Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcanic mountain in Tanzania. It is the highest mountain in Africa, and rises approximately 4,877 metres (16,001 ft) from its base to 5,895 metres (19,341 ft) above sea level. The mountain is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park and is a major climbing destination. Kilimanjaro rises approximately 4,877 metres from its southern base in the plains near the municipality of Moshi to its summit height of 5,895 metres (19,341 ft). Kilimanjaro is a large stratovolcano and is composed of three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo, the highest; Mawenzi at 5,149 metres (16,893 ft); and Shira, the shortest at 4,005 metres (13,140 ft). Mawenzi and Shira are extinct, while Kibo is dormant and could erupt again.

There are seven official trekking routes by which to ascend and descend Mount Kilimanjaro: Lemosho, Machame, Marangu, Mweka, Rongai, Shira, and Umbwe. Of all the routes, Machame is considered the most scenic, albeit steeper, route. It can be done in six or seven days. The Rongai is the easiest and least scenic of all camping routes. The Marangu is also relatively easy, but this route tends to be very busy, the ascent and descent routes are the same, and accommodation is in shared huts with all other climbers.

People who wish to trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro are advised to undertake appropriate research and ensure that they are both properly equipped and physically capable. Though the climb is technically not as challenging as when climbing the high peaks of the Himalayas or Andes, the high elevation, low temperature, and occasional high winds make this a difficult and dangerous trek. Acclimatisation is essential, and even the most experienced trekkers suffer some degree of altitude sickness.

Another captivating facet of Tanzania safari holiday is Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, is not strictly a mountain, but a stratovolcano that began forming around a million years ago. About 30,000 people climb Kilimanjaro each year and about three-quarters of these climbers reach the summit. This climb is relatively safe and most climbers who don’t reach the summit fail to do so because of altitude-related issues or harsh weather near the peak. Kilimanjaro is home to a host of different ecosystems, from the tropical jungle, savannah and desert to montane forests, subalpine plants and the alpine zone. Animals in this area include blue monkeys, olive baboons, civets, leopards, mongoose and bush pigs. There are also honey badgers and aardvarks, although they are hard to spot as they’re nocturnal. Besides climbing Kilimanjaro, there are several other ways to explore this area, including hikes, wildlife watching and game drives.

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