Kilimanjaro National Park

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What is the size of the park: 1,668 sq km (641 sq miles)
When was the park established: 1921 established as a forest reserve, 1973 as a national park and declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1987.
What is the distance from Arusha: 128 km (80 miles)

Popular tours visiting Mount Kilimanjaro National Park:
Lemosho Route, 8 day scheduled trekking tour + 2 nights hotel stay 2,930 USD pp
Marangu Route, 6 day scheduled trekking tour + 2 nights hotel stay 2,140 USD pp
Machame Route, 6 day scheduled trekking tour + 2 nights hotel stay 2,140 USD pp

Known affectionately as ‘Kili’, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest ‘free-standing’ mountain in the world, and is a breathtaking sight to behold. On a clear day, it can be seen from 320kilometres/198 miles away. It rises from an average altitude of 1000m/3281ft on the plain to 5895m/19341ft – a climber’s dream peak. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is a World Heritage Site, with six routes allowing climbers access through the Forest Reserve. With more than 20 000 mountaineers a year, Kilimanjaro is second only to Everest and the Annapurna area in Nepal as a climbing destination.

“crown of Africa”, Mt Kilimanjaro stands just 205 kilometres / 127 miles south of the equator, on the northern boundary of Tanzania. Its location on an open plain close to the Indian Ocean, and its great size and height strongly influence the climate, vegetation, animal life and the climbing conditions.

Considered one of the easiest mountains to climb, Mount Kilimanjaro is also excellent for scenic hikes. Wildlife sightings are good, and although birdlife is not prolific, there are some interesting species such as alpine chat and the rare bearded vulture.