Mount Kilimanjaro National Park- Mt Kilimanjaro National Park

The park covers an area of approximately 1,688 square kilometers and is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, which is the highest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park holds the whole of Kilimanjaro Mountain- the highest mountain in Africa that rises about 5,895m above sea level, within the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania near Moshi City.

The 1,688km2 Mt Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania was established as a park in 1973 and in 1987, it was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Due to its incredible natural beauty, in 2013, Kilimanjaro park was included on the list of the Natural wonders in Africa.

Nevertheless, Mt Kilimanjaro park is renowned for its Mount Kilimanjaro, this stunning protected area also holds other amazing game animals including some endemics. During Kilimanjaro hiking tours, lucky climbers can encounter Bushbucks, Cape Buffalos, Elephants, Blue Monkeys, Olive Baboons, Eastern Black and white colobus monkeys, birds, and Leopards in the mountain forest region.

During Mount Kilimanjaro National Park safari adventure, most visitors are interested in climbing Kilimanjaro Mountain but, this park has so much to offer! Mountain bird watching tours, primate tracking, sightseeing, as well as wildlife viewing, among many others.

Travelers on Tanzania safari tours intending to climb Mount Kilimanjaro should target hiking during the dry season. Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro- Africa’s tallest mountain doesn’t require any previous mountain hiking experience. You just need to manage altitude sickness!

Below, let’s explore Tanzania Kilimanjaro National Park in a more detailed way!

Kilimanjaro National Park Location- Where is Kilimanjaro National Park?

Kilimanjaro park is situated about 300km south of the Equator near the Moshi region. All of Mount Kilimanjaro above the tree line and the adjoining montane forest belt above 1,820m are included in the park. It’s located in 2050’–3010’S and 37010’–37040’E, encompassing an area of 1,688 square kilometers.

Mount Kilimanjaro’s park headquarters are in Marangu- approximately 44km from Moshi Town. Kilimanjaro park is about 1 hour’s drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport and over 128km from Arusha Town by road. You can access it from various regions fo Tanzania including Dar es salaam.

What is the History of Kilimanjaro National Park Tanzania?

The German colonial government declared Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding forests to be a game reserve at the beginning of the 20th century. It was proposed as a forestry reserve in 1921. This mountain, which is approximately 2,700m above the tree line, was categorized as a park in 1973. In 1987, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization recognized the park as a World Heritage Site.

The entire montane woods, which had been a part of the Kilimanjaro Forest Reserve, was added to the park in 2005.

In 2013, Kilimanjaro National Park was listed as a natural wonder of Africa.

Tourist Attractions in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro

Things to see in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park go beyond the beautiful snowy peak of Kilimanjaro Mountain- the tallest free standing Mountain in the world! The other attractions include; stunning landscape and vegetation, colorful birds, and numerous animal species.

The popular tourist attractions in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

  1. Mount Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro Mountain is the main tourist attraction in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Tanzania and the most popular mountain in Africa rising over 5,895m elevation at its Uhuru Peak. It’s the tallest mountain in Africa as well as the tallest free standing mountain in the world.

Most hikers have regarded Kilimanjaro as the simplest of the seven summits. Therefore, it’s a popular choice for both experienced hikers and beginners on African safari tours.

There are no special skills or tools that are needed to climb Kilimanjaro Mountain, such as crampons, an ice axe, harnesses, or rope. Accordingly, rather than being a mountaineering or climbing peak, it’s a friendly hike. Most of the climbers who visit Kilimanjaro National Park reach its summit (Uhuru peak) without trekking or backpacking expertise.

Note that Kilimanjaro is a free standing mountain- a dormant stratovolcano. Normally, free-standing mountains are formed as a result of volcanic activity explosions. These mountains form when viscous magma is ejected on the earth’s surface and piles.

  1. Various Animal Species in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

The wildlife of Mount Kilimanjaro park is incredibly diverse. Researchers N.J. Cordeiro, C.A. Foley, and J.M. Grimshaw, reported in their book “The Mammals of Kilimanjaro” in 1995 that 154 different species of mammals were found in the park mostly in the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro.

