Kilimanjaro

A guidebook to climbing 5895m Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, the highest mountain in Africa and the world's highest free-standing mountain. Unlike many other peaks of its height, it is possible to reach the summit without any technical climbing, making it an achievable goal for many.

Map keyEast Africa overview mapOverview mapRoutes on KilimanjaroRoutes comparison tableIntroductionPreparations and practicalitiesChoosing a routeCosts and budgetingWhen to goPre-departure preparationGetting therePermits and visasAccommodationMoney and currenciesLanguageMapsEquipmentInsuranceHealth considerationsSelecting an outfitterGuides and portersTippingEnvironmental and cultural considerationsUsing this guideThe story of KilimanjaroPeople of the regionOrigin of the mountain's nameExplorationKilimanjaro National ParkNatural historyGeology and volcanologyGlacial recessionClimateAnimal and plant lifeAcclimatisation trekRoute X Mount Meru Momela RouteClimbing KilimanjaroAscent routesRoute A Marangu RouteRoute B Machame RouteRoute C Umbwe RouteRoute D Lemosho RouteRoute E Shira RouteRoute F Rongai RouteCircuit pathsRoute G Southern Circuit PathRoute H Northern Circuit PathSummit ascent routesRoute I Normal/Marangu RouteRoute J Barafu RouteRoute K Western Breach RouteThe summitDescent routesRoute L Marangu RouteRoute M Mweka RouteAppendix A AccommodationAppendix B Useful contactsAppendix C Further readingAppendix D Language glossary