5 countries in Africa that experience snowfall
When people think of Africa, they often picture sun-drenched savannahs, deserts, and tropical rainforests. However, Africa is a vast and diverse continent with regions that experience cold weather — even snowfall! Yes, you read that right. Snow does fall in some parts of Africa, especially in mountainous areas with higher altitudes.
In this article, we will explore 5 countries in Africa that experience snowfall, the best places to witness it, and what makes these destinations unique.
1. South Africa
South Africa is perhaps the most famous African country when it comes to snowfall. While much of the country enjoys a moderate to warm climate, certain regions see snow almost every winter.
Where Does It Snow?
Drakensberg Mountains – The highest mountain range in South Africa, the Drakensberg gets regular snowfalls during winter (June to August).
Lesotho Border Area – The areas near Lesotho, which is itself a snowy kingdom, also receive snow.
Cederberg Mountains – Occasionally get snow.
Fun Fact:
South Africa even has a ski resort — Tiffindell Ski Resort — located in the Eastern Cape, where locals and tourists can enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
2. Lesotho
Lesotho is often called the “Kingdom in the Sky” because of its high-altitude location. It is entirely landlocked within South Africa and has one of the coldest climates on the continent.
Where Does It Snow?
Snow is common across much of the country during winter.
The Maloti Mountains receive regular snowfall, turning them into a white wonderland.
Fun Fact:
Lesotho is the only independent country in the world that lies entirely above 1,000 meters (3,281 ft) in elevation.
3. Morocco
Morocco, located in North Africa, is known for its deserts, but it also has impressive snow-capped mountains, especially in the winter months.
Where Does It Snow?
The Atlas Mountains are famous for winter snowfall.
Oukaïmeden is Morocco’s most popular ski resort, located near Marrakech.
Fun Fact:
From the slopes of the Atlas Mountains, you can sometimes see the Sahara Desert in the distance — a rare sight of snow and sand in one frame.
4. Algeria
Algeria is the largest country in Africa, stretching from the Mediterranean coast to the deep Sahara. Despite its hot deserts, Algeria’s northern regions and mountains experience snowfall.
Where Does It Snow?
The Tell Atlas Mountains and Aurès Mountains receive snow regularly during winter.
Even parts of the Sahara Desert have recorded rare instances of snowfall.
Fun Fact:
In 2018, the town of Aïn Séfra, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” was blanketed by snow, creating stunning images of snow covering sand dunes.
5. Kenya
Kenya may be known for its wildlife safaris and the Great Rift Valley, but it also has snow — thanks to its high mountains.
Where Does It Snow?
Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa, has snow-capped peaks year-round.
Climbers and hikers encounter glaciers and snow at higher altitudes.
Fun Fact:
While it rarely snows in the towns and cities of Kenya, adventurers who scale Mount Kenya will find snow and ice even when it’s hot below.
Final Thoughts
While snow in Africa might surprise many, these 5 countries in Africa that experience snowfall prove that the continent is full of natural wonders and climate diversity. Whether you are looking for winter adventures, hiking snow-covered mountains, or just witnessing something unexpected, Africa has much more to offer beyond its sunny image.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Does it really snow in Africa?
Yes! Snow is common in the mountains of countries like South Africa, Lesotho, Morocco, Algeria, and Kenya.
Q2: Can you go skiing in Africa?
Absolutely. South Africa, Morocco, and Lesotho all have ski resorts.
Q3: Is snowfall in Africa rare?
It depends on the region. In high-altitude areas, snowfall is expected every winter, while in deserts like parts of Algeria, snow is rare but possible.