The park is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts because of its different ecosystems, which include bushlands and scenic grasslands. These habitats sustain a large diversity of species.

Notable animal species in Kilimanjaro park include; Olive baboons, cape Buffalos, Elephants, Giraffes, Warthogs, Black Rhinos, Leopards, Serval cats, Spotted Hyenas, and Jackals.  The uncommon Abbott’s duiker is an indigenous antelope species to Kilimanjaro’s highland forests.

The mentioned animals can be encountered as you hike to the summit of Mountain Kilimanjaro- Africa’s tallest mountain. Elephants are commonly found in areas around the Namwai & Tarakia Rivers.

  1. Birds in Mount Kilimanjaro Park

The bird life in Kilimanjaro park is amazing for birdwatchers on Tanzania safari tours. In this protected area, travelers have a great opportunity of spotting montane bird species for example; African Emerald Cuckoos, White Browed Coucal, and White Necked Ravens. The Malachite Sunbird, Hartlaub’s Turaco, Narina Trogon, Trumpeter Hornbill, Bearded Vulture, Alpine chat, Violet Turaco, as well as Schalow’s Turaco are common.

  1. The Beautiful Ecosystem in Kilimanjaro National Park

Kilimanjaro National Park ecosystem is incredibly unique and breathtaking- ideal for photography. The ecosystem of this park ranges from alpine leas, savannahs, and montane rainforests, as well as glaciers at its summit- the Uhuru Peak. Expect to see a distinct delicate environment.

Within the park, bushlands and meadows are found in the lower altitudes, and these natural features are essential to the Maasai people who reside there. However, overgrazing is a serious threat to the biological balance of the park because these areas are susceptible to it.

Montane Forests & Alpine Meadows: At an elevation of about 4,000m elevation, the montane forest gradually gives place to alpine fields as one climbs Kilimanjaro. This region is well-known for its unusual plant life, which includes huge Lobelias and towering groundsels that combine to create a beautiful and strangely attractive scene.

Above 4,000m above altitude: The alpine leas give way to a more desolate terrain where Lichens and mosses cling to the rocks. The bleak, glacial vistas of these high-altitude regions give way to Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones, Mawenzi, Shira, and Kibo.

Above 4,000m: The scenery gets more and more barren after the alpine meadows end. It features only mosses and lichens sticking to the rocks. At this altitude, the landscapes are harsh and icy, and they lead to Kilimanjaro’s three main volcanic peaks: Mawenzi, Kibo, and Shira.

Kibo cone is the tallest among the three volcanic cones of Kilimanjaro.

A SUMMARY OF THE CLIMATIC ZONES IN MOUNT KILIMANJARO PARK

All these can be witnessed on the trek as you climb Mount Kilimanjaro- the tallest free standing mountain in the world.

  1. Bushland zone; 800m-1,800m altitude
  2. Rainforest Zone; 1,800m-2,800m
  3. Moorland Zone; 2,800m-4,000m
  4. Alpine desert zone; 4,000m-5,000m
  5. Arctic zone: 5,000m+

Tourist Activities in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

kilimanjaro

As you visit Kilimanjaro Mountain- the highest mountain in Africa, expect to enjoy various activities putting aside the Kilimanjaro hike. In this beautiful park of Tanzania, it’s also possible to enjoy bird watching, camping, cycling, and even wildlife viewing.

The Best Things to Do in Kilimanjaro National Park;

  1. Wildlife Viewing in Kilimanjaro National Park

In addition to being the best site for mountain climbing in Africa, Kilimanjaro park also boasts various unique and amazing game animals worth exploring for wildlife enthusiasts.

Though not as many as those in northern Tanzania Serengeti park, there are still enough animal species to witness in Kilimanjaro. Among these include the Forest Elephants, Giraffes, Buffalos, Olive baboons, Vervet monkeys, Black and white colobus monkeys, and Honey badgers among others.

