Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano in Tanzania and the highest mountain in Africa, rising approximately 5,895 meters above sea level. It is the highest free-standing mountain in the world, meaning it is not part of a mountain range. Kilimanjaro is composed of three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. While Mawenzi and Shira are extinct, Kibo is dormant and could potentially erupt again. The mountain is famous for its snow-capped peak, which sits just south of the equator. However, scientists have noted that the glaciers on Kilimanjaro have shrunk by more than 80% since 1912 due to climate change and changes in local vegetation. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a popular challenge because it requires no technical climbing skills, though the high altitude poses a significant risk of altitude sickness for many trekkers.