Best Ski Resorts in Africa: A Hidden Winter Wonderland
Skiing in Africa? You read that right. While Africa may not be the first destination that comes to mind for snow sports, this diverse continent offers several unique and high-altitude ski resorts that will surprise even seasoned winter adventurers. From the snow-capped Atlas Mountains in Morocco to the peaks of Lesotho and South Africa, African ski resorts are gaining recognition as exciting, off-the-beaten-path destinations for skiers and snowboarders alike.
Whether you're looking for a family-friendly ski getaway or a one-of-a-kind adventure with friends, here’s your ultimate guide to the top ski resorts in Africa.
1. Oukaïmeden – Morocco
Location: High Atlas Mountains, near Marrakech
Altitude: 2,610 m – 3,268 m
Skiable terrain: ~10 km, 7 lifts
Closest airport: Marrakech Menara Airport (1.5 hours away)
Oukaïmeden is the highest and most developed ski resort in North Africa. Located just a 90-minute drive from Marrakech, this Moroccan gem offers stunning panoramic views and a unique blend of Berber culture and winter sports. The ski area features a 3-kilometer downhill run, ski rentals, and local guides. For a day trip from Marrakech or an overnight adventure, Oukaïmeden delivers a memorable snow experience in an unexpected setting.
Pro tip: Book a guided tour to combine skiing with a cultural exploration of nearby Berber villages.
2. Tiffindell – South Africa
Location: Eastern Cape, Drakensberg Mountains
Altitude: 2,700 m – 2,930 m
Skiable terrain: 2.4 km, 5 lifts
Closest airport: Mthatha (130 km) or Johannesburg (9-hour drive)
Tiffindell is South Africa’s only official ski resort and one of the continent's top winter destinations. Rated among CNN’s Top 100 Ski Runs in the World, it offers a full Alpine experience, complete with accommodation, restaurants, bars, rental equipment, and a snowpark. Open during the Southern Hemisphere winter (June to August), Tiffindell provides snowmaking capabilities to guarantee skiing even when natural snow is low.
Pro tip: Check out their Winter Sports Academy and terrain park for both beginners and freestyle enthusiasts.
3. Afriski – Lesotho
Location: Maluti Mountains
Altitude: 3,030 m – 3,222 m
Skiable terrain: 1.8 km, 2 lifts
Closest airport: Johannesburg (6-hour drive)
Nestled high in the mountains of Lesotho, Afriski is a remote resort with alpine-style chalets, lively après-ski, and snow activities like tubing and slalom racing. It’s one of only two ski resorts in Sub-Saharan Africa and a hotspot for adventurous travelers looking to ski in July or August. The setting is dramatic, with runs that cut through bare mountain slopes dusted in snow.
Pro tip: Try the Monster Rollers (fat tire snow bikes) for a thrilling ride down the slopes.
4. Tikjda – Algeria
Location: Djurdjura Mountains, Bouïra Province
Altitude: 1,600 m – 1,800 m
Skiable terrain: ~1 km
Closest airport: Algiers (approx. 2-hour drive)
Tikjda is Algeria’s best-known ski destination, offering a blend of snow sports and stunning mountain vistas. Though relatively small, Tikjda is a popular weekend escape for locals. Visitors can ski, snowboard, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding cedar forests.
Pro tip: Even if you're not skiing, the region is perfect for hiking and photography.
5. Michlifen – Morocco
Location: Near Ifrane, Middle Atlas Mountains
Altitude: 1,880 m – 2,060 m
Skiable terrain: 1 km, 2 lifts
Closest airport: Fès-Saïss Airport (1 hour away)
Known as the "Switzerland of Morocco", Ifrane boasts alpine-style architecture and a cool climate year-round. The nearby Michlifen resort offers beginner-friendly slopes and charming accommodations, including a 5-star hotel at the base. Though modest in size, the snow conditions are often excellent in winter.
Pro tip: Don’t leave without exploring Ifrane’s picturesque town center and nearby national parks.
6. Chréa – Algeria
Location: Blida Province
Altitude: 1,460 m – 1,550 m
Skiable terrain: 0.5 km, 3 lifts
Closest airport: Houari Boumediene Airport, Algiers (1 hour away)
Chréa was a vibrant winter resort in the 1940s and is now making a comeback. While the ski area is small, the charm lies in its authenticity, welcoming locals, and stunning views of the Atlas Mountains. The resort sits within Chréa National Park, a great spot for nature lovers.
Pro tip: Enjoy a warm mint tea with panoramic views from the top.
7. Matroosberg – South Africa
Location: Western Cape, near Ceres
Altitude: 1,794 m – 2,132 m
Skiable terrain: ~2 km, 2 lifts
Closest airport: Cape Town International Airport (2-hour drive)
Unlike traditional resorts, Matroosberg is a private farm that offers skiing and snowboarding for members of the South African Ski Club. It's ideal for adventurous travelers who want to mix skiing with activities like abseiling, 4x4 trails, and mountain biking.
Pro tip: Rent a 4x4 vehicle to explore rugged mountain paths and make the most of your winter trip.
8. Ski Egypt – Cairo, Egypt
Location: Mall of Egypt, 6th October City
Altitude: Indoor (150 – 180 m)
Skiable terrain: 0.6 km, 1 lift
Ski Egypt is Africa’s first and only indoor snow park, located in the heart of Cairo. Open year-round, it offers skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and family-friendly fun in sub-zero temperatures. This is a perfect introduction to snow sports or a novelty stop during a trip to Egypt.
Pro tip: Great for families and first-time skiers who want to experience snow in the desert!
Final Thoughts: Why Ski in Africa?
Skiing in Africa isn’t about chasing powder days or racking up vertical meters — it’s about the experience. You’ll ski on some of the continent’s highest peaks, meet passionate locals, and discover mountain cultures that blend tradition and adventure. It's a winter escape with a twist — and the perfect reason to pack your skis and explore the unexpected.
Whether you're planning a full snow trip or want to add a few ski days to your African travels, these resorts prove that yes, you can ski in Africa — and it's absolutely worth it.
