Africa is home to some of the most stunning mountains in the world, and they are truly a sight to behold. From the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro to the rocky outcrops of Mount Cameroon, the diverse landscapes of Africa’s mountains provide breathtaking views.
Here are 7 of the most stunning mountains in Africa that will take your breath away.
1) Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Height: 19,341 feet
Standing tall at 19,341 feet (5,895 m), Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and one of the continent's most iconic African mountains. It is located in northern Tanzania, near the border with Kenya. Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano that is comprised of three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira.
The stratovolcano attracts tens of thousands of climbers each year, and its snow-capped peak can be seen from miles away. In addition to the beautiful scenery and challenging terrain, visitors may also experience the diverse wildlife and rare plants that inhabit the area around the mountain.
Interestingly, the mountain is also the highest free-standing summit in the world (above sea level) and the fourth most-prominent peak in the world.
2) Mount Kenya, Kenya
Height: 17,057 feet
Mount Kenya is one of the most iconic African mountains and the second highest peak in Africa. It's the tallest mountain in Kenya.
It is located about 180km north of Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. At 5,199 meters high, Mount Kenya is an incredibly challenging climb.
The environment around Mount Kenya is unique and varied. It includes Afro-alpine moorlands, bamboo forests and alpine deserts.
It is also home to a wide range of wildlife, such as black rhinos, leopards and more than 130 species of birds. Climbing Mount Kenya is an unforgettable experience for those who are up for the challenge.
3) Mount Toubkal, Morocco
Height: 13,671 feet
At 4,167 meters (13,671 feet) above sea level and located in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco, Mount Toubkal is a beautiful mountain that draws mountain climbers from around the world.
The peak is accessible year round. However, winter can be harsh, and temperatures can dip to -7°C (19°F). During summer months, the temperature can rise up to 25°C (77°F), providing a comfortable environment for outdoor exploration. The views of the nearby valleys and villages, along with the snow-capped peak, make Mount Toubkal a favorite spot among visitors.
Despite its difficult terrain, Mount Toubkal is one of the most popular destinations for trekkers looking to explore Africa's mountains.
4) Ras Dashen, Ethiopia
Height: 15,160 feet
Ras Dashen, or Ras Dejen, is the highest mountain in Ethiopia and the fourteenth highest peak in Africa. Its English form of the name is a corruption of its Amharic name, "Ras Dejen." It is the eastern peak of the rim of an enormous volcano. On the western side is Mount Biuat.
Ras Dashen often sees violent snowfalls during the night, but due to the large temperature difference between day and night, the snow melts quickly. The first recorded ascent by a European was in 1841 by French officers Ferret and Galinier. However, there is no verifiable evidence of earlier ascents by locals, although the summit climate and conditions are relatively hospitable for African mountains.
5) Table Mountain, South Africa
Height: 3,558 feet
Table Mountain is a popular hiking peak near Cape Town. It is a prominent landmark seen from around the city. It has an amazing level summit with steep cliffs dropping off on each side. The highest point is Maclear's Beacon.
6) Mount Karisimbi, Congo
Height: 10,866 feet
Mount Karisimbi is an active stratovolcano in the Virunga Mountains on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the highest of the eight major mountains of the mountain range, as well as the 11th highest mountain of Africa. The name Karisimbi comes from the word 'amasimbi' in the local language, Kinyarwanda, which means snow.
Snow can mostly be found during the dry season in June, July and August on the top of this African mountain. Karisimbi is one of the most impressive peaks among the many Africa mountains.
7) Mount Stanley, Uganda
Height: 16,762 feet
Located in the Rwenzori range of African mountains, Mount Stanley, or Mount Ngaliema, is the highest mountain of both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, and the third highest in Africa. The peak and several other surrounding peaks are high enough to support glaciers. It is named for the journalist and explorer Sir Henry Morton Stanley.
The mountain is part of the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, a UNESCO world Heritage Site. The twin summits of Mount Stanley are Margherita Peak (5,109 m/16,762 ft) and Alexandra Peak (5,083 m/16,682 ft), with several lower peaks making up the mountain’s massif.
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