Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

About Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Surrounding it, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park covers an area of 1,688 square kilometers, protecting the mountain’s diverse ecosystems—from tropical rainforest to alpine desert and icy summit.

Highlights

Kilimanjaro’s ecological diversity is extraordinary. Climbers ascend through five distinct vegetation zones, encountering waterfalls, giant lobelias, and sweeping views across the plains. Wildlife such as colobus monkeys, bushbucks, and various bird species thrive in the lower forests. The ultimate highlight is reaching Uhuru Peak, the mountain’s snow-capped summit.

Getting There

The park is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Arusha and 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Moshi town. The nearest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which serves flights from Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, and international hubs.

What to Do

Most visitors come to trek to the summit, with routes like Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, and Rongai offering different scenery and challenges. For those not climbing, day hikes, nature walks, and cultural tours in nearby Chagga villages provide rewarding experiences. Whether you reach the summit or explore its foothills, Kilimanjaro inspires awe at every turn.