What Are the Different Peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is Africa’s highest mountain and one of the most famous trekking destinations in the world. But many people don’t know that Kilimanjaro is not just one single peak. Instead, it has three main volcanic cones, or peaks. In this guide, we will explain what the different peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro are, how they were formed, and what makes each one special.
Whether you are planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, want to learn interesting Mount Kilimanjaro facts, or are curious about the Mount Kilimanjaro height, this guide will answer all your questions in simple language.
Table of Contents
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Introduction to Mount Kilimanjaro
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Where Is Mount Kilimanjaro Located?
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The Three Peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro
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Kibo Peak
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Mawenzi Peak
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Shira Peak
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How Was Mount Kilimanjaro Formed?
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Mount Kilimanjaro Height & Elevation
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Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: Reaching the Peaks
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Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
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Mount Kilimanjaro Weather & Best Time to Climb
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Flights to Mount Kilimanjaro
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Plan Your Climb with Seko Tours
1. Introduction to Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is a majestic, snow-capped mountain in East Africa. It is the highest free-standing mountain in the world and a bucket list destination for adventure lovers.
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Mount Kilimanjaro height: 5,895 meters (19,341 feet)
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Mount Kilimanjaro elevation gain: From base to summit, trekkers climb over 4,900 meters
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Mount Kilimanjaro country: Tanzania
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Where is Mount Kilimanjaro located: Near the border of Kenya, in northeastern Tanzania
The mountain is actually a dormant volcano with three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. These are the different peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro.
2. Where Is Mount Kilimanjaro Located?
If you are asking, “In what country would you find Mount Kilimanjaro?”, the answer is Tanzania. It lies in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Country: Tanzania
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Region: Kilimanjaro Region, near Moshi town
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Coordinates: 3.0674° S, 37.3556° E
Many travelers arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is the closest airport. You can easily find flights to Mount Kilimanjaro from major cities around the world.
3. The Three Peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro
Kibo Peak – The Summit
Kibo is the highest of the three peaks and the one most climbers aim to reach. The Uhuru Peak, located on Kibo’s crater rim, is the official summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
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Height: 5,895 meters (19,341 feet)
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Type: Dormant volcano
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Meaning: “Freedom” in Swahili (Uhuru Peak)
This is where you’ll see the famous sign:
“Congratulations! You are now at Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.”
Kibo is also the only one of the three peaks with permanent glaciers and snow—though they are slowly melting due to climate change.
Mawenzi Peak – The Rugged Giant
Mawenzi is the second highest of the Mount Kilimanjaro peaks, standing at 5,149 meters (16,893 feet). It is sharp, jagged, and dramatic in appearance. Mawenzi is more technical and dangerous to climb than Kibo.
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Not climbed often due to its difficult routes
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A beautiful view from routes like Rongai and Marangu
Shira Peak – The Oldest Cone
Shira is the oldest of the three peaks and the lowest. It was once taller than Mawenzi but collapsed long ago to form a plateau.
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Height: Around 3,962 meters (13,000 feet)
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It forms part of the Shira Plateau, where many treks pass through
Even though it’s not a summit goal, the Shira Plateau offers beautiful scenery and is home to wildlife like elands, buffaloes, and even lions.
RELATED ARTICLE: Mount Kilimanjaro Height: How Tall Is Africa’s Roof
4. How Was Mount Kilimanjaro Formed?
You might wonder, “How was Mount Kilimanjaro formed?” Kilimanjaro was created by volcanic activity over 3 million years ago.
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Shira formed first but collapsed
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Mawenzi came next
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Kibo erupted last and is the highest
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All three are volcanic cones that make up the full mountain
Today, only Kibo is dormant (not extinct), meaning it could erupt again. Scientists say the last major eruption happened over 360,000 years ago. So if you ask, “When did Mount Kilimanjaro last erupt?”, it was a very long time ago!
5. Mount Kilimanjaro Height & Elevation
Let’s answer the common questions:
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How tall is Mount Kilimanjaro?
→ 5,895 meters or 19,341 feet -
How high is Mount Kilimanjaro compared to other mountains?
→ It is the tallest in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world -
Mount Kilimanjaro elevation from base to summit
→ Around 4,900 meters of actual climbing
Many people also ask how it compares to other peaks:
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Mount Kenya vs Mount Kilimanjaro:
Mount Kilimanjaro is taller and more famous, but Mount Kenya is more technical to climb. -
Mount Kenya vs Kilimanjaro:
Kilimanjaro is better for first-time trekkers. Kenya’s mountain is steeper and more for climbers.
6. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: Reaching the Peaks
Climbing to Uhuru Peak (Kibo) is the goal for most trekkers. You don’t need climbing gear like ropes or ice axes—just strong legs, warm clothes, and determination.
How long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
It depends on the route:
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Marangu Route: 5–6 days
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Machame Route: 6–7 days
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Lemosho Route: 7–8 days
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Rongai Route: 6–7 days
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Northern Circuit: 8–9 days (longest and best for acclimatization)
Mount Kilimanjaro deaths are rare, but altitude sickness is a real risk. Go slowly, drink lots of water, and climb with an experienced guide like those at Seko Tours.
7. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is a protected area that surrounds the mountain. It is home to rich wildlife, forests, and high-altitude deserts.
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Entry point: Marangu Gate or Londorossi Gate
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You’ll pass through 5 climate zones: rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit
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The park is well-managed and safe for visitors
8. Mount Kilimanjaro Weather & Best Time to Climb
Mount Kilimanjaro weather changes with altitude and season. The best months to climb are:
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January to March: Clear skies, some snow
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June to October: Dry and sunny
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Avoid: April-May and November (rainy seasons)
Summit nights are freezing cold. Expect temperatures below -10°C (14°F) near the top.
9. Flights to Mount Kilimanjaro
The best way to reach Kilimanjaro is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). You can find flights to Mount Kilimanjaro from:
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Europe (via Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Istanbul)
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U.S. (via connections through Europe or the Middle East)
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Africa (via Nairobi or Addis Ababa)
From the airport, it’s a short drive to Moshi or Arusha, the main starting points for treks.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What type of volcano is Mount Kilimanjaro?
It is a stratovolcano made of layers of ash, lava, and volcanic rock.
Q2: Is Mount Kilimanjaro active?
Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano, meaning it could erupt again, but it is not active now.
Q3: Is Kilimanjaro evil?
No! This is a myth. Kilimanjaro is a spiritual place for local tribes like the Chagga and Maasai. It’s a symbol of strength and nature.
Q4: How dangerous is climbing Kilimanjaro?
It’s safe if done with a certified guide. The main danger is altitude sickness. Go slow and listen to your guide.
Q5: Can I see a Mount Kilimanjaro map before climbing?
Yes, all routes are mapped. Seko Tours provides a detailed Mount Kilimanjaro map for every trek.
Q6: Are there any wild animals on Kilimanjaro?
Yes, but mainly in the lower zones: monkeys, buffaloes, and even leopards in rare cases.
11. Plan Your Climb with Seko Tours
Now that you know the answer to “What are the different peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro?”—Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira—you’re one step closer to planning your dream adventure.
At Climb Mount Kilimanjaro by Seko Tours, we help climbers reach the summit safely and enjoy every moment. Whether you want to photograph the peaks, learn the history, or simply enjoy the walk, our expert team is here to guide you.
Plan your Kilimanjaro climb with us today!