Mountain Climbing and Rock Climbing in Africa
South Africa offers some of the greatest and most varied rock climbing in the world and some of its cliffs have yet to be discovered. Some of the best climbing can be found in Mpumalanga, while the cities of Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg are also located close to incredible terrains.
Kenya boasts some fantastic rock climbing opportunities though some are difficult to reach by road. Many of them are located within national parks, ensuring that the natural scenery is maintained. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania features some excellent climbing opportunities. Cameroon Mountain is West Africa’s highest peak and is ideal for beginners to mountain climbing while Morocco’s Atlas Mountains offer several routes of differing standards.
The Hell, South Africa Situated on private property and home to several crocodiles, this area features over 40 multi pitch natural climbs. Permission is needed to enter this uncultivated wild terrain, but it is well worth the bother.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Featuring single-pitch crag routes and areas of wilderness, KwaZulu-Natal offers diverse and exhilarating climbing opportunities. Snow or ice climb in the Drakensberg Mountains or mount the crag of White Umfolozi. It is possible to undertake both sport climbing and traditional climbing in the area.
Table Mountain, South Africa Looming over Cape Town is the majestic white stoned Table Mountain with its many climbing opportunities for experienced rock climbers. Enjoy panoramic views of Table Bay, Robben Island and the townships of Khayelitsha and Guguletu.
Waterval Boven, South Africa Nestled in the Drakensberg Mountains, the world renowned climbing destination of Waterval Boven offers a multitude of experiences for the outdoor enthusiast, while hiking and swimming options are also in abundance.
Mount Kenya, Kenya Between the months of July and September Mount Kenya offers challenging ice routes on its southern side and incredible rock climbing on its eastern and northern sides. Following the Normal Route to Nelion, adventurers can reach the summit or cross the mist to Batian.
Hell’s Gate, Kenya Famed amongst serious climbers, Hell’s Gate provides wonderful climbs for the experienced. Explore a low section of gorge or climb Fischer’s Tower and camp at Hell’s Gate. Park entry fees must be paid as the rocks are located within a national park.
Nzaui, Kenya The vast cliffs of Nzaui offer panoramic views of Kibo and the plains. Covered in mature pine forest, the environment is stunning even though the climb itself is not spectacular. It is not necessary to carry a lot of equipment as most of it will not be needed.
Tsavo National Park, Kenya Though tricky to reach, Tsavo offers some of the best climbing and scenery in Kenya. Imposing rock faces can pose a challenge to climbers, although generally pegs are not needed. Because of the extreme heat it is advised that climbers start out early in the morning.
Mawenzi, Tanzania The second highest summit of Kilimanjaro, Mawenzi is made up of several peaks that are climbable though the rock is somewhat poor in places. In good snow conditions the climb can be simple, but it is best undertaken early to evade falling rock due to melting snow.
Mount Toubkal, Morocco Close to the city of Marrakech lies Morocco’s highest peak, Mount Toubkal. Suitable for absolute beginners, visitors can climb the summit with use of crampons and ice-axes. Stunning view over the craggy Atlas ranges extend southwards all the way to the Sahara.
Mount Cameroon, Cameroon Rising from the Gulf of Guinea is West Africa’s highest peak, the active volcano of Mount Cameroon. Occasionally receiving snow at its summit, this climb is less challenging than the mountains of East Africa and no specialist equipment is needed.