Many people ask this question: Is K2 the same as Kilimanjaro? The simple answer is no. Although they are two of the tallest mountains in the world, both are entirely separate. While K2 is located in Asia, Mount Kilimanjaro is situated on the continent of Africa.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Suppose you wonder where the name originates from. Here is a brief history. This mountain was named after the local East African languages. The most common meaning of Kilimanjaro is Shining Mountain. A fantastic feature is its snow-capped summit that appears glowing in the sunlight, hence the name, Shining Mountain. Others refer to it as the roof of Africa because it is the continent’s highest peak.
K2
In literal terms, K2 means the 2nd towering peak to be discovered in the Karakoram Range. The Karakoram range houses several mountains. About 20 peaks within the range have an elevation of over 7,500 meters. K2 is the tallest within the range. It is a very challenging peak to climb, difficult even for expert climbers. To answer whether K2 is the same as Kilimanjaro, take a look at some key differences.
Why is K2 feared?
K2 is feared as it is far more technically challenging to climb. Despite the ordeal involved in climbing Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain above sea level, it is still considered to have a smoother travel path to the summit than K2. Climbers come across unstable ice sections and narrow ridgelines that are all hazardous. You will need advanced mountaineering skills to maneuver this peak.
Kilimanjaro vs K2
Which is Taller?
Mount K2 is taller, with an elevation of 8,611 meters (28,251 feet). Kilimanjaro has an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). The difference in elevation between the two mountains is almost 10,000 feet. While Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa, Mount K2 is the second-tallest in the world.
Where Are They Located?
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Africa. It sits in Tanzania, right beside the Kenyan border in East Africa. On the other hand, K2 spans the border between Pakistan and China in Asia. It is located in the Karakoram mountain range and is part of the larger Himalayas. A larger part of the mountain is also in Pakistan.
What Type of Mountains Are They?
K2 mountain is one of the many tall peaks in the Karakoram range. Massive peaks, such as Broad Peak and Masherbrum, surround it. The Karakoram Mountains are characterised by steep slopes that are often covered in glaciers. There are deep valleys and glaciers around its foothills. Altogether, they form a technically rugged alpine landscape.
The weather conditions on K2 change rapidly, making it impossible to predict with certainty. You can expect base temperatures from -2°C to 10°C (28°F to 50°F) in summer. The summit temperature can go from below -20°C (-4°F) to as high as -40°C (-40°F) or lower. The summit is also characterised by intense, cold winds, which make climbing Mount K2 difficult.
In the comparison of Kilimanjaro and K2, the Roof of Africa stands alone. It is a stratovolcano formed when three volcanoes merged. Now, it exists as two connected peaks with a dome in between. Mount Kilimanjaro has no foothills. Instead, it is surrounded by green forests and warm African plains. The temperature at the base ranges from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) throughout the year. The sunny base is distinct from the freezing summit temperatures, which range from -7°C to -29°C (20°F to -20°F).
Which Mountain Is Easier to Climb?
If you’ve ever wondered if K2 is the same as Mount Kilimanjaro, consider comparing their difficulty levels. Regarding climbing difficulty, Kilimanjaro is considered easier to climb. It does not require technical climbing. Tourists with excellent climbing experience can reach the peak with minimal tussle. If you’re a new climber, you can get to the top with the help of guides and porters.
K2 is harder to climb. Climbing K2 is not as smooth as other uphill walks. Climbers have to escape several steep slopes and glaciers before the summit. Additionally, climbing heights above 8,000 meters means a climb into the death zone. At such high altitudes, the oxygen level decreases. Humans who reach this point often require supplemental oxygen to survive.
Which Mountain Is More Dangerous: K2 or Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro records an overall success rate of 70%. Many climbers make it to the top! However, K2 records a low 25% success rate. One out of every four K2 climbers does not make it alive.
The harsh and unpredictable weather makes ice climbing on K2 particularly challenging. If a climber needs help, it can be difficult to render any assistance at the summit. Helicopter rescues are almost impossible in the upper parts of K2. This implies that K2 is much more dangerous.
Conclusion
It is essential to obtain answers regarding whether K2 is the same as Kilimanjaro before embarking on a tour. Mount Kilimanjaro and K2 are distinct iconic world peaks. K2 is the second-highest mountain in the world. It has steep slopes and glaciers that make climbing difficult. On the other hand, climbing Kilimanjaro is easily accessible. The tallest mountain in Africa requires little to no mastery for first-time trekkers. Whichever you choose to visit, don’t forget to go with the appropriate climbing gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Long Does It Take to Climb Kilimanjaro or K2 Mountain?
K2 climbers spend up to two months reaching the summit. The long period is due to its elevation and technicality. However, Kilimanjaro climbers reach the summit in less than nine days. The climbing weather conditions are safer for humans.
2. Do you need technical climbing equipment to summit Kilimanjaro?
You need zero technical equipment to climb Kilimanjaro. Since it’s a simple uphill trek, all you need are hiking boots, trekking poles, and some warm clothes.
3. Why is K2 often called the Savage Mountain?
K2 is often referred to as the Savage Mountain due to its notorious difficulty in climbing. It has unpredictable weather conditions. The pathway to the summit is filled with glaciers and deep slopes. In addition, the high fatality rate makes K2 popular as a savage mountain.
