Kilimanjaro, located in northeast Tanzania, is the tallest mountain in Africa. It is also the tallest freestanding mountain in the world at 19,341 feet above sea level. Kilimanjaro is made of three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Kibo is the tallest and youngest of the volcanic cones. The mountain is also known for its extreme weather conditions. Temperatures can range on the mountain from -20 degrees F to over 110 degrees F in one day during the rainy season. Snowfall is common in the high elevations, especially at altitudes above 17,000 feet.
Tanzania - Kilimanjaro's home
Tanzania is one of the most beautiful and interesting countries in Africa. It is a landlocked country in the eastern part of the continent, and is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. The country is also known for its wildlife, including lions, elephants, and zebras.
Getting to the Kilimanjaro area from most locations outside of Africa will require booking a connecting flight on a small propeller plane from one of the region's international airports to Kilimanjaro's dedicated airport. Once arriving in the area, there's much to offer - even for those uninterested in reaching one of the seven summits. The Kilimanjaro area is home to many attractions, from the Serengeti National Park to Lake Manyara National Park. There are a number of safaris in the region, including with African Parks.
The glaciers on Kilimanjaro
Despite its popularity and international fame, Kilimanjaro's glaciers are in rapid retreat. The ice fields on the mountain's summit have shrunk over 80% since 1912, and they could be gone by 2040. The loss of the glaciers will have a major impact on the environment and the local economy, and will forever change the landscape of this iconic mountain.
It's important to note, however, that even with retreating ice fields, the summit of Kilimanjaro is not a tropical climate. Temperatures regularly fall into sub-zero ranges.
Climbing Kilimanjaro
In many ways, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is like summiting any many other mountains. There's no technical ice climbing - it's primarily a trekking adventure. The air is brisk and the weather unforgiving. But there's one major difference: at 19,341 feet, Kilimanjaro is the tallest peak in Africa, which majorly sets it apart from other treks that you may have encountered. For those who make the week-long trek to its summit, the view is nothing short of breathtaking. However, the altitude and therefore lack of oxygen will also be a bit more literal breathtaking.
Taking on the task of climbing Kilimanjaro requires planning - often several months in advance. You'll need proper gear, physical and mental preparation, and organizing a trained and authorized crew of guides and porters.
We'll soon be publishing a guide specifically on the Kilimanjaro trek - look to that guide for more information on specific gear, training, and recommended tour partners.