On February 25, 2026, the Vatican announced that Pope Leo XIV will embark on a 10-day Apostolic Journey to four African nations from April 13 to 23, 2026.
The itinerary focuses on countries with significant historical and religious ties to the pontiff’s own Augustinian order:
Algeria (April 13–15): The Pope will visit Algiers and Annaba (the ancient city of Hippo) to follow in the footsteps of Saint Augustine. This marks the first-ever papal visit to the North African nation.
Cameroon: Stops include Yaoundé, Douala, and Bamenda, where the Pope is expected to address the ongoing conflict in the Anglophone region.
Angola: The visit will include Luanda, Muxima, and Saurimo.
Equatorial Guinea: The final leg covers Malabo, Mongomo, and Bata in the only Spanish-speaking country in Africa.
First Major Tour of 2026: This is Pope Leo’s first significant overseas trip of the year.
Successor to Francis: Elected in May 2025, Pope Leo XIV (formerly Robert Prevost) is the first U.S.-born pope.
Other 2026 Travels: Before the Africa trip, the Pope will make a one-day visit to Monaco on March 28. Following the Africa tour, he is scheduled to visit Spain from June 6 to 12, where he will inaugurate the newest tower of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
By Anthony Solly
