An In-Depth Look at Africa’s Highest Mountain – By Nyamera Treks and Safaris, Your Local Kilimanjaro Experts

Mount Kilimanjaro is not just a mountain—it is a symbol of adventure, natural beauty, and personal triumph. Towering above the plains of East Africa, it is the highest mountain on the African continent and one of the most sought-after trekking destinations in the world. But how tall is Mount Kilimanjaro exactly? And what makes it so special?

Kilimanjaro’s Exact Height

Mount Kilimanjaro rises to a majestic height of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. This measurement places it as the highest mountain in Africa and one of the Seven Summits—the tallest mountains on each of the seven continents.

Kilimanjaro’s highest point is known as Uhuru Peak, located on the Kibo volcanic cone, which is the summit most trekkers dream of reaching.

Standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest peak in Africa and the world’s tallest freestanding mountain—meaning it is not part of any mountain range. Its highest point is known as Uhuru Peak, located on the dormant volcanic cone called Kibo. Reaching this summit is a dream for many adventurers and nature lovers from around the globe, as it offers an incredible experience without the need for technical climbing.

Location and Geographical Facts

Kilimanjaro is located in northeastern Tanzania, near the border with Kenya. It’s part of Kilimanjaro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that protects the mountain’s diverse ecosystems, from rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and arctic summit zones.

Unlike other famous mountains, Kilimanjaro is not part of a mountain range—it stands alone as the world’s tallest freestanding mountain, formed by volcanic activity over a million years ago.

Three Volcanic Cones of Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro has three distinct volcanic cones:

Kibo – The highest and only dormant cone (where Uhuru Peak is located)
Mawenzi – The rugged second-highest peak at 5,149 meters (16,893 feet)
Shira – The oldest and lowest cone, now eroded, at about 3,962 meters (13,000 feet)

Only Kibo remains dormant but potentially active, while Mawenzi and Shira are extinct.

Can Anyone Climb Kilimanjaro?

Yes! One of Kilimanjaro’s most unique features is that it requires no technical climbing experience to reach the summit. This makes it one of the most accessible high-altitude treks in the world.

However, reaching 5,895 meters is no easy feat—it demands preparation, acclimatization, and the support of experienced guides. That’s where Nyamera Treks and Safaris comes in.

We offer multiple Kilimanjaro trekking routes, including:

Machame Route (7 Days) – Known for its scenic beauty and good acclimatization profile
Marangu Route (6 Days) – The only route with hut accommodations
Lemosho Route – A longer, quieter trail ideal for gradual ascent
Rongai Route – Approaches from the north, less crowded
Umbwe Route – Steep and direct, best for experienced trekkers

How Kilimanjaro Measures Up Globally

In the global context, Kilimanjaro is the fourth highest of the Seven Summits, which includes the tallest mountains on each of the seven continents. It is significantly taller than other well-known peaks like Japan’s Mount Fuji and even Mount Elbrus in Europe when measuring base to summit height for a freestanding mountain.

Tallest mountain in Africa
4th highest of the Seven Summits
Tallest freestanding mountain in the world
Approximately 3 times taller than Mount Fuji (Japan)
Almost 2.5 times taller than Ben Nevis (UK)

Why Climb Kilimanjaro with Nyamera Treks and Safaris?

As a locally owned tour company based in Moshi, Tanzania, we specialize in safe, ethical, and affordable Kilimanjaro climbs. Our guides are licensed, experienced, and deeply passionate about the mountain. We provide:

Professional mountain guides and porters
Quality camping gear and meals
Pre-climb support and route planning
Emergency oxygen and first aid on all treks
Fair wages and porter welfare support

Climbing Kilimanjaro is more than reaching a high point—it’s about the journey, the personal challenge, and the incredible landscapes and cultures you encounter along the way. For many of our clients at Nyamera Treks and Safaris, standing on the Roof of Africa is a life-changing experience.

If you’re ready to take on the challenge of climbing a 5,895-meter African giant, we are here to help you prepare every step of the way. From gear checklists and acclimatization guidance to professional guides and porter teams, Nyamera Treks and Safaris is committed to your safety, comfort, and success.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, student, or group, we’ll help you stand on the Roof of Africa.

Ready to Climb?

Contact Nyamera Treks and Safaris today to begin your Kilimanjaro adventure. We offer private treks, student groups, and scheduled open climbs—all led by experienced local guides who are passionate about Tanzania’s greatest natural treasure.