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Tag: Kilimanjaro Height

Mount Kilimanjaro – Summiting the Best of The Seven Summits!

Posted on by admin_scenic

Mount Kilimanjaro is by far the most iconic and popular of the Seven Summits – the highest peaks on each continent. One of the major factors for this is the otherworldly and impossible-to-fathom Kilimanjaro Height. For hiking enthusiasts around the globe, scaling this unbelievable height is right at the top of their dream journals.

If you have a question floating around in your mind about the Kilimanjaro Height aspects and why it’s considered one of the best of the seven summits, then we’ll tell you exactly why in this blog post. So, let’s get going!

Why Is Kilimanjaro’s Height an Important Factor?

The Height of Kilimanjaro is one of the critical factors that attract climbers from across our planet. It provides a sense of untapped potential, adventure, accomplishment, and yes, even awe, that’s almost impossible to replicate elsewhere.

Climbing Kilimanjaro requires considerable physical and mental effort, and the Kilimanjaro Height adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement to your voyage up the mountain.

Words of Wisdom – A Kilimanjaro Climb also requires climbers to acclimate to the altitude slowly. This process involves the body adapting to the lower atmospheric pressure and lower oxygen levels at higher altitudes, and it takes time. Climbers need to pace themselves and ascend gradually to avoid altitude sickness.

Kilimanjaro Climb

Kilimanjaro Height Compared to the Other Seven Summits

The Kilimanjaro Height above Sea Level is one of the most significant factors that draws out several adventurers seeking a challenge. The following is a height comparison of Kilimanjaro to the other six summits:

MOUNTAINHEIGHT (in metres)HEIGHT (in feet)
Kilimanjaro5,895 m19,341 ft.
Mount Elbrus5,642 m18,510 ft.
Mount Vinson4,892 m16,050 ft.
Aconcagua6,962 m22,841 ft.
Mount McKinley (Denali)6,194 m20,320 ft.
Puncak Jaya (Carstensz Pyramid)4,884 m16,024 ft.
Mount Everest8,848 m29,029 ft.

As it’s evident from the above representation, Mount Kilimanjaro is the fourth highest of the seven summits, behind Mount Everest, Aconcagua, and Denali. Despite being the fourth highest, though, it’s still a significant height for climbers on the lookout for a challenge.

Kilimanjaro’s Elevation Gain

Another aspect that makes Climbing Kilimanjaro stand out is its elevation gain. On your expedition, you start at the base of the mountain and climb to the summit, Uhuru Peak, which is at an elevation gain of over 4,800 metres (15,750 feet).

Below is the Elevation of Mt Kilimanjaro in comparison to the other six summits:

NAME OF THE MOUNTAINELEVATION GAIN (in metres)ELEVATION GAIN (in feet)
Mount Kilimanjaro4,869 m15,984 ft.
Mount Elbrus4,741 m15,554 ft.
Mount Vinson2,155 m7,070 ft.
Aconcagua3,962 m13,022 ft.
Mount McKinley (Denali)4,145 m13,796 ft.
Puncak Jaya (Carstensz Pyramid)4,884 m16,024 ft.
Mount Everest3,900 m12,795 ft.

Kilimanjaro has the second-highest elevation gain of the seven summits, behind only Mount Everest. So, if you want a high-altitude trekking challenge, then Mount Kilimanjaro Elevation will offer you precisely that.

Mount Kilimanjaro may not be the tallest, but its height, accessibility, and unmatched beauty make it the most inspiring summit for climbers chasing both adventure and personal achievement.

Other Factors that Make Kilimanjaro the Best of the 7 Summits

Now that we’ve laid rest to the Kilimanjaro Climb Height, let’s put some other factors under the microscope and see why Mount Kilimanjaro is regarded as the best of the Seven Summits.

Impressiveness – Kili’s stately wonders!

Kili’s towering grandness is sure to leave everyone shell-shocked, and why not? Standing at Uhuru Peak is an experience that’s best left to the otherworldly imagination. It rises above the Maasai land of Tanzania in royal form, and simply put, it is in a word – iconic. Thus, who doesn’t want to tick off such an iconic destination from the bucket list of their dreams?

Achievability – Within everyone’s reach!

