Africa is a landmass rich in natural resources and landmarks. Among its most notable features are its mountains. Here is a list of the highest mountains in Africa, including their location.
Mountains are one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring features on Earth.
They can also be treacherous, with conditions that can change rapidly and lead to deadly avalanches or flash flooding. But for many, the lure of summiting the tallest peak is irresistible.
Related: The Top 10 Highest Mountains in the World
List of Highest Mountains in Africa and their Location.
Here are ten of the highest mountains in Africa, measured from base to peak.
1. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
- Elevation: 5,895 Meters
- Location: Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania
- Range: Kilimanjaro
- Highest Point: Uhuru Peak
Mount Kilimanjaro has long been recognized as one of Earth’s most awe-inspiring natural landmarks.
With its dramatic peak towering high above the surrounding landscape, it is no wonder that this impressive mountain draws climbers from all over the world in search of adventure and challenge.
At a height of 5,895 meters, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.
It is located at the northeastern tip of Tanzania, just a few kilometers from the border with Kenya.
Thanks to its unique geology and position near large bodies of water, Kilimanjaro experiences varying climatic conditions throughout the year, resulting in a wide range of plant and animal life that can be observed while climbing this majestic mountain.
Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or simply looking for an exciting vacation experience, there is no doubt that climbing Mount Kilimanjaro will be a journey you’ll never forget.
2. Mount Kenya, Kenya
- Elevation: 5,199 Meters
- Location: Mount Kenya National Park, Kenya
- Range: Mount Kenya
- Highest Point: Batian Peak
Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro.
This impressive peak is located just north of the equator in the central part of the country, in an area known as the Kenyan Highlands.
Mount Kenya is a magnificent natural wonder and an iconic landmark of Kenya.
This majestic mountain is an impressive sight with a height that toweringly exceeds the surrounding landscape.
Despite its enormous height, Mount Kenya has a broad base and gentle slopes that are somewhat more accessible than other mountains of similar stature.
Visitors can hike through the richly forested foothills or climb the famous Sirimon route to marvel at this majestic mountain.
Whether you are a nature lover or an avid adventurer, there’s something exceptional about seeing Mount Kenya with your own eyes.
So why not make plans to experience this breathtaking natural wonder for yourself? You won’t regret it!
3. Highest Mountains in Africa – Mount Stanley
- Elevation: 5,109 Meters
- Location: Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda
- Range: Rwenzori Mountains
- Highest Point: Margherita Peak
Mount Stanley, also known as Mount Ngaliema, is the third-highest mountain in Africa and the tallest peak in Uganda.
This towering mountain is located in the Rwenzori Mountains, which straddle the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Rwenzori Mountains are often called the “Mountains of Moon” for their remote and otherworldly appearance.
The journey to the summit of Mount Stanley is one you’ll never forget. The hike may be challenging, but your reward will make it all worthwhile!
This majestic mountain is renowned for its rugged beauty and diverse landscape, and it is a popular attraction for both local and international visitors.
Years of weathering have created cliffs and jagged slopes on Mount Stanley’s flanks while glaciers stretch down from its towering peaks.
In addition to attracting hikers and climbers, this iconic mountain also plays a vital role in the regional ecosystem.
Because of its high elevation, Mount Stanley acts as a watershed, collecting precipitation that would otherwise flow off the mountainside.
As a result, this majestic peak provides much-needed water to wildlife, farms, and communities in the surrounding area.
Whether you want to enjoy the magnificent views or support local ecosystems and economies, Mount Stanley is worth a visit!
4. Mount Speke
- Elevation: 4,890 Meters
- Location: Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda
- Range: Rwenzori Mountains
- Highest Point: Vittorio Emanuele II Peak
Mount Speke is one of the highest mountains in Africa, with a peak that reaches over 16,000 feet into the sky.
This imposing mountain is located deep within the heart of the Ruwenzori Mountains, a vast and rugged range nestled along the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Due to its remote location and challenging terrain, Mount Speke is somewhat rarely climbed by mountaineers.
However, those brave few who have made it to its summit have reported expansive views of high snow-capped peaks, dense forests below, and some truly stunning wildlife such as gorillas, monkeys, and elephants.
Given these points, whether you are an experienced climber or an adventure lover, it is well worth trek out to Mount Speke to experience its unparalleled beauty and majesty.
5. Highest Mountains in Africa – Mount Baker
- Elevation: 4,843 Meters
- Location: Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda
- Range: Rwenzori Mountains
- Highest Point: Edward Peak
Mount Baker is one of the tallest mountains in Africa, towering over all other peaks in the region.
