- While snow is commonly linked to colder regions, some African countries boast mountain peaks and highlands where the temperature drops enough for snow to form
- High-altitude regions across the continent experience snow during the winter months, offering a beautiful contrast to the usual hot climates
- From Algeria’s Kabylie Mountains to South Africa’s Drakensberg, TheRadar compiled 10 African countries where snow can be seen during the winter season
When most people think of Africa, they picture sun-soaked landscapes, the heat of the Sahara, and the lush tropical rainforests. However, this continent also holds some surprises, including regions where snow falls.
While snow is typically associated with colder regions of the world, Africa, known for its scorching temperatures and vast deserts, is also home to some surprising snowy landscapes.
This phenomenon is most common in high-altitude areas, where temperatures drop significantly enough for snow to form, offering a stunning sight.
TheRadar compiled 10 African countries where snow has been observed below:
1. Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro remains the only place in the country where snow is found. The summit of this iconic mountain can reach frigid arctic temperatures and witness substantial snowfall. Snowfall is most frequent during Kilimanjaro's dry season, which spans from mid-June to October, with December typically bringing the heaviest snowfall and coldest conditions. The snowiest months are generally June, July, and August.
2. Algeria
Northern mountainous regions of Algeria, particularly the Tell Atlas, experience snowfall during the winter months. The Tell Atlas mountain range, which runs parallel to the Mediterranean coast, has higher altitudes, allowing for cooler temperatures conducive to snow. Snowfall is most frequent in areas like the Kabylie Mountains, located east of Algiers, and the Aurès Mountains, situated near the country's eastern border.
3. Tunisia
The mountainous regions of Tunisia also experience snowfall during winter, with the Dorsal Mountains standing out. Running through the central part of the country, these high-altitude areas, especially around Jebel Chambi, the highest peak, often become blanketed in snow, offering a beautiful winter scene.
4. Ethiopia
Ethiopia's diverse geography includes regions where snow falls on rare occasions. The Simien Mountains, which reach altitudes over 4,500 meters, are one of the country’s few spots to see snow. This attracts hikers and explorers eager to discover the extraordinary landscapes.
5. Namibia
Snow is rare in Namibia, generally occurring only at higher elevations, particularly along the eastern escarpment of the Namib Desert. Also, certain regions of Namibia, such as the Giant's Playground and parts of the Khomas Highlands, including Windhoek, can occasionally see light snowfall during winter.
6. Uganda
The Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda are the exclusive location for snowfall, with the summit regularly covered in snow and glaciers. Some tourists opt for the challenging hike to the top to see the snow, while others enjoy the views from the surrounding lower regions.
7. Kenya
Kenya experiences snow in certain high-altitude regions, with Mount Kenya being the most prominent location for snowfall. As the second-highest mountain in Africa, it sees snow primarily in the colder months, offering a stunning contrast to the surrounding plains and savannas.
8. South Africa
Snowfall is experienced in a few parts of South Africa during winter, including Gauteng, parts of Johannesburg, the Drakensberg Mountains, and certain areas in the Western Cape. While snow is not widespread throughout the country, these specific areas are known to transform into breathtaking, snow-covered landscapes between June to August.
9. Lesotho
With its towering mountains, Lesotho is one of the few places in Africa where snowfall is common. The winter season, which lasts from June to August, sees temperatures often reaching around 0 degrees Celsius, and the mountainous terrain creates perfect conditions for snow to fall.
10. Morocco
Snowfall in Morocco typically occurs between December and February, mostly in the northern regions, especially the Rif and Atlas Mountains. While snow isn't guaranteed every year, the combination of cold weather and occasional snow creates a stunning transformation of the landscape.
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