Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s most iconic mountains. Located in Tanzania, it is the highest point in Africa, with a peak of 5,895 meters (19,336 feet). It is also the tallest free-standing mountain in the world and one of the Seven Summits. With so much attention focused on its height, it is natural to wonder how it compares to other mountains. In this article, we will compare the height of Mount Kilimanjaro with other mountains around the world.
Comparing Heights of Mt. Kilimanjaro
When comparing the height of Mount Kilimanjaro to other mountains, the first thing to consider is that it is the highest peak in Africa. In fact, Kilimanjaro is higher than any of the other continental high points. This includes Mount Elbrus in Russia (5,642m), Aconcagua in Argentina (6,960m), and Mount Denali in Alaska (6,190m).
When compared to the world’s highest mountains, Kilimanjaro is significantly lower. For example, Mount Everest in Nepal stands at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet). This is almost 3,000 meters higher than Kilimanjaro. The world’s second and third highest peaks, K2 and Kangchenjunga, are both located in the Himalayas and stand at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet) and 8,586 meters (28,169 feet) respectively.
Examining Height Variations
It is important to note that the height of Mount Kilimanjaro can vary significantly due to variables such as weather and snowfall. The peak season for climbing Kilimanjaro is from June to October, during which the highest point is typically covered in snow. In other months, the summit may be exposed, making it appear significantly lower.
In addition, the actual height of the mountain can vary depending on how it is measured. For example, the peak of Uhuru, the highest point on Kilimanjaro, is typically measured to be 5,895 meters (19,336 feet). However, the saddle between Uhuru and the smaller peak of Hans Meyer is measured to be 5,885 meters (19,308 feet). This difference of 10 meters is due to the fact that Uhuru is generally covered in snow, while the saddle is not.
Comparing the height of Mount Kilimanjaro to other mountains can be both fascinating and confusing. It is the highest peak in Africa as well as the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. However, when looking at the world’s highest mountains, it falls significantly lower. Variables such as weather, snowfall, and how the mountain is measured can all have an impact on its reported height. Ultimately, however, it remains one of the world’s most iconic mountains, and a must-see for any mountaineer.
