When one thinks of Africa, images of scorching deserts, sun-drenched savannahs, and tropical beaches usually come to mind—not snow.
Yet, tucked away amid its vast and varied landscapes are places where winter truly arrives, blanketing the earth in white.
Here are seven African countries where snow isn’t just a myth—it’s part of the landscape:
1. South Africa
Snow falls regularly in the Drakensberg Mountains and regions like Sutherland and Ceres. Between June and August, the snow-covered slopes around Tiffindell become a playground for skiing and snowboarding.
2. Lesotho
Often called the “Kingdom in the Sky,” Lesotho is unique: its high elevation means snow isn’t unusual during winter. Afriski Mountain Resort draws visitors who want a true alpine feel, complete with snow-capped peaks and cold winds.
3. Morocco
In the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, winter (December to March) brings snow to popular ski destinations like Oukaïmeden, which lies not far from Marrakech. The stark contrast between icy slopes and nearby desert landscapes is striking.
4. Algeria
Algeria’s Tell Atlas and Aures ranges receive regular snowfall. Cities such as Setif and Batna see snow several times a season, offering rare views where icy peaks rise near sunbaked desert towns.
5. Tunisia
In the northwestern part of Tunisia, especially in the Kroumirie Mountains and areas like Aïn Draham, winter brings a quiet transformation. Pine forests and rolling hills are dusted in white, creating a peaceful, cold scenery far from the coast’s warmth.
6. Kenya
It may seem unlikely, but Kenya has snow—on the summit of Mount Kenya. Snow and glaciers crown the peak, even though they are slowly shrinking. Climbing to the top offers a chance to witness snow just a few degrees south of the equator.
7. Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s most iconic snowy landmark. Its snow-capped summit, visible from many miles away, is a dramatic image: a frozen crown above a land often associated with heat and sun.