Africa is a land of diverse and breathtaking landscapes, and its mountains are no exception. From Tanzania to Uganda, the continent boasts some of the highest peaks in the world. If you’re an adventurer looking to explore new heights, then you must be interested in knowing the highest mountains in Africa.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the highest mountains in Africa, their location, their height, and how difficult it is to climb them. So, grab your hiking boots and get ready to discover the wonder of the Highest Mountain in Africa.
Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m)
Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m) is located in Tanzania and is the highest mountain in Africa as well as the highest freestanding mountain in the world. Kilimanjaro is made up of three separate peaks: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Kibo is the highest of the three and is the most commonly climbed peak.
Despite its height, Mount Kilimanjaro is considered to be one of the easier climbs among the world’s highest peaks because it is a non-technical climb. However, altitude sickness can still be a risk and climbers must be well-prepared for the physical demands of the ascent.
Join Summit Expeditions on our next Mount Kilimanjaro Expedition.
Mount Kenya (5,199m)
Mount Kenya is the second-highest mountain in Africa with a height of 5,199 meters. It is located in Kenya and consists of three peaks: Batian, Nelion, and Lenana. Climbing to Batian and Nelion requires technical climbing skills, whilst all three demand physical fitness due to their steep terrain and altitude.
Batian is the highest of the three peaks, with a height of 5,199 meters. Nelson is the second-highest peak with a height of 5,188 meters, and it is considered a more technical climb than Batian. Lenana is the third-highest peak with a height of 4,985 meters and is considered the easiest of the three peaks to climb. Similar to Mt Kilimanjaro, this Lenana peak can be attempted by trekkers without any climbing skills.
Mount Stanley (5,109m)
Mount Stanley, located on the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is the third-highest mountain in Africa. It has several peaks, including Margherita Peak, which stands at an elevation of 5,109 meters and is the highest point in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Margherita Peak is one of the most challenging peaks to climb in Africa and requires excellent technical skills and physical fitness due to its steep and icy terrain.
Other peaks on Mount Stanley include Alexandra Peak, which is the second-highest peak on the mountain and third-highest peak in Uganda, and Albert Peak, which is the fourth-highest peak on the mountain. Climbing Mount Stanley is a challenging and rewarding experience that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mount Speke (4,890m)
Mount Speke is one of the tallest peaks in the Rwenzori Mountains, located in Uganda. At 4,890 meters, it is the fourth-highest mountain in Africa. Climbing Mount Speke is considered a challenging and technical ascent due to its steep slopes and unpredictable weather conditions.
The mountain is named after the famous British explorer, John Hanning Speke, who was the first European to sight Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa. Despite its relatively lower elevation compared to other African mountains, Mount Speke requires significant physical preparation and technical skills to climb.
Mount Meru (4,566m)
Located in Tanzania, Mount Meru is the fifth-highest mountain in Africa and is part of the Arusha National Park. It is an active volcano that last erupted in 1910. While Mount Meru is not as well-known as Mount Kilimanjaro, it is still a challenging climb that requires good physical fitness and excellent climbing skills. The ascent to the summit involves steep inclines, rocky terrain, and narrow paths, making it a technical climb.
The reward for those who make it to the top is stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. The climb takes around three to four days, with accommodation available at designated campsites along the way.
Join Summit Expeditions on our next Mount Meru Expedition.
Mount Karisimbi (4,507m)
Mount Karisimbi, with an elevation of 4,507m, is situated on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Its name translates to “white shell” in Kinyarwanda due to the white-capped summit that is often covered in snow.
Climbing Mount Karisimbi is a challenging endeavour due to its steep slopes and unpredictable weather conditions. The climb requires significant physical and mental preparation, as well as excellent technical skills. Despite the challenges, the climb is a rewarding experience, as climbers are treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby volcanoes of Mount Nyiragongo and Mount Nyamuragira.
Mount Elgon (4,321m)
Mount Elgon is a massive extinct volcano that straddles the border between Uganda and Kenya. Mount Elgon is a popular climbing destination due to its scenic beauty and relatively easy climb, making it suitable for climbers of all levels of experience.
The mountain has several peaks, including Wagagi Peak, which is the highest point in Uganda, and Sudek Peak, which is the highest point in Kenya. Climbing Mount Elgon does not require technical skills, but it does require a good level of fitness due to its steep slopes and high altitude. The climb can take up to four days, with various routes to the summit that pass through lush forests, waterfalls, and stunning landscapes.
Mount Toubkal (4,167m)
Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in the Atlas Mountains. Located in Morocco, it is a popular destination for hikers and climbers due to its challenging routes and stunning scenery. Climbing Mount Toubkal requires a good level of physical fitness and excellent climbing skills, as it has a steep and rocky terrain. The climb usually takes two to three days, with an overnight stay at a mountain refuge.
Highest Mountains in Africa
The highest mountains in Africa are not only stunning but also offer a chance to explore some of the most remote and rugged terrains on the continent. Climbing these mountains requires physical fitness, mental determination, and a sense of adventure. From the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro to the lesser-known Mount Meru, each Highest Mountain in Africa offers its own set of challenges and rewards. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable climbing experience, pack your bags and head to Africa to explore these majestic mountains.