The mentioned game animals are not so common but, lucky visitors climbing Kilimanjaro can spot some, especially in the Shira Plateau base.

  1. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, One of the Seven Summits

One of the most popular activities in Kilimanjaro park is hiking Kilimanjaro Mountain, the tallest free standing mountain in the world. Kilimanjaro hiking expeditions offer one of the most memorable hiking adventures in Africa.

The summit of Kilimanjaro Mountain (Uhuru peak at 5,895m elevation) can be reached using seven routes; Northern circuit routes, Machame, Marangu route, Rongai, Lemosho, Umbwe, and Shira. Mweka route is the only descent route.

Among other routes, the Marangu route is the shortest route to the summit. On using it, you might find it challenging to acclimatize. Machame route is the most popular!

Note that, each of the seven Kilimanjaro routes as you climb has its benefits and drawbacks, including price, variation in scenery, & summit success rate. Regardless of the route you use to the summit of this shining mountain, you will go through similar ecosystems; cultivated area, rainforest, alpine desert, giant heather, moorland, and finally the arctic zone at the top.

For a successful hike, we suggest at least you spend 5 days hiking. This helps your body to acclimatize to altitude thus, reducing altitude sickness- the main reason why some people fail to reach the Kilimanjaro summit.

Most of Kilimanjaro hiking adventures in Tanzania take about 5-9 days. The more the days the higher chances of you reaching the summit.

  1. Bird Watching in Kilimanjaro Park

Birdwatchers are delighted with Kilimanjaro’s abundance of bird species. There are more than 150 species of birds in Kilimanjaro park; some are migratory, while others are local endemics.

Some of the common birds in Kilimanjaro Mountain include; the African pygmy kingfisher, White Browed Coucal, Malachite Sunbird, Bearded Vulture, White Necked Ravens, Long-tailed trogon, Blue napped mousebirds, Narina Trogon, Violet Turaco, and African Emerald Cuckoos, etc.

Most of the bird species are found in the montane rainforests. Bird watching in Kilimanjaro during November-April gives you a chance to spot migratory birds.

  1. Visiting Chala Crater Lake in East of Mount Kilimanjaro

Lake Chala is a beautiful crater lake between the Tanzania and Kenyan border. This stunning lake surrounded by a steep crater rim is believed to have formed about 250,000 years ago.

The lake is worth visiting since, depending on the season, the waters change from turquoise to emerald green. It’s a great site for sightseeing and photography!

In the area around Lake Chala, there are camps for visitors who would like to spend a night here.

  1. Walking Safaris in Kilimanjaro Park

The goal of taking nature walks in Kilimanjaro park is not to reach Kilimanjaro’s highest peak- Uhuru Peak at 5,895m elevation. This adventure is mostly done by nature lovers on Tanzania safari tours to explore the rich ecosystem of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Most of the nature walks take place in the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro Mountain and all offer splendid views of the park including the snowy peak. While in the tropical forest zone, it’s hard to miss spotting Olive Baboons, Vervet Monkeys, as well as Black and White Colobus monkeys, Butterflies, unique plant species, plus numerous bird species.

The adventure is ideal for photo lovers.

  1. Cycling in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Don’t miss cycling in Kilimanjaro National Park if you enjoy it. While cycling on the slopes of Africa’s highest peak, the Kilema route is used taking you through the Chagga people’s agricultural area.

The ride is led by a local guide who is knowledgeable about the area and he will lead you to areas that have great panoramic views of the park.

If interested, cycling tours to the summit can be arranged but, it’s a bit expensive.

OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN MOUNT KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK

  • Camping in Kilimanjaro Park
  • Cultural encounters with local people around
  • Filming
  • Photographing
  • Exploring various waterfalls
  • Climbing Barranco wall near Barranco Camp

When Is the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro Mountain in Kilimanjaro Park?

