Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, located in northeast Tanzania, is home to the world-renowned Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Unlike traditional safaris, the park(towering at 5,895 meters) is a beacon for trekkers and adventurers from around the globe.The park is approximately 300 kilometers from the bustling city of Dar es Salaam, making it a significant draw for visitors seeking to experience Tanzania's natural wonders. The main reason to visit Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is the challenging and rewarding trek to the summit, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the "Roof of Africa." Mount Kilimanjaro has three volcanic cones – Mawenzi, Kibo, and Shira – making it one of Earth's largest volcanoes. Kilimanjaro National Park features various vegetation zones, from lower slopes and montane forest to heath and moorland, alpine desert, and the summit. The park is a diverse wildlife habitat, hosting Cape buffaloes, elephants, blue monkeys, eastern black and white colobuses, bush babies, and leopards, offering a memorable encounter with nature.Climbing Kilimanjaro is the main attraction, with several routes available, each offering a different experience in terms of difficulty, scenery, and duration. Popular routes include the Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho trails, with the climb typically taking 5 to 9 days. Besides the physical challenge, the ascent offers breathtaking panoramic views and the rare opportunity to see glaciers in a tropical location. For those not inclined to summit, the lower slopes of the park are ideal for shorter hikes, wildlife safaris, and bird-watching. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Chala Crater Lake and local cultural experiences with the Chagga people, who have lived on the mountain’s slopes for centuries.Entry Fees to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park:Park Entry Fee:EAC: Adult – TSH 10,000, Child – TSH 2000Resident: Adult – $35, Child - $10Non-EAC: Adult - $70, Child - $20Special Activities:Walking Safaris:Short walks for adults(1 to 2 hours): EAC – TSH 5000, Residents - $20, Non-EAC - $20Short walks for children: EAC – TSH 2500, Residents: $10, Non-EAC - $10Long Walks for adults (above 4 hours): EAC – TSH 10000, Residents - $25, Non-EAC - $25Long Walks for children: EAC – 5000, Residents - $15, Non EAC - $15Paragliding on Kilimanjaro per person per day:Pilot: EAC– TSH 100,000, Resident– $500, Non-EAC - $500Passenger: EAC– TSH 100,000, Resident– $250, Non-EAC - $250Mawenzi Peak Technical Climbing per person per day: EAC– TSH 30,000, Resident– $750, Non-EAC - $750Cycling per person per day: EAC– TSH 30,000, Resident– $50, Non-EAC - $50Crew Fee (Tanzanians) in Kilimanjaro per trip: TSH 5,000Park fees for the Trekker for Various Routes:This price is per trekker and does not include guide and porter entrance fees.Machame 6 days - $814.20Machame 7 days - $955.80Lemosho 7 days - $955.80Lemosho 8 days - $1097.40Marangu 5 days - $719.80Marangu 6 days - $873.20Rongai 6 days - $814.20Rongai 7 days - $955.80Umbwe 6 days - $814.20Umbwe 7 days - $955.80Northern Circuit 8 days - $1097.40Northern Circuit 9 days - $1239.00Entrance Gates to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park:Kilimanjaro National Park has several entrance gates:1. Marangu Gate:Marangu Gate is one of the popular entry points for trekkers taking the Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola" route. It is closest to the Mandara Huts, which is the first overnight stop for hikers. Marangu Gate is located near the town of Marangu, which is about 70 kilometres from Moshi. This route is often chosen by those seeking a more straightforward and comfortable ascent, as it offers hut accommodation throughout the trek.2. Machame Gate:Machame Gate is the starting point for trekkers taking the Machame Route, known as the "Whiskey" route. It is closest to the Machame Camp, the first camping site on this challenging but scenic route. Machame Gate is approximately 50 kilometres from Moshi and is a preferred choice for those seeking a more scenic and adventurous trek with camping throughout the journey.3. Londorossi Gate:Londorossi Gate is the entry point for the Lemosho Route, which is known for its diverse and stunning landscapes. It is closest to the Lemosho Glades, the starting point for this longer and more remote trek. Londorossi Gate is about 95 kilometres from Moshi and is an excellent option for trekkers looking for a less crowded and more scenic route.4. Rongai Gate:Rongai Gate is the entry point for the Rongai Route, which approaches Kilimanjaro from the northern side. It is closest to the Rongai Camp, the first campsite on this less-travelled route. Rongai Gate is located near the village of Nalemoru, about 70 kilometres from Moshi. The Rongai Route is an excellent choice for trekkers who prefer a quieter and more off-the-beaten-path experience.5. Umbwe Gate:Umbwe Gate serves as the starting point for the Umbwe Route, known for its steep and challenging ascent. It is closest to the Umbwe Caves, the first camping site on this demanding route. Umbwe Gate is about 50 kilometres from Moshi and is recommended for experienced trekkers seeking a more technical and adventurous climb.6. Mweka Gate:Mweka Gate is the exit point for trekkers descending Mount Kilimanjaro after completing their journey. It is closest to the Mweka Camp, the last camping site for trekkers on most routes. Mweka Gate is approximately 45 kilometres from Moshi.7. Lemosho Gate:Lemosho Gate is one of the entry points to Kilimanjaro National Park, located about 95 kilometres from Moshi town. It provides access to the Lemosho Route, a challenging and less crowded trek known for its scenic and diverse landscapes.