When we think of Africa, we usually imagine deserts and savannas rather than mountains. This is logical, as most of the continent is made up of plains, plateaus, and plateaus. There are also depressions here, which have lakes and basins of the Nile, Niger, Zambezi, Congo rivers... But surprisingly, Africa also has majestic sentinels, the tops of which shine in the sunlight. Mountains! Can you imagine mountains that are higher than any European, Australian or Antarctic ones?
Well, we are dealing with a continent of contrasts, where endless "prairies", dense jungles and towering ridges are intertwined. The landscape is filled with a bunch of mountains that attract travelers from all over the world. But not all of them can be climbed 😉
We have collected the top of the most prominent African peaks, including snow, rock, and even sand (yes, dunes are not mountains, but they are also a kind of mini-climbing). Anyone can choose a hike to their liking in these lands. So, let's get acquainted with the list of all trekking and climbing tours in Tanzania and Morocco that KULUAR gladly offers.
Many peaks stand on their own because they were once volcanoes, and these are the ones that make it to the list of the highest. A good number of them retain a cold "cap" on their peaks in the form of snow and glaciers. But according to scientists, unfortunately, they may soon disappear... This also applies to the highest mountain in Africa - Kilimanjaro. Let's start with an introduction to it.
According to different versions, the highest peak in Africa is among the 10 most beautiful mountains in the world and one of the three most beautiful volcanoes. Our heroine has settled in the northeastern part of Tanzania, between the Serengeti and Tsavo National Parks. At the same time, it proudly rises above the Kenyan Savannah, from where the "shining" peak is also perfectly visible. Mount Kilimanjaro is not only the highest point in Africa, but also one of the most famous mountains on the planet. Its size is a constant competition with its counterparts on other continents: Kilimanjaro is the fourth-highest peak in the Seven Summits program.
In addition, it is the world's largest single mountain: the base is 97 km long and 64 km wide. While climbing Kilimanjaro with KULUAR club, we offer not only to climb to the highest point of the volcano - Uhuru Peak (5895 m high), but also to take part in safaris in unusual and interesting national parks - Ngorongoro and Tarangire. Then relax on the white beaches of Zanzibar Island and enjoy the waves of the Indian Ocean.
In fact, Kili is a collection of 3 peaks - Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira - which are the remnants of volcanic activity. Kibo is the largest volcano (or, as it is also called, the "cone") with a width of 24 km, which separates it from Mawenzi at an altitude of 4400 m above sea level. The last eruption that formed this Kilimanjaro crater dates back to 270-170 thousand years ago. Another significant point, Stella Point, is located on the edge of the Kibo crater and is popular among climbers.
Do you know why Kili is called the shining mountain? Find the answer in our article Interesting facts about Mount Kilimanjaro.
What time of year is it possible to climb Kilimanjaro?
Unlike most other famous mountains, Kili can be climbed all year round. In Tanzania, there is no such thing as a seasonal division, there is only a dry and a wet season. The best time to climb is from December to March and from June to September. During this period, the weather will rejoice with you - sunny, dry, without wind and rain. But in April, May and November in the north of Tanzania there are strong winds and cloudy skies - the rainy season. At this time, the risk of getting injured on slippery trails increases, and it doesn't take long to get sick. That's why KULUAR successfully selects dates, taking into account such moments.
Our whole Kilimanjaro climbing program starts from the arrival at the airport of the same name and lasts 13 days. Such a period is ideal for proper acclimatization of the body and increases the chances of successfully reaching the top. At the same time, the ascent to Kili does not require skills in using alpine equipment, there is no technical (level 2 out of 10) movement on vertical rock, ice or snowy slopes. The routes are hiking trails. Climbing a mountain can take place on 7 tracks + one more - the eighth, only for descent. We have written all the necessary information in more detail here: Kilimanjaro climbing routes.
The climate of the highest mountain in Africa is much milder than in the mountains of the northern latitudes - it happens that you reach the peak without feeling a fluffy white blanket under your feet. The daytime temperature at the foot is +30°C, in the assault camp it drops to -5°C, and at the top of Kilimanjaro the temperature reaches -25°C. Such a contrast 😉
Kili's neighbor, Meru Peak, is one of the most beautiful stratovolcanoes, with a height of 4,566 meters. Located in Tanzania's Arusha National Park, it welcomes its guests to combine business with pleasure.
