. This is the best, modern biography of Barth’s life – focusing on his travels.
Steve Kemper’s blog. In this, the author of Barth’s biography retraces the places Barth went. Lots of good stories and images.
Travels and discoveries in North and Central Africa by Heinrich Barth. This is a massive five-volume series covering 3,500 pages. I found an abridged version in English of just over 1,000 pages. The book is very detailed – but written by a scientist writing for scientists. That means it is very dull. Lots of great information, but not very entertaining. Despite this, it was important to this series.
This site has lots of images made for Barth’s book. Great stuff.
Explorers Podcast 