West Kilimanjaro Airstrip is a small airport located in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania. It is situated approximately 15 kilometers from the town of Moshi and is primarily used as a landing site for small aircraft. The airstrip is located in a beautiful area surrounded by savannah grasslands, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro from the airport.
West Kilimanjaro Airstrip is a small airport located in a beautiful area of Tanzania. The airport is primarily used by small planes, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro from the airport. The region surrounding the airport is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and visitors can explore the area’s savannah grasslands, woodlands
History of West Kilimanjaro Airstrip
West Kilimanjaro Airstrip was initially built as a landing site for the Kilimanjaro Safari Club, which was founded by American entrepreneur Lowell Thomas and actor Robert Taylor in 1959. The club was a luxurious retreat for wealthy tourists, and the airstrip was used to ferry guests to and from the lodge. However, the club’s popularity waned in the 1970s, and the lodge closed down in 1986. After the closure of the lodge, the airstrip was used by various safari companies, as well as by researchers and conservationists working in the region.
Features of West Kilimanjaro Airstrip
The West Kilimanjaro Airstrip is a small airport with a single runway measuring approximately 1000 meters in length. It is equipped with basic facilities such as a small terminal building and a parking area for aircraft. The airport is primarily used by small planes such as Cessnas and other light aircraft, which can land and take off on the short runway.
Getting to West Kilimanjaro Airstrip
The easiest way to get to West Kilimanjaro Airstrip is by flying from the Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), which is located about 40 kilometers away. Visitors can take a taxi or hire a car to reach the airport. Alternatively, visitors can also fly to Arusha Airport, which is approximately 80 kilometers away, and then take a taxi or hire a car to reach West Kilimanjaro Airstrip.
Nearby Attractions
West Kilimanjaro Airstrip is located in an area surrounded by natural beauty, and visitors can explore the region’s savannah grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands. The airport is also close to the Kilimanjaro National Park, which is home to the highest mountain in Africa. Visitors can take guided tours of the park and enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, and wildlife watching.
Accommodation Options
There are several accommodation options located near the West Kilimanjaro Airstrip, including lodges and campsites. Visitors can choose from luxurious lodges with all the amenities, or more rustic campsites for a closer connection to nature. Some popular accommodation options in the area include the Kilimanjaro Safari Lodge, Kilimanjaro Eco Lodge, and the West Kilimanjaro Tented Lodge.
Wildlife in the Area
The West Kilimanjaro Airstrip is located in an area rich in wildlife, and visitors can expect to see a variety of animals during their stay. The region is home to elephants, giraffes, zebras, and several species of antelopes, as well as predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The area is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the region.