At 19,340 feet(5,895 meters) Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest peak and the world's highest free-standing mountain. It has become a popular destination for mountaineers due to its relatively easy routes to the top, and its designation as one of the Seven Summits.
Kilimanjaro National Park protects the area above 2,700 metres (8,850 ft), on the mountain and includes the moorland and highland zones, Shira Plateau, Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
There are several relatively easy hiking routes that lead to the summit of Kilimanjaro. All of the routes can be done in 6 days or less.
Marangu Route (also called the Coca-Cola Route) is the most popular route to the summit of Kilimanjaro. The average route duration is either 5 or 6 days depending upon whether an extra day is spent for acclimatisation to the altitude. This is the only route that offers huts versus tents.
Machame Route (also known as the Whiskey Route) is considered by many to be the most beautiful route to the summit of Kilimanjaro. The Machame route is better suited to the a more experienced or adventurous hiker because only tents are available for sleeping. The Machame Route is a more scenic route that the more popular Marangu route.
Lemosho Route is more remote and less traveled than other routes. An armed ranger may be required for the first day on this route as the forests around the Lemosho Glades contain big game animals like buffalo and elephant.
Rongaj Route route approaches the summit of Kilimanjaro from the northeastern side of the mountain, along the border between Tanzania and Kenya.
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