The Highest Point Of Africa: All You Need To Know About The Uhuru Peak Of Mount Kilimanjaro

Hiking and climbing enthusiasts from all over the world have often had the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa on their bucket list, wishing to conquer the peak one day. But how much do we even know about the highest peak in Africa that the world is drooling over?

Over 5, 895 millimeters above the sea level, this peak is unarguably the highest standing point of the continent. To experience a sense of fulfilment and a beautiful view, it’s time to explore the heights!

What is Uhuru Peak?

The Uhuru Peak is located almost 5985 – meters above the sea level and is located at Kibo, the volcanic cone which forms a part of the larger mountain of Kilimanjaro. Basically, anytime you plan on climbing Kilimanjaro, your aim is to reach Uhuru. The term ‘Uhuru’ is Swahili for freedom, and the peak was named so over half a century back, in 1961, when Tanganyika, which now forms a significant part of the larger territory of Tanzania, had gained independence from the rule of the United Kingdom.

Of all those who aim for Uhuru every year, a percentage of over 40% are actually able to reach the summit, which is actually quite a significant and rather impressive number. The Uhuru can be reached by over five to eight different routes, like the Lemosho Route, Machame Route, Murungu Route and Rongai Route, among others, and it is a common practice for guides and those who have already climbed the peak previously to be quite helpful to first-time climbers.

Climbers and The Real Boss: Mount Kilimanjaro and why it is Iconic

Climbers as well as hiking enthusiasts would agree that the most beloved of peaks are not the highest or those which are most difficult  to hike on, but those that are actually climbable, and one can dream of reaching the peak without having the professional expertise every time.

Kilimanjaro is commonly called the ‘Everyman’s Everest’ because in addition to being a remarkable park post the climber reaching the top, it is also an achievable peak, by people of all levels of climbing skill, with the right technique, patience and the sheer will to achieve their target.

Interestingly, Kilimanjaro is actually a freestanding peak, which means, in essence, that it is not a part of any larger mountainous range but a standalone giant.  Among the many peaks of Kilimanjaro, two are now considered extinct- the Mawenzi and the Shira. Reaching the peak of Kilimanjaro is certainly one of its kind feelings, and thousands of hikers aim to achieve it every year. Uhuru, however, is the highest peak of Kilimanjaro.

Additionally, Mount Kilimanjaro is also often considered unique due to its climates, and once you start your climb towards the Tanzania Uhuru Peak, you are likely to pass through five different ecosystems and their climates. Some of them are the Rainforest Zone, the Alpine Desert Zone, the Cultivation Zone as well as the Arctic Zone.

Reaching the peak of Kilimanjaro is not quite an easy feat, but a possible one, so keep your eyes on the prize and go on!

Routes and Roads to the Peak of Kilimanjaro 

There are several routes which you may take to reach Uhuru Peak. However, the Marangu route is generally considered the best alternative for reaching Uhuru Peak, Mount Kilimanjaro.

1. Marangu Route: Considered the easiest and most comfortable one, is a preferred choice, especially for those climbing the highest peak in Tanzania. It is also known as the coca cola route and allows one to climb to Uhuru Peak Tanzania in about six days, while offering sleeping huts within dormitories.
2. Machame Route: A close second after the Marangu route, this route is also called the ‘Whiskey Route’, and offers a relatively more rugged experience to the highest peak of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Some Fun Facts about the Uhuru Peak: 

• Though the Tanzania Uhuru Peak is popularly known to be the highest in Africa, it is actually also a fact that experienced climbers and athletes can reach the top from the. very base in less than even a full day!
• For most climbers who are unable to make it to the peak, the main problem has been altitude sickness, and not the actual trek or rough terrain. 
• Interestingly, there is a book kept at Uhuru Peak, enclosed in a wooden box. Climbers often record their experience of climbing to and being at the top of Africa here, it serves as a record of generations of climbers and preserves the memory of their experience for others to know.

In Conclusion:

Though climbing to the Tanzania Uhuru peak, which is the peak of Kilimanjaro seems like a mammoth task, it really is not nearly as difficult, so don’t let your hesitation stop you, and get ready to be on the top of Africa!