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KILIMANJARO

NATIONAL PARK

Highest Peak In Africa

Kilimanjaro National Park covering an area of some 75,575 ha protects the largest free standing volcanic mass in the world and the highest mountain in Africa, rising 4877m above surrounding plains to 5895m at its peak. With its snow-capped peak, the Kilimanjaro is a superlative natural phenomenon, standing in isolation above the surrounding plains overlooking the savannah.

FACTS

  • Location: Northern Tanzania, near the Kenya border.
  • Elevation: Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet).
  • Volcano: Composed of three cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira; Kibo is the highest.
  • World Heritage Site: UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
  • Ecological Zones: Features five distinct climate zones: cultivated land, rainforest, heath, alpine desert, and Arctic summit.
  • Glaciers: Known for its rapidly receding glaciers and snow-capped summit.
  • Trekking Routes: Popular routes include Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and Umbwe.
  • Biodiversity: Home to diverse flora and fauna, including unique plant species and wildlife.
  • Tourism: A major tourist destination, attracting thousands of climbers annually.
  • Cultural Significance: Holds cultural and spiritual significance for the local Chagga people.
  • Challenges: Climbers face altitude sickness and varying weather conditions.
  • First Ascent: First successfully climbed by Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller in 1889.
  • National Park: Part of Kilimanjaro National Park, established to protect its unique environment.