The Roof of Africa
The highest mountain in Africa, snow caped and world’s highest free standing volcano. It comprises of two dormant volcanoes (Kibo 5,895m a.m.s.l and Mawenzi 5,149m a.m.s.l) and one extinct volcano (Shira 3,962m a.m.s.l) respectively. The origin of the word is not well known but it said to be a combination of the Swahili word Kilima meaning “Mountain” and the KiChagga word Njaro, loosely translated as “Whiteness” giving the name “White Mountain”.
Its size is 1,712Km2 and was declared as a National Park in 1973, officially opened for tourism in 1977, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987 and Natural Wonder of Africa in 2013. Climbing to the top which is far up into the sky it’s a life time experience that no one can forget.
Kilimanjaro Overview
Kilimanjaro National Park, home to the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, is a symbol of natural wonder and adventure that attracts trekkers and climbers from around the globe. Located in northeastern Tanzania, near the border with Kenya, this iconic park covers an area of approximately 1,688 square kilometers (652 square miles), encompassing the mountain from the montane forest belt upwards, including the summit and the surrounding moorland and highland zones.
Mount Kilimanjaro is not only Africa’s tallest mountain but also the world’s highest free-standing mountain, rising majestically to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. Its snow-capped peak, which towers over the surrounding savannah, offers one of the most iconic images of Africa. Kilimanjaro National Park was established to protect the mountain’s biodiversity and its scenic beauty, which draws visitors from across the world to attempt the climb to its summit through various routes that cater to different skill levels and experiences.
The park is distinguished by its ecological diversity, ranging from lush rainforests at its base to alpine meadows and the barren lunar landscape at higher altitudes. These ecosystems provide habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and endemic species such as the Kilimanjaro tree hyrax and the chameleon Kinyongia tavetana. Although wildlife is more sparse in the higher altitudes, the lower rainforest and moorland zones teem with flora and fauna, making the
journey through these areas as rewarding as the destination.
Kilimanjaro National Park is not just a climbing destination; it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its superlative natural phenomena, exceptional natural beauty, and conservation importance. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers a unique opportunity for personal achievement while experiencing the awe-inspiring vistas, geological features, and the sheer scale of the earth’s beauty. Whether embarking on a climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point, or exploring the lower slopes, visitors to
Kilimanjaro National Park are guaranteed an unforgettable adventure amidst one of nature’s most impressive landscapes.
Ice fields inside the Kibo crater
There are two rainy seasons in a year. The wet season is from March to May during which it rains around the mountain base and snow accumulates on its peak.
The dry season is from late June through September during which the nights are cool and the days completely clear.The park is located at an altitude between 1700 m to 5895 meter with annual average rainfall ranging from 828 mm at alpine desert to 2500 mm at Montane forest.
Getting there
Starting point -Marangu route
The park can be accessed by road or flight via Kilimanjaro International Airport – about 45km to the west. The Park Headquarters and one of the ascending gates are at Marangu, about 41Km from Moshi town and 86km from Kilimanjaro International Airport. The other seven gates of Rongai, Machame, Londorosi, Lemosho, Kilema, Mweka and Umbwe are located around the mountain base and can be reached by road.
Mountain Climbing
Climbing to Kibo peak takes 5 to 8 days depending on the route. The more days, the higher the possibility to conquer the summit. Six mountain trails can take a climber to the highest point in Africa, each route offering different attractions and challenges.
Park Attractions
The Park is endowed with a diverse variety of attractions ranging from terrestrial wilderness to permanent glaciers on the mountain peaks..
Three peaks
Kibo, the highest peak (5,895m) on Mount Kilimanjaro, is covered by snow throughout the year despite being close to the equator. Conquering this peak is an adventure of a lifetime.
Mawenzi Peak
Is the second highest peak which forms mount Kilimanjaro 5,149m. It is rugged and maintain the features of glaciation.
Shira peak
With an altitude of 3,962m, is the oldest peak that collapsed and forms a Shira plateau with outstanding scenic beauty on the mountain with several kinds of migratory large mammals such as buffaloes, elephants and especially elands.
Montane Forest – A wide band of exceptionally beautiful montane forest encircles the whole of Kilimanjaro from about 1800 – 2800m. The forest zone is worth a visit even if you are not climbing to the peaks. Marangu nature trails is particular taking you through this forest belt which supports several plant species, including endemic plants like Impatiens kilimanjari
Zonation of Vegetation
Five eco-climatic zones take you to the equivalent of a trip from the equator to the arctic in a brief tour. As one climb Kilimanjaro, vegetation and weather changes in response to the changing elevation from montane forest, heath and moorland, alpine desert and the summit zone (arctic). The mountain peak is covered by snow all year-round
Lauwo Waterfall
Located along Marangu route 2.8Kms provides a spectacular experience while enjoying walking inside the thick montane forest.
Maundi Crater
Located just 15 minutes walk past Mandara huts on the Marangu route the crater provides a panoramic view of Lakes Chala, Jipe and Nyumba ya Mungu, all of which derive their waters from the Majestic Kilimanjaro.
Kifinika Cultural Site
This is a site along Marangu route that is sacred by the local Chagga people. Historically, the site was used for cultural rituals.
Birds and Animals
The park harbors a total number of 140 species of mammals; 7 primates, 25 carnivores, 25 antelopes, 24 species of bat and 179 bird species
Activities
The park is endowed with various tourism activities that visitors can do during their visit. The activities includes; Mountain Climbing to the Summit (MC), Paragliding, Nature Walking Safaris (Short Walking Safaris (SWS)), Long Walking Safaris (LWS), Mawenzi Technical Climbing (MTC), Picnicking, Filming, Non-Summit Bound Climbers, Crater Camping and Mountain Cycling (MB).
Mountain Cycling
Tourists have a chance to cycle inside the park. There are two routes, one for summit bound visitors (Kilema route) and second one for non summit visitors (Shira plateau). These routes are equipped with picnic sites and resting points.
Mawenzi Technical Climbing
Mawenzi is the second highest peak on Mount Kilimanjaro. Technical climbers can hike the present seven sub-peaks enjoying the view of cliffs, complex of gullies and rock faces.
Paragliding
Tourists can fly from the top of Mount Kilimanjaro and tourists may use parachutes or wingsuits while undertaking this activity.
Non-Summit Bound Climbers
Activities for non-summit bound climbers include:
Visit to the water falls (Lauwo)
Visiting the Shira Plateau
Watching wildlife including high altitude birds
Walking through the Mountain Forest
Day walk to Maundi crater in the park, Lake Chala and cultural sites such as Kifunika and cultural camps in the villages around
Accommodations
The Park provides a variety of accommodations ranging from Mountain huts, hostel and 32 public campsites. Booking for huts and hostel is done through licensed local tour operators.
Mountain huts
The park provides accommodation for Mountain climbers using Marangu route at Mandara, Horombo and Kibo mountain huts Mandara 118beds, Horombo 238 beds and Kibo 90beds.