Africa, the second-largest continent, boasts diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes. It’s home to 54 countries, with Nigeria being the most populous and Algeria the largest by area. Major geographical features include the Sahara Desert, Nile River, and Congo Basin. The continent’s economies vary, from resource-rich nations to agricultural hubs. Africa is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music, and festivals. Most of the countries on the continent have dry and desert climates. But does it snow in Africa? Let’s find out.
Does it Snow in Africa?
Yes, it does snow in Africa, though it is rare and occurs mainly in high-altitude regions. For example, Morocco’s Atlas Mountains receive winter snowfall, especially at higher elevations. The Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa and Lesotho also experience winter snow. These areas’ high elevations enable colder temperatures, making snow possible despite Africa’s generally warm climate.
Where Does it Snow in Africa: Countries that Experience Snow
Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa’s highest peak at 19,341 feet, experiences snowfall mainly at its summit. Snowfall can occur throughout the year, with significant events from July to September and December. The annual snow and graupel accumulation range between 9.8 and 19.7 inches, making it a unique tropical snow destination.
Ethiopia
Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains receive annual snowfall, covering peaks such as Ras Dejen, Bwahit, and Silki. These mountains, formed from a shield volcano, receive about 5 inches of snow each year. The snow adds to the unique climate of one of the few equatorial regions experiencing regular snowfall.
South Africa
Snowfall in South Africa occurs primarily in the Drakensberg Mountains and Cape regions during winter. The snow season runs from June to August, with the Cape’s western and northern areas seeing the most accumulation, around 1.18 inches. These regions attract tourists for winter sports and scenic views.
Algeria
In Algeria, provinces like Setif and Batna experience snowfall influenced by their Mediterranean climates. Setif, located by the Mediterranean Sea, gets about 16 inches of snow annually, while Batna receives around 6.54 inches. These regions contrast sharply with Algeria’s southern desert areas.
Lesotho
Lesotho, known for its high elevations of 4,593 to 11,424 feet, experiences snow throughout the year. The capital city, Maseru, gets snow even during the summer, accumulating around half an inch. Winter temperatures in Lesotho range from 32°F to 66°F, making it a cool highland climate.
Morocco
Morocco’s Atlas Mountains see significant snowfall in winter, with towns like Ifrane, known for its ski resorts, receiving about 2 inches. Other snowy areas include Oukaimeden, Imlil, and Midelt. The winter season lasts from December to February, attracting visitors for skiing and other winter activities.
Kenya
Mount Kenya, rising to 17,057 feet, receives snow from about 14,800 feet upwards, especially in December. The mountain is home to ski resorts and experiences less than 2 inches of snow annually. Significant snowfall was recorded on March 26, 2023, with an accumulation of 2.8 inches.
Uganda
Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon, have permanent snowcaps and glaciers on peaks like Mount Stanley, Mount Speke, and Mount Baker. These mountains receive substantial rainfall and snow, contributing to their alpine climate. However, climatologists predict the snow may disappear in 30 years.
Namibia
Namibia rarely experiences snowfall, with the last significant event occurring in June 2011 in Spreetshoogte Pass within Namib-Naukluft Park. The snowfall began around 11 a.m. and lasted until the afternoon, with temperatures dropping to a record low of 28.7°F, never exceeding 41°F during the event.
Tunisia
Tunisia’s northern and central regions, especially areas like Jebel ech Chambi, experience snowfall from December to February. The snow is sparse compared to the other regions, with a recent snowfall in Ain Drahem in January 2023 resulting in about 0.79 inches. The Mediterranean and desert climates influence Tunisia’s diverse weather patterns.
Which African Mountains Get Snow?
| Mountain Range | Description |
| Atlas Mountains | Mount Kilimanjaro, located in northeastern Tanzania, is a dormant volcano and the fourth tallest mountain in the world, standing 5,895 meters above sea level. The Kibo summit is covered in snow almost year-round, though the ice cover has significantly decreased over the past century. |
| Drakensberg Mountain Range | Table Mountain, overlooking Cape Town in South Africa, attracts millions of tourists annually. Snow is rare but can occur from June to August. More significant snowfalls have occurred in recent years, occasionally covering the entire mountain. |
| Mount Kilimanjaro | Mount Kilimanjaro, located in northeastern Tanzania, is a dormant volcano and the fourth tallest mountain in the world, standing at 5,895 meters above sea level. The Kibo summit is covered in snow almost year-round, though the ice cover has significantly decreased over the past century. |
| Mount Kenya | Mount Kenya, the highest mountain in Kenya and second highest in Africa, stands at 3,825 meters. Snowfall occurs above 4,500 meters, primarily from March to December. The glaciers are rapidly shrinking and may disappear within 30 years. |
| Table Mountain | The Drakensberg Mountain Range, part of the ‘Great Escarpment,’ runs up eastern South Africa. It gets consistent snowfall in Giant’s Castle, Highmoor, Sani Pass, Golden Gate National Park, and Cathedral Peak. The range even hosts a ski resort, Tiffindell. |
