Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and one of the tallest mountains in the world. Because it’s not part of a larger mountain range, it’s also the world’s tallest freestanding mountain. These are just a few of the things that make climbing Kilimanjaro unique. It really is unlike any other place in the world. Mount Kilimanjaro has become a popular hiking destination for a number of reasons. Today, we’re going to take a closer look at what some of them are. Here are a few reasons why Mount Kilimanjaro should be your next hiking destination.
It’s a Relatively Easy Hike
Of all of the famous Seven Summits, Mount Kilimanjaro is the easiest to climb. In fact, there’s no actual climbing involved at all. On the contrary, you’ll be hiking the entire time. This means you won’t need any special mountaineering gear or previous climbing experience. That said, hiking to the top of Kilimanjaro will still prove to be a challenge. This hike will test your fitness and dedication. So despite its relative ease, reaching the top of this mountain will still inspire a feeling of accomplishment.
It’s Surprisingly Pristine
Another thing that will surprise you about Kilimanjaro is how pristine it is. Whereas many of the other summits have become cluttered with trash, Kilimanjaro still gives the appearance of having been untouched by humanity. This is because rangers take the time to weigh bags before and after hikers go on their trip. If their bags come back light, they have to pay heavy fines. This encourages people to keep the mountain clean. Therefore, even though Kilimanjaro attracts thousands of climbers each year, it still retains all of its natural beauty.
Experience Many Climates at Once
One of the things that makes hiking Kilimanjaro unique is you get to experience all four seasons in a short amount of time. The bottom of the mountain is surrounded by green forests, but its peak is covered in snow. This makes hiking Kilimanjaro a truly one of a kind adventure in which you see every possible climate in the span of a few days. You’ll also notice the mountain’s flora and fauna changes on an almost daily basis as you climb higher up the mountain. This is something you must experience for yourself, as it’s unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else.
It’s a Popular Study for Climate Change
On a similar note, Kilimanjaro has also become one of the more popular places in the world for studying climate change. Researchers have been climbing to the top of this mountain to study its shrinking glaciers and discover why they’re disappearing so quickly. If this is an issue that’s important to you, then this is reason enough to climb Kilimanjaro. You can hike to the top of Kilimanjaro and see for yourself what’s happening to the planet.
Support the Local Economy
Hiking to the top of Kilimanjaro isn’t just a once in a lifetime opportunity. It also gives you the chance to help people who truly need it. The region surrounding Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the poorest regions in the world. The people of this region depend on the money they get from those who visit Kilimanjaro. By hiking this great summit, you support the hotels, cooks, guides, merchants, and others who are part of the local economy. It’s a great cause along with being an amazing adventure.
Raise Money For Charity
Hiking to the top of Kilimanjaro has become a popular way to raise money for charity. Many celebrities have gone on well-publicized Kilimanjaro hikes in recent years to raise money and awareness to issues that are important to them. Of course, you don’t have to be famous to do this. Sponsors tend to be very generous when they see you’re doing something as big as climbing Kilimanjaro. It’s a great opportunity to support a cause that’s important to you while accomplishing one of your greatest dreams.
It’s Located in Tanzania
Of course, Mount Kilimanjaro is found in the African nation of Tanzania. Naturally, hiking to the top of Kilimanjaro is your main reason for visiting this great country. However, there are many other incredible things to see in Tanzania while you’re there. One of these is the legendary Serengeti National Park where you can go on safari to see lions, elephants, and other amazing animals. You can also visit Olduvai Gorge, the valley where the first human remains have been discovered. Tanzania has many wonderful things to see, and Kilimanjaro is one of them.
As you can tell, Mount Kilimanjaro is a hike that’s unlike anything you’ve ever done before. It’s something that anyone who loves hiking should do at least once in their lives. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today.