Most people know that Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa. But can you name the next nine tallest mountains on the continent? While we organize treks to the summits of both Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, we’re willing to bet that many of the remaining eight might be new to you!
1) Mount Kilimanjaro (19,341′) – Tanzania
Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, is a dormant volcano in northern Tanzania, near the Kenyan border. Standing at 19,341 feet, it is also the world’s highest freestanding mountain, spanning roughly 25 miles across. Every year, nearly 35,000 adventurers attempt to reach its summit.
2) Mount Kenya (17,057′) – Kenya
The second-highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kenya, is an extinct volcano located within Mount Kenya National Park. It has three main peaks: Batian (17,057′), Nelion (17,020′), and Lenana (16,354′). Many climbers say summiting Mount Kenya is more challenging than Kilimanjaro.
3) Mount Stanley (16,761′) – Democratic Republic of Congo & Uganda
Often referred to as part of the Ruwenzori Mountains, Mount Stanley is Africa’s third-highest peak. Straddling the border between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, it features multiple peaks, with Margherita Peak being the tallest. The summit is home to glaciers and glacial lakes, making it one of Africa’s most unique mountains.
4) Mount Meru (14,967′) – Tanzania
Just 43 miles west of Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest peak. This dormant stratovolcano is often used as a warm-up trek for Kilimanjaro climbers. Surrounded by Arusha National Park, its lower slopes are home to diverse wildlife, including leopards, monkeys, and over 400 bird species.
5) Ethiopian Highlands (Ras Dejen) (14,927′) – Ethiopia
The Ethiopian Highlands, also known as the “African Alps,” form the largest elevated area on the continent. The highest peak, Ras Dejen, reaches 14,927 feet. These rugged highlands host unique wildlife and distinct ecosystems shaped by the Great Rift Valley.
6) Mount Karisimbi (14,786′) – Rwanda & Democratic Republic of Congo
The tallest volcano in the Virunga Mountains, Mount Karisimbi, rises on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Unlike many African mountains, its peak is often dusted with snow, particularly during the dry season. The climb to the summit, beginning in Volcanoes National Park, takes two to three days and passes through lush bamboo forests.
7) Mount Elgon (14,176′) – Kenya & Uganda
Mount Elgon, a massive shield volcano, straddles the Kenya-Uganda border. Its highest peak, Wagagai, lies within Uganda. The mountain features one of the world’s largest intact calderas and ancient caves, once used as royal burial sites.
8) Mount Toubkal (Atlas Mountains) (13,671′) – Morocco
Toubkal is the highest peak in the Atlas Mountains, separating the Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines. This popular trekking destination also plays a significant role in Morocco’s economy due to its rich deposits of minerals, including silver, copper, and iron ore.
9) Mount Guna (13,517′) – Ethiopia
Located in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, Mount Guna is a vital water source, feeding rivers that eventually flow into Lake Tana. Local communities rely on the mountain’s resources for agriculture and freshwater.
10) Mount Choqa (13,451′) – Ethiopia
Situated near Lake Tana, Mount Choqa stands apart from other African peaks due to its cultivated slopes, which reach heights of 9,800 feet. Unlike other mountains, it lacks dense forests, with much of its terrain used for farming.
Final Thoughts
Now you know the ten highest mountains in Africa! Impress your friends with this knowledge—or better yet, plan a trip to conquer Kilimanjaro or Meru. The adventure is well worth it!
