Wildlife on Mount Kilimanjaro | Animals You May Encounter During Your Climb

1. Elephants and Buffalo (Lower Slopes and Forest Zone)

Although rare to see during the actual climb, elephants and African buffalo roam the lower, less trafficked forested areas, especially on the Lemosho and Rongai routes. These large mammals are usually shy and avoid heavily trekked trails, but rangers occasionally spot them near Shira Plateau and Rongai’s rainforest section.

2. Blue Monkeys and Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys

These two monkey species are commonly seen around the Machame, Marangu, and Lemosho gates. The black-and-white colobus monkey is particularly striking with its long, flowing white tail, while the blue monkey (often appearing gray) is more mischievous and vocal. Both species thrive in the montane rainforest zone between 1,800 to 2,800 meters.

3. Bush Babies (Galagos)

These nocturnal primates are more often heard than seen. Their eerie, high-pitched cries echo through the forest during nighttime. If you’re staying at Mandara or Horombo Huts on the Marangu Route, keep your ears open, you might hear them rustling in the trees.

4. Duikers and Other Antelope

Small antelopes like the red duiker and Harvey’s duiker roam the forest zones and occasionally venture near trails. Their shy nature makes sightings brief, but they’re a reminder of the vibrant life thriving beneath the forest canopy.

5. Tree Hyraxes

You might hear loud, strange calls at night from camps like Horombo Hut; those are likely tree hyraxes. Despite their small, rabbit-like appearance, they’re closely related to elephants and live in rocky outcrops or trees.