Located in Uganda, this imposing peak is a natural wonder that attracts countless visitors yearly.
Despite its size and altitude, Mount Baker offers more than just incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
The diverse ecosystem of this mountain is a haven for some unique wildlife and plant life found nowhere else on Earth.
From rare orchids and medicinal herbs to spectacular mountain gorillas and rare birds, there is something for every adventurous traveler to discover on Mount Baker.
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in Africa, but this majestic mountaintop on your must-see list!
6. Mount Emin
- Elevation: 4,798 Meters
- Location: Democratic Republic of Congo
- Range: Rwenzori Mountains
- Highest Point: Umberto Peak
Mount Emin is one of the highest mountains in Africa, with a peak that reaches over 15,000 feet into the sky.
This imposing mountain is located in the remote and rugged Rwenzori Mountains, which straddle the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The summit of Mount Emin can be reached via a challenging hike that takes several days to complete.
However, those who make it to the top are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the unique opportunity to spot some rare wildlife inhabiting this remote region.
Mount Emin has incredible biodiversity, from chimpanzees and elephants to gorillas and rare birds.
So if you’re looking for an adventure that will take you off the beaten path, this is the perfect destination!
Also, read All the Saltwater Lakes in Kenya.
7. Mount Gessi
- Elevation: 4,715 Meters
- Location: Uganda
- Range: Rwenzori Mountains
- Highest Point: Lolanda Peak
Mount Gessi is a towering peak in the Rwenzori mountains, an impressive range that stretches across the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Standing over 15,000 feet tall, this imposing mountain is a geographical marvel and a popular climbing destination among experienced mountaineers.
With its challenging terrain and treacherous slopes, Mount Gessi is widely regarded as the seventh-highest mountain in Africa, offering climbers an incredible challenge.
Those who reach the top are rewarded with breathtaking views of neighboring peaks, glacial rivers, and alpine meadows.
And though reaching the summit can be extremely difficult, those who have made the climb speak of it as a truly unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re an intrepid adventurer or simply a curious nature lover, Mount Gessi is well worth exploring.
8. Mount Meru
- Elevation: 4,566 Meters
- Location: Arusha National Park, Tanzania
- Range: Eastern Arc Mountains
- Highest Point: Socialist Peak
Mount Meru is a popular destination for both local and international travelers alike.
This towering mountain is located in Tanzania’s Arusha National Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to its natural beauty, Mount Meru is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several species of rare and endangered animals.
Because of its essential role in the local ecosystem, Mount Meru is a protected area, and climbing permits are required to summit the mountain.
However, the breathtaking views and once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing some of Africa’s most magnificent wildlife up close make the climb well worth the effort.
9. Simien Mountains
- Elevation: 4,533 Meters
- Location: Ethiopia
- Range: Simien Mountains
- Highest Point: Ras Dejen
Last but not least on our list of the highest mountains in Africa is the Simien Mountains. The Simien Mountains are a stunning range that stretches across northern Ethiopia.
With peaks that rise over 14,000 feet into the sky, these mountains offer some of the most breathtaking views in Africa.
The Simien Mountains have three distinct peaks, each unique offering scenery.
The first is Ras Dejen, the tallest peak in the range and one of the highest mountains in Africa.
Those who climb to the top are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to spot some rare wildlife inhabiting this region.
The second peak is the Kidis Yared, known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning waterfalls.
And finally, Mount Biuat is the third-highest peak in the Simien Mountains.
The Simien Mountains are also home to various rare and endangered wildlife, including the Ethiopian Wolf, the Walia Ibex, and the Gelada Baboon.
In addition, the Simien Mountains are a popular destination for hikers and climbers worldwide.
10. Mount Karisimbi
- Elevation: 4,507 Meters
- Location: Virunga National Park, Congo
- Range: Virunga Mountains
- Highest Point:
Rounding out our list of the highest mountains in Africa is Mount Karisimbi.
This majestic mountain is located in the Virunga National Park in the Congo and offers climbers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mount Karisimbi is also home to various rare and endangered wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Climbing to Mount Karisimbi can be challenging, but those who make it to the top are rewarded with unforgettable views.
Related: The Top 10 Highest Mountains in Kenya
Final Thoughts on Highest Mountains in Africa
There you have it, a list of the highest mountains in Africa and their location. Although Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain on the continent, many other peaks offer breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
So whether you want to summit the highest mountain in Africa or enjoy some incredible scenery, check out these fantastic mountains.
