Situated near the town of Moshi in northern Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro rises from the dry plains, through a wide belt of forest and high alpine heath to an almost bare desert and finally the snow capped summit, Uhuru Peak, just 3 degrees south of the Equator.
One of the world's highest free standing mountains, Mt. Kilimanjaro is composed of three extinct volcanoes: Kibo 5895 m (19340 ft.), Mawenzi 5149 m (16896 ft.), and Shira 3962 m (13000 ft.).
The name itself is shrouded in mystery. It might mean Mountain of Light, Mountain of Greatness or Mountain of Caravans. The local people, the Wachagga, call the whole massif- "Kilemakyaro" meaning "Our Mountain" with its highest point only Kipoo (now known as Kibo or Uhuru Peak) for the familiar snowy peak that stands imperious, as overseer of the continent and the summit of Africa.
Kilimanjaro is one of the world's most accessible high summits, a beacon for visitors from around the world. Most climbers reach the crater rim with little more than a walking stick, proper clothing and determination. And those who reach Uhuru Point, the actual summit, or Gillman's Point on the lip of the crater, will have earned their climbing certificates and the accompanying memories.
Other famous mountains in Tanzania are Mount Meru, located in Arusha, and Mount Oldonyo Lengai, which is located on the East Africa rift valley. We're able to take you to the summit of either of these as well. Use the dropdown menu above to access information on any of the Kilimanjaro routes or the Meru climbs we lead.
