Mount Kilimanjaro

Also called the Roof of Africa or the Crown of Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is both Africa's highest mountain and the world's tallest free standing peak. Standing at 5,875 metres above sea level, Kilimanjaro is also unique as it is located just 330km from the equator.

The mountain consists of three volcanic summits: Shira (3,962m), Mawenzi (5,149m), and Kibo (5,895m). Shira is the oldest of the three summits and is an extinct volcano, while Mawenzi and Kibo are both dormant and could erupt again in the future.

Mount Kilimanjaro can be climbed year round; however, the best weather conditions can be found between November & March and from June to October. It is during these months that the weather is warmest and the conditions are clearest.

There are several routes to the summit, with only the Marangu route (sometimes called the tourist route or Coca Cola route) having hut accommodation. These huts need to be booked in advance as spaces are limited.

The other routes do not have accommodation, and climbers will get the chance to camp out on the mountainside each night.

With the guidance of Shadows of Africa's experienced guides and porters, almost anybody of decent physical fitness can climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is one of the easier mountains of its size to climb. If you are fit and take the time to acclimatize, you'll find that climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most invigorating experiences you'll ever have.