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The Best Expert Guide on Kilimanjaro
We deliver responsible, sustainable tourism
The Best Expert Guide on Kilimanjaro
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Mawenzi Peak is Mount Kilimanjaro’s second highest summit after Kibo Peak. Standing at an impressive 5,149 meters (16,893 ft.), it is the third-highest peak in Africa after Kibo Peak and Mount Kenya. Despite its height, Mawenzi can be a difficult peak to summit due to its sheer slopes and loose rocks. Experienced climbers and specialized equipment are necessary to access the peak.
Before climbers confirmed its height, many thought Ruwenzori, on the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, ranked as Africa’s third-highest peak.
The main summit of Mawenzi is Point Hans Meyer, standing at 5,149 meters (16,893 ft.). It is named after German geologist Hans Meyer, who was the first to reach the peak on July 29, 1912. There is also a resting point on Kilimanjanro, called Hans Meyer Cave, named after him.
Climbing Mawenzi is possible but remains extremely dangerous. Kilimanjaro National Park authorities are still mapping a safer route, and very few tour operators offer climbs to the peak. If you are determined to take on the challenge, you must apply for a permit at least one month in advance and include a list of all required technical mountaineering equipment.
The warm and dry months of January to March, and June to October are the ideal times to summit the peak. To avoid the rainy seasons, climbers should avoid the periods of March to May and November to early January.
The two main routes to Mawenzi are the Marangu or Rongai routes, passing through the Marangu Gate, Mandara Huts and Horombo Huts and the Mawenzi Hut. The start point is the town of Moshi. The nearest airports are Kilimanjaro International Airport (between Moshi and Arusha), Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi (Kenya) and Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar Es Salam (Tanzania).
Below is the location of Mawenzi Peak on a Map
The approach to Mawenzi is more challenging since the terrain is extremely steep and often icy. Reaching the peak of Hans Meyer (5,149 m) requires 400 meters of climbing rating at II* 5 hours and takes the Oehler Couloir route via the North-West Corrievariant.
Climbers must exercise extreme caution on Mawenzi, as the peak has caused fatalities in the past. Melting snow and rock collapse still pose risks. Only experienced mountaineers should attempt the summit, and they must use specialized imported mountaineering equipment for the climb.
For those seeking breathtaking views and unique landscapes, Mawenzi Peak in the National Park offers an unforgettable climb. As Africa’s third-highest peak, it requires specialized mountain equipment and significant experience. While the peak is now accessible, climbers are advised to proceed with caution.