Secrets of Mount Kilimanjaro Summit

When climbers reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, it’s often a moment of triumph captured in photos at the Uhuru Peak sign. But there’s much more to Kilimanjaro’s summit than just a signpost. Here are some intriguing details about the summit of Africa’s highest peak:

Geology of the Kilimanjaro Summit

Volcanic Nature:
Kilimanjaro is a stratovolcano with three distinct cones: Shira, Mawenzi, and the highest, Kibo. The summit, Uhuru Peak, is located on Kibo, a dormant volcano. The last eruption occurred around 200,000 years ago, shaping the current crater and caldera.

Crater Features:
The summit is not a peak but the highest point on the crater rim. Inside the caldera is the Reusch Ash Pit, a volcanic feature where sulfurous fumes still emerge, a reminder of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic past.

Glaciers:
During the last ice age, glaciers covered Kibo’s summit. While they are now receding, they remain a striking feature, contrasting with the barren landscape of the crater rim.

Camping in the Crater

Crater Camp:
At 18,700 feet (5,700 meters), Crater Camp is the highest campsite in Africa. Located below the summit, it offers a unique experience with harsh conditions—bitter cold, thin air, and a desolate landscape.

Conditions:
The camp is surrounded by glaciers, and the harsh environment means no plant or animal life, apart from ancient lichens on the volcanic rocks. It’s a challenging place to spend the night but offers a rare opportunity for well-acclimatized climbers.

The Ash Pit

Reusch Ash Pit:
About 30-40 minutes from Crater Camp, the Reusch Ash Pit is a notable volcanic feature. This deep, circular crater is surrounded by sulfurous fumaroles and is a dramatic reminder of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic activity. The temperature around the fumaroles is extremely high, making it too dangerous to explore up close.

The Frozen Leopard

Legend or Reality?:
Ernest Hemingway’s story “The Snows of Kilimanjaro” references a frozen leopard. Richard Reusch, a notable climber, reportedly found a frozen leopard on the crater rim and kept an ear as a souvenir. While the story adds to Kilimanjaro’s mystique, it remains a curious anecdote.

Uhuru Peak

Summit Significance:
Uhuru Peak is the highest point on Kilimanjaro’s crater rim, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). Formerly known as Kaiser Wilhelm Spitze, it was renamed Uhuru Peak, meaning “freedom” in Swahili, following Tanzanian independence in 1961.

Nearby Points:
Other significant points on the rim include Stella Point and Gilman’s Point, each marking crucial stages of the climb. Stella Point is the first significant point reached from Barafu Camp, while Gilman’s Point is the first from the Marangu route.

Getting to the Summit

Routes:
Climbers can reach Uhuru Peak from various base camps. Barafu Camp is the most common starting point, leading to a night-time ascent that reaches the rim by dawn. For those camping in the crater, a daytime summit attempt is possible.

Western Breach:
The Western Breach is a challenging and dangerous route due to its steep and rocky terrain. It involves scrambling and has been associated with rockfalls, leading to temporary closures. It is not suitable for descent, as climbers would need to cross the crater floor or use another route.

The Journey Beyond the Sign

Reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro is more than just getting a photo with the sign. It’s about experiencing the unique features of the mountain, from its volcanic geology to its icy remnants. For those planning an adventure to climb Kilimanjaro, understanding these aspects can enrich the journey and make the summit experience even more memorable.

Ready to explore the secrets of Kilimanjaro? Contact us to plan your adventure and discover the wonders of Africa’s highest peak.