Africa is widely known for its deserts and hot tropical weather. However, climate conditions across the continent differ significantly. Some countries record very low temperatures, particularly in mountainous and high-altitude areas.
Snow-covered peaks, elevated plateaus, and seasonal cold spells shape weather patterns in several parts of Africa. Based on long-term climate trends and temperature ranges, the following countries rank among the coldest on the continent.
Lesotho
Lesotho
Lesotho tops the list due to its extremely high elevation. The country is often called “The Kingdom in the Sky.” Temperatures fall below freezing during winter. Snowfall occurs frequently across the highlands, which makes it the coldest country in Africa overall.
Morocco
Morocco
Morocco records cold conditions in its mountainous regions. The Atlas Mountains experience regular snowfall. Desert zones show sharp contrasts, with intense daytime heat and cold nights.
South Africa
South Africa
South Africa has varied climatic zones. Coastal regions remain mild, but inland provinces record freezing temperatures in winter. Snowfall is common in the Drakensberg mountain range.
Tanzania
Tanzania
Despite its equatorial location, Tanzania experiences cool weather in highland areas. Regions surrounding Mount Kilimanjaro remain chilly. The mountain’s peak stays snow-capped throughout the year.
Kenya
Kenya
High-altitude zones such as Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Range record very low temperatures. Frost occurs at certain times. Coastal belts remain warm, creating strong weather contrasts.
Uganda
Uganda
Uganda maintains a tropical climate overall. Elevated landscapes and nighttime conditions bring cooler temperatures. Large lakes also influence the country’s moderate weather.
Democratic Republic Of The Congo
Democratic Republic of the Congo
The country is largely tropical. However, eastern highlands and mountainous belts experience cooler conditions. Rainforests and altitude differences shape its climate patterns.
Ethiopia
Ethiopia
Ethiopia’s vast highland plateaus contribute to its cool climate. The capital, Addis Ababa, records mild to low temperatures throughout the year. Nights are often chilly.
Algeria
Algeria
Although much of Algeria lies within the Sahara Desert, northern territories experience Mediterranean weather. Highland regions record cooler temperatures, while desert areas become cold after sunset.
Tunisia
Tunisia
Tunisia’s northern and mountainous areas experience cool winters. Frost may occur in elevated zones. Coastal regions remain comparatively moderate.
Climate Diversity Across Africa
The rankings highlight Africa’s climatic diversity. While heat dominates popular perception, altitude, terrain, and seasonal variation create cold environments in several countries. Snowfall, frost, and freezing temperatures remain regular features in some highland and mountain regions across the continent.
