Snow in Africa: The Ultimate Guide to the Continent's Icy Wonders
Snow in Africa: The Ultimate Guide to the Continent's Icy Wonders
Think Africa is all sun-scorched savannas and dusty deserts? Think again! From the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro to the ski slopes of Lesotho, the African continent is home to surprising and breathtaking icy landscapes.
This is your ultimate guide to discovering the cold heart of Africa. Explore the countries, mountains, and cultures where snowfall is a regular and magical event.
Featured Snowy Destinations & Articles
Dive deep into the specifics of Africa's cold regions with our curated articles.
South Africa
Discover the "Ice Wars" and the phenomenon of snow in a country known for its sunshine.
Read about South Africa's Ice WarsLesotho: The Kingdom in the Sky
Lesotho is famous for its heavy winter snows, making it a hub for unique winter experiences in Africa.
🇰🇪 Mount Kenya: Kere Nyaga - The Place of Ostriches
Explore the stunning contrast of equatorial glaciers on Africa's second-highest mountain, known to the Kikuyu people as Kere Nyaga—the "Mountain of Whiteness." This sacred peak's black volcanic rock and white snow are symbolically linked to the black and white feathers of the ostrich.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snow in Africa
Which African countries get regular snowfall?
Several African countries experience regular snowfall, including Lesotho, South Africa, Morocco, Tanzania (Mount Kilimanjaro), Kenya (Mount Kenya), and Uganda (Rwenzori Mountains). Lesotho is particularly known for its heavy winter snows.
Can you go skiing in Africa?
Yes! Africa has several ski resorts and opportunities for skiing. The most famous is Tiffindell in South Africa, and Lesotho also offers skiing opportunities. There are even competitive skiing events held on the continent.
Does it snow on Mount Kilimanjaro?
Yes, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania has permanent ice fields and glaciers near its summit, though they have been receding due to climate change. Snowfall occurs regularly at the higher elevations.
What is the best time to see snow in Africa?
The best time to see snow in most African regions is during the winter months of June through August, with July typically being the snowiest month in countries like Lesotho and South Africa.
How cold does it get in Africa?
While Africa is known for heat, temperatures can drop significantly in mountainous regions and deserts. Some areas in Lesotho and Morocco regularly experience temperatures below freezing, with record lows reaching -24°C (-11°F) in Morocco.
Snowy African Fun Facts
Did You Know? You can build a snowman in Africa! Find out where and when.
Can You Build a Snowman in Africa?Record Breakers: Africa has recorded some of the most extreme temperatures on the planet.
Africa's Highest and Lowest TemperaturesExplore More of The African Gourmet
