Kilimanjaro is the highest freestanding mountain in the world. Lying 3 degrees below the Equator, it is contained entirely within Tanzania and is one of Africa's youngest volcanoes. The mountain peers down to Kenya on its northern border, and covers an area of over 5,100 sq km, reaching over five kms into the sky. Its top is permanently ice-capped and offers both the hiker and mountaineer a rare challenge. At 5,895m it is Africa's highest mountain and one of the legendary Seven Summits.

Although not to be taken lightly, any reasonably fit person can reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, and there are several routes available. Climbers generally need a minimum of five days for the hike (but preferably six or more days), and you ascend from the tropical rain forests, through heath land, to alpine desert, finally reaching the permanent glaciers and the summit, Uhuru Peak.