3 North African countries where it snows

When people search for African countries snow, they may be surprised to learn that parts of the continent experience regular snowfall during the winter months. While Africa is often associated with warm temperatures, deserts and tropical climates, several countries have mountainous regions where temperatures fall low enough for snow.

Snow falls in several North African countries, particularly in mountainous areas where higher elevations bring much colder temperatures during winter.

The Atlas Mountains, which stretch across Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia, are among the main areas where snowfall occurs. The European Space Agency notes that the mountain system extends through the three countries, with some of its highest peaks regularly covered in snow.

Here are three North African countries where visitors can see snow during the colder months.

1. Morocco

Morocco is arguably the best-known North African destination for experiencing snow.

The country’s Atlas Mountains contain some of the highest elevations in Africa, including Mount Toubkal, which rises to more than 4,000 metres.

Snow is particularly common in the higher parts of the High Atlas and Middle Atlas during winter.

One of the most famous snowy destinations is Ifrane, a mountain city located at about 1,650 metres above sea level.

The Moroccan National Tourist Office describes Ifrane as having “white winters” and highlights its location in the Middle Atlas Mountains. The city is also home to the Michlifen ski resort.

Another popular destination is Oukaïmeden, a ski resort in the High Atlas near Marrakech. Located at an altitude of more than 2,650 metres, it is one of Africa’s highest ski resorts.

Snow can also be seen around other high-altitude areas of the Atlas Mountains, making Morocco one of the easiest places in North Africa to combine a warm-weather holiday with a snowy mountain experience.

2. Algeria

Algeria is another North African country where snowfall occurs, particularly across its mountainous northern regions.

The country’s Tell Atlas, Saharan Atlas, Djurdjura and Aurès mountain ranges can experience winter snow.

One of the most popular snowy locations is Chréa, a mountain resort overlooking the city of Blida.

Chréa sits at roughly 1,458 metres above sea level and experiences cold, wet winters with snowfall. It is also home to a ski resort and forms part of Chréa National Park.

Tikjda, located in the Djurdjura mountain range, is another destination associated with winter snow and mountain tourism.

The higher elevations of Algeria can therefore look dramatically different during winter, with snow covering forests, mountain roads and peaks.

3. Tunisia

Tunisia may be better known for its Mediterranean beaches and warm climate, but snow is also possible in parts of the country, particularly in the northwest.

The main snowy area is the Kroumirie Mountains, close to the Algerian border.

One of the best-known locations is Aïn Draham, a mountain town situated at around 800 metres above sea level.

During particularly cold winters, snowfall can cover the town and surrounding forests, creating a landscape that looks very different from Tunisia’s coastal resorts.

Recent meteorological information from Tunisia identifies the country’s northwestern highlands as its main snow zone, with Aïn Draham among the locations most associated with winter snowfall.

Snow can also occur around Le Kef and other elevated parts of northwestern Tunisia during sufficiently cold weather.