Destination guide

Kilimanjaro & Moshi

The trekking base for the roof of Africa's highest peak

Moshi is the laid-back town at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain at 5,895 metres. Travellers use it to acclimatise, meet their climbing crew and stage the multi-day trek to Uhuru Peak.

By the numbers

5,895 m

Summit

Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point

Tallest

Free-standing

world's highest free-standing mountain

Climate zones

rainforest to arctic summit

~50,000/yr

Climbers

attempt the summit annually

5-9 days

Typical climb

depending on route chosen

1889

First summit

Meyer and Purtscheller

Best time to visit

The prime climbing windows are the dry months of January to mid-March and June to October, when trails are clearer and summit views most reliable. The rainy stretches of April to May and November bring slippery paths and lower visibility.

Common questions

Most routes take five to nine days; longer itineraries allow better acclimatisation and improve summit success rates.

No. Kilimanjaro is a demanding high-altitude trek rather than a technical climb, but good fitness and acclimatisation are essential.

Machame and Lemosho are scenic with strong success rates, Marangu offers hut accommodation, and Rongai approaches from the drier northern side.

Yes. Waterfalls, coffee tours, hot springs and Chagga villages make Moshi a rewarding base even for non-climbers.