Mount Kilimanjaro rises from the wide plains of Tanzania and is covered in snow and full of stories. Known as the Roof of Africa and a place of both fire and ice, Kilimanjaro was created by old volcanoes and has three main peaks: Kibo, the highest and still quiet, Mawenzi, sharp and steep and Shira, the oldest.
Mount Kilimanjaro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands at 5,895 meters above sea level, making it the tallest free-standing Mountain in the world. People climb Mt Kilimanjaro to test their strength, scientists learn about the volcanic past and writers tell its stories. The snowy top rising above warm grasslands, Kilimanjaro is a wonder of nature that continues to amaze the world.
Wildlife found near Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro landscapes shift every step as large animals are rarely seen on slopes, forests and lower regions, such as elephants and Cape buffalo. Tiny dik-dik and duikers dart through the shrubs and sunbirds flash bright colors as they sip nectar from highland flowers. Secretive leopard and echoing laughter of hyenas have been spotted on Shira Plateau, reminding visitors that Kilimanjaro is still a kingdom of predators.
Activities to undertake near Mt Kilimanjaro
Climbing and trekking Mount Kilimanjaro
Climbing Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, along with famous routes such as Marangu, Machame, Lemosho or Rongai.
Day hikes and nature walks
Exploring waterfalls, rainforests and moorlands on shorter hikes such as Marangu Waterfalls or Mandara Hut trek.
Photography and scenic viewing
Capturing the best views at sunrise with snow glowing on Uhuru Peak or elephants moving across the plains.
Camping and picnicking
Kilimanjaro National Park has designated camping areas where visitors enjoy the wilderness, especially near waterfalls.
Cycling and mountain biking
On Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes, cycling trails wind through villages, farms and open landscape as one of the thrilling ways to explore the mountain’s foothills.
Wildlife viewing
Spotting elephants, buffalo, monkeys, antelopes and colorful birds in forest zones and the Shira Plateau.
Game drives
Combining Mt Kilimanjaro visit with safaris in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater or Amboseli, where the view of Mt Kilimanjaro makes an amazing, dramatic backdrop.
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest mountain, offering a lifetime adventure that every traveler dreams of. From the scenic treks through rainforests and alpine meadows to the breathtaking moment of standing on Uhuru Peak. Opportunities such as wildlife viewing, cycling and day trips make Kilimanjaro appealing to adventurers, nature lovers and photographers alike.