Climbing in Africa

Climbing in Zimbabwe: An Uncelebrated Land of Rock

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Zimbabwe is not as well known to climbers as other African countries, so it may come as a surprise to some that Zimbabwe has loads of excellent climbing. The amount of rock in Zimbabwe is really impressive, the potential for first ascents is huge and in some areas of the country there are beautiful large granite domes & kopjes extending as far as the eye can see. In general, the rock quality was very high and there are some superb walls to enjoy. Aside from climbing, we thought Zimbabwe was a wonderful country, the people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. We spent three and a half weeks in Zimbabwe, but we could easily have spent much longer, there is so much to do we would love to return one day and experience more of what the country has to offer.

Climber on a smooth blaze orange boulder, pulling on small granite crimps.
Excellent rock in the East Matopos
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Climbing in Angola: A True African Gem

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Angola is somewhere we had wanted to visit for a few years, ever since we first saw pictures of Pedras Negras and all the other amazing landscapes in the country. When the time came for a trip to Sub-Saharan Africa, it was right at the top of the list as somewhere that had awesome climbing, amazing variety, lots of culture and the chance to have an authentic adventure. Angola delivered all of what we had hoped for and more. The climbing was world class, the people were wonderful and you can have a genuine travel experience, without a tourist in sight. We spent four weeks in Angola and as well as being a highlight of our time in Africa, it is right up there as one of our favourite countries we’ve ever visited.

Tall rock monoliths rising from the bush savanna.
A tiny section of the vast and otherworldly landscape of Pedras Negras
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Climbing in Namibia: Desert Adventures

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Namibia is one of the world’s most sparsely populated countries, renowned for its harsh but beautiful desert environments. For climbers, Namibia is one of the better known countries in Africa, with several climbing areas to choose from. Whilst Namibia is a fairly large country, the climbing areas are mostly quite close together, in the central part of the country, on a plateau sandwiched between the Namib desert to the west and the Kalahari desert to the east. We enjoyed 3 weeks in Namibia, spending almost all of that time camping in the desert, which is a really great way to experience the stunning natural environment. One of the best things about the country is you will be outdoors virtually the whole time, it is a great destination for nature lovers.

Large, golden granite domes with huge boulders scattered across the steep slopes.
A beautiful view of Große Spitzkoppe from the Sugarloaf
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