Mount Kilimanjaro
Discover the Majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa's Highest Peak and a Climber's Dream Destination
Mount Kilimanjaro, an awe-inspiring natural wonder, stands proudly as Africa's tallest mountain, reaching a breathtaking altitude of 5,895 meters above sea level. Nestled in northeast Tanzania, near the Kenya border, this majestic peak was born from the dramatic geological forces that formed the Great Rift Valley. Its isolated presence above the sprawling plains creates a unique microclimate, fostering fertile lands teeming with life. Adventurers flock to this extinct volcano, lured by its snow-capped summit and the promise of unparalleled views.
Scaling Kilimanjaro is more than a climb; it’s a life-changing experience. Guided by seasoned experts, trekkers traverse an incredible variety of landscapes, from lush equatorial jungles to stark alpine deserts, before reaching the icy pinnacle. Each route offers its own charm, whether you’re exploring vibrant forests alive with birdsong or marveling at the serene solitude of moorlands. Whether you're drawn by the promise of an epic challenge or the vibrant biodiversity surrounding the mountain, Kilimanjaro promises to leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Mount Kilimanjaro Facts
- Size & Location: 756km² on the border of Tanzania and Kenya, just south of the Equator
- When to visit the park: June - Oct, Dec - March (preferred seasons for climbing Kilimanjaro)
- Climate: Lower slopes warm and pleasant (15-20°C). Above 4 000m temperatures drop rapidly
- Rainfall: Up to 2000mm per annum in the forest belt
- Altitude: Peak Kibo: 5 895m above sea level Peak Mawenski: 5 149m above sea level
Information On Mount Kilimanjaro
The highest mountain in Africa, located in Northeast Tanzania, near the Kenya border. Born of the catastrophic movements in the Earth's crust that created the Great Rift Valley that runs from the Red Sea through Tanzania to Southern Africa, Kilimanjaro is an extinct volcano and is one of the most massive in the world. This great mountain creates a microclimate around itself and the rain-shadow created to the South and East supplies the beautiful and superbly fertile lands. For the adventurous, a climb of Mount Kilimanjaro is a must taking you through the mists of the equatorial jungle to reach the snows and breath-taking views from the summit.
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park comprises all of the mountains above the tree line and six forest corridors that stretch through the montane forest belt.
The climb up Mount Kilimanjaro is a very rewarding experience and is a must for fit adventure-seekers. Experienced guides, accompanied by porters, lead visitors to the top of the mountain via various routes, passing through a variety of vegetation - forests, alpine vegetation, semi-desert, moorland - before reaching the icy top. Visitors can arrange such tours from Moshi or Arusha. The climbs can take anywhere from 5-8 days. While the mountain can be climbed all year round, the most popular time is around December-January. April, May and November should be avoided because rainfall is heavy at that time.
Mt Kilimanjaro Tanzania is the Everest of Africa, with its summit close to the altitude of Mt. Everest's base camp. Yet Kilimanjaro does not stand out as the highest peak in a snow-capped mountain range. It rises in complete isolation in a land of flat plains grazed by elephants, zebras and other African animals. Few large animals are found in this zone though colobus and blue monkeys can often be seen other inhabitants such as smaller antelopes and leopards are very shy. Many colourful birds are found here, the most noticeable being the Hornbill and the Turaco with its dark red wing markings. Eagles and buzzards soar high above and smaller birds such as the alpine chat and streaky seed eater can also be seen.
Main Attractions Of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Hike to the summit of Kilimanjaro (5 895m) via many access trails
- Scenic drive up the mountain (up to 2000m weather permitting)
- Pass through a variety of vegetation on your hike up to the summit
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro located?
The famed Mount Kilimanjaro is located north-east of Arusha, not far at all from the border of Kenya. Click here for a Google Map pointing out the exact location; Google Maps - Mount Kilimanjaro
One can also have a look at the map near the bottom of this page for accommodation located around Kilimanjaro.