The realm of wild animals and impenetrable jungle awaits you. Zebras, giraffes, antelopes, elephants, macaques and even buffaloes... It is worth noting that the group is accompanied by a fully equipped ranger - with a rifle, radio and everything you need. And also the melting ice castles of Kili, the lost world of the Ngorongoro Crater and the migration of animals in the Serengeti Park - this is what you should go on this tour for!
| 01.08-08.08.26 |
|
$1900 | 2 | |
| 06.09-13.09.26 |
|
$1900 | 4 | |
| 05.10-12.10.26 |
|
$1900 | 4 |
Above, the route passes through alpine meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Mount Meru is an unforgettable experience, especially at sunrise, when you can see Mt. Kilimanjaro on the horizon.
This beauty of Africa, after which the whole country is named, located almost on the equator, is rightfully considered the kingdom of Ngai, the god of the local Kikuyu people. An interesting fact is that, according to tradition, all the houses of its inhabitants were designed in such a way that everyone could see the top of Mount Kenya.
"The place of light" is how the locals call the highest mountain in Kenya. The peak is a breathtaking sight to behold, with its jagged peaks covered with snow and slopes covered with dense trees. It's worth noting that Kenya is best seen at dawn, when the early morning light paints its extragalactic beauty. However, 5199 meters, the height of the second highest peak after Kili, is technically quite difficult to climb.
The lower peak of the mountain - Point Lenana (4985 m) is easier and more accessible to climb. Here you can fully appreciate the exceptional beauty of Kenyan nature. This hike usually takes from 3 to 5 days and will give you one of the rarest gifts in the world - equatorial snow 😉 By the way, this is a great acclimatization before climbing Kilimanjaro, or its less expensive and at the same time no less picturesque alternative!
The Kenya National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts more and more travelers every year. That's no wonder! Here you will find 8 natural zones - from forests to glaciers, a kingdom of wildlife, mountain lakes, exotic plants, and many other exotic wonders.
With a height of 4167 meters above sea level, Toubkal is the highest peak not only in Morocco, but also in the entire Atlas Mountains and northern Africa. Located within the Jebel Toubkal National Park, it attracts numerous tourists and climbers from many parts of the world.
The climb to Toubkal offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On the way, you will be greeted by traditional Berber villages that have been preserving their authentic culture for many years. And this panoramic view! You will see the entire Atlas mountain system and even the Sahara on clear days 😉
Climbing to the peak is possible throughout the year, and in winter as well, so KULUAR offers you different options 😉 If you dream of an original New Year's Eve, and even in such a way that you will remember it for the rest of your life - welcome to Morocco in January! Be sure that such an event among the High Atlas mountains with the opportunity to swim in the Atlantic Ocean, walk along the narrow streets of Marrakech and enjoy the endless Sahara sands will be a worthy alternative to a New Year's tree. It will be a truly hot and delicious celebration!
As for the weather, at low altitudes in January, the temperature in Morocco is very comfortable - about +20. Of course, it will be cooler as you gain altitude, so it can get down to -15 at the top. Trekking poles, crampons and ice axes will help you.
Technically, the climb is not difficult, but the altitude of over 4000 meters makes itself felt. Therefore, in any case, we advise you to prepare physically. Start running a couple of months before the start of the program and train at least three times a week. Run for endurance at a pace that is comfortable for you. Don't forget that the better your fitness, the more energy you'll have to explore the local beauty!
Spring and autumn are no less popular seasons, as the weather conditions are mega-favorable at this time. Therefore, if you want to take a tour to Morocco during this period, you are welcome!
In addition to the climb, you will have the opportunity to visit the former Portuguese colony on the Atlantic coast. The Arabian flavor is mixed with the spirit of a European port city: white and blue buildings, an old fort, a port with blue fishing boats and a fish market.
