Rising above the plains of northern Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and one of the world’s great bucket-list challenges. Standing at 5895m, this dormant volcano offers a rare opportunity to reach a true high-altitude summit without technical climbing, making it an achievable goal for fit, determined walkers who prepare well, choose the right route, and respect the altitude. The mountain is famed for its striking ecological zones – from lush rainforest and heathland to stark alpine desert and the icy glaciers of Uhuru Peak – all experienced over the course of a single ascent.

This guidebook to Kilimanjaro is designed to turn a dream into a realistic, well-planned expedition. Covering all six established ascent routes and the three main summit approaches, it provides clear, authoritative guidance whether you are choosing the popular Machame or Marangu routes, seeking quieter paths like Rongai and Lemosho, or planning a longer, more gradual itinerary to maximise acclimatisation. The book also includes Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak, as both a rewarding objective in its own right and an ideal preparation and acclimatisation trek before tackling Kilimanjaro itself.

• A detailed introductory section covers all practical preparations, including costs and budgeting, park permits, the role of licensed guides and porters, essential equipment, and responsible travel considerations, with guidance on respecting both the mountain environment and local cultures
• Insight into the history and significance of Mount Kilimanjaro helps you appreciate the geological, cultural and exploratory stories behind this iconic peak and the true scale of a one-in-a-lifetime journey
• In-depth descriptions of all ascent options clearly outline the character, duration and challenges of each route, enabling you to choose the approach best suited to your time, fitness and trekking experience
• Comprehensive coverage of acclimatisation strategies includes recommended itineraries and preparatory treks, with dedicated information on climbing Mount Meru as an effective and rewarding way to improve your chances of summit success
• A carefully curated list of reputable local outfitters and guiding companies gives you confidence when choosing experienced, ethical operators for your Kilimanjaro climb

From the first steps through dense rainforest to the final push across the crater rim at dawn, Kilimanjaro delivers a sense of scale and achievement that few journeys on Earth can match. Standing on the Roof of Africa is more than reaching a summit; it is the culmination of careful preparation, steady acclimatisation and an unforgettable passage through wildly contrasting landscapes. With expert guidance, inspiring insight and practical detail throughout, this guidebook helps transform an iconic ambition into a deeply rewarding adventure that will stay with you long after you leave the mountain behind.

Kilimanjaro - Quick Facts

Trail name: Mount Kilimanjaro
Location: Northern Tanzania, East Africa
Highest point: 5895m / 19,341ft (Uhuru Peak)
Typical duration: 4–10 days (route dependent + acclimitisation)
Ascent routes: 6 main routes
Summit routes: 3 approaches to Uhuru Peak
Start points: Various park gates around Kilimanjaro National Park
Finish: Uhuru Peak (descent via designated routes)
Trail type: High-altitude trekking route (non-technical)
Difficulty: Challenging (altitude is the main factor)
Terrain: Rainforest, heathland, alpine desert, glaciers
Navigation: Guided ascent required by park regulations
Best season: January–March and June–October
Accommodation: Mountain huts (Marangu route) or tented camps (all other routes)

Author Highlight

“The massive bulk of the country’s highest peak dominates the surrounding savannah, looming over it like a colossus. Walking on the high mountains of East Africa banishes the notion that the continent is only covered in stereotypical tawny grasslands. As a result of its tremendous height and its location on the equator, Kilimanjaro’s slopes are home to lush tropics, temperate climes and alpine moorland, as well as barren high-alpine desert and permanently snow-capped summits.”

- Alex Stewart, author of Kilimanjaro 

Map key
East Africa overview map
Overview map
Routes on Kilimanjaro
Routes comparison table

Introduction
Preparations and practicalities
Choosing a route
Costs and budgeting
When to go
Pre-departure preparation
Getting there
Permits and visas
Accommodation
Money and currencies
Language
Maps
Equipment
Insurance
Health considerations
Selecting an outfitter
Guides and porters
Tipping
Environmental and cultural considerations
Using this guide
The story of Kilimanjaro
People of the region
Origin of the mountain’s name
Exploration
Kilimanjaro National Park
Natural history
Geology and volcanology
Glacial recession
Climate
Animal and plant life

Acclimatisation trek
Route X    Mount Meru Momela Route

Climbing Kilimanjaro
Ascent routes
Route A    Marangu Route
Route B    Machame Route
Route C    Umbwe Route
Route D    Lemosho Route
Route E    Shira Route
Route F    Rongai Route
Circuit paths
Route G    Southern Circuit Path
Route H    Northern Circuit Path
Summit ascent routes
Route I    Normal/Marangu Route
Route J    Barafu Route
Route K    Western Breach Route
The summit
Descent routes
Route L    Marangu Route
Route M    Mweka Route

Appendix A    Accommodation
Appendix B    Useful contacts
Appendix C    Further reading
Appendix D    Language glossary
 

Seasons

Two dry seasons - mid-December to March and July to early October

Centres

Flights into Nairobi in Kenya, Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro International Airport; outfitters normally based in Arusha or Moshi

Difficulty

Kilimanjaro is a big mountain, but the normal trekking routes are not technically difficult. Altitude and acclimatisation are the main problems and AMS can kill if not taken seriously.

Must See

Dawn over Africa from the summit, the natural environment, the Crater

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