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Why Is It Called Stella Point? The Story Behind the Name | Kili Quests

On your final push to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll likely pass a sign reading “Stella Point – 5,739 m (18,829 ft)” before reaching Uhuru Peak. But what is Stella Point exactly — and why is it named Stella?
In this article, Kili Quests uncovers the historical story behind Stella Point, a place where both the mountain’s history and the modern climb to Africa’s rooftop intersect.
Stella Point signpost on Mount Kilimanjaro’s crater rim, frosted with snow and showing an elevation of 5,756 meters above sea level.
Stella Point, located at 5,756 meters on Mount Kilimanjaro’s crater rim, offers trekkers a dramatic first view into the summit zone. It was named after Estella Latham, one of the first recorded women to reach this altitude in 1925, making it a historic and emotional milestone on the Machame and Lemosho routes.

Where Is Stella Point?

Stella Point sits on the crater rim of Kibo, one of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones. It’s a major landmark on the Machame, Lemosho, and Umbwe Routes, located just before the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.
When trekkers reach Stella Point, they’re less than an hour from the summit. Though not the true top, it’s a significant milestone — and even qualifies as a summit certificate location for some trekkers.
A climber stands on snow-covered terrain near Stella Point on Mount Kilimanjaro, holding a cup and trekking pole while overlooking the crater rim.
A trekker pauses to take in the spectacular view near Stella Point, where Kilimanjaro’s crater rim opens up into a vast, icy alpine landscape.

Who or What Is Stella Point Named After?

Stella Point is named in honor of Estella Latham, one of the earliest recorded women to reach this altitude on Mount Kilimanjaro in 1925. Unlike earlier assumptions linking the name to Hans Meyer’s family, historical accounts now attribute it to Latham’s notable achievement during a time when few women attempted such climbs. Hans Meyer, the first documented European to reach the summit in 1889, did name several features on the mountain — such as Gilman’s Point — but Stella Point was named later, reflecting a shift toward recognizing climbers beyond colonial figures or sponsors.

Stella Point summit sign on Kilimanjaro at 5,756 meters, named after Estella Latham who reached this point in 1925.
Estella Latham became one of the first recorded women to reach Stella Point on Mount Kilimanjaro in 1925. The point was later named in her honor, marking a milestone in early female mountaineering history

What Happens at Stella Point Today?

Today, Stella Point is the first place where most climbers reach the rim of Kibo’s crater. When you arrive, you’ll see the iconic wooden sign, usually in the early morning cold, with views of the surrounding glaciers and crater floor.
While it’s not the final summit, reaching Stella Point is a major achievement, especially due to the steep, exhausting climb just before it — often done at night in freezing conditions.
Trekkers and guides hiking through snow near Stella Point on Mount Kilimanjaro during the final summit approach.
Trekkers and KILI QUESTS guides push through snow and fog near Stella Point, one of the final checkpoints before reaching Kilimanjaro’s summit at Uhuru Peak.

Stella Point vs. Uhuru Peak: What's the Difference?

  • Stella Point: 5,739 m (18,829 ft) — crater rim
  • Uhuru Peak: 5,895 m (19,341 ft) — true summit of Africa
  • Distance between the two: ~150 vertical meters, 45–60 min trek
Stella Point earns you a “Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate”, but if you want to stand at the true roof of Africa, you’ll need to continue to Uhuru Peak.

Did You Know?

  • Many climbers stop at Stella Point due to exhaustion or altitude effects, and still receive a partial summit certificate.
  • The sunrise views from Stella Point are breathtaking — some say even more magical than from Uhuru.
  • You’ll likely pass through Stella Point on the way up via  different route including Machame ,Lemosho, Shira ,Umbwe but if you climb via the Marangu Route. and Rongai route you will pass Gilman’s point first then stella point.
Historical photo of Estella Latham and Kingsley Latham during their 1925 Mount Kilimanjaro expedition.
Estella Latham (left) and Kingsley Latham (right) during their 1925 expedition on Mount Kilimanjaro. Estella became one of the first recorded women to reach 5,756 meters, and Stella Point was later named in her honor.

Final Thoughts

Stella Point is more than just a marker near the summit — it’s a landmark rooted in Kilimanjaro’s climbing history. Named in honor of Estella Latham, one of the first recorded women to reach this altitude in 1925, Stella Point represents both personal achievement and historical significance. Whether you pause here to witness the sunrise or continue your final push to Uhuru Peak, arriving at Stella Point is a powerful reminder of how far you’ve come — and how close you are to standing on the roof of Africa.

Plan Your Journey with Kili Quests

At Kili Quests, we guide you beyond just reaching the top — we help you connect with the history, meaning, and magic of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Whether you’re taking the Lemosho, Machame, or Umbwe Route, our experienced team ensures your journey to Stella Point and beyond is safe, supported, and unforgettable.

 

Contact us to start planning your Kilimanjaro trek »

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