Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is home to Africa’s highest mountain and one of the world’s most recognizable natural landmarks. Rising to 5,895 metres above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest free-standing mountain on Earth and is crowned by Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Unlike many of the world’s highest mountains, Kilimanjaro can be climbed without technical mountaineering equipment on its established trekking routes. The journey to the summit takes travelers through several remarkable ecological zones, beginning in lush rainforest and continuing through moorland, alpine desert and finally the high-altitude Arctic environment near the summit.
The mountain is formed by three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. Kibo is the highest and contains Uhuru Peak, while Mawenzi and Shira create much of Kilimanjaro’s distinctive volcanic landscape.
For travelers seeking adventure, breathtaking scenery and a personal challenge, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable Tanzania experience. The park also offers shorter nature walks and other mountain experiences for visitors who do not plan to reach the summit.
1,712 km²
Kilimanjaro National Park protects the mountain and surrounding ecosystems, including its important montane forest and high-altitude habitats.
By road: Kilimanjaro National Park is easily reached from the northern Tanzania safari towns of Moshi and Arusha.
By air: Kilimanjaro International Airport is the main international gateway for travelers arriving to climb the mountain. The park headquarters at Marangu are approximately 86 km from the airport.
Kilimanjaro can also be combined with a northern Tanzania safari, making it possible to experience the mountain alongside destinations such as Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Serengeti.
June–October — Generally drier conditions and good visibility.
December–March — Another popular period for climbing, with generally clearer conditions.
April–May — Heavier rains make these months less popular for trekking.
Weather on Kilimanjaro can change rapidly with altitude, so climbers should be prepared for very different conditions during the ascent.
5–9 days for a summit climb
The exact number of days depends on the route selected and the itinerary designed for acclimatization. TANAPA identifies routes ranging from approximately 5 to 9 days or longer.
For travelers who are not climbing to the summit, shorter visits can include nature walks and other mountain experiences.
Kilimanjaro is primarily a mountain and trekking destination, but its different ecological zones support a surprising variety of landscapes, plants and wildlife.
Mount Kilimanjaro was formed by three volcanic cones; Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. Kibo is the highest of the three and is home to Uhuru Peak, while Mawenzi and Shira contribute to the mountain’s dramatic volcanic landscape.
Kilimanjaro became a National Park in 1973 and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
The mountain is also unique because climbers pass through several distinct ecological zones on their way to the summit from tropical rainforest to moorland, alpine desert and the cold Arctic-like environment near Uhuru Peak.
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