A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kilimanjaro National Park is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Africa. Covering close to 1,668 square kilometers, the park is dominated by the famous Kilimanjaro Mountain, the world tallest mountain per genes book of record. It is 5,895 meters above sea level with snow at the top of it. The mountain is a dormant stratovolcano with 3 distinct volcanic cones. These are Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. The park is in savannah region and supports various plants, birds and animal lives.
Location of Kilimanjaro National Park
Kilimanjaro National Park is situated in the northeastern Tanzania. It is bordering with Kenya, and it also includes the tallest mountain in the world, mountain Kilimanjaro which is 5,895 meters above sea level.
Activities done in Kilimanjaro National Park
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro, Kilimanjaro National Park
The most popular activity at Kilimanjaro National Park is climbing the famous Kilimanjaro Mountain there are several routs which include
- Marangu route (70km/ 5 to 6 days) – also known as Coca-Cola route – it is the easiest route and it is the most popular
- Machame route (61km/ 6 – 7 days) – the most scenic route
- Lemosho route (67km/ 7-8 days) – less crowded and excellent acclimation
- Rongai route (74km/ 6 -7 days) – it approaches the mountain from the norths
- Shira route (58km/ 6-8 days) – starting higher elevation
- Northern circuit (88km 8-9 days) – the longest route
- Umbwe route (48km 6-7 days) – the most challenging route
Choose any route that suits your interests to explore the tallest mountain in the world.
Nature Walks and Hiking at Kilimanjaro National Park
You can choose not to mountain climbing, and you do natural walk instead that will give you a chance to view wildlife and birds on close range with the help of the guide and park ranger.
Cultural Tours
Kilimanjaro National Park also offers cultural tours, providing insights into the local Chagga people’s traditions and way of life. You will also be able to participate in their traditional dance and social life.
Attractions in Kilimanjaro National Park
Mount Kilimanjaro
Elephant – Kilimanjaro National Park
Of cause the main attraction is obviously mountain Kilimanjaro who wouldn’t wish to see the tallest mountain in the world when given a chance. It will offer you a beautiful scenery and everything you wish to view.
Shira Plateau
It offers you a chance to climb mountain Kilimanjaro without necessarily reaching the top of the mountain. A 13 km journey will give you a breathtaking scenery.
Barranco Wall
It will offer you a chance to take part in a challenging but highly rewarding life experience in climbing.
Best Time to Visit Kilimanjaro National Park
Giraffe – Kilimanjaro National Park
Late June to October and from December to February are the dry seasons in east Africa. These months offer the best climbing conditions as the routes are not that muddy. The visibility is much clearer with less chances of rain.
How to Get to Kilimanjaro National Park
The main gateway to Kilimanjaro National Park is through Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). The airport is not far away from the park. After reaching the airport you can arrange with a tour operator like vacation safaris that will provide you with the guide/ driver to take you to the park or you can use private means, but this is not recommended as you might be challenged by poor roads.
Accommodation at Kilimanjaro National Park
Choose your accommodation basing on your budget. You can choose from luxury to the budget:
Camping
Many climbers choose to camp along the various routes up Kilimanjaro, with campsites provided as part of guided tours.
Lodges and Hotels
You can book hotels like Kilimanjaro hotel resort, Simba farm lodge and many more of your choice
Make sure to book your accommodation and any guided tours well in advance, especially during the peak climbing seasons, as they tend to fill up quickly. Additionally, hiring a reputable guide is highly recommended for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to ensure safety and a better overall experience.