Mount Kilimanjaro

rises 5,895 meters
above sea level.

Kilimanjaro National Park Wildlife

Explore five climate zones
in one mountain hiking
adventure.

Kilimanjaro National Park in northern Tanzania guards Africa’s rooftop and the dramatic environmental staircase surrounding it. Covering 1,688 square kilometres, the park begins in emerald montane rainforest draped with moss and echoing with colobus calls.

Trails wind upward into sunlit heather meadows dotted with giant lobelias, then rise again into stark Alpine desert under cobalt skies. At dawn, trekkers crunch over ancient glaciers crowning Kibo’s crater rim and watch clouds swirl far below Uhuru Peak.

Beyond mountaineering glory, these altitude layers support surprising wildlife: elephants browse lower slopes, chameleons cling to branches, and lammergeiers ride icy thermals.

Whether visitors summit or stroll forest paths, Kilimanjaro delivers a rare blend of challenge, biodiversity, and cinematic scenery in one compact reserve. Sunset paints the summit coral and gold nightly.

Map

Kilimanjaro Highlights

High-altitude rainforests, alpine desert, and glittering glaciers stand out in inspiring highlights drawn from Africa’s rooftop — Kilimanjaro.

  • Africa’s highest free-standing mountain challenges trekkers; Uhuru Peak rises 5,895 metres above sweeping savannah and the Great Rift Valley's majestic panoramas.
  • Traverse five dramatic climate zones, from rainforest to glaciers, experiencing shifting vegetation, temperatures, and scenery within a single multi-day trek.
  • Lower slopes shelter elephants, buffalo, bushbucks, blue monkeys, and colourful turacos, rewarding thrilling forest walks before higher altitude challenges begin.
  • Bird-watchers record over 250 species, including the endangered Abbot’s starling and soaring bearded vultures patrolling thermals above moorland ridges every day.
  • Chaga cultural encounters reveal banana farms, coffee plantations, traditional songs, and mountain legends, enriching the trekking experience beyond sheer adventure.
  • UNESCO World Heritage status protects Kilimanjaro’s fragile glaciers, endemic plants, and vital critical water catchments for surrounding communities and wildlife.

Activities to Do in Kilimanjaro National Park

From summit quests to gentle forest walks, Kilimanjaro offers varied adventures for climbers, nature lovers, birders, and curious culture seekers.

Best Time to Visit Kilimanjaro National Park

June to October and January to mid-March are best for Kilimanjaro, with clearer skies and favourable conditions for trekking and wildlife experiences.

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
  • Excellent
  • Good
  • Fair
Wet Season in Kilimanjaro National Park

Season Safari Guide

The best time to visit Kilimanjaro National Park is during the dry months of June to October and January to mid-March. These periods offer clear skies, stable weather, and the best conditions for climbing. June brings blooming wildflowers, while September offers beautiful glacier views at sunrise. Trails are dry and easier to hike, and summit success rates are higher.

During the rainy months of April, May, and November, trails on the southern and western slopes can become muddy and slippery. However, climbing is still possible via the Rongai Route, which lies on the northern side of the mountain and receives less rainfall. This route remains accessible and safer during wet months.

For those seeking fewer crowds and lush scenery, the rainy season offers a quieter, more serene experience. Just be sure to pack waterproof gear and warm layers.

Dry Season in Kilimanjaro National Park

Accommodations

Choose mountain huts, tented alpine camps, or cosy Moshi lodges offering hot showers, hearty menus, and affordable pre-climb gear rental.

Tanzania

Angama Mara

Luxury Lodge

Tanzania

Ol Donyo Lodge

Luxury Lodge

Tanzania

Sirikoi Lodge

Luxury Lodge

wildlife To See

  • Blue Monkey

    Blue

  • Abbot’s Starling

    Starling

  • Colobus Monkey

    Colobus

  • Bushbuck

    Bushbuck

  • Elephant

    Elephant

Get To
Kilimanjaro

Most visitors fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport, strategically located between Arusha and Moshi, with direct connections from Europe, the Middle East, and regional hubs such as Nairobi. A private transfer or scheduled shuttle reaches Moshi in under one hour, where final gear checks and guide briefings occur. Trailheads at Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai Gates lie 30-90 minutes farther, accessible via paved highways and graded rural roads. Alternatively, comfortable intercity buses reliably link Dar es Salaam and Arusha to Moshi daily.

Get to Kilimanjaro National Park

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