While climbing any of the seven summits is an impressive feat, Kilimanjaro stands out as one of the most achievable mountains to climb.

The mountain’s gradual ascent and varied routes mean that climbers can adjust their pace to their fitness level and acclimatise slowly, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Additionally, the mountain has a high success rate for summit attempts, with more than 90% of climbers successfully reaching the top.

Uniqueness – So unmatched that you’ll become attached!

Kilimanjaro is a unique mountain in many ways. It is the only mountain in Africa with glaciers and is home to several distinct ecological zones, each with its unique flora and fauna. Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing is also a unique experience due to the different routes, each offering a unique perspective and scenery of the mountain.

Accessibility – Express Access!

Even though Kilimanjaro is located in a remote region, in terms of accessibility travelling here is straightforward. Plus, the mountain has several routes with varying degrees of difficulty, making it possible for almost anyone to climb it. And, Kilimanjaro doesn’t require any technical climbing skills, making it an excellent choice for those who want to experience high-altitude trekking without the need for specialised gear or training.

The People – Communal Experiences that Matter!

Did you know that Mount Kilimanjaro Tours is also a cultural experience? Seems unlikely, right? Let us then clear some things up! The area surrounding the mountain is also home to the Chaga and Maasai communities. Along your hiking voyage, you’ll also learn a lot about the way of life.

This will be right out of the voices of the people who have grown right in the shadow of Kilimanjaro, from guides and chefs to porters and rangers.

Accept The Uniqueness Of Kilimanjaro Height with Open Arms!

So, there we have it, that was all about the importance of Kilimanjaro Height and some reasons why it is the best of the Seven Peaks. And, why wouldn’t it be? Because who doesn’t want to tick such an iconic mountain off their bucket list?

Even though it’s not among the tallest of the seven peaks (that honour belongs to Mount Everest).

Yet a Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing experience is assured to knock you off your feet, and believe us, we aren’t exaggerating one bit.

Ready to find this out for yourself? Then, book one of our wide range of Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages and marvel at Kilimanjaro’s height in the flesh.

Simbo Natai
Simbo Natai, founder of African Scenic Safaris, crafts sustainable, meaningful Tanzanian journeys rooted in his deep local knowledge and passion.
Director, African Scenic Safaris

How High Is Mount Kilimanjaro? Everything You Need to Know

Posted on by admin_scenic

There have been some uncertainties over the factual Kilimanjaro Height, but the most agreed-upon figure (and the one on the board at the top of the mountain) is 5,895 metres (19,340 feet) above sea level.

Consider Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing, the highest free-standing mountain in the world and the fourth highest of the seven summits. Yet, you’ll be surprised to know that its height has changed over the years.

Mount Kilimanjaro Height? Is it 5895 m, 5893 m or 5892 m? Well, if you’re thinking about how these changes came to light, then in this post, we’ll go over all the height characteristics of Mount Kilimanjaro.

The Established Kilimanjaro Height

It was in 1889 when Dr. Hans Meyer became the first person to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Afterwards, he claimed he had climbed to around 6,045 metres (19,833 feet).

  • The colonial German authorities later amended this figure to 5,892 metres. This remained the official Mount Kilimanjaro Height until 1952.
  • Later that year, The Height of Kilimanjaro was measured again by British cartographers, and they adjusted it to 5,895 metres or 19,340 feet.
  • This figure was further written on the signpost of Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru Peak and is the figure you’ll find in most resources, as well as information materials on Kilimanjaro.

When Mt Kilimanjaro’s Height was measured again in 2008, the gauge showed the height was 5,891.8 metres.

Interesting Fact – It should be noted that the UNEP-WCMC (United Nations Environment Programme-World Conservation Monitoring Centre) in their official fact sheet of Kilimanjaro National Park, stated the height of Mount Kilimanjaro to be 5,893 metres.

The Latest Kilimanjaro Height Figures

Even though the Kilimanjaro Height Above Sea Level has been amended several times, one constant figure is 5,895 meters. The following is an insight into the Kilimanjaro Height changes:

Official Kilimanjaro Height – 5895 metres (19,340 feet), used by almost everyone.

More Accurate Kilimanjaro Height – 5,892.55 metres (19,332 feet), used in the UNEP-WCMC fact sheet.

