Mount Kilimanjaro, a towering figure in all of the African continent, lies 3 degrees south of the Equator in Tanzania. This magnificent volcano is the highest 'freestanding' mountain in the world and is on UNESCO's list of World Heritage sights. It's snowy peak has lured climbers from all over the world for many a century. Today, more than 60,000 climbers attempt to climb to Uhuru Peak, it's highest point.
Mt. Kilimanjaro can be climbed by anyone with a reasonable level of fitness and no technical skills required on most of the routes. In addition, you will need proper equipment, a good guide and good old-fashion grit to succeed on Kili.
There are 6 ascending routes through the forest: Machame, Marangu, Umbwe, Rongai, Londorosi and Lemosho, 3 approach routes to the crater and 1 descending only route. We recommend a minimum of 6 days on most of these routes and allow more days for the longer routes.
Marangu is the only route where climbers sleep in huts. The other five routes, you will sleep in tents. Park rangers are stationed at all rest stops and are equipped to carry out any evacuation if needed.
You can climb Kili all year around but best times are late June - October and December - March. November and April & May are rainy seasons.
To the locals, Kilimanjaro means life. It is a source of food, water, inspiration and income to hundreds of thousands of people living around it. It is a blessing not only to be from around this mountain but to also to work up there.
About Kilimanjaro National Park
- Size: 1668 sq km 641 sq miles).
- Location: Northern Tanzania, near the town of Moshi.
Getting there
- 128 km (80 miles) from Arusha.
- About one hour’s drive from Kilimanjaro airport.
What to do
- Six usual trekking routes to the summit and other more-demanding mountaineering routes.
- Day or overnight hikes on the Shira plateau and through the Marangu side. Nature trails on the lower reaches.
- Trout fishing.
- Visit the beautiful Chala Crater lake on the mountain’s southeastern slopes.
Accommodation
- Huts and campsites on the mountain.
- Several hotels and campsites outside the park in the village of Marangu and town of Moshi.
NOTE:
- Climb slowly to increase your acclimatisation time and maximise your chances of reaching the summit.
- To avoid altitude sickness, allow a minimum of five nights, preferably even more for the climb. Take your time and enjoy the beauty of the mountain.
