Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is a stunning Tanzanian treasure located 300 kilometers (190 miles) south of the equator in the Kilimanjaro Region, near the town of Moshi. Covering an area of 1,688 square kilometers (652 square miles), the park includes the entire Mount Kilimanjaro above the tree line and the surrounding montane forest belt above 1,820 meters (5,970 feet). Established as a national park in 1973 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Kilimanjaro National Park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The park's headquarters are situated in Marangu, about 44 kilometers from Moshi and 86 kilometers from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest free-standing mountain in the world, rising dramatically from the surrounding plains to a height of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. It is a dormant volcano with three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. The summit of Kilimanjaro, known as Uhuru Peak, is located on the Kibo cone and is a popular destination for climbers from around the world. It situated in northeastern Tanzania, near the border with Kenya. It covers an area of approximately 1,688 square kilometers and encompasses Mount Kilimanjaro and its surrounding montane forests.
Mount Kilimanjaro's journey from a German colonial game reserve in the early 20th century to its current status as a national park is a tale of conservation and recognition. Initially designated a forest reserve in 1921, the park was reclassified in 1973 to protect the mountain's unique environments above the tree line. Its significance was further acknowledged in 1987 when it was named a World Heritage Site. The park was expanded in 2005 to include the entire montane forest, further preserving its rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species. The park's unique habitats range from lush montane forests to the stark alpine zone. In the lower montane forests, visitors may encounter blue monkeys, eastern black and white colobuses, bushbabies, and leopards. As you ascend, the diverse fauna includes the Kilimanjaro tree hyrax, grey duiker, and various rodents. Cape buffaloes are common in the montane forest and occasionally venture into the moorland and grassland areas. Elephants can be spotted between the Namwai and Tarakia rivers, with occasional sightings at higher elevations.
Kilimanjaro National Park is a popular destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. In the 2012–2013 budget year, the park welcomed 58,460 tourists, generating significant revenue and reflecting its status as a key attraction. The park's climbing routes are well-managed, with a capacity of 28,470 trekkers per year, though actual numbers are often below this limit. The park's rich biodiversity and awe-inspiring landscapes make it a must-visit for anyone seeking adventure and natural beauty in Tanzania.
While Mount Kilimanjaro itself is not known for its wildlife,
the surrounding montane forests are home to a variety of flora
and fauna, including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, monkeys,
and numerous bird species. Wildlife sightings are more common on
the lower slopes of the mountain, particularly in the rainforest
zone.
Mount Kilimanjaro is cultural prestige to the local Chagga
people, who have lived in the region for centuries. The mountain
is considered a sacred site, and various rituals and ceremonies
are performed by the Chagga to honor it
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