Mount Richard-Molard
Mountain Guinea's highest mountain on the Ivory Coast border
Mount Richard‑Molard (Mount Nimba’s summit) sits on the Guinea-Ivory Coast border; at about 1,752 metres it draws ecotourists and researchers exploring montane forest and endemic fauna.
Mount Richard-Molard, often called Mount Nimba, is the highest summit of the Nimba Range on the border between Guinea and Ivory Coast, rising to about 1,752 metres.
The peak and its high-elevation slopes host specialised montane habitats and endemic species; scientific and conservation-oriented visits are the primary reasons people visit. The summit offers ridge walks and steep terrain characteristic of the Nimba massif.
The mountain is named after the French geographer Richard-Molard and has been included within regional conservation efforts as part of the Mount Nimba protected complex. Its ecological importance has led to international recognition and protective designations.
The summit lies along the international boundary in southeastern Guinea’s highland region, within the Mount Nimba conservation area and close to adjoining territories in neighbouring Ivory Coast.
- Elevation: Summit elevation is approximately 1,752 metres, making it the highest point of the Nimba Range and one of the highest in the region.
- Protected status: Sits within the broader Mount Nimba protected area and is known for its endemic high-altitude flora and fauna.
How to Get to Mount Richard-Molard #
Mount Richard‑Molard (the Mount Nimba summit) lies within the Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve in Guinea’s Nzérékoré Region. Access is by organised trek only - typically arranged from regional towns such as Nzérékoré - and requires permission from reserve authorities. Expect rough forest roads to the trailheads and plan for multi‑day hikes with a local guide.
Tips for Visiting Mount Richard-Molard #
- Mount Richard‑Molard (the highest point in Guinea) is reached via routes that require advance permission-coordinate with the Mount Nimba reserve administration and hire an experienced local guide familiar with transboundary regulations.
- Start very early in the day to avoid midday heat and to increase chances of wildlife sightings along the montane slopes; controlled, guided ascents let you learn about the endemic flora that many climbers overlook.
- Because the peak sits in a protected reserve, prioritize guided, permitted visits rather than independent scrambling-the ridgelands are ecologically sensitive and access is managed to protect endemic species.
Best Time to Visit Mount Richard-Molard #
Hike Mount Richard‑Molard in the dry season (November-April) when trails are firmer and visibility is best.
Weather & Climate near Mount Richard-Molard #
Mount Richard-Molard's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Mediterranean - Warm-Summer Mediterranean climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 11°C to 29°C. Heavy rainfall (2022 mm/year), wettest in September with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 11°C. The driest month with just 21 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 13°C. Significant rainfall (124 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (180 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (182 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 13°C. Heavy rain (240 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (240 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (328 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (353 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (204 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (70 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 11°C. Light rainfall.
