Overview
Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s most well-known mountains, and it’s no surprise that people often query the height and mountain span of the giant. How many kilometers is Kilimanjaro? In Africa, Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain, an iconic symbol with a height of 5,895 meters (19,341 ft). The rim-to-rim span of the mountain is approximately 66 kilometers (41 miles) and measures around a diameter of 12 km (7.5 miles). To explore the mountain from one side to the other requires a series of multiple day treks.
Geography
Kilimanjaro is one of the most iconic landmarks and tourist attractions in Africa. It is located near the solid boundary between the north and south of the continent, straddling the border of Kenya and Tanzania. It is composed of three distinct volcanic cones; the Mawenzi, Shira, and the Kibo. Kibo is the tallest of these peaks and is the highest point in Africa, topping out at an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 ft). The mountain itself is situated on the Chaga-Masaai highlands in the east of the African continent.
History
Kilimanjaro has a rich and ancient history which dates back centuries. The original inhabitants of the area were the Chaga people, who gave the mountain its name. The Chaga interpreted the mountain as a sign of God’s greatness and forbade access to the summit. They considered the mountain to be an important part of their spiritual beliefs, a sentiment shared by Tanzania’s Masaai tribe. The mountain gained international recognition after an expedition in 1889, with the subsequent years seeing an increased surge of adventure seekers coming to conquer its summit.
The Trekking
Trekking Kili is a challenge for experienced and inexperienced hikers alike. The trek further requires preparation, training and physical conditioning. The majority of climbers take six days to climb the ascent trail, which starts from the bottom at Londorossi to the summit of Kibo. It is generally recommended to take a minimum of seven to ten days to undertake the expedition, of which most take several months to prepare. The trekking route includes stops at cultural sites, eco-zones, forest, alpine desert and moorlands. It is also possible to climb the mount in as little as two or three days, though the rapid summit attempt is a dangerous endeavour for those not prepared for the challenges or altitude.
Altitude Sickness
It is important to be aware of and well prepared for the symptoms of altitude sickness, as trekkers may encounter them as they scale Kilimanjaro. Altitude affects lesser trained climbers much faster than more trained climbers. Symptoms can range from headaches and dizziness, to dehydration and fatigue. In extreme cases the symptoms can include vomiting, coughing and confusion, which can seriously impede the progress of the ascent and even be life-threatening. It is advisable to ascend the mountain slowly to allow the body to naturally acclimatise, and to seek medical attention if the symptoms become severe.
Environmental Concerns
Kilimanjaro is as much a biodiversity hotspot as it is a marvel of cultural and spiritual significance. The mountain is home to many rare and endangered species, including a few species which are found nowhere else in the world. Additionally, the mountain is crucial for local communities which depend on the alpine ecosystems for their livelihoods. As a result, efforts have been taken to encourage sustainable practices on the mountain, such as regulated trekking routes and a ban on plastic bottles in the park.
Importance of Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro, being a natural wonder of the world, for too long has been taken for granted. Many people have hiked or climbed it for the physical challenge, joined by the stunning natural beauty. But it’s much more than that.Trekking it is an experience like no other, a draw for foreigners looking to explore its unique beauty, gain knowledge and understand their environment, making Kilimanjaro an important source of income to support the locals, their economy, and sustain their heritage.
Economic Impact
Tourism on Kilimanjaro contributes to the local and national economy, not only providing employment to locals but also providing funding for conservation efforts. Incorporating sustainable trekking and tourism practices into the river basin management strategies can reduce the potential for soil erosion and the negative impacts on agriculture, infrastructure, and biodiversity. The tourism industry helps to generate foreign currency income in the economy of Tanzania. Development in the tourism sector has not only contributed to local economic growth but has also improved the quality of life for many people by providing employment.
The Local Communities
Local communities around the mountain have long been dependent upon its resources for daily sustenance. These communities have also found ways to preserve their culture and practices through the generations by living on the mountain, adapting and learning from the ever-changing environment. At the same time, they face the realities of poverty, lack of food supply and services, diminishing natural resources and lack of knowledge on modern agriculture and farming practices.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
The Chagga, the original inhabitants of the area, believed that Kilimanjaro is a spiritual site and worshipped the mountain as a deity. Even today, the Tanzanians revere the mountain and in their indigenous language they call it ‘Mawenzi’ which means ‘the great one’ and ‘Kibo’ which means ‘the great being’. The local communities recognise the importance of the mountain for conservation, protection and the preservation of its cultural and spiritual significance.
Conclusion
Kilimanjaro is renowned as a national gem and a major symbol of Tanzanian heritage. It stands tall and proud at a whopping 5,895 meters (19, 341 ft) and measures approximately 66 kilometers (41 miles) across from one side to another. Its geology and history are both fascinating and inspiring, and the importance of its presence in the local and global community can not be understated. Whether it’s for the physical challenge or cultural experience, Kilimanjaro stands as a unique mountain marvel.
