Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro, at 5,895 meters above sea level, boasts the highest elevation on the African continent. Considered the world’s tallest walkable mountain, trekkers that dare challenge the monolithic land mass will move through 5 different climactic zones. From steamy tropical heat and rainforests to the arctic chill at snow-capped Uhuru Peak, every season can be experienced during the days spent on the mountain. Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world and summiting this African icon is a worthy pursuit of travelers in search of adventure. Magnificent views from the trail stretch for hundreds of miles across the Tanzanian savannah and into neighboring Kenya. Multiple routes with varying degrees of difficulty provide an opportunity for adventurers with diverse backgrounds to attempt the ascent of “Kili” as the mountain is affectionately known. At least 7 different routes to the summit require from 5 to 9 nights on the mountain to experience one of the most remarkable outdoor challenges on earth. Ascents that are scheduled for more than 5 days have the greatest chance for success as they allow ample time for acclimatizing. Incredible sunsets and sunrises are seen as they occur above the clouds as trekkers near the peak. Glaciers and natural ice sculptures complement the other-worldly landscape along the way along with dense forests and moon-like barren mountainside providing stark contrasts. The sense of accomplishment that accrues from an ascent of Kilimanjaro will provide a lifetime of stories and satisfaction. Kilimanjaro has a number of official climbing routes. These are: Northern Circuit (9 days, 90 kilometres (56 mi)): Newest route on Kilimanjaro. Very low traffic due to very long time on the mountain, traverses nearly the entire mountain including the north side. Long route with great views. Lemosho (8 days, 56 kilometres (35 mi)): Long access drive, remote, less frequented, beautiful forests, scenic traverse to Barafu, camping. Excellent for acclimatization. Shira: The Shira route is another path that approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, and it is nearly identical to the Lemosho route. In fact, Shira was the original route and Lemosho is the improved variation. Machame (7 days, 49 kilometres (30 mi)): Second most popular route. Beautiful forest, very good for acclimatization, scenic traverse to Barafu. Marangu (6 days, 64 kilometres (40 mi)): Very popular (crowded). Gentle gradients and long sections up to 4700m (2.9 mi). Not a very scenic route as compared to Machame and Lemosho, comfortable but basic huts. The 6 day variant provides good time for acclimatization due to a rest day at Horombo Hut. Rongai (5-6 days, 65 kilometres (40 mi)): Long access drive, remote, less frequented, some fine, wild, least scenic, camping. Good for acclimatization. Umbwe (6 days, 37 kilometres (23 mi)): Shortest and steepest route, very physically taxing and requires serious endurance. Beautiful forest, spectacular ridge, bad for acclimatization, scenic traverse to Barafu, camping. Dangerous route. Kilimanjaro National Park Authority regulates the use of the mountain’s trails. Virtually everyone that makes the trek is accompanied by experienced guides that provide the permits, equipment, food and instruction that allows for a successful ascent. Kilimajaro International Airport in the nearby town of Moshi is the preferred point of entry for those visiting Tanzania and planning to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro. Regularly scheduled air service from Amsterdam or Dar Es Salaam, Nairobi brings most of the hopeful trekkers into the region. Nearby Mount Meru near the town of Arusha provides another worthy hiking adventure with endemic wildlife such as black-and-white colobus monkeys, bushbucks, duikers, buffalo, giraffe and the occasional elephant or leopard occasionally seen around the mountain along with the unforgettable flora that is in common with Kili. Your trip of a lifetime to reach the Summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania may become a dream fulfilled. Add the trek to your list and begin looking for the guide and tour operator that will help you realize your fantasy today. Incredible wonders await dreamers that include a visit to see all that is Africa.