There can be several reasons why you are drawn to the mountain Kilimanjaro, and the more you know about it, the easier your climb will get. So, if you are dreaming to climb Kilimanjaro, and wish to impress your friends as well, go through the list of facts given below, and brag about how much you know.
Mountain Kilimanjaro
The height of Mount Kilimanjaro is 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. It is the tallest free-standing mountain of the African continent and is located just about 205 miles away from the equator. Now, let’s discuss a few fun facts about the Kilimanjaro.
1. It is one of the seven summits
Since it is the tallest mountain on the African continent, Kilimanjaro has secured a place in the list of seven summits of the world, and stands on the 4th position. Kilimanjaro is particularly famous among climbers, especially beginners, as it is considered to be the easiest climb compared to the other six summits. It is believed that climbing Kilimanjaro will require no technical knowledge, or special gear like rope, harness, ice axe, etc.
2. It is a free-standing mountain
Kilimanjaro is not just well-known as Africa’s tallest mountain, but even as the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Mostly, high mountains are formed as a result of plate tectonics. However, a free-standing mountain like Kilimanjaro is usually formed because of volcanic activity. Volcanic mountains or say free standing mountains are formed when molten rock erupts and creates heaps upon the surface.
3. It has three volcanic cones
As the mountain is a result of volcanic activities, there are three volcanic cones namely – Kibo, Shira, and Mawenzi on the mountain. Shira and Mawenzi are extinct as there are no volcanic activities observed under them. However, Kibo is known as dormant. Dormant is a term used by researchers to describe a volcanic cone that can erupt again.
4. The name ‘Kilimanjaro’ does not have a clear meaning
The origin of the name is not certain to date. Different explorers have given it different meanings. Some of the meanings associated with the term ‘Kilimanjaro’ are:
- “Kilima” means mountain and “Njaro” means whiteness
- Mountain of greatness
- Mountain of Caravans
5. 50% of the people who try climbing Kilimanjaro fail
Yes, even though Kilimanjaro needs no special technical knowledge to climb, many climbers fail to succeed. It is estimated that every year nearly 30,000 people try to climb Kilimanjaro and only 50% of those succeed.
The reason is simple:
- Many suffer from altitude sickness
- Many select the wrong climbing route
- Many don’t adequately prepare for the climb
- Many don’t hire dependable guide services
- Many don’t train themselves enough to undertake a climb
Last but not least, Kilimanjaro is even one of the Seven Wonders of Africa. So, if climbing this magnificent mountain is on your list, or you are planning to conquer all seven summits, Kilimanjaro is where you must start. Get in touch with a company that provides reputed guide services to make your climb safe, fun, and successful.
