Kilimanjaro National Park

• Height: 5,895 meters (19,341 feet).
• Location: Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania, East Africa.
• Type: Stratovolcano.
• Last Eruption: Estimated to have occurred about 360,000 years ago.
• Climate Zones: Kilimanjaro features multiple climate zones ranging from tropical rainforests at the base to arctic conditions near the summit.

• In March and April, at the height of the green or emerald season, the great herds typically start to come together with their young calves usually in the vicinity of Naabi Hills on the southern plains where they reach their highest densities.
• In April or May, the northward migration begins (this is called the Moru Crush when the migration exits the plains through a narrow valley at Moru Kopjes) with the wildebeest rut then taking place around May in the Seronera region of the central Serengeti.
• May or June sees the first of the iconic river crossings when the herds make their way across the Grumeti River in the western Serengeti.
• July to October sees the herds enter the far north of the ecosystem as they cross the Mara River in the northern Serengeti in what many safari stalwarts consider to be the holy grail of safari sightings. It certainly is a sight to behold: thousands of wildebeest plunging into crocodile-infested waters driven forward by instinct and an irresistible urge to access fresh grazing on the other side.
• From October to November, the herds turn and move southward and into the central Serengeti once more. This is probably the most unpredictable time with huge columns of wildebeest veering off – often back into the western corridor – depending on wherever the first showers have fallen and fresh green grass is emerging

One of the most significant challenges of climbing Kilimanjaro is altitude sickness, which can affect climbers who ascend too quickly. It’s essential to take your time, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body. Routes with longer itineraries (like the Lemosho and Northern Circuit) generally offer better acclimatization options.

Kilimanjaro features diverse ecosystems:

• Rainforest: The lower slopes, rich in biodiversity with monkeys, birds, and lush vegetation.
• Moorland: As you ascend, the terrain becomes more barren with shrubs and heather.
• Alpine Desert: Higher up, where only hardy plants survive.
• Arctic Zone: Near the summit, where snow and ice persist, though they are melting due to climate change.

• Altitude: Due to its height, it is common for climbers to experience altitude sickness, even if they are in good physical shape.
• Weather: Conditions can change quickly, especially at the summit, with temperatures dropping below freezing.
• Physical Endurance: While climbing Kilimanjaro is a non-technical trek, it still requires a good level of fitness due to the length of the trek and the steep sections.

To prepare for a Kilimanjaro trek, it’s important to:

• Train for endurance and cardio, focusing on hikes, long walks, and stair climbing.
• Get comfortable with trekking at high altitudes.
• Be ready for varied weather and bring appropriate gear (layers, waterproofs, good boots, etc.).
• Consider booking with a reputable tour operator that provides a guide and support team, including porters, cooks, and emergency services.

• Sunrise at Uhuru Peak: The view from the summit, especially during sunrise, is breathtaking. The expanse of Africa below, the surrounding glaciers, and the sunrise are often described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Glaciers and Icefields: Despite the tropical location, Kilimanjaro’s summit has glaciers, though they are shrinking due to global warming.