Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Mount Kilimanjaro is an active volcano that rises 5895 meters (19,335 feet) above sea level. It is Africa's highest peak and the summit is snowcapped all year round. Its slopes are covered with lush rainforest, while the lowest parts of the mountain are cultivated. In the rainforest area you might see buffalo, eland, elephant, leopard, monkeys or rhino. The mountain can be climbed, but some preparation is necessary.

Maps with all different routes to the top are available in Dar es Salaam and Arusha. Because of its altitude, be prepared for altitude sickness when you want to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is a good idea to stay two nights at Horombo Hut to acclimatize to the altitude, although it is no guarantee for success. You won't need any special equipment to reach the summit, but it will take 5 or 6 days of your time. The mountain can be climbed any time of year, but in April, May and November it often rains a lot.

Organized climbs can be arranged in Arusha, Moshi and Marangu. The easiest way up the mountain is the Marangu Trail, which starts at Marangu village. There are several huts along the route and this way it will take you six days to reach the summit and return. Usually you'll climb to the Maranda Hut the first day. The following day the Morombo Hut is reached. It is best to stay there two days to get accustomed to the altitude. On day 4 you can climb to Kibo Hut. Most people will find it difficult to sleep there because of the altitude, so they set off to the summit very early in the morning the next day. The views from the top of Mount Kilimanjaro are absolutely stunning. Make sure you have warm clothes with you, as temperatures at the top are below freezing. The same day you reach the summit you will return to the Morombo hut and the sixth day is used to return all the way down to Marangu.

There is plenty of transportation available from most towns in the area, to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park.