MT KILIMANJARO
Size: 1,668 sq km (641 sq miles)
Established: 1921 established as a forest reserve, in 1973 as a national park, and declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1987.
Distance from Arusha: 128 km (80 miles)
Most popular tours visiting Kilimanjaro National Park
- Day Trip Mount Kilimanjaro
- Mount Kilimanjaro Climb 7 Days Machame Route
- Mount Kilimanjaro Climb 8 Days Lemosho Route
- Mount Kilimanjaro Climb 6 Days Rongai Route
DETAILED INFO
Height: Mount Kilimanjaro has three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Kibo is the highest of these peaks and stands at an impressive 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.
Climbing routes: There are several climbing routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, ranging in difficulty from relatively easy to very challenging. The most popular routes are the Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho routes.
Climate zones: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a unique experience as it passes through several distinct climate zones, including tropical rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and an arctic summit. This makes it possible to experience a wide range of landscapes and ecosystems during the climb.
Altitude sickness: As Mount Kilimanjaro is a very high-altitude mountain, climbers can suffer from altitude sickness. It is important to take precautions to prevent and manage altitude sickness, including drinking plenty of water, taking time to acclimatize, and taking medications if needed.
Accommodation: There are several huts and campsites along the climbing routes, providing basic accommodations for climbers. There are also several higher-end lodges and camps available for those who want more comfort and amenities.
Wildlife: Despite the harsh conditions on the mountain, there is still wildlife to be found on Mount Kilimanjaro, including elephants, buffalo, and monkeys.
Cultural significance: Mount Kilimanjaro is an important cultural and spiritual landmark for the local Chagga people, who have lived in the region for centuries. Visitors can learn about the Chagga culture and traditions through cultural tours and visits to traditional villages.