Mount Kilimanjaro  National Park is found in Tanzania with Mountain Kilimanjaro being the most prominent safari attraction in the park offering amazing hiking adventures to all travelers on safari vacation. The Mountain elevates 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level and a dormant stratovolcano with unique ecosystems, diverse wildlife and beautiful terrain landscapes.

Geography and Location

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is situated in the northeastern part of Tanzania close to the border with Kenya and approximately 330 kilometers (205 miles) south of Nairobi, 140 kilometers (87 miles) east of Arusha.

The Mountain consists of three volcanic cones i.e kibo which is the tallest and youngest, Mawenzi peak the second highest and shira peak which is the oldest of the three cones.

Climate Zones

The climate of Mount Kilimanjaro is highly variable, changing as one ascends the mountain from the base to the summit at Uhuru Peak.

• Rainforest Zone (800 to 3,000 meters / 2,625 to 9,840 feet): This lush, green zone is found at the base of the mountain and up to about 3,000 meters. It includes dense forests, rich biodiversity, and tropical vegetation hence significant rainfall throughout the year, creating a humid environment that sustains a variety of plant and animal species.
• Montane Zone (3,000 to 4,000 meters / 9,840 to 13,120 feet): As the altitude increases, the vegetation becomes less dense, with smaller trees, shrubs and heathlands. The air becomes drier, and the temperature drops, making the environment cooler and more rugged.
• Alpine Zone (4,000 to 5,000 meters / 13,120 to 16,400 feet): This is a harsh, rocky zone characterized by alpine meadows and glaciers. The landscape is barren, with little vegetation, and the temperatures are freezing, especially near the summit.
• Arctic Zone (5,000 to 5,895 meters / 16,400 to 19,341 feet): The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro falls within the Arctic zone, where glaciers, ice fields, and snow cover the terrain. This high-altitude, cold environment is where trekkers can encounter the final push to reach Uhuru Peak.

Birdlife

Birdwatching is incredible to do in the park as you watch diverse birdlife as over 180 bird species have been recorded on the mountain. Some of the bird species you watch include Mara River red bishop, knee-slapper weavers, yellow-breasted apalis, and White-necked raven.

Climbing Kilimanjaro

One of the most popular activities in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is trekking to the summit, Uhuru Peak. Kilimanjaro is renowned for being the highest mountain in the world that can be climbed without specialized mountaineering equipment.

Routes along Mountain Kilimanjaro

Several routes can be used to hike up to the summit and these routes include:

• Marangu Route usually referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the easiest and most popular route, with hut accommodations available en-route.
• Machame Route also known as the “Whiskey Route,”  is a more challenging and difficult route that offers stunning views and a more scenic trek.
• Lemosho Route is a longer and more gradual route which is considered one of the best for acclimatization.
• Rongai Route approaches the mountain from the north and is considered less crowded.
• Umbwe Route is the most challenging and steepest route very ideal for experienced climbers.
  It takes between five to nine days, depending on the route chosen. It is recommended to allow enough time for proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.

Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro

Mountain Kilimanjaro can be climbed anytime round the year although, the best times to climb the Mountain is during the dry season in the months of June to October and December to February. During these months, the weather is typically clear, and the mountain is less likely to be covered in clouds or rain, offering trekkers better visibility.