Did you know that around 35,000 people attempt to climb Kilimanjaro every year? As one of the world’s Seven Summits, it’s an incredible feat to make it to the top, and it should come as no surprise that it attracts adventurous people worldwide. If you’re taking an African vacation, add climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to your itinerary.

You may be hesitant, but this guide is sure to sway you in the right direction. We’ll explore the seven reasons why you need to climb Kilimanjaro, especially if you’re looking for an experience unlike any other.

Keep reading to learn more.

1. Beautiful Wildlife

The first thing that people will mention when they return from their trip to Tanzania is that Mount Kilimanjaro has breathtaking views. They’re also sure to mention the intense wildlife. 

Mount Kilimanjaro hosts about 140 mammals and massive amounts of birds. Thanks to its high altitude, the mountain supports animals that can barely be found anywhere else on the planet. While most animals are found on the lower slopes, there are plenty in the mountain zone. 

Keep your eyes peeled for elands, buckbucks, primates, and tree hyraxes. If you’re lucky enough, you might end up spotting blue monkeys, bushbabies, and even black rhinos. As you start climbing higher, you’ll find high-altitude mice species and spiders. 

There’s even a chance that large mammals like leopards, lions, and giraffes wander around the heath. Unique flora can also be sighted, including plants that you won’t find anywhere else. 

Whether you’re a big fan of wildlife or not, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to get the opportunity to see so much nature in one place. 

2. Get Physically and Mentally Fitter

It’s no secret that it is physically demanding to climb Kilimanjaro, but instead of seeing that as an obstacle, use it as a chance to turn over a new leaf. You’ll be able to give up any unhealthy choices and have a reason to change your diet and include exercise in your routine. 

If you’re already in good physical shape, this is a chance to sharpen your fitness. The prospect of taking a trip to Africa and climbing the highest mountain should be motivating to go that extra mile when you’re exercising. You’ll look and feel amazing in no time. 

In addition to physically improving, you’ll also enjoy the mental health benefits that come from exercising and eating clean. Not to mention the joy that comes from accomplishing a huge goal! Although you’ll need to prepare a handful of months in advance, it’ll only be for the better. 

3. Sense of Achievement 

Every year people prepare for a Mount Kilimanjaro hike to be one of their must-do activities in Tanzania. Everyone has their reason for deciding to climb; some want to mark an important event in their life, others graduated from college, and some are celebrating their marriage. Even if you don’t have a particular reason for it, you’ll undoubtedly be proud when you reach one of the highest peaks in the world.

This is an unforgettable achievement that is sure to have long-lasting effects on you. You’ll find inspiration to make big changes in your life, or get the courage to embark on another adventure of a lifetime.  

4. Pristine Mountain 

There are many famous mountains that are covered in trash and are unkempt. Kilimanjaro National Park is surprisingly clean. Park rangers weigh all of the bags that come on and off the mountain, so trekking companies pay heavy fines if there are any light bags. 

This helps reduce the amount of dumping on the trail. You’ll also find basic outhouses along the way. Although they aren’t fancy, they provide privacy and keep things clean. 

Kilimanjaro has only seven trails up to the summit, and there are no roads, so the mountain has retained its nature and pristineness. 

5. Unbeatable Photographs

If you’re going to one of the most beautiful places in the world, you’re going to want to bring the best hiking camera to take some photos. It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional nature photographer or simply using your phone to snap a picture.

The views range from sublime to spectacular; the place can even feel a bit unearthly at times. 

6. Explore a Natural Wonder

With its unbeatable trekking experience and phenomenal views, Mount Kilimanjaro is known as one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. With over a million mountains to visit globally, Mount Kilimanjaro should be your next adventure destination. Its sheer beauty and transformative trekking opportunities make it an ideal holiday destination. 

7. Symbol of Freedom

Kilimanjaro belongs to Tanzania, the first nation in Africa to win independence from colonial powers. In 1959, the president-to-be Julius Nyerere mentioned lighting a candle and placing it at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. This light would shine and provide hope when there was despair, love where there was hate, and dignity where before there was only humiliation.

The summit at Mount Kilimanjaro is called Uhuru Peak. Uhuru is the Swahili word for Freedom.

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro on Your African Vacation

At 5,895m above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. It’s undeniably a spectacle to look at, but if you’re looking to take your African vacation to the next level, you’ll want to climb to the top. It may be daunting to think about, especially if you’re new to mountain climbing, but all you need is enough time to prepare and some determination. 

When you’re vacation planning, be sure to make climbing Mount Kilimanjaro one of your priorities. The sense of accomplishment and pride will be worth it. 

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