There is an excellent beach not far from the old town. Or maybe you prefer to spend the night right in the middle of the Sahara sands? Yes, of course! You will have everything and more 😉
And now for something bigger and more beautiful: do you love roses as much as Moroccans do? Speaking of the "local" Damascus rose, it has chosen its place in Kella M'gouna/ El Kelaa des Mgouna far in the High Atlas Mountains. This magical place, called the Vallée Des Roses (Valley of Roses), is covered in spring with a Persian carpet of divine white and pink shades.
It is said that the first Persian rose was brought to the valley in the tenth century by pilgrims from Mecca. Soon after, a factory was opened here, which still produces world-famous products (perfume, rose oil and water). It is in May (when the rose is in bloom) that you can enjoy these intoxicating and unique aromas that float in the air like butterflies 🦋
It turns out that it's not just for the sake of beach vacations and pyramids that you should choose tours to Egypt! KULUAR will show you where a great rock climbing area is hidden in Sinai, in the vicinity of the Dahab resort!
There is also a holy place here, Mount Sinai, where, according to legend, all sins are forgiven. According to biblical legend, Moses was given the tablets with the famous Ten Commandments on it.
From the top, at an altitude of 2285 meters, you can see landscapes that cover all sides of the world. They are painted with rocky mountain ranges, between which you can see riverbeds that dried up many centuries ago. In addition, in places where groundwater comes to the surface, there are oases, where date palms are predominantly found. The "Roof of Egypt" is the name given to the area to which Moses' peak belongs.
It all sounds good, but in reality, the climb turns out to be a bit difficult. That's why we have prepared another program that will suit both beginners who have just started mountaineering and want to get to know rock climbing better, and those who already have experience and don't mind visiting a new area. There are routes for every taste and level of training. For example, in the vicinity of Dahab, there is a great training ground for rock climbing called Wadi Gnai with routes of varying difficulty. You can climb on local granites, work out different movement patterns in belays, and practice working with artificial support points.
This land of deserts and mountain ranges has a subtropical desert climate and a sharp contrast: in summer, the temperature rises to +40°C, and in winter, the temperature drops to -5°C in the mountainous areas. There is little precipitation, and the summer is extremely dry. It is believed that Sinai has the coldest nights in Egypt. In March and April, the sun warms the air to +15...+19°C. Spring and fall are considered the best time to visit the site.
Climbing in Dahab is a great option to visit warm lands and the sea in winter, as well as to immerse yourself in the local "non-hotel" flavor of Bedouin mountain villages and climb peaks with a unique "Martian" landscape. After the mountaineering part, by the way, you can safely stay on the beaches, go diving, windsurfing or kitesurfing.
The Namib Desert, which stretches along the Atlantic coast of Namibia, is known for its huge sand dunes, which are the highest in Africa. These dunes, some of which reach heights of over 300 meters, create wow pictures and are a delight to photographers. Among the most famous are Dune 7 and Dune 45, which attract attention with their size and beauty. Read more about them...
This tour with KULUAR is a spicy, aromatic and exotic dish whose ingredients combine the elements, impressions, the coolest locations, hikes through dunes and mountains, and meetings with tribes and wild animals. Are you ready to see the places where the powerful waves of the cold Atlantic meet the hot sand dunes of the world's oldest desert? Thousands of kilometers of roads, a variety of wildlife, incomparable winds and the largest dunes on the planet await you!
And now to the main thing - the majestic giant called Dune 7 is not only the tallest in Namibia, but also one of the tallest in the world. Located near the town of Walvis Bay, it is quite popular among tourists for sand surfing, quad biking, and hiking. The peak offers incredible panoramic views of the desert and the Atlantic Ocean.
Nevertheless, the rise is not an easy task, and here's why:
Recommendations for a successful climb:
The icon of the Namib Desert, Dune 45, is famous for its magnificent colors that change throughout the day depending on the position of the sun - from warm shades of red and orange to golden. This is the place where life stopped 800 years ago.
Unlike many others, Dune 45 is easily accessible from the road, making it convenient for visitors who want to quickly climb to the top and enjoy the views.
Well, the world is filled with a huge number of unique peaks. They are remembered for their elegance, differences, and their separate lives. From the snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro to the fiery craters of Meru and the desert dunes of Namibia, these places will give you happiness for many years... Stay with KULUAR, with us you will know everything about the mountains! ✌️