The latest Height is 5,891.8 metres (19,330 feet), according to the 2008 Precise Height Measurement Expedition.

Kilimanjaro Height
Kilimanjaro Height

The Height of Kilimanjaro’s Peaks

Mount Kilimanjaro consists of three distinct cones, Kibo, Shira, and Mawenzi. Kibo is the highest peak, and Uhuru Peak is the highest point on Kibo’s crater rim. The Height of Kilimanjaro’s Peaks is constantly changing because of atmospheric and geological factors like volcanic activity, snow accumulation, and erosion.

The following representation reflects the current atmospheric heights of Kilimanjaro’s three peaks:

KILIMANJARO PEAKELEVATION (in metres)ELEVATION (in feet)
Kibo5,895 m19,340 ft.
Mawenzi5,149 m16,893 ft.
Shira3,962 m13,000 ft.
  • Kibo is the highest and most popular of Kilimanjaro’s peaks, with its summit reachable by several Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes such as Lemosho, Rongai, Machame, and Marangu.
  • Mawenzi is the third-highest peak and is considered a more technical climb due to its rugged terrain and challenging sections that require skilled rock climbing knowledge.
  • And, finally, Shira Peak is the lowest of the three in terms of Kilimanjaro Climb Height and is not usually climbed, but is a good starting point for treks.

Note – Shira once used to be Kilimanjaro’s third volcanic cone, but one of its early eruptions completely eradicated the rim and a flat plateau ultimately developed, known as the Lemosho Glades.

Mount Kilimanjaro’s height might change on paper, but its towering presence and adventure-filled slopes continue to challenge and inspire climbers around the world.

How High Is Mount Kilimanjaro, exactly?

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and the world’s highest free-standing mountain. The Kilimanjaro Summit Height is 5,895 m above sea level, and to give you an inkling of Kilimanjaro’s Height, Mount Everest stands at 8,848 metres. This is just over 2,950 metres higher than Mount Kilimanjaro.

Interestingly enough, both Everest Base Camp and (EBC) – South and North are below the summit of Kilimanjaro. Having said that, though, most climbers take more than 8-10 days to reach the Everest Base Camp.

Good to Know – Even though it is possible to start a Kilimanjaro Climb within 4-5 days but it’s not recommended. This is due to the rapid ascent of the mountain,   which in turn poses a risk of Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness.

Kilimanjaro Height
Kilimanjaro Height

Kilimanjaro Height – Elevation Vs Prominence Vs Climbing Height

Kilimanjaro has various measurements that are used to describe its height, including elevation, climbing height, and prominence. Below, we will explore the differences between these measurements.

  • The elevation is the vertical distance between the base of the mountain and its highest point.
  • The Kilimanjaro Elevation summit, known as Uhuru Peak, is 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.
  • The elevation is an important measurement because it is used to determine the difficulty level of a climb and the oxygen levels at higher altitudes.
  • Climbing height is the vertical distance from the base of the mountain to the highest point that a climber can reach.
  • The Kilimanjaro Climb Height is approximately 4,900 meters (16,100 feet), which is the elevation of the last camp before the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.
  • Climbing height is essential because it helps climbers determine the level of fitness and preparation required to reach the summit.
  • Prominence is the distance between a mountain’s summit and its highest saddle, which is the lowest point on a ridge that connects it to a higher mountain.
  • Kilimanjaro’s prominence is 5,885 meters (19,308 feet), making it the fourth most prominent peak in the world. Prominence is important because it reflects the mountain’s dominance within its surroundings.

The following summarizes the differences between Kilimanjaro’s elevation, climbing height, and prominence:

MEASUREMENTVALUE
Elevation5,895 meters
Climbing height4,900 meters
Prominence5,885 meters

Scaling New Heights – A Voyage Up Kilimanjaro!

Picture yourself making your way up Kilimanjaro, air thinning, and the cold soaking into your bones. Yet the sight of the sun rising beyond the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange, red, and gold, will warm your heart.

This is a glimpse into what conquering the Kilimanjaro Height experience will be. Why not heighten your senses and get your fill of wonder by opting for one of our Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages that will allow you to stand in awe at the height of Kili?

