Kilimanjaro. The name itself is a clouded mystery. It could mean the Mountain of Light, the Great Mountain, or the Caravan Mountain. or maybe not. The Huachaga, the locals, don’t even have a name for the whole massif, only Kipu (now called Kibo) for the famous snow-capped mountain that intimidatingly protects the continent, the pinnacle of Africa. is.

Kilimanjaro, whatever you call it, is a metaphor for East Africa’s overwhelming beauty. You can see why. This is not only the highest peak on the African continent. The mountain is also the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, standing in spectacular isolation from the surrounding coastal scrubland at a height of about 900 meters, he stands at a majestic 5,895 meters (19,336 feet).

Kilimanjaro is one of the most accessible high mountains in the world and a beacon for visitors from all over the world. Most climbers reach the crater rim with nothing but walking sticks, proper clothing and determination. And those who reach Uhuru Point, the actual summit, or Gilman’s Point, on the rim of the crater, will receive a climbing certificate.

But there’s more to Kili than just the summit. Climbing the slopes is a virtual climatic journey around the world, from the tropics to the Arctic. Even before crossing the national park boundary (2,700 meters above sea level), cultivated hills are transformed into lush montane forests, home to elusive elephants, leopards, buffalo, the endangered Abbot duiker, and Other small antelopes, and primates live here. Higher up is a marshy area, with giant blankets of heather dotted with supernatural giant lobelias.

Over 4,000 meters above sea level, the surreal alpine desert is almost devoid of life beyond a few hardy mosses and lichens. And finally, the last remaining plant remains give way to a winter wonderland of ice and snow, and the glorious beauty of the continental roofs.

Kilimanjaro National Park About

Size: 755 km² (292 sq miles).

Location: Northern Tanzania, near the town of Moshi.

Get me there

Located 80 miles (128 km) from Arusha. It is approximately one hour by car from Kilimanjaro Airport.

When to Climb

December to February are the sunniest and warmest, while July to September is drier (and colder).