Mount Kilimanjaro, rising to 19,341 feet, is not just the tallest mountain in Africa but also a zone of unparalleled climate diversity. The mountain has five different climate zones, presenting climbers with the chance to witness diverse weather in a single area. The unique occurrence has rendered Kilimanjaro a top destination for explorers yearly.But why can a single mountain have so many climates?
Kilimanjaro is sometimes referred to as the ‘sky island’ and for good reason? Climbers ascend through five different climate zones, each with its own weather and conditions, as they climb? These zones are:
Cultivation Zone (800 – 1,800 meters)
The hike starts in the Cultivation Zone, where the soil is fertile and suitable for farming. The zone is marked by hot temperatures and regular rainfall, hence suitable for agriculture. The temperature is moderate, with a range of 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C).
Rainforest Zone (1,800 – 2,800 meters)
As the ascent continues, hikers reach the Colorful Rainforest Zone, found between 1,800 and 2,800 meters. This zone, which is well known for being rich in diversity, enjoys warm and humid temperatures, with constant rainfall, particularly during the rainy seasons. It has a temperature of 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C).
Moorland Zone (2,800 – 4,000 meters)
Third is the transition through the Moorland Zone, a level between 2,800 and 4,000 meters. This section consists of sweeping hills and a small number of vegetation species. This area’s weather is chilly and dry in comparison to rainforest and, with daytime highs ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C) and night-time low temperatures, rather unpleasant as well.
Alpine Desert Zone (4,000 – 5,000 meters)
The atmosphere is thinner and the conditions more severe as mountaineers approach the Alpine Desert Zone. Between 4,000 meters and 5,000 meters, the zone sees extreme temperature variation, with daytime temperatures soaring to 90°F (32°C) and night temperatures dropping as low as 10°F (-12°C).The terrain is desolate, and there are strong winds.
Arctic Zone (5,000 – 5,895 meters)
At the summit, trekkers reach the Arctic Zone, which is the highest and most challenging part of Kilimanjaro.This area features glaciers, snowfields, and minimal life. Oxygen concentrations are about half of sea level, and it is the most challenging zone to pass through.
Five different climate zones on Kilimanjaro provide a truly exceptional and varied climbing experience.