Simbo Natai
Simbo Natai, founder of African Scenic Safaris, crafts sustainable, meaningful Tanzanian journeys rooted in his deep local knowledge and passion.
Director, African Scenic Safaris

Why Is the Height of Mount Kilimanjaro So Tall?

Posted on by admin_scenic

When picturing the African land, the image of a towering mountain isn’t the first thing that pops into the mind. However, in the eastern section of Africa, the continent’s highest peak stands, reaching an impressive altitude of 5895 meters. This is Mount Kilimanjaro which serves as a magnet for hiking enthusiasts from across the planet to conquer its height and come out on top.

In this post, we will assess the various components of this majestic mountain, along with providing insightful background information on the Kilimanjaro Height. Hoping, it will ultimately prove invaluable for your forthcoming Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing expedition.

Kilimanjaro Height – Background

The Kilimanjaro Height in Feet is officially 19,364 ft. and its height in metres is 5,895. Also, the signpost on Uhuru Peak reads the same. British cartographers were the first ones to calculate this figure in 1952.

But some sixty years before that, Hans Meyer, the first ever person to reach Uhuru Peak estimated a rough height of Mt Kilimanjaro on his trailblazing climb. They estimated the Mt Kilimanjaro Elevation to be 6045 metres at that time, and this figure was widely believed to be the exact one for six decades.  

Let’s understand the chronological events that have happened thereafter, to find the answer to the most intriguing question- Where Does Kilimanjaro Stand in Height?

  • Revised measurements have been made with the advancement of technology.
  • In 1999, a team remeasured the Height of Kilimanjaro, declaring it to be 5892.55 metres. The margin was not too large.
  • In 2008, Kilimanjaro was measured again; this time, the readings were 5,891.8 metres.
  • The research team which conducted the task applied a combination of gravity methodologies and GPS.

Regardless, the difference between both estimations isn’t that significant, and most sources prefer to stick to the conventional number when it comes to Kilimanjaro Summit Height. The figure that is widely believed to be accurate is 5,895 metres above sea level.

Kilimanjaro Height
Kilimanjaro Height

Where does Mount Kilimanjaro Rank in the World?

Mount Kilimanjaro holds great appeal for hikers, mountain climbers, and adventurers, making it a popular destination of choice. Now, turning our attention back to the initial question- as compared to the other renowned peaks known as the Seven Summits, Where Does Mount Kilimanjaro Rank in Height in the World? 

Among these magnificent Seven summits, Mount Kilimanjaro secures an impressive position as the fourth most significant mountain globally. Below, we provide Mount Kilimanjaro Ranking among the illustrious group of the Seven Summits.

  • Mount Everest in Asia -29,035 feet/8,850 m
  • Aconcagua in South America- 22,829 feet/6962 m
  • Denali in North America – 20,320 feet/6190 m
  • Kilimanjaro in Africa- 19,340 feet/ 5895 m
  • Mt. Elbrus in Europe- 18,510 feet/5642 m
  • Mt. Carstenz or Mount Kosciuszko in Oceania- 16,023 feet/4884 m or 7310 feet/2228 m, respectively.
  • Mt. Vinson in Antarctica -16,067 feet/4892m

Another important point that deserves a mention here is that Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the easiest of the Seven Summits to scale up to the top. Also, the climb is not technical at all and doesn’t require any mountaineering skills.

Highest Free-Standing Mountain on Earth

The Kilimanjaro Height makes it not only the highest peak in Africa but also the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

All of the other mountains in the world are usually parts of a mountain range, meaning there’s a combination of other mountains. For example, Mount Everest belongs to the Himalayas, Aconcagua to the Andes massif, and Elbrus to the Caucasus Mountains.

However, the mountains of Tanzania stand in contrast to other mountain ranges in the world. And, Mount Kilimanjaro follows the same suit.

It stands freely amid the tropical rainforest while rising from a flat plain, and doesn’t belong to any mountain range. Thus, bagging it the honour of being the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

The nearest mountain to Kilimanjaro is Mount Meru, with a distance of 100 km between the two peaks.

This is why, Kilimanjaro looks isolated and towers over the African savannah landscape while evoking feelings of awe and amazement.

Mount Kilimanjaro stands tall through time, shaped by fire and ice. Its height, history, and majesty continue to inspire climbers and nature lovers worldwide.

Kilimanjaro’s Peaks

Free-standing mountains similar to Mount Kilimanjaro are generally a result of volcanic activity. When molten rocks erupt and pile up on the surface, they form these volcanic mountains.

One of the most fascinating facts about Mount Kilimanjaro is that it is made up of three volcanic cones – Kibo, Shira, and Mawenzi. Below is an in-depth look into each of Kilimanjaro’s peaks:

Kibo – Kili’s Highest Point

The place where the true Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing experience culminates is Kibo Peak. The peak is crowned by Uhuru Peak and is the highest point of Kilimanjaro. The famous Ash Pit and Kilimanjaro glaciers can be seen in the crater area.

While the southern slope of Kibo is home to the Barranco Wall. Climbers traverse the peak on the way from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp and the views from the top are nothing short of spectacular.

Mawenzi Peak – Kili’s second-highest point

Located on the eastern part of Kilimanjaro, Mawenzi stands at a height of 5,148 metres. Hikers can expect excellent views from the Mawenzi Camp when Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route.

Point to Note – The slopes of Mawenzi are very rocky and steep which is why only those who have skilled alpine skills are allowed to climb Mawenzi. One should be able to use carbines, ropes, and other safety gear to navigate the difficult trail.

Shira Peak – Home to the scenic Shira Plateau

At one point in time, Shira was the third volcanic cone of Mt Kilimanjaro. One of its early eruptions led to the destruction of the rim and over time a flat plateau was formed.

Now, this plateau is called the Lemosho Glades or Shira Plateau and has since become one of the most scenic sights to see when Climbing Kilimanjaro. Climbers reach the plateau by travelling through Lemosho and Northern Kilimanjaro Routes.

The following is a brief rundown of some of the prime Kilimanjaro Peaks:

PEAK NAMEELEVATION (in metres)
Uhuru Peak5,895
Mawenzi Peak5,149
Shira Peak3,962
Kibo Peak4,900
The Saddle4,400

Kilimanjaro’s Elevation Gain

On a Kilimanjaro Climb, you should be ready to gain several metres in elevation daily. The fact that the mountain stands at 5,895 metres doesn’t mean that this is the exact Mt Kilimanjaro Elevation gained during the climb.

The whole region of Kilimanjaro is located in the highlands which are already significantly above sea level. For instance, the regional capital known as Moshi lies at 800 m above sea level.

Most of the trailheads are even higher, meaning that you will not climb 5,895 metres throughout your climb but stand at that elevation upon reaching Uhuru Peak.

For further information on Kilimanjaro Height Ranking, prominence, and altitude gain, you can read our related blog linked here.

Elevation Gain
Elevation Gain

Kilimanjaro Height – Starting Levels and Proper Acclimatization

All the climbing expeditions begin at one of the Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes trailheads designated by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA). They are represented below:

STARTING POINTKILIMANJARO ROUTESTARTING ALTITUDE (in metres)ELEVATION GAIN
Londorossi GateLemosho and Northern Circuit Routes2,360 m above sea level2,395 m
Marangu GateMarangu Route2,700 m above sea level3,195 m
Machame GateMachame Route1,740 m above sea level4,155 m
Nalemuru GateRongai Route1,950 m above sea level3,945 m

Note – The challenging Umbwe Route starts at 5,250 feet, which means that you will have to climb 4,295 metres up the mountain. Never fall into the trap of thinking that the higher you start, the easier your climbing Kilimanjaro experience will be. Proper acclimatization is the most crucial aspect of a Kilimanjaro Climb, which is why we suggest that you should always pick a Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Package that has an itinerary of 7 or more days.

Deducing the mysterious Kilimanjaro Height!

The Kilimanjaro Height is a result of complex geological and environmental factors that have shaped the mountain over millions of years. From tectonic plate movements to volcanic activity and glaciation, each process has contributed to the mountain’s impressive height.

Why not inspire curiosity and fascination for years to come by booking a Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Package from our wide selection?

Simbo Natai
Simbo Natai, founder of African Scenic Safaris, crafts sustainable, meaningful Tanzanian journeys rooted in his deep local knowledge and passion.
Director, African Scenic Safaris

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