Kilimanjaro is one of the world's most accessible high
summits, a beacon for visitors
from around the world. Most climbers reach the crater rim
with little more than a walking stick, proper clothing and
determination. And those who reach Uhuru Point, the actual
summit, or Gillman's Point on the lip of the crater, will
have earned their climbing certificates.
And their memories.
But there is so much more to Kili than her summit. The
ascent of the slopes is a virtual climatic world tour, from
the tropics to the Arctic. Even before you cross the
national park boundary (at the 2,700m contour), the
cultivated footslopes give way to lush montane forest,
inhabited by elusive elephant, leopard, buffalo, the
endangered Abbot's duiker, and other small antelope and
primates. Higher still lies the moorland zone, where a cover
of giant heather is studded with otherworldly giant
lobelias.
Above 4,000m, a surreal alpine desert supports little life
other than a few hardy mosses and lichen. Then, finally, the
last vestigial vegetation gives way to a winter wonderland
of ice and snow – and the magnificent beauty of the roof of
the continent.
How To Get There
128 km (80 miles) from Arusha. About one hour's drive from
Kilimanjaro airport.
What To Do
Six usual trekking routes to the summit and other
more-demanding mountaineering routes. Day or overnight hikes
on the Shira plateau. Nature trails on the lower reaches.
Trout fishing. Visit the beautiful Chala crater lake on the
mountain's southeastern slopes.
When To Go
Clearest and warmest conditions from December to February,
but also dry (and colder) from July-September.
Accommodation
Huts and campsites on the mountain. Several hotels and
campsites outside the park in the village of Marangu and
town of Moshi.
Please contact us at
info@kipepeotours.com
to make an inquiry and/or to place a subsequent booking for
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Thank you!
NOTE:
Climb slowly to increase your acclimatisation time and
maximise your chances of reaching the summit. To avoid
altitude sickness, allow a minimum of five nights,
preferably even more for the climb. Take your time and enjoy
the beauty of the mountain.
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