The highest mountain in Africa, Kilimanjaro, is also the highest freestanding mountain in the world.

The peak, only 3º below the equator, is covered with ice and snow.

However, the 'Snows of Kilimanjaro' are quickly retreating, often leaving the crater bare.

The mountain was formed in the upheaval leading to the formation of the Great Rift Valley 2 - 3 million years ago. It first had 3 volcanic peaks - Shira, Mawenzi & Kibo, of which Shira was the first to become extinct.

The 2 remaining volcanoes continued to grow, forming a saddle between them. Mawenzi then became dormant, but its outline of crags & pinnacles was formed by an explosion when the entire eastern rim gave way to form a spectacular gorge.

The mountain remains a dormant volcano and from time to time, rumblings have been heard inside. A reasonable fit person can reach the summit and the mountain has been climbed by people whose ages range from 11 to 64 years.

Hang gliders have been launched off the mountain, while for the professional climber, there are some very difficult climbs available.


The brittle & loose rock of Mawenzi peak is a challenge to professional climbers, as are the routes up the southern & southwestern face of Kibo. The easiest route up the mountain is the Marangu route, which takes 5 days and has modern huts along the way. The routes of Mweka, Umbwe & Machame are difficult & dangerous, and must be used with special permission.

Whatever the climb, the mountain leaves an indelible impression on one's mind. As the first man to see the summit described it, it is a spectacle of 'imposing majesty & unapproachable grandeur'.