Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: Conquering the Roof of Africa

Monika Vítková
Mar 14
3 min read

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing on top of the world—well, at least the highest point in Africa—then Mount Kilimanjaro is calling your name. Rising majestically to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, this legendary peak isn’t just Africa’s highest mountain—it’s also the tallest freestanding mountain on Earth.

Located in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peaks and stunning landscapes have made it one of the most sought-after trekking adventures in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or an adventurous beginner, climbing Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

A Mountain with a Story

Mount Kilimanjaro isn’t just a giant rock sticking out of the ground—it’s a dormant volcano, with three volcanic cones:

Kibo (the highest and still potentially active)
Mawenzi (rugged and dramatic, but unclimbable)
Shira (a collapsed crater that makes up the western plateau)

Formed around 750,000 years ago, Kilimanjaro has stood the test of time, weathering ice ages, eruptions, and the passing of countless climbers who dared to take on its heights. The mountain’s shrinking glaciers and disappearing ice fields are a sobering reminder of climate change, making it all the more important to witness this natural wonder while it still stands in its full glory.

Routes to the Summit

Climbing Kilimanjaro is no easy feat, but it’s definitely achievable for most people. With seven different trekking routes, ranging from six to nine days, there’s a path for every level of adventurer. Each route offers its own unique challenge and breathtaking scenery:

Marangu Route – Known as the "Coca-Cola Route" because it’s the most "comfortable" (relatively speaking) and offers hut accommodations.
Machame Route – The most popular and scenic path, with diverse landscapes and the perfect balance of challenge and acclimatization.
Lemosho & Shira Routes – Stunning and remote, with high success rates due to gradual acclimatization.
Rongai Route – The only route approaching from the north, offering drier conditions and fewer crowds.
Umbwe Route – A steep, tough climb, only for the truly adventurous.
Northern Circuit Route – The longest but least crowded route, offering the best acclimatization and highest success rate.

Regardless of which route you take, summiting Uhuru Peak, the highest point, is an experience like no other.

The Journey: From Jungle to Ice

One of the most incredible things about climbing Kilimanjaro is that you pass through five different climate zones in just a few days:

Cultivated Farmland – At the base, you’ll see lush fields and banana plantations.
Rainforest – A humid, green jungle full of exotic wildlife, monkeys, and birds.
Heather & Moorland – The trees get shorter, and giant lobelias and senecios appear.
Alpine Desert – A barren, rocky landscape with extreme temperatures.
Arctic Summit – Freezing cold, glaciers, and breathtaking views at the top.

It’s like traveling from the equator to the Arctic in one week—without needing a plane ticket.

Why Climb Kilimanjaro?

No technical climbing skills needed – Unlike Everest, you don’t need ropes, ice picks, or mountaineering experience.
A serious challenge – The altitude is tough, but with proper acclimatization, you can make it.
Incredible views – From the lush jungle to the frozen summit, every step is stunning.
Bragging rights – How many people can say they’ve stood on the highest point in Africa?

A Team Effort

You won’t be climbing alone. Experienced guides and porters are with you every step of the way, setting up camps, cooking meals, and ensuring you’re safe. These unsung heroes of Kilimanjaro carry supplies, provide moral support, and make sure you have the best possible experience.

Reaching the Summit: The Ultimate Reward

After days of hiking through challenging terrain, the final push to the summit is both mentally and physically demanding. You’ll start your ascent in the middle of the night, trekking under a starry sky towards the legendary Uhuru Peak. As the sun rises, you’ll reach the top—and for a few incredible moments, you’ll literally stand above the clouds, on the highest point in Africa.

It’s an emotional, unforgettable experience that few places on Earth can match.

Are You Ready to Climb?

Mount Kilimanjaro is not just a mountain—it’s an adventure, a challenge, and a journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Whether you’re looking to test your limits, cross an item off your bucket list, or simply soak in the magic of Tanzania, Kilimanjaro offers an unforgettable experience.

So, are you ready to take on the Roof of Africa?