While skiing might not be the first activity that comes to mind when you think of this diverse continent, Africa offers some unexpected treasures for avid skiers and snowboarders. Each year, ski enthusiasts and adventurers flock to Africa’s mountains to carve out their adventures on the slopes. Let’s glide through the 7 best skiing destinations in Africa, from the rugged Atlas Mountains to the enchanting highlands.
1. Oukaïmeden, Morocco
Situated in the awe-inspiring Atlas Mountains, Oukaïmeden represents a skiing paradise tucked away in Morocco. Known as the highest ski resort in Africa, Oukaïmeden sets itself apart with its untouched beauty and the rugged allure of its landscape. The resort’s slopes, over 10,000 feet, are clad in snow from late December until March or April, crafting an ideal skiing environment. Read Also: Snowfall in Africa: Discover The 8 African Countries Where It Snows
Despite its seclusion, Oukaïmeden doesn’t compromise on facilities – from ski lifts and chairlifts to ski rentals; it caters to the varying needs of both local and overseas skiers. Its high altitude offers skiers a one-of-a-kind experience with snow conditions often likened to “hard off-piste ice” in certain parts, adding a dose of excitement to the skiing adventure. Coupled with its affordability and the propensity for clear weather, skiers can enjoy unrivaled views of the surrounding landscapes, etching Oukaïmeden as a must-visit skiing destination in Africa.
The resort plays a significant role in becoming a primary tourist attraction, striving to enhance its sustainability and appeal for Moroccan and foreign visitors alike. Beyond its winter offerings, Oukaïmeden is a popular summer hotspot. From hiking and horse riding to mountain biking, it hosts many activities, promising a versatile and engrossing experience year-round. Conveniently located just 50 miles south of Marrakech, Oukaïmeden is an easily accessible, unforgettable skiing experience within the heart of the Atlas Mountains.
2. Afriski Mountain Resort, Lesotho
Perched in the Maluti Mountains of Lesotho, Afriski Mountain Resort offers a unique skiing experience in Africa. At an elevation of 3,050 meters above sea level, it stands as the lone skiing resort in Lesotho and one of the three ski resorts in southern Africa. The resort features a 1-kilometer main slope, regularly supplemented with man-made snow, ensuring a skiing season that spans around three months each year.
Afriski’s modern snow-making facilities and ski lifts cater to a world-class skiing experience, making it a highly sought-after destination among skiing enthusiasts. But the appeal of Afriski extends beyond the winter months. With various activities like mountain biking, hiking, and 4×4 trails, it serves as a year-round hotspot for adventurers and those seeking respite in nature. Read Also: Kenya’s top 5 destinations for an unforgettable journey
Brimming with all-season appeal, Afriski Mountain Resort offers skiing and snowboarding in winter and a number of outdoor pursuits in summer. This makes it a versatile destination for travelers who can enjoy both the thrill of adventure and the tranquility of relaxation. With its breathtaking mountain vistas, state-of-the-art facilities, and a range of accommodation options, Afriski Mountain Resort is a must-visit skiing from Southern Africa.
3. Chréa, Algeria
Chréa, located in the Province of Blida, Algeria, is a distinctive skiing destination in Africa. The ski resort, situated in the heart of the Chréa National Park, offers the allure of skiing on natural snow, creating a unique experience for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The resort spans 0.5 km of picturesque slopes, with elevations ranging from 1,480 to 1,520 meters, providing a scenic stage for winter sports.
With 4 lifts to transport guests, Chréa ensures efficient navigation around its area. The highlight of the resort lies in its stunning Atlas cedar forests, which paint a breathtaking backdrop against the snow-clad slopes. As it gradually regains popularity, Chréa offers visitors an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle and a rare opportunity to ski amidst Africa’s natural splendor.
Beyond its winter appeal, Chréa’s charm extends to its rich biodiversity. The Chréa National Park includes the resort, covers 36,985 hectares, and is home to over 1,240 plant and animal species, including the endangered Barbary macaque. This rich flora and fauna, combined with Chréa’s unique skiing experience, make it an enticing destination for nature enthusiasts and skiers alike. Despite its compact size, Chréa promises a unique and unforgettable skiing experience, securing its place among Africa’s notable skiing resorts.
4. Tiffindell Ski Resort, South Africa
Located in the Southern Drakensberg and nestled on the slope of Ben McDhui, the highest peak in the Cape Province, Tiffindell Ski Resort is South Africa’s only ski resort and one of just two in South Africa. The resort, recognized as one of CNN’s “Top 100 Ski Runs of the World“, offers various activities throughout the year, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing.
