Mount Richard-MolardAbout Mount Richard-Molard
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.
Nearby Attractions to Mount Richard-Molard
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.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Ideal | 11° - 29° | 20° | 21 mm | mostly sunny | 49% | 1.7 m/s | 1.7 very high | 11.6h |
| February | Excellent | 12° - 29° | 21° | 54 mm | some cloud | 57% | 1.6 m/s | 1.9 very high | 11.8h |
| March | Very Good | 13° - 28° | 20° | 124 mm | partly cloudy | 71% | 1.7 m/s | 2.0 extreme | 12.0h |
| April | Good | 14° - 27° | 20° | 180 mm | overcast | 78% | 1.5 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.2h |
| May | Good | 14° - 26° | 20° | 182 mm | overcast | 84% | 1.2 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.3h |
| June | Good | 13° - 25° | 19° | 240 mm | overcast | 87% | 1.4 m/s | 1.8 very high | 12.4h |
| July | Good | 14° - 24° | 19° | 240 mm | overcast | 88% | 1.5 m/s | 1.7 very high | 12.4h |
| August | Good | 14° - 24° | 19° | 328 mm | overcast | 89% | 2.0 m/s | 1.8 very high | 12.2h |
| September | Good | 14° - 25° | 19° | 353 mm | overcast | 89% | 1.8 m/s | 2.0 very high | 12.1h |
| October | Good | 14° - 26° | 20° | 204 mm | overcast | 87% | 1.8 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 11.8h |
| November | Very Good | 13° - 26° | 20° | 70 mm | partly cloudy | 81% | 1.7 m/s | 1.8 very high | 11.7h |
| December | Excellent | 11° - 27° | 19° | 26 mm | some cloud | 65% | 1.7 m/s | 1.6 very high | 11.6h |
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.