Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Mount Kilimanjaro – just the name is enough to fill your head with pictures of exotic landscapes: a towering mountain, the exotic animals, and the endless savannah stretching out below. It is surely one of the most well-known sites in all of Africa, making it a place that many travelers dream of.

It is no wonder. At 5,895 metres above sea level, the imposing Mount Kilimanjaro is easily Africa's highest point, inspiring many to climb to its peak. It is also the highest free-standing mountain in the entire world, making it one of the planet's most enormous geographical sites.

As if that was not impressive enough, it is not just a mountain, but also has three volcanic cones. Luckily, it is very safe for tourists to climb (for more information regarding climbing the Kilimanjaro you might contact a specialized tour operator as the German specialist Intakt-Reisen; just see their Kilimanjaro page). Mount Kilimanjaro is truly one of the most impressive natural sites in all of Africa, and the world.

Luckily, Mount Kilimanjaro need not remain a dream for travellers, because despite its intimidating size, it is easily accessible for the intrepid tourist. For decades, the surrounding national park in Tanzania's north has welcomed visitors. As a result, every year, countless travellers from around the world come not only for Mount Kilimanjaro, but also for the beautiful landscapes and unique African animals that can be seen.

Of those who visit, about 15,000 will climb 'Kili', as the mountain is affectionately known. While it is highly recommended that those wishing to climb the mountain prepare adequately, it is safe for most people with a good level of fitness to climb. That said, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is far from easy!

It is important to choose a tour or guide that will accommodate your pace. It normally takes between 5 and 7 days to climb the mountain, depending on which route you take (there are several). The most important thing is to make it to the top safely, not to go as fast as possible. Think of the story of the tortoise and the hare – in this case, slow and steady definitely wins the race!

For those who do make it to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, you are in for a treat. Not only are the views spectacular – particularly at sunrise – but you will be filled with a sense of personal achievement.

Of course, every year, tens of thousands more tourists visit Tanzania without climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. If your fitness or timeframe prevents you from doing it, do not fear! There is so much else to do in the surrounding national park, and you can get an absolutely stunning view of the mountain without actually climbing it.

Most of those who visit the park will go via the town of Moshi, which in itself is a pleasant and friendly town. Here, you will find many different accommodation options as well as shops and restaurants. If there is anything you have forgotten to bring with you on your visit, you can probably pick it up here in Moshi.

You're also likely to run into other travellers who can share tips, stories and a few laughs with you. There's a great sense of comradery amongst those who visit this part of Tanzania.
From Moshi, it is just 10 – 15 minutes to the entrance of the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park.
One of the most surprising things about the park is that a large percentage of it is covered in rich forest. While Africa may elicit visions of dry, sandy savannahs, this national park is different. Within its large forested area, you can expect to see the most density of animals. Keep your eyes open for creatures including baboons, antelope, monkeys and butterflies.

Other parts of the park are your more typical ecosystems, being moorland and heath. Although not as densely populated as other national parks in Tanzania (notably the Serengeti), it is possible to see some of the big 5 here, such as elephants and buffalo. Other animals present here include antelope and African hunting dogs.

So, while it is possible to see animals at Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, it is the mountain that is undoubtedly the main attraction. As a result, there are various other ways to adventure through the park, with the mountain as your permanent backdrop. If you're looking for a bit more adventure, activities including mountain bike safaris, camel safaris and aerial safaris (by light plane or helicopter) are unique ways to see the surrounding area.

All in all, while Mount Kilimanjaro is undoubtedly the jewel in this national park's crown, there is much more on offer. So whether you decide to climb it or not, expect to be amazed by this enchanting part of the world, rich in culture, adventure, and natural beauty.