Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain on which continent?

Answer 1

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

A free-standing, snow-covered dormant volcano, majestic Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa. Located in northeast Tanzania, it can be seen from far into Kenya and Amboseli National Park.

75,000 mountaineering enthusiasts climb Kilimanjaro every year so it is not the most untouched mountain, nor is it the most arduous. However, it is certainly a test of one’s endurance, with altitude sickness the main reason for hikers not getting to the summit of Kilimanjaro. Although it has become a very popular challenge and the experience slightly crowded with other climbers, we still highly recommend it for anyone with an interest in mountaineering.

A GUIDE TO CLIMBING KILIMANJARO

How high is Kilimanjaro?

Once you have reached the summit, you will be standing 5,895m or 19,340 feet high as Kilimanjaro is the highest free-standing mountain in the world. By comparison, Everest's highest peak is 8,848m above sea level. It is also commonly known as the roof of Africa, as it towers over East Africa, and the whole continent for that matter. It is so big, that if you stand at the bottom, you usually can't really see it...

Where is Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro, unless climbed, is actually quite difficult to see in Tanzania. For the best view, hop over to Kenya's Amboseli National Park (if you can handle the crowds) for that iconic Kili backdrop view. If you are lucky, you will spot it on a plane from Nairobi, as it is situated on the Tanzania/Kenya border to the East of Arusha. It is easily accessible once in Tanzania to begin your climb...

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro: Mount Kilimanjaro Weather

March to end of May is the wet season on Mount Kilimanjaro and not a great time for trekking. The rest of the year is good though with the absolute peak season being similar to the best game viewing from July through to the end of October. Afterall, you want to be in with a chance of catching your summit on a clear day to get an amazing view from the highest point in Africa.

How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro

This does depend on route, but the fastest assent can take 4 nights, though most people take 6-8 nights depending on route

Overall mountaineering fitness required

Although it is possible to simply trek a route to the pinnacle of Kili without relying on professional climbing equipment, it remains a hard and serious endeavour that requires a level of physical fitness, stamina and a realistic awareness of the potentially damaging effects of high altitudes. Many tour operators request that clients consult a doctor before attempting to scale the mountain, and have a physical check-up for overall fitness.

Interesting Facts about Mount Kilimanjaro

Being the tallest mountain in Africa, Kilimanjaro is one of the seven summits in the world.

Composed of three distinct volcanic cones Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira, Mount Kilimanjaro is nothing less than a geographical wonder.

Kilimanjaro stands on its own. It is the world’s tallest freestanding mountain. Unlikely, most high mountains are part of ranges.

The origin of the mountain's name is a mystery in itself. Multiple theories were created to explain the origin behind that majestic name. Some suggest that it's a play on words with the word Klima meaning mountain and Jaro means Caverns.

The oldest person reported to have successfully climbed the mountain is Anne Lorimor, a 89 year old woman. She took the record from Dr. Fred Distelhorst, who was 88 year old when he reached the summit.

The youngest person to climb Kilimanjaro is Coaltan Tanner, who summited at the age of six back in 2018.

Mount Kilimanjaro was first climbed in 1889 by Hans Meyer, a German geologist. After many failed attempts, he finally succeeded in 1889.

Answer 2

Africa.