At an altitude of 2720m, Tiffindell transforms into a bustling hub for the sport of skiing during the winter months of June, July, and August. It offers over 150 beds and is a fully equipped hospitality center with ski lifts, a restaurant, a ski shop, and a ski school. It’s not just for the avid skier or snowboarder either; Tiffindell welcomes those who simply wish to frolic in the snow, making snowmen, throwing snowballs, or tobogganing.
Tiffindell’s state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment ensures that the fun doesn’t stop, even when Mother Nature is uncooperative. They can create snow throughout the season, ensuring the pistes remain ready for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. In an average season, it remains open for winter sports enthusiasts consistently. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-timer, Tiffindell Ski Resort offers an exhilarating and unique winter sports experience in the heart of South Africa.
5. Michlifen, Morocco
Michlifen, tucked away in the Meknès-Tafilalet Region of Morocco, is a distinctive gem among African skiing destinations. Its location, nestled between elevations of 1,880 and 2,060 meters, provides 1 km of ski slopes, making it an intimate and cozy haven for skiing and snowboarding die-hards. The resort, serviced by 2 lifts, exudes a luxury Alpine chalet atmosphere, giving visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
In close proximity to Ifrane National Park, the Michlifen Resort & Golf offers an array of world-class amenities. Guests can enjoy air-conditioned rooms and suites, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and a spa boasting a hot tub, sauna, and Hammam. The resort also offers beauty and massage treatments and an indoor swimming pool, making it an oasis of relaxation after a day on the slopes.
Michlifen has received high ratings from couples seeking a two-person trip, reflecting its excellent location and service levels. The resort’s weather, generally boasting mild temperatures and abundant sunshine, further enhances its appeal as a destination for skiing and other outdoor activities. Despite occasional criticisms regarding crowded lifts and a small ski track, Michlifen’s unique ambiance and facilities make it a desirable destination for a winter getaway in Africa.
6. Matroosberg, South Africa
Matroosberg, located in the Western Cape province of South Africa, is a distinctive skiing destination in the region. The ski resort boasts 2 km of slopes at an elevation of 2,005 m, providing terrain suitable for various skill levels. Since 1935, The Ski Club of South Africa, established in 1930, has been enjoying the ski terrain of Matroosberg.
Matroosberg isn’t only about skiing; it’s also home to the Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve, situated on a fully operational farm, Erfdeel. Visitors can engage in different activities, including hiking, camping, and even swimming in the estate’s crystal-clear pools. The snowiest month to visit Matroosberg is typically June, with an average of 1.3 snowy days and 4.7 inches of snowfall during the week.
The ski area is celebrated for its range of ski trails, including forest areas and high alpine terrain, offering a diverse and engaging experience for skiers and snowboarders. The resort also offers skiing and snowboarding lessons and equipment rentals, making it convenient for visitors to have an all-involved winter sports experience. Matroosberg is a much-loved skiing destination in Africa, hosting a suite of winter sports facilities, varied ski trails, and a unique working farm experience. It caters to varied skill levels and offers an unparalleled winter sports experience in the Western Cape province of South Africa.
7. Ski Namibia
Unlike the other mentioned skiing destinations, skiing in Namibia may not involve traditional snow, but it offers a unique and thrilling experience through sand skiing. The country’s sand dunes, particularly in the Namib Desert, provide an exceptional setting for this activity. The alpine town of Mischliffen is known for sand skiing and is sometimes referred to as North Africa’s version of Aspen, showcasing the popularity of this unconventional sport in the region. Additionally, the sand ski area in Namibia, known as Ski Namibia, offers a one-of-a-kind skiing experience on the picturesque sand slopes, attracting adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
While Namibia may not be a typical skiing destination, it stands out as an exciting location for those looking to explore alternative skiing experiences amidst stunning desert landscapes. In Africa, Namibia is recognized for offering unique outdoor adventures, and sand skiing is a testament to the diversity of activities available in the country. The Namib Desert, with its vast and mesmerizing sand dunes, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for activities such as hiking, four-wheel driving, and photography.
Therefore, Ski Namibia contributes to the country’s reputation as an underrated outdoor destination, providing visitors with an exhilarating and unconventional skiing experience in a breathtaking desert setting. While traditional snow skiing may be more common in other parts of the world, Namibia’s sand skiing scene offers a distinctive and memorable adventure for those seeking non-stop excitement in a truly remarkable environment.
Bottom Line
These breathtaking destinations reveal a side of Africa that is less trodden but equally thrilling. From the heights of Oukaïmeden to the dunes of Namibia, Africa’s skiing scene is an undiscovered gem just waiting for you to explore. So, bundle up, grab your skis, and set off on a snowy (or sandy!) African adventure that you won’t forget. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or trying out the slopes for the first time, these magnificent destinations offer something for everyone.