While on a Tanzania tour trip, Kilimanjaro park is open to visitors all year, but the best times to hike Kilimanjaro are from June to October- the dry season and from late December to early March.

If at all possible, try to avoid November and March-April. Those are the rainy seasons (wet seasons) in the Kilimanjaro area, so the paths through the forest will be slippery, and the snow will cover the trail up to the peak, especially the Western Breach.

The above-mentioned months are ideal as well for Tanzania safari holidays in Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania.

Tanzania Safari Packing List for Mount Kilimanjaro Hike

Since most travelers on Tanzania safari tours visiting Kilimanjaro park are interested in climbing Kilimanjaro Mountain, your pack list should include mountain climbing equipment mainly.

THE PACKING LIST FOR HIKING KILIMANJARO MOUNTAIN

·        Trekking poles

·        Warm jumper

·        Light trekking boots

·        Rain jacket

·        Warm gloves

·        Sleeping gears

·        Daypack bag

·        Gaiters and Socks

·        Simple medical kit

·        Comfortable hiking clothes

·        A camera & spare batteries

·        Water & personal snacks

·        Insect repellents

·        Warm beanie style hat & Sun hat

·        Personal toiletries including wet wipes

 

 

Getting to Kilimanjaro National Park- How Do I Get to Kilimanjaro?

By road, it’s about one hour’s drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport and covers a distance of about 128km from Arusha Town.

The nearby international airport to this park is Kilimanjaro International Airport and if coming from Europe, KLM has regular nonstop flights from Amsterdam to JRO. There’s also Air Viva that offers connections between Kilimanjaro & several domestic airports Arusha inclusive. If you’re coming from Entebbe- Uganda to Mount Kilimanjaro park, there’re usually three flights per week that take roughly 2 hours.

Accommodation in Kilimanjaro National Park

The western part of Mount Kilimanjaro park holds most of the accommodation for tourists intending to hike Kilimanjaro Mountain. In this area, you’ll find sleeping huts, and campsites however, there is an option of using hotels in the nearby Moshi town and Marangu town.

Most visitors use Shu’mata Camp within the park.

FAQs About Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Safari in Tanzania

  1. What Is Unique About Kilimanjaro National Park?

Kilimanjaro National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site holding Mt Kilimanjaro- the tallest free standing mountain in Africa rising about 5895m elevation. It can be sighted while on Kenya safaris in Amboseli National Park.

  1. What Is So Special About Mount Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro rises over 5,895m above sea level making it Africa’s highest point. It’s a dormant stratovolcano and its summit- Uhuru peak is covered with glaciers (including furtwangler glacier) all year round. Hiking Kilimanjaro Mountain doesn’t require previous hiking experience. Amazingly, the Kilimanjaro snowcapped summit stands out in isolation above the surrounding plains creating remarkable breathtaking views.

The Austrian mountaineer- Ludwig Purtscheller is one of the first hikers to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro and this was in 1889.

  1. How Many Days to Climb Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro hikes usually take 5-9 days depending on your fitness level.

  1. How Difficult Is Kilimanjaro Trek? : Is Mt Kilimanjaro Hard to Climb?

Climbing Kilimanjaro Mountain is not as hectic as it is with other mountains in Eastern Africa such as the Rwenzori Mountains. The hike is just a walk but, most people only face the problem of altitude sickness. Usually, acclimatization is done towards the summit.

  1. Is Mount Kilimanjaro a Part of Kilimanjaro National Park?

Yes, Mt Kilimanjaro is part of Kilimanjaro park and this park is managed by the Tanzanian government.

  1. What National Park Is Closest to Kilimanjaro?

Tanzania Arusha National Park is the closest park to Kilimanjaro park.

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park features Kilimanjaro Mountain- the tallest free standing mountain on earth rising over 5,895m altitude. In this beautiful protected area, tourists mainly visit to hike Kilimanjaro Mountain. It’s also possible to go cycling, birding, or enjoy simple guided walks on your visit in Kilimanjaro park.

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