First Ascent of Mt. Kilimanjaro: A Historical Look

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, located in Tanzania. It is an iconic landmark that has been the focus of many adventurers who aspire to conquer its summit. Its history of exploration and ascent has been documented for centuries, with the first recorded climb of the mountain dating back to 1889.

Climb of Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging climb, with its summit reaching 19,341 feet above sea level. The mountain has three distinct volcanic cones, Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira, and the climb itself is divided into five main routes. The most popular route is the Marangu Route, which is also the only one with huts for climbers to stay in. The other routes are Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and Northern Circuit. The climb can take anywhere from five to nine days depending on the route and the climber’s physical condition.

History of the Climb

The history of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro dates back to the early 19th century. It is believed that the first European to reach the summit was a German geographer, Dr. Ludwig Krapf, in 1848. A few years later, in 1871, British explorer Sir Richard Francis Burton became the first person to record a successful ascent of the mountain. In 1889, a German explorer, Hans Meyer, became the first person to reach the summit with the help of his guide, Ludwig Purtscheller.

First Ascent of Kilimanjaro

Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller’s first ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro is documented in Meyer’s book, “The Ascent of Kilimanjaro”. The two climbers spent four days on the mountain, beginning their ascent on October 6, 1889. They reached the summit on October 9, after a grueling climb up the steep slopes and through the icy glaciers of the mountain. They planted a German flag at the summit and celebrated their successful ascent with a glass of brandy.

The first recorded ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro is a remarkable feat of exploration and endurance. The story of Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller’s climb is an inspiring reminder of the power of courage and determination. Their success has encouraged countless others to attempt the climb and experience the magnificence of this iconic African mountain.