Height of Kilimanjaro: Unveiling the True Summit – EAST

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Height of Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters. East Africa Travel Company guides you to the peak for an unforgettable adventure.

Height of Kilimanjaro: Unveiling the True Summit

🏔️ Why the Height of Kilimanjaro Matters

Mount Kilimanjaro is a towering symbol of East Africa’s natural splendor. At 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), it’s not only the tallest mountain in Africa but also the world’s highest free-standing volcano. Located in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro is more than a peak—it’s a life-changing journey for those who dare to climb it.

Whether you’re planning a trek or just curious about its elevation, this guide reveals everything you need to know about the height of Kilimanjaro, its awe-inspiring summit, and how to reach it.


📍 Where is Mount Kilimanjaro?

  • Country: Tanzania
  • Region: Kilimanjaro Region (near the Kenyan border)
  • Coordinates: 3.0674° S, 37.3556° E
  • Continent: Africa
  • Map Note: Kilimanjaro is shown in the northeast of the Tanzania map, dominating the skyline near Moshi and Arusha.

If you’re wondering, “Kilimanjaro is in what country?”, the answer is simple—Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania, a gem of East Africa.


📊 How Tall is Mount Kilimanjaro?

The official Kilimanjaro elevation is:

  • 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level
  • From base to summit: about 4,900 meters (16,100 feet)

Kilimanjaro vs. Other High Mountains

MountainElevation (m)Elevation (ft)Rank
Everest (Nepal/Tibet)8,84829,0291st
Aconcagua (Argentina)6,96122,8382nd
Mount Kilimanjaro5,89519,3414th (of the Seven Summits)
Elbrus (Russia)5,64218,5105th

Despite not being the highest mountain in the world, Kilimanjaro’s free-standing rise makes it one of the most iconic.


🔥 Is Kilimanjaro a Volcano?

Yes! Kilimanjaro is a dormant stratovolcano, composed of three volcanic cones:

  • Kibo: The highest and most famous cone (Uhuru Peak is on Kibo)
  • Mawenzi: Rugged and jagged; no trekking allowed
  • Shira: Collapsed caldera now forming a plateau

Kilimanjaro volcano last erupted over 360,000 years ago. While it’s considered dormant, not extinct, some steam vents remain active.


🧗‍♂️ How Long Does It Take to Climb Kilimanjaro?

The trek to Kilimanjaro’s summit varies depending on the route:

RouteDurationDifficultyAcclimatizationSuccess Rate
Marangu5-6 daysModerateShortLow-Medium
Machame6-7 daysChallengingGoodHigh
Lemosho7-8 daysModerateExcellentVery High
Rongai6-7 daysEasierGoodHigh
Northern Circuit9-10 daysModerateBestHighest

⏱ Average Time to Climb Kilimanjaro

  • Short Routes: 5–6 days (lower success rate due to poor acclimatization)
  • Recommended: 7–10 days (ideal for safe altitude adjustment)

🌦️ Climate Zones on Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro offers a trek through five climate zones:

  1. Cultivation Zone (800-1,800m): Farmlands and villages
  2. Rainforest (1,800–2,800m): Humid with monkeys and exotic birds
  3. Heather-Moorland (2,800–4,000m): Alpine plants, large shrubs
  4. Alpine Desert (4,000–5,000m): Cold, dry, little vegetation
  5. Arctic Zone (Above 5,000m): Glaciers, icefields, and volcanic ash

🌡️ Pro Tip: Layer clothing is essential—temperatures range from 30°C to -20°C across zones.


📍 The Summit: Uhuru Peak

Uhuru Peak sits on the Kibo cone and marks the official height of Kilimanjaro. The name “Uhuru” means “freedom” in Swahili, symbolizing the spirit of Tanzania.

🌄 View from the top:

  • See sunrise above the clouds
  • Glaciers glistening in golden light
  • A panoramic view of Tanzania and Kenya

🎉 Why It’s Life-Changing:
Reaching Uhuru Peak is both a physical and emotional triumph—a bucket list experience few ever forget.


🐘 Beyond the Peak: Explore Tanzania Northern Circuit

Combine your Kilimanjaro trek with a Northern Circuit Safari:

Park/AreaHighlights
Serengeti NPGreat Wildebeest Migration, Big Five
Ngorongoro CraterVolcanic caldera, dense animal presence
Tarangire NPElephant herds, baobab trees
Lake ManyaraTree-climbing lions, flamingos

💡 Travel Idea: 7-day climb + 5-day safari = The ultimate Tanzanian journey!


🎒 Essentials to Pack for Kilimanjaro

  • Warm base layers & insulated jackets
  • Rain gear & thermal gloves
  • Hiking boots (broken in!)
  • Trekking poles
  • High-calorie snacks
  • Hydration packs
  • Sleeping bag (4-season rated)
  • Headlamp (for early summit push)

🧳 Tip: Rent gear in Moshi or Arusha to lighten your luggage.


✈️ How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro

  • International Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
  • Nearest Cities: Moshi (40 mins), Arusha (1.5 hrs)
  • Transport: Private transfers, tour group shuttles, public minibuses

💬 FAQs About Kilimanjaro

How tall is Mount Kilimanjaro?
5,895 meters (19,341 feet)—Africa’s tallest mountain.

Where is Mt Kilimanjaro located?
In northeastern Tanzania, close to the Kenyan border.

Is Kilimanjaro part of the highest mountain in world group?
Yes, it’s one of the Seven Summits but not the highest (Everest holds that title).

How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?
Anywhere from 5 to 10 days, depending on the route and pace.

What’s the best route to climb Kilimanjaro?
The Northern Circuit or Lemosho Route for best acclimatization and views.


🚀 Book Your Kilimanjaro Adventure Today!

Mount Kilimanjaro’s elevation of 5,895 meters stands as a beacon for adventurers worldwide. Its height isn’t just a number—it’s a personal challenge, a journey through nature’s most dramatic scenery, and an experience that changes lives.

🎯 Ready to climb the height of Kilimanjaro and explore the Tanzania Northern Circuit?

📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 784 411 852
🔗 Book Now at: East Africa Travel Company
🎁 Limited-Time Offer: Book your Kilimanjaro trek and get a FREE Safari Day included!