Picture a snow-capped mountain, standing majestically south of the equator, surrounded by vast savannahs. Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, draws thousands of adventurers to Tanzania each year, all with one shared goal: to conquer its summit. Towering at an impressive 5,895 meters (19,336 feet) above the African plains, Kilimanjaro’s greatest challenge lies in its altitude and the pace of ascent. Reaching the “Roof of Africa” is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, offering a breathtaking perspective of the continent from above.

Kilimanjaro’s immense size encompasses five distinct climate zones, each spanning approximately 1,000 meters in elevation. From lush bushlands and grasslands at the base, you’ll journey through dense rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and finally reach the arctic zone, where only rocks and ice remain. This unique trek takes you from the tropics to the arctic in just about a week. While you don’t need to be an expert climber to reach the summit, you do need good health, physical fitness, mental resilience, and a bit of luck.