Kilimanjaro National Park

Kilimanjaro National Park is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 ft) above sea level. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the park spans approximately 1,688 km² and encompasses diverse ecosystems ranging from lush montane forests to alpine meadows and an arctic summit. Unlike many parks in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro is not known for big game but for the extraordinary challenge and beauty of its mountain, attracting trekkers and climbers from around the world.

Why Visit Kilimanjaro National Park

1. Climb Africa’s Tallest Mountain: Experience one of the world’s greatest trekking adventures across varied ecological zones, from tropical rainforests to snow-capped peaks.

2. Spectacular Scenery: The mountain offers panoramic views of the plains below and stunning landscapes that shift with altitude.

3. Rich Biodiversity: Spot unique species like the Kilimanjaro tree hyrax, colobus monkeys, sunbirds, and even elephants or buffaloes at lower elevations.

4. Cultural Encounters: Learn about the local Chagga people, their traditions, coffee farms, and deep-rooted connection to the mountain.

5. Accessible Adventure: Despite its height, Kilimanjaro is considered one of the most climbable high mountains in the world, requiring no technical mountaineering skills.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal times to visit Kilimanjaro are during the dry seasons:

• January to mid-March: Clear skies and warmer temperatures.

• June to October: Cooler weather and excellent visibility.
  Avoid the rainy months (April–May and November), as trails can become slippery and cloud cover limits views.

How to Get There

• By Air: The closest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), about 45 km from Moshi and 90 km from Arusha.

• By Road: You can travel from Arusha or Moshi by car or bus; the park’s main entrance is Marangu Gate, about 45 minutes from Moshi.

• From Nairobi: Direct shuttles and flights connect Nairobi to Moshi and Arusha daily.

Popular Attractions and Activities

• Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Routes:

  • Marangu Route – “Coca-Cola Route,” most popular and has hut accommodations.

  • Machame Route – “Whiskey Route,” scenic but more challenging.

  • Lemosho Route – Remote, beautiful, with high success rates.

  • Rongai Route – Approaches from the north, drier and less crowded.

  • Umbwe Route – Shortest and steepest, recommended for experienced climbers.

• Shira Plateau: A scenic spot with wildlife and panoramic views.

• Maundi Crater: A short hike from Marangu Gate offering sweeping vistas.

• Waterfalls and Coffee Tours: Visit Materuni Waterfalls and local Chagga villages for cultural tours and coffee tastings.

Accommodation Options

• Inside the Park (for trekkers): Mountain huts on Marangu Route (Mandara, Horombo, Kibo) and designated campsites on other routes.

• Nearby Lodges and Hotels:

  • Luxury: Kaliwa Lodge, Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort, Kibo Palace Hotel.

  • Mid-Range: Chanya Lodge, Keys Hotel, Ameg Lodge Kilimanjaro.

  • Budget: Marangu Hotel, Kilimanjaro Backpackers Hotel, Weru Weru River Lodge.

Travel Tips

• Acclimatization is key: Choose a route that allows gradual altitude gain to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

• Pack Properly: Layered clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and quality gear are essential.

• Hire Certified Guides: Climbing without a licensed guide is prohibited.

• Stay Hydrated and Pace Yourself: Drink plenty of water and climb slowly; “pole pole” (Swahili for “slowly”) is the golden rule.

• Book Early: Permits, porters, and accommodations on the mountain fill up quickly during peak seasons.