Credner Glacier
The Credner Glacier is a significant remnant of the ice cap that once covered Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Located on the northwest slope, it is one of the largest glaciers on the mountain, descending from the Northern Ice Field. Its rapid retreat, driven by its exposed position, presents a concerning indicator of climate change.
Key Facts
- ›Situated on the northwest slope of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- ›A remnant of the historical ice cap of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- ›Descends from the Northern Ice Field.
- ›Experiencing rapid retreat due to its exposed location.
- ›One of the largest remaining glaciers on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Known For
- Rapid retreat
- Remnant of Kilimanjaro's historic ice cap
Northern Ice Field
About Credner Glacier
The Credner Glacier is a significant glacial feature situated on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It represents a crucial remnant of the once extensive ice cap that covered the peak. Located on the mountain's northwest slope, the Credner Glacier descends from the Northern Ice Field.
Current Status and Significance
This glacier is notable for being one of the largest remaining ice masses on Mount Kilimanjaro. However, it is currently experiencing a rapid rate of retreat. This phenomenon is attributed to its exposed position on the northwest slope, making it particularly vulnerable to warming temperatures. A report published in 2013 projected that the Credner Glacier might disappear within the next decade, underscoring its urgent status as an indicator of climate change impacts on high-altitude glaciers.
Location and Elevation
The Credner Glacier is found at a high elevation, situated between 5,500 and 5,800 meters (approximately 18,000 to 19,000 feet) above sea level. Its position at this altitude is characteristic of glaciers found on major mountains in equatorial regions.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Credner Glacier located?
The Credner Glacier is located on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is situated on the northwest slope of the peak.
What is the Credner Glacier a remnant of?
It is a remnant of the ice cap that once crowned the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
What is the elevation range of the Credner Glacier?
The glacier is situated at an elevation between 5,500 and 5,800 meters (18,000 to 19,000 feet).
Why is the Credner Glacier retreating rapidly?
The Credner Glacier is retreating rapidly due to its high exposure on the northwest slope of Mount Kilimanjaro.
What is the future outlook for the Credner Glacier?
A report from 2013 indicated that the glacier might cease to exist within another decade, highlighting its precarious state.
Related Glaciers

Barranco Glacier
Barranco Glacier is a diminishing ice remnant located on the southwest slope of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Once known as the Great Barranco Glacier, it is a small vestige of a much larger ice cap that previously covered the mountain's summit. Its current state reflects significant glacial retreat, with only two small, dormant ice bodies remaining.
Furtwängler Glacier
Furtwängler Glacier is a small, rapidly shrinking remnant of an ice cap that once covered the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Named after explorer Walter Furtwängler, it is primarily significant as a stark indicator of climate change, with projections suggesting its complete disappearance within the coming decades.
Rebmann Glacier
The Rebmann Glacier is an active glacier situated near the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It represents a small remaining portion of a once extensive ice cap that covered the mountain. This glacier is significant as it is one of the few remaining glaciers in Africa and is a key indicator of climate change, having experienced substantial retreat.