🌍 A Hidden World Above the Clouds
Most climbers dream of standing on Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Kilimanjaro’s iconic summit. But just beyond this celebrated point lies a secret, surreal landscape that few ever see: the Reusch Crater and the mysterious Ash Pit—a geological gem often missed by the average trekker.
🌋 What Is Reusch Crater on Kilimanjaro?
Reusch Crater is the central summit crater of Mount Kilimanjaro, located at an altitude of around 5,750 meters (18,865 feet). It’s named after Pastor Richard Reusch, a missionary and early mountaineer who explored the mountain in the early 1900s.
- Width: ~400 meters
- Depth: ~200 meters
- Part of: Kibo cone (the tallest of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones—Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira)
🔥 The Ash Pit: Kilimanjaro’s Volcanic Core
At the heart of Reusch Crater lies the Ash Pit—a striking, 100-meter-deep cylindrical vent that offers a rare view into Kilimanjaro’s dormant volcanic system.
Although the volcano hasn’t erupted in over 360,000 years, the Ash Pit still whispers of its fiery origins. You may even catch a faint sulfur smell, a sign of residual geothermal activity beneath the surface.
🧭 Can You Visit Reusch Crater?
Yes—but it requires a special summit extension that is not part of Climb Kili’s guided treks.
Visiting Reusch Crater and the Ash Pit typically adds 1–2 hours to your summit day and involves hiking at extreme altitude. Due to safety concerns and environmental protection, Climb Kili does not offer this detour.
⚠️ Note from Climb Kili:
For the safety of our clients and the preservation of Kilimanjaro’s fragile summit environment, we do not guide trips into Reusch Crater or to the Ash Pit.
Routes That Pass Nearby
While Climb Kili does not guide treks into the crater, our Lemosho and Machame routes do bring you close as you approach Uhuru Peak via Barafu or Kosovo Camp.
You’ll still summit with spectacular views and may catch glimpses of the crater rim and glaciers nearby.
✅ Why We Focus on the Summit
- Health & Safety First: Extra summit-day exertion increases the risk of altitude-related illness
- Environmental Impact: The crater zone is a fragile volcanic environment
- Summit Achievement: Reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) is already a major life accomplishment
🧠 Did You Know?
- Reusch Crater still shows signs of geothermal activity
- The ashes of explorer Richard Reusch were scattered inside the crater
- Nearby Crater Camp is the highest camp on Kilimanjaro at ~5,730m (though not used by Climb Kili)
Final Thoughts
Although Climb Kili doesn’t offer tours into the Reusch Crater, your summit experience will still be filled with incredible scenery, volcanic history, and the personal triumph of reaching the Roof of Africa.
Want to experience Kilimanjaro with expert guides and a safe, supported summit plan? We’re here to help.
Let’s Plan Your Summit Experience
Talk to the Climb Kili team to start planning your Kilimanjaro adventure on the Lemosho or Machame route—and stand atop one of the world’s most iconic peaks.
