Overview

Part hike, part slog and part high-altitude trek, the journey to the peak of this iconic mountain — the world’s tallest freestanding volcano — lures thousands of trekkers each year.

Beginning amid lush stands of banana on Kilimanjaro’s heavily cultivated lower slopes, the climb continues up through dense, dripping rainforest to alpine meadows and crosses a barren lunar landscape to the twin summits of Kibo and Mawenzi.

The final stage — the ascent up a steep, slippery scree slope — typically begins around midnight, culminating with sunrise views from the summit over the plains far below. Kilimanjaro’s cold, wet conditions and its altitude (5896m) make trekking here a serious undertaking.

To aid acclimatization, plan on at least a seven day round trip for a summit attempt, and budget at least $1200. Treks must be organized through a licensed trekking operator; there are many based in both the towns of Arusha and Moshi.