Overview
Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the best-known mountains in the world and its summit is the highest point in Africa (5895m). This massive volcano stands in splendid isolation above the surrounding plains, with its snowy peak looming over the dry acacia savannas. Around the volcano’s caldera are numerous permanent glaciers and impressive ice cliffs. These are unusually accessible to hikers, without the need for specialist mountaineering equipment and training. The world heritage site covers the upper slopes of the mountain and includes a range of habitats typical of high tropical mountains with giant lobelias and groundsels in the Afro-alpine zone. The park is encircled by protected montane forest, with intensive cultivation on the fertile lower slopes.