Mount
Kilimanjaro
Conquer Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — The Highest Free-Standing Mountain on Earth
Africa's Majestic Roof
Quick Snapshot
Geology & Landscape
Formed by volcanic activity about 3 million years ago, Kilimanjaro is a massive stratovolcano composed of three distinct, extinct cones, making it the highest free-standing mountain in the world.
Kibo
Dormant Central Cone (Uhuru Peak, 5,895 m)
Mawenzi
Sharp, Eroded Peak (5,149 m)
Shira
Ancient Collapsed Caldera (3,962 m)
Five Worlds in One Climb
Kilimanjaro's dramatic ecological gradient traverses five distinct life zones from base to summit
Zone 1 (800–1,800m)
Cultivation Zone
Warm, moist climate. Features rich Chagga villages, coffee and banana farms.
Zone 2 (1,800–2,800m)
Montane Forest
Rainy and cool. Dense canopy of camphor trees. Home to blue and colobus monkeys.
Zone 3 (2,800–4,000m)
Heath & Moorland
Cold nights, dry days. Unique giant flora like lobelias and everlasting flowers.
Zone 4 (4,000–5,000m)
Alpine Desert
Intense sun, freezing nights. Barren landscape of volcanic rock and dust.
Zone 5 (5,000–5,895m)
Arctic Summit
Sub-zero temperatures, thin air. Features icefields, glaciers, and the Kibo ash cone.
Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes
Diverse routes offering unique journeys through the mountain's ecosystems
Lemosho (7–8 Days)
Ideal for Acclimatization
Most scenic route from the West. Best "climb high, sleep low" profile and excellent summit success rate.
Machame (6–7 Days)
The Popular "Whiskey" Route
Challenging, spectacular views. Great balance of acclimatization and challenge.
Northern Circuit (8–9 Days)
The Longest & Quietest
Best acclimatization and panoramic views by encircling the Kibo cone.
Marangu (5–6 Days)
Classic "Coca-Cola" Route
Only route with hut accommodation. More gradual ascent but challenging acclimatization.
Rongai (6–7 Days)
The Dry Northern Approach
Drier and less crowded. Gentler slopes with unique alpine desert feel.
Umbwe (5–6 Days)
The Steepest & Toughest
Most direct and technically demanding route. For experienced high-altitude hikers only.
Logistics & Safety
Essential Logistics
Park regulations require licensed guides, porters, and cooks for all climbers.
- Crew Size: 1 guide per 2–3 climbers, plus 3–4 porters per person
- Duffel Weight: Strict 15 kg limit per climber
- Accommodation: Huts on Marangu, campsites on other routes
- Access: Kilimanjaro International (JRO) or Arusha (ARK)
Acclimatization & Safety
Altitude is the biggest challenge. We prioritize safety with comprehensive protocols.
- Golden Rule: "Climb high, sleep low" for proper acclimatization
- Altitude Sickness: Prevented by slow ascent and hydration
- Safety Gear: Oxygen, pulse oximeters, emergency evacuation trained
- Weather: +25°C at base to −15°C at summit
Best Time to Climb
Most popular: July to September
Iconic Photo Spots
Kilimanjaro is a photographer's dream. Capture stunning diversity:
- Uhuru Summit: Dawn over the crater rim with glaciers
- Shira Plateau: Epic sunset views with Mawenzi backdrop
- Barranco Wall: Africa's most photogenic "Breakfast Wall"
- Mawenzi Tarn: Perfect reflection shots of dramatic spires
Cultural Experience
The lower slopes are home to the Chagga people, known for ancient irrigation systems and rich farming culture.
- Marangu Village: Cultural tourism, coffee roasting, home visits
- Chemka Hot Springs: Relax post-climb in crystal-clear thermal waters
"Uhuru Peak means 'Freedom Peak' — named after Tanzania's independence in 1961."
Conservation Challenges
Sustainable tourism is vital for Kilimanjaro's future:
- Glacier Retreat: Ice cap receded 80% since 1912 due to warming
- Deforestation: Pressure from illegal logging and farming
- Our Role: Support TANAPA's reforestation with native species
Fun Facts for Climbers
Captivating facts about the mountain you're about to conquer:
- World's Tallest: Tallest freestanding mountain on Earth
- Hemingway's Muse: Immortalized in "The Snows of Kilimanjaro"
- Calorie Burn: 4,000–6,000 calories per day on summit days
- Water Source: Glaciers feed crucial Pangani Basin rivers
Extend Your Adventure!
Combine your Kili climb with a classic Tanzanian safari or a relaxed recovery