Kilimanjaro National Park
Overview
Kilimanjaro National Park
Located along the northern border in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro national park covers an area of 652 square miles. This national park is home to Kilimanjaro Mountains which is the tallest free standing mountain in the world.
Climb or admire the most frequently climbed Kilimanjaro Mountains at the Kilimanjaro National Park
The national park area shelters plenty of exciting wildlife. There are different ecological zones which offer different environments for different types of animals. The zone that is most suitable for spotting of animals is rainforest area.
One of the fun wildlife sightings that are enjoyed by the tourists is the western black and white colobus monkeys as they jump from tree to tree. Other major wildlife attractions include dainty duikers, klipspringers and three-horned chameleon.
- The Kilimanjaro National Park has a unique combination of eco-climatic zones. As one climbs up, the vegetation and weather change according to the elevation.
The predominant vegetation is montane forests, heath and moorland, and alpine desert with sparse plants.
- Some peaks present in the national park are Kibo Peak (5895 m), Mawenzi Peak (5149 m), and Shira Peak (3962 m). Kibo peak is the highest point and is covered by snow all throughout the year. The second highest peak, Mawenzi is a technical climb and only experts are allowed.
- Shira Peak is the oldest peak that collapsed some 750 years ago. Then, the peak transformed into a plateau named Shira plateau.
This is an important tourist attraction now because of its scenic beauty. Several migratory mammals use this plateau for grazing. Cathedral point is found here which can be climbed easily.
- The national park houses 140 species of mammals, 7 primates, 25 carnivores, 25 antelopes, 179 species of birds, and 24 species of bats. They can be spotted during the hikes.
- Two waterfalls are located along the Marangu route namely Lauwo waterfalls and Marangu waterfalls. They provide spectacular experience while enjoying walking inside the thick forest.
- No prizes for guessing here. Climbing the Summit is the main tourist activity that is offered in the national park.
- Camping in the Crater provides visitors with the unique experience of visiting the bench-shaped glaciers that are only found in Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Climbing the Mawenzi, the second highest peak on Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s a technical climb that is offered in the national park.
- Paragliding is now under operation in the national park. Free flying the World’s tallest free-standing mountain is a reality now.
- Mountain cycling along the Kilema Route and Shira Plateau is provided to tourists. Both summit visitors and non-visitors can cycle inside the park.
- Picnicking is allowed inside the park where visitors can even take packed meals. There are 13 picnic sites along different routes.
- Some activities for non-summit climbers include-
- A visit to Lauwo waterfalls and Shira plateau.
- Watching wildlife and high-altitude birds.
- Walking through the mountain forests.
- A day walk to Maundi crater, Lake Chala, and other cultural sites.
- Other activities that are offered in the National Park include walking safaris (both long and short) and filming.
Tailor Made Tour
Customize Your Trip... Your Tour... |
To start planning your tour with us, you can create an itinerary from scratch, or modify one of our suggested itineraries. Whether your trip is a few days’ or a few weeks’ long, local travel experts will craft a unique itinerary, fully tailored to your wishes. Want to visit the beautiful destination, or start an adventure to reach to the top? They will will make it happen.
Suggested
Safari Packages
We offers some of the world’s most diverse safari experiences, consisting of National Parks, game reserves, conservation areas and private concessions.