[vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_tabs][vc_tta_section title=”Overview” tab_id=”1535611528517-049c4958-3e9e”][vc_column_text]A free-standing, snow-covered dormant volcano, majestic Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa. Located in northeast Tanzania, it can be seen from far into Kenya and Amboseli National Park.
75,000 people climb Kilimanjaro every year so it is not the most untouched mountain, nor is it the most arduous. However, it is certainly a test of one’s endurance, with altitude sickness the main reason for climbers not to summit. Although it has become a very popular challenge and the experience slightly crowded with other climbers, we still highly recommend it for anyone with even a vague interest in mountaineering.
Mt Kilimanjaro is located in North Tanzania next to some of the top safari parks in Africa, so while making an ascent its rude not to pop infor a few days to experience the Serengeti, Ngorongoro or Tarangire.
There are hundreds of operators that work on Mount Kilimanjaro but over the years we have decided to work with only 2 companies based on their safety track record, guides and cost. Climbing Kilimanjaro is potentially very dangerous so its important to be with the right company!
How high is Kilimanjaro?
Kilimanjaro stands 5,895m or 19,340 feet high and is the highest free-standing mountain in the world. By comparison Everest is 8,848m.
Where is Kilimanjaro?
Kilimanjaro, unless climbed, is actually quite difficult to see in Tanzania. For the best view, hop over to Kenya’s Amboseli National Park (if you can handle the crowds) for that iconic Kili backdrop view. If you are lucky, you will spot it on a plane from Nairobi, as it is situated on the Tanzania/Kenya border to the East of Arusha. It is easily accessible once in Tanzania to begin your climb…
Mount Kilimanjaro Weather
March to end of May is the wet season on Mount Kilimanjaro and not a great time for trekking
How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro
This does depend on route, but the fastest assent can take 4 nights, though most people take 6-8 nights depending on route[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Activities” tab_id=”1535611528683-b8c0a4b3-dfa1″][vc_column_text]
Climbing
Most visitors who come to the park want to either see or climb Kilimanjaro. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro requires hiring a licensed guide, as solo climbers are not allowed. Depending on the type of climb you have in mind and which of the six available routes you take, the excursion costs from $1,000 to more than $5,000 as of 2011. The easiest climb is via the Marangu Route, which takes five to six days to get you to the summit. The Machame Route takes about the same time but is more scenic and more rustic, as well as more strenuous. Hiking time varies from three to eight hours per day and you will need to be in good shape.
Wildlife Watching
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is rich in both small and big game. The park itself is a moorland zone, which means you’ll find lush vegetation with plenty of rainfall. Even at ground level, you’ll still be higher than sea level, so you might have some trouble breathing and adjusting to the altitude. Easy hikes are available on the moorland, and you might need to hire an armed park ranger to reach some areas because of the potential danger from leopards, buffalos and other large animals. A trek will also allow you to see baboons, bush pigs, mongooses, elephants and a number of other animals.
Visiting the Chala Crater Lake
Located on the edge of Mount Kilimanjaro, Lake Chala is inside a high crater rim. The lake covers an area of 1.6 square miles and is one of the park’s most famous sights because of its incredible waters, which range in color from turquoise to emerald green depending on the time of the year. Lake Chala Safari Camp is the only accommodation available near the lake, where visitors can rest or choose to join a tour of the area.
Hiking
Travelers can also join hiking tours that explore the lower levels of the mountain, around the Shira Plateau. Most hikes take three days and require you to sleep in mountain camps. Expect steep trails and lots of climbing over rocks and tree roots, as these are not well maintained, smooth trails. Hikes will take you to see craters, giant ferns, wildlife and plenty of scenic views.
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