At 19,336 feet, snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is Africa's highest peak. It is the world's tallest walkable mountain, and what a walk it is. You go through 5 different climatic zones to reach the summit. Follow the advice, tips below, and you should reach the "roof of Africa" in good health. Kilimanjaro’s distinctive silhouette and snow-capped peak form one of Africa’s most iconic sights – rising majestically above the surrounding plains.
Not only is it the highest peak on the continent, at 5,895m, it is also the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. Kilimanjaro is one of the world's most accessible high summits – most climbers reach the top with little more than a walking stick, proper clothing and determination.
However, there is so much more to Kilimanjaro than her summit. The ascent of the slopes is a virtual climatic world tour, from the tropics to the Arctic. Even before you cross the national park boundary (at 2,700m), the cultivated foothills give way to lush montane forest, inhabited by elusive elephant, leopard, buffalo, the endangered Abbot’s duiker, and other small antelope and primates Above 4,000m, a surreal alpine desert supports little life other than a few hardy mosses and lichen. Finally, the last remnants of vegetation give way to ice and snow – and the magnificent Roof of Africa.
Not at all. Any person in good physical condition can climb and reach the summit. You should be able to run for half an hour or more without feeling any shortness of breath. Climbers with a sore throat, cold or breathing problems should not go above 3000 meters. People with heart or lung problems should not attempt to climb the mountain at all without consulting their doctors. Being in the right mental state is also important. You must not push yourself to go if your body is exhausted, or if you have extreme mountain sickness or more serious symptoms.
