The origin of the name Kilimanjaro is not precisely known, but a number of theories exist. European explorers had adopted the name by 1860 and reported that “Kilimanjaro” was the mountain’s Kiswahili name, but according to the 1907 edition of The Nuttall Encyclopedia, the name of the mountain was “Kilima-Njaro.”
It is also claimed that “Kilimanjaro” meant either “mountain of greatness” or “mountain of caravans”. Under the latter meaning, “Kilima” meant “mountain” and “Jaro” possibly meant “caravans”.
Well, one thing we know is that it’s beautiful, powerful and high.
For years Johan Ernst Nilson has brought groups to Kilimanjaro and is still planning new expeditions with leaders, companies and small private groups. So why Kilimanjaro? What makes it so unique?
“Kilimanjaro is a perfect place to work with team building and leadership. It’s not too dangerous, everybody has a good chance of reaching the summit and even if you don’t; you will still experience something extraordinary. But the mountain is the one deciding who’s going up or not. You have to be strong, stubborn and with good motivation. If you don’t eat well, drink, or push yourself, you might have to turn around. I know, I’ve done it!”
