Mount Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro Mountain is the highest in Africa with (5,895 m). Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, not like other Tanzanian National Parks, does not have visitor for the wildlife but for the chance to stand at the highest point in Africa with snow-capped mountain. Mountain Kilimanjaro can be hiked at any time of the year, abut the best time is from late June to October, during the country’s dry season.
Mount Kilimanjaro is a UNESCO Site, was formed over 1 million years ago by volcanic Plate movement along the Rift Valley. Three volcanic cones – Shira, Kibo, and Mawenzi mountains covered in glaciers – came to be about 750,000 years ago. The highest point is Uhuru Peak on Kibo mount, which is one of the Seven Summits of the world.
The mountain starts from farmlands on its base level to rainforest and alpine meadow and then barren lunar landscape at the peaks. The slopes of mountain are home to wildlife such as buffaloes, leopards, monkeys, giraffes etc. The alpine zone is where bird lovers will find an abundance of birds of prey.
In the year of 1973, the mountain and its six surrounding forest corridors were gazzeted as a protected Kilimanjaro National Park in order to protect its unique environment.
Mount Kilimanjaro Elevation / Mountain Kilimanjaro Height
Mount Kilimanjaro elevation is 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level and around 4,900 meters (16,100 feet) above its plateau base. It is Africa’s and the Eastern Hemisphere’s highest volcano.
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro? Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Northern Tanzania ( East Africa ) It is has the highests peak in Africa with 5895 Meters (19,340 )
Here are some Facts about Mountain Kilimanjaro
Rising majestically above the African plains, the 20,000-foot Mt. Kilimanjaro has beckoned to climbers since the first recorded summit in 1889. Here are 10 interesting facts to help inspire your own future summit.
1. Kilimanjaro is the highest free-standing peak in the world and the tallest mountain here on African continent.
2. Mawenzi, Shira, and Kibo are the three volcanic cones of Kilimanjaro. Mawenzi and Shira are no longer active volcanoes, although Kibo, the tallest point, is inactive and it could erupt again. A most recent activity occurred around 200 years ago, and the last significant eruption occurred 360,000 years ago.
3. Almost every climber who has reached the summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kibo’s crater rim, has written down his or her thoughts in a book kept in a wooden box at the top.
4. Valtee Daniel, an 87-year-old Frenchman, was the oldest person to ever summit Mt. Kilimanjaro.
5. The mountain contains almost every type of natural system: farmed land, tropical forests, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and an arctic summit.
6. Mt. Kilimanjaro’s fastest verified ascent happened in 2001, after Italian Bruno Brunod summited Uhuru Peak in five hours 38 minutes 40 seconds. The fastest roundtrip time was achieved in 2004, when local guide Simon Mtuy climbed and descended the mountain in 8:27.
7. The snow covers on the peak are dwindling, loosing more than 80% of its mass since 1912. According to scientists, they may be fully ice-free within the next 20 years.
8. Tanzania’s National Resources and Tourism Minister, Shamsa Mwangunga, said in 2008 that 4.8 million indigenous trees would be planted around the mountain’s base to assist prevent soil erosion and safeguard water supplies.
9. Bernard Goosen, a South African, conquered Mt. Kilimanjaro in a wheelchair twice. His first summit took nine days in 2003; his second, four years later, took only six. Goosen, who was born with cerebral palsy, climbed the mountain primarily on his own, using a modified wheelchair.
10. Every year, over 25,000 individuals attempt to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. Approximately two-thirds succeed. The most frequent reason climbers return is because of altitude difficulties.
Climbing Mountain Kilimanjaro - Mountain Kilimanjaro Summit.
Kibo is Mountain Kilimanjaro Summit and the tallest of the three volcanic structures. While Mawenzi and Shira are no longer active, Kibo is latent and could erupt again. Scientists believe the last eruption occurred 360,000 years ago. Uhuru, the Swahili word for “freedom,” is the highest point on Kibo’s crater rim. The mountain is also recognised for its snow-capped peak, but scientists warn that the snow may vanish over the next 20 years or so.
Despite the fact that it is a relatively easy trip up, going to the Summit of Africa is emotionally and physically hard and should not be underestimated, regardless of how many people climb Kilimanjaro each year. Altitude sickness can occur over 3,000 metres, sometimes with serious effects, and there is no way of knowing who will be affected. It can take up to a week of hard physical effort to reach the summit, and you should be prepared for climate extremes ranging from heavy rain and scorching heat to dazzling sunshine and cold temperatures – it could even snow!
Climbing Kilimanjaro seems to be a relatively simple task. To begin, you must hire a professional of a licensed guide. Many specialized operators employ experienced, experienced guides and porters. These companies will handle the arrangements; all you must do is show up. However, you must be adequately prepared – the proper clothing, boots, and a suitable sleeping bag are required – and, while it is a “everyman’s mountain,” you must be fairly active and healthy.
You’ll be part of a group, and summiting requires teamwork, so it’s critical you co – operate with your guides and adhere to their recommendations. Porters assist guides by lugging all heavy necessary items up and down the mountain and cooking all food – you’ll also carry a day pack and your personal stuff.
Cost of Climbing Mountain Kilimanjaro
The cost of climbing or hiking mountain Kilimanjaro depends on many factors. The kilimanjaro climbing cost can be anywhere from $1,400 (basic) and $7,000 (luxury package) and more. When you combine this knowledge with the reality that the region has 250 legal and hundreds of unauthorized operators, making the appropriate pick becomes a huge effort. In truth, several various aspects must be considered in order to comprehend how the cost of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is calculated. A Kilimanjaro climb can cost anywhere from $1,400 (