Mountain Kilimanjaro National Park Tanzania

The name itself is a mystery wreathed in clouds. It might mean Mountain of Light, Mountain of Greatness or Mountain of Caravans. Or it might not. The local people, the Wachagga, don't even have a name for the whole massif, only Kipoo (now known as Kibo) for the familiar snowy peak that stands imperious, overseer of the continent the summit of Africa.

Mountain Kilimanjaro the highest mountain in Africa and one of the largest free-standing mountains in the world. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a must-do challenge for almost every trekker and mountaineer in the world.

Kilimanjaro National Park takes in the area above 8,850 feet, or 2,700 meters, on the mountain. It comprises of the moorland and highland zones, Kibo, Shira Plateau, and Mawenzi peaks. In addition, Mt. Kili National Park consists of 6 corridors through the Kilimanjaro Forest Reserve. The Forest Reserve, which is also a Game Reserve, was established in 1921; the Park was established in 1973 and officially opened in 1977.

At 5,895 m, Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa. This volcanic massif stands in splendid isolation above the surrounding plains, with its snowy peak looming over the savannah. The mountain is encircled by mountain forest. Numerous mammals, many of them endangered species, live in the park.

Since its official opening in 1977, Mt Kilimanjaro National Park has become one of Tanzania’s most visited parks. Unlike the other northern parks, this isn’t for the wildlife, although it’s there. Rather, coming here is all about gazing in awe at a mountain on the equator capped with snow, and to climb to the top of Africa.

A variety of animals can be found in the park. Above the timberline, the Kilimanjaro tree hyrax, the grey duiker, and rodents are frequently encountered. The bushbuck and red duiker appear above the timerline in places. Cape buffalo are found in the montane forest and occasionally in the moorland and grassland. Elephants can be found between the Namwai and Tarakia rivers and sometimes occur at higher elevations. In the Montane forests, blue monkey, western black and white Colobus, Bushbaby, and leopards can be found.

Tourist activity in Mountain Kilimanjaro National Park include Hiking, scenic viewing, animal & birds viewing among others.

Accommodation in and near Mountain Kilimanjaro National Park include: Lake Chala safari Camp, Shu’mata Camp, Ndarakwai Camp, Rafiki Backpackers, Satao Elerai Camp, Amboseli sopa Lodge, Babylon Lodge, Mountain Kilimanjaro View Lodge, Kilemakyaro Mountain Lodge, Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort, The Capricorn Hotel and Tours, Amans Hotel, Showcape Cottages and so on.