As you explore Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll likely come across the most iconic images of this African giant featuring the mountain as a backdrop to large herds of elephants roaming in Amboseli National Park, Kenya. Amboseli is famous for its large population of free-roaming elephants and is the only place where you can witness elephants and other wildlife in front of Mount Kilimanjaro. However, it’s also worth mentioning that the mountain itself is often hidden behind clouds and the best time to see it is at dawn.
Table Of Contents
What Are The Best Views Of Kilimanjaro From Tanzania?
- Pictures Of Mount Kilimanjaro’s Shira Plateau
- Images Of Mount Kilimanjaro’s Lava Tower
- Kilimanjaro Photography From Barranco Valley
- Photos Of Mount Kilimanjaro’s Mawenzi Peak
- Images Of Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru Peak
- Kilimanjaro Photos Of Crater Camp
- A Rare Picture Of Kilimanjaro’s Reusch Crater
- Pictures Of Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field
- Images Of Mount Kilimanjaro’s Saddle
- Mount Kilimanjaro Images From The Sky
- Pictures Of The Starry Sky And Full Moon On Kilimanjaro
To get the best photographic opportunities on Kilimanjaro, you should hike routes that pass through forestry and the alpine desert. These two ecological zones provide the best scenic views on the mountain without compromising on the overall hike experience. Therefore you’d want to compare the Lemosho vs Rongai routes and head to one of their gates for registration. These are some of the best-performing routes on the mountain and you’ll have an easier hiking experience compared to other trails on Kilimanjaro. However, unlike the Lemosho route and the Rongai trail, the Marangu route on Kilimanjaro is the only trail that offers budget-friendly programs and hut accommodations. So if camping is not for you, it’s best you opt for the Marangu route instead. The only major downside of hiking the Marangu route is its low Kilimanjaro climb success rate and lack of special wildlife sightings, like blue monkeys on Kilimanjaro. Avoid the Western Breach route on Kilimanjaro, as it’s well known for random rockfalls and requires technical climbing experience to prepare for the routes’ distances and terrain.
What Are The Best Views Of Kilimanjaro From Tanzania?
- Kilimanjaro International Airport — Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you have the opportunity to lay first sight of Mount Kilimanjaro as you exit the plane. Since the mountain is located near the airport, it can also be seen from the air prior to landing. The panoramic view of the mountain upon arrival sets the tone for the incredible experiences that await you during the expedition.
- Boma La Ng’Ombe — Boma La Ng’Ombe is a village located near Mount Kilimanjaro. On clear days, you may have a clear view of the mountain from the village. However, the exact visibility may depend on weather conditions and the angle you’re viewing from.
- Moshi Town — Moshi Town is one of the main gateways to Kilimanjaro and serves as a base for many climbers attempting to reach the summit. Since the town is located at the foot of the mountain, you’ll be able to spot Mount Kilimanjaro from your hotel room or nearby restaurants.
- Mount Meru — Mount Meru is a stratovolcano and the second-highest peak in Tanzania, with an elevation of 4,566 meters (14,979 feet). From the summit of Mount Meru, you can see Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day, as the two mountains are located in close proximity to one another. The views of both mountains from Mount Meru offer a unique perspective of Tanzania’s stunning natural beauty.
1. Pictures Of Mount Kilimanjaro’s Shira Plateau
The Shira Plateau on Mount Kilimanjaro is a historic area and the first view of the mountain for climbers hiking the Shira, Lemosho, and Northern Circuit Routes. The plateau was formed when the Shira cone collapsed on itself, and it is known for its expansive views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
2. Images Of Mount Kilimanjaro’s Lava Tower
Lava Tower is a 300-foot tall volcanic rock tower that was formed when a volcanic plug stopped the flow of underground lava from reaching the surface. The tower is a visible landmark on the trail and is encountered by climbers hiking the Shira, Lemosho, Machame, and Northern Circuit Routes. However, it is no longer permitted to climb the tower as it is deemed too dangerous by park authorities.
3. Kilimanjaro Photography From Barranco Valley
The Great Barranco Valley is located south of Kibo Peak and is dominated by the moorland environment and the giant groundsel, Dendrosenecio kilimanjari. The valley is a prime location for photographers to capture images of the unusual and otherworldly-looking succulents. There’s also a camping ground at Barranco Valley for climbers hiking the Shira, Lemosho, Machame, and Umbwe Routes on Kilimanjaro. This is usually the last resting stop before you attempt to climb the Barranco Wall.
The Barranco Wall on Kilimanjaro, also known as the Kissing Rock, was formed when part of Kibo’s crater rim collapsed above the valley. Climbing the wall is easier that it seems, safer than it looks, and is one of the most enjoyable sections of the expedition. Once at the top of the wall, you be able to take in the breathtaking views of the blue sky and clouds against the backdrop of the wall.
4. Photos Of Mount Kilimanjaro’s Mawenzi Peak
You’ll come across Mawenzi Peak, the second highest peak on Mount Kilimanjaro, on the 3rd or 4th day of your hike. You’ll be amazed by its steep terrain and loose rocks, as well as its unique, jagged appearance. If you take the Marangu or Rongai Routes, you’ll have great views of Mawenzi from camp, but the peak itself can be observed from all of Kilimanjaro’s routes.
5. Images Of Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru Peak
Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, is your ultimate goal for the climb. Mount Kilimanjaro’s height sits at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet) above sea level and it is a testament to your hard work, perseverance, and dedication to yourself. “Uhuru” means “freedom” in Swahili and the green metal sign that marks the spot is a must-visit for the obligatory summit photo. All routes on the mountain culminate at this area, which can get crowded if you arrive late.
6. Kilimanjaro Photos Of Crater Camp
Crater Camp, a little-used campsite near the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,750 meters (18,865 feet). It is an opportunity for you to explore one of Kilimanjaro’s last remaining glaciers, Furtwangler Glacier. By adding an extra day to your itinerary, you’ll also get to climb to the crater rim for a unique and unforgettable experience.
7. A Rare Picture Of Kilimanjaro’s Reusch Crater
Reusch Crater is a magnificent feature located within the Kibo cone that you won’t want to miss. Scientists say the last time Kibo erupted was about 360,000 years ago and, though it is currently dormant, there’s a possibility that it could erupt again in the future. You can catch a glimpse of Reusch Crater by hiking up to Crater Camp and then taking a one-hour hike to the crater rim. This is accessible either by the Lemosho Crater Route or the Northern Crater Route on Kilimanjaro.
8. Pictures Of Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field
Kilimanjaro’s peak is a breathtaking sight, with its world-renowned glaciers that have crowned Africa’s highest mountain for centuries. However, the glaciers have been thinning dramatically in recent years, so make sure to see them while they are still around. Regardless of which route you take, you will be treated to stunning views of the Southern Ice Field as you approach the summit. Don’t forget to take a picture in order to remember the experience.
9. Images Of Mount Kilimanjaro’s Saddle
The Saddle is a barren plain of alpine desert located between Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. This is the largest high-altitude tundra in Africa, covering an area of approximately 14 square miles. From The Saddle, you’ll get amazing views of Mawenzi to the east and Kibo to the west. Unfortunately, the area is not accessible from all hiking routes. You’ll only be able to cross the Saddle if you hike the Marangu Route or Rongai Route to the summit.
10. Mount Kilimanjaro Images From The Sky
If you’re lucky, you might be able to capture an aerial view of Mount Kilimanjaro that captures its majestic summit, surrounded by clouds and topped with snow. This shot is not accessible from the mountain, but you might be able to take an epic photo from an airplane. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready, as you might get a chance to take an aerial photo before or after your hike. From above, you can fully appreciate the magnitude of your accomplishment when you see Uhuru Peak’s sign, the Southern and Northern glaciers, Reusch Crater and the Ash Pit.
11. Pictures Of The Starry Sky And Full Moon On Kilimanjaro
You may be amazed by the stars in the night sky and the full moon illuminating the trails of Kilimanjaro. These images showcase the natural beauty of the mountain and its surrounding area at night.
