Kilimanjaro National Park is renowned for housing Africa’s tallest mountain, also the world’s highest free-standing peak. Its striking geological presence, rising dramatically from the surrounding plains, along with its rich biodiversity and distinct vegetation zones, earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

Mount Kilimanjaro boasts three prominent peaks: the towering Kibo at 5,895 meters, a dormant volcano and the highest of the trio, Shira to the west standing at 4,269 meters, and Mawenzi to the east at 5,280 meters. Shira and Mawenzi are extinct, while Kibo, which last erupted between 150,000 and 200,000 years ago, remains dormant but could theoretically become active again someday.

Vegetation in Mt Kilimanjaro National Park

The vegetation on Mount Kilimanjaro is remarkably diverse, with around 2,500 plant species thriving across its varied landscapes. Among the standout flora are the striking Impatiens Kilimanjari, a delicate, orchid-like plant endemic to the region, and the vibrant Violet Viola Eminii.

In the lush montane forest belt, approximately 140 tree species flourish, creating a dense green canopy. As hikers ascend into the heath and moorland zone, they are greeted by the towering presence of Giant Lobelias. Higher still, the alpine desert above 4,000 meters resembles a barren moonscape, dotted with rocks and dust. At the summit of Kibo, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking views of ancient glaciers and three massive concentric craters, a stunning finale to the mountain’s unique vegetative journey.

Activities & what to do

Most visitors to Kilimanjaro National Park come with a singular mission: to conquer Africa’s highest peak. For those interested in this challenge, our Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro page provides all the details you’ll need to start planning.

However, there’s much more to explore beyond the summit. A hidden gem is the 4-hour guided walk to the Shira Plateau, offering stunning vistas, diverse plant life, and an array of wildlife that can often go unnoticed on the traditional hiking routes.

As you journey through the park, you may encounter some of its 140 mammal species. Driving through the montane forests, keep an eye out for 87 forest-dwelling species, including the black-and-white Colobus Monkey and the Mitis Monkey. The park is also home to elephants, leopards, buffalos, and the rare Abbot’s Duiker. For bird enthusiasts, around 179 highland bird species can be spotted, alongside 24 species of bats.

Though Kilimanjaro is famous for hiking, the Shira Plateau walk, which begins at 3,500 meters, offers a sensory immersion in the park’s rich biodiversity. You’ll be greeted by panoramic views of Kibo, the sprawling plains of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park, and the dramatic Simba River gorge. At the rim of the Shira Crater, marvel at the volcanic cones dotting the landscape. Take your time, enjoy a picnic lunch, and absorb the sounds, smells, and colors that make Kilimanjaro National Park a truly extraordinary place.