The tallest mountain in Africa, and at 19,340 feet also the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Kilimanjaro is actually a dormant stratovolcano that sits near the northern edge of Tanzania, just below Kenya. And although Kilimanjaro is very close to the equator, it can be divided into five distinct climatic zones, from evergreen and tropical forests in the lowlands, to arid and rocky desert in the middle, and finally culminating with a peak that is snow covered year round. Because it is a comparatively easy mountain to ascend, Kili is visited by climbers and trekkers from all over the world.
Making it Happen
Kilimanjaro International Airport is located in northern Tanzania, about an hour drive from the mountain. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus into the park.
There are six official trails for summiting the mountain, all of which are dotted with sleeping huts or tents. A typical trek should take you five or six days, which is important to help climbers acclimatize to the altitude. The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is in January and February when it is warmest, or in September when it is dry and clear. A licensed trekking guide is mandatory, and you will usually be accompanied by porters and cooks as well. Be sure to tip your guides and helpers, assuming they don’t abandon you and your stuff at the summit, of course.
If you aren’t interested in climbing Kilimanjaro’s snowy peak, you will still find ample and beautiful hiking opportunities, from easy nature trails in the lower elevations, to overnight climbs further up. Although there isn’t much wildlife on the slopes of the mountain, near the base you have a good chance of seeing water buffalo, elephants, or even leopards.
If you want the quintessential safari experience and photo of beautiful elephants with Kilimanjaro in the background, you should head to Amboseli National Park in neighboring Kenya. The park is one of the best in Africa to see Elephants, and it offers a perfect Kilimanjaro backdrop.
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