When people hear about Africa, most think of hot deserts, savannahs, safaris, and tropical beaches. But did you know that some parts of Africa actually get snow? Yes, it’s true! Africa is home to mountains high enough to get snow during winter, and some places even have ski resorts where people can go skiing and snowboarding.
In this article, we’ll see where you can ski in Africa, the ski resorts available, and which one is the best.
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Does It Snow in Africa?
Many people are surprised to learn that snow does fall in Africa. This usually happens in high mountain areas where the altitude is high enough and the temperatures get very cold during winter. Snow is not common in most parts of Africa, but in countries like Morocco, Algeria, South Africa, and Lesotho, snow falls every year in some regions.
If you want to know more about where it snows in Africa, check out this detailed article:
👉 Does It Snow in Africa? Countries That Get Snow
Ski Resorts in Africa
Now that we know Africa gets snow, the next question is: Are there ski resorts in Africa? The answer is yes! There are a few ski resorts scattered across the continent. These are usually in mountainous areas where snowfall is regular during the winter months.
Let’s look at the main countries with ski resorts in Africa:
1. Morocco – Skiing in the Atlas Mountains
Morocco is located in North Africa and has several mountains in the High Atlas Range. In winter, especially between December and February, snow falls on these mountains, making them perfect for skiing.
Oukaïmeden Ski Resort
Location: About 80km from Marrakech
Altitude: Over 2,600 meters above sea level
What to Expect: Chair lifts, ski equipment for rent, mountain lodges, and local Berber culture.
Good for: Beginners and intermediate skiers
Oukaïmeden is the most popular ski resort in Morocco and one of the highest in Africa. You can enjoy beautiful views, fresh mountain air, and a peaceful environment.
Mischliffen Ski Area
Location: Near the city of Fez
Altitude: Lower than Oukaïmeden
What to Expect: Small slopes and local visitors
Good for: Beginners and those looking for a quiet experience
Mischliffen is less known and smaller, but still offers a chance to enjoy snow activities in Morocco.
2. Algeria – Chréa National Park Ski Resort
Algeria, another North African country, also has mountain areas that get snow in winter. The Chréa ski resort, located in Chréa National Park, is the most popular one.
Location: Near the capital city, Algiers
Altitude: Around 1,500 to 2,000 meters
What to Expect: Natural beauty, forest surroundings, and ski slopes
Good for: Locals and tourists visiting Algiers
Chréa is one of the oldest ski resorts in Africa and offers great views and a calm skiing experience in a forested setting.
3. South Africa – Tiffindell Ski Resort
In the Southern Hemisphere, South Africa is home to Tiffindell Ski Resort, the country’s only ski resort.
Location: Eastern Cape, Drakensberg Mountains
Altitude: 2,720 meters
What to Expect: Man-made snow, ski lifts, snowboarding, ski school, and mountain lodges
Best Time: Between June and August (winter in Southern Africa)
Tiffindell is well-maintained and offers skiing for all levels. It even has snow-making machines, so even when natural snow is low, skiing can still go on.
4. Lesotho – Afriski Mountain Resort
Lesotho is a small country that is surrounded by South Africa. It’s known as the “Kingdom in the Sky” because most of the country is at a high altitude. This makes it perfect for snow in the winter.
Afriski Resort
Location: Maluti Mountains
Altitude: Over 3,000 meters
What to Expect: Ski slopes, snowboarding, restaurants, chalets, music festivals, and even summer activities like mountain biking
Best Time: June to August
Afriski is one of the most developed ski resorts in Africa. It attracts both local and international visitors. In winter, it’s a snow paradise. In summer, it becomes a fun mountain resort for biking and hiking.
Which Is the Best Ski Resort in Africa?
Choosing the best ski resort in Africa depends on what you are looking for. However, based on snow quality, facilities, and experience, two resorts stand out:
✅ Afriski Mountain Resort (Lesotho) – Best Overall
Great for both beginners and experts
Snow-making machines for reliable skiing
Full resort experience (accommodation, food, events)
Family-friendly and adventure-packed
✅ Oukaïmeden (Morocco) – Best for Culture & Adventure
Located in the High Atlas Mountains
Combines skiing with Moroccan mountain culture
Easier to access for travelers coming from Europe or North Africa
What It’s Like to Ski in Africa
Skiing in Africa is not like skiing in Switzerland or Canada – and that’s the charm of it. It’s unique, adventurous, and often more relaxed. You may not find long ski runs or luxury shopping villages, but you’ll enjoy:
Warm local hospitality
Fewer crowds
Stunning mountain views
A chance to discover a new side of Africa
You can also enjoy delicious local food, meet mountain communities, and even ride camels or hike nearby trails. Skiing in Africa is more than just snow; it’s an experience.
Tips for Planning a Ski Trip in Africa
If you’re thinking of skiing in Africa, here are some simple tips to help you:
Check the season: Skiing happens in winter, usually December to February in North Africa and June to August in Southern Africa.
Book early: Resorts like Afriski can get busy, especially during festivals or school holidays.
Pack well: Bring warm clothes, gloves, goggles, and sunscreen (yes, you can still get sunburned in the snow).
Ask about rentals: Most resorts offer ski and snowboard gear for rent, but it’s good to confirm ahead.
Travel insurance: Always get insurance that covers snow sports.
Altitude awareness: Some resorts are very high up. Take time to adjust if you’re not used to high altitudes.
Conclusion
Africa is full of surprises, and skiing is one of them. Whether you’re a first-time skier or someone looking for a new kind of adventure, Africa has something for you. From the snowy peaks of Morocco to the highlands of Lesotho, skiing in Africa gives you the chance to explore a different side of the continent.
So next time you plan a trip, don’t just think of beaches or deserts, consider hitting the slopes in Africa.
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