Kilimanjaro. The name itself is shrouded in obscurity. It could be translated as Mountain of Greatness, Mountain of Light, or Mountain of Caravans. It could also not. The locals, the wachagga, don’t even have a name for the entire massif; they only recognize Kipoo (now known as Kibo) for the well-known snowy peak that dominates the region and serves as Africa’s highest point.

Any name for Kilimanjaro serves as a symbol for the alluring splendor of East Africa. You can see why once you’ve seen it. It rises in stunning isolation from the nearby savannah level of roughly 900 meters to an imposing 5,895 meters MASL, making it not only the highest peak in Africa but also the tallest free-standing mountain in the world (19,336 feet).

One of the highest summits in the world with the easiest access is Kilimanjaro, which attracts tourists from all over the world. Most climbers only need a walking stick, appropriate clothing, and willpower to get to the crater rim. Additionally, climbers will receive their climbing credentials if they reach Uhuru Point, the real summit, Stella Point, or Gillman’s Point on the crater’s rim. the memories they have.

But Kilimanjaro is much more than just its summit. From the tropics to the Arctic, the ascension of the hills is like a virtual tour of the world’s climates. The cultivated foot slopes give way to rich montane forest even before you enter the national park boundary (at about 2700m), where you can find the elusive elephant, leopard, buffalo, abbot’s duiker, as well as various small antelope and monkeys. The moorland zone, which is higher yet, is home to huge lobelias and a cover of giant heather. Except for a few hardy mosses and lichen, there is little life above 4,000 meters in a strange alpine desert. Finally, the last remnants of vegetation disappear, making way for a winter wonderland of ice and snow as well as the breathtaking splendor of the continent’s roof.