Crowned with an everlasting snow-cap, the rustic height of Kilimanjaro is the grand mountain of the whole African continent. Not only the highest mountain of the African continent but also one of the prime summits of the 7 summits in the world. So How Tall Is Kilimanjaro? Acquiring 5,895m height, the Kilimanjaro is the highest free-standing peak of the world that drives trekkers crazy around the world, hence the foothill of the mountain witness 30,000 climbers each year, and the Uhuru peak witness around 50% of the same.
If you are planning for Kilimanjaro Climb and want to know How Tall Is Kilimanjaro and a few basic facts about other summits of the African continent, here are a few in-depth information for you.
How High is Kilimanjaro Compared to Everest?
Known as everyone’s Everest, Mt. Kilimanjaro is no way any less in comparison to Mt. Everest. There are almost 30, 000 people try to summit the highest altitude of Kilimanjaro i.e. the Uhuru Peak and there are around 40, 000 people who try to summit the Everest Base Camp each year. Hence the competition is neck to neck. Both of the mountains are the highest peak of their respective continents.
However, Everest is climbed by most of the people to the base camp which sits at 17,598 feet (which is mostly attempted by the trekkers) as well as the highest peak of Everest is above 29,029 feet of sea-level and the highest peak of Kilimanjaro sits at 19,341 feet which clearly shows a difference of 10,640 feet height.
Top 5 Summits of the African Continent
Mount Kilimanjaro
However, the comparison is difficult as both the summits have their charm, difficulty level, interesting facts, and panoramic views that make both to be on the bucket list of the mountaineers.
Acquiring 5,895m height Kilimanjaro is undoubtedly one of the highest peaks of the African continent; not only in Africa but also one of the highest free-standing altitudes of the continent. Thus it is named the “Roof of Africa”.
Mount Kenya
Located in the former Eastern and central provinces of Kenya, Mt. Kenya is the second highest peak of the African Continent. Acquiring 5,199 m in height the mountain offers diverse forests and many alpine species such as the giant lobelias, Senecios, and local subspecies of rock hyrax. Once covered with ice caps the mountain still displays 11 small glaciers.
Mount Stanley
With a bit of confusion between Mt. Ruwenzori and Mt. Stanley, we have listed Mt. Stanley as the 3rd highest peak of Africa. Acquiring a height of 16,761 feet, the mountain creates confusion due to its location, as it is located in the vast Ruwenzori Range.
Mount Meru
Surrounded by Arusha national park Mt. Meru is a dormant stratovolcano that is the 2nd highest peak of Tanzania. Located 43 miles west of Kilimanjaro, the mountain is often called the little brother of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Acquiring 14,967 feet height attracts many trekkers who want to go for a warm-up before Climbing Kilimanjaro or want to ascend a lower height enjoying the scenic view of the mountain.
Ethiopian Highlands
A rugged mass of mountains in Ethiopia; Ethiopian highlands is situated in the Horn region in northeast Africa. Acquiring a height of 14,927 ft the Ethiopian highland forms the largest continuous area of its elevation in the continent.
What are the Hardest Crossings of Kilimanjaro?
Are you someone enthusiast about exploring something exciting, thrilling, and adventurous as well? Then we believe one of the prime adventures would be on your list, i.e. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro at the 5,895m altitude. The mountain doesn’t need any technical mountaineering skills to go for the summit, however, if you are afraid of heights, Mount Kilimanjaro can be a little challenging but surely not impossible.
Here are the 3 most challenging points you will be passing through while summiting to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Take a little knowledge and get prepared to face these 3 hardest points of your summit way.
The Shira Cathedral
If you are planning to the summit via Machame, Shira, or Lemosho Route, you will meet Shira Cathedral at 3895 m height. From the 3 iconic volcanic peaks of Kilimanjaro Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo; Shira is the oldest and smallest volcano you will meet. The Shira cathedral might be a difficult climb, but undoubtedly provides the most scenic view of the mountain.
The Kissing Rock
If you are someone afraid of heights then the point named “Kissing Rock” within the Barranco Wall can be a bit challenging for you. The rocky pathway goes through a hollow pathway between the rocks and can increase anxiety a bit. At one time only one person can pass between the rocks holding the rocks tightly. It’s better to pass through the passage at a less crowded time, so it’s advisable to talk to your guide to choosing the less crowded time.
The Barranco Wall
The Barranco wall can be challenging for you if you are afraid of heights. Settling at 800 feet, the point can be a little frightful at first glance to those who are not comfortable with the height. If you are trekking through Lemosho or Machame route you are going to meet this point; however, this can be scenic as the clouds float through the Barranco Valley from the rainforest below.
The Success Rate of Kilimanjaro
Each year 30,000+ trekkers are trying for Kilimanjaro Climb, from which around 50% fail to do so due to altitude sickness, not being able to cope with the weather change, or not having proper gears. However, the Kilimanjaro Success Rate also highly depends upon which Best route you choose and the acclimatization time you take. Here are the routes and their success rates:
- The Machame Route: average summit success rate in excess of 85% while choosing 7 days and 73% with 6 days options.
- The Rongai Route: average summit success rate in excess of 80% while choosing 7 days and 65% with 6 days options.
- The Lemosho Route: average summit success rate in excess of 90% while choosing 8 days and 85% with 7 days options.
- The Northern Circuit Route: The safest and successful route that offers over 95% success rates.
- The Marangu Route: The oldest and the most established route however it provides the lowest success rate of 50%
Must Read: Kilimanjaro Routes: Isolate The Best One For Your Summit Success
If you are planning to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro; the unique and unmatched beautiful peak of the African continent, armor yourself with proper knowledge and information about How Tall Is Kilimanjaro which will help you climbing Kilimanjaro successfully. If you are done with your primary research and looking for further information from a pro trekking company then Jerry Tanzania Tours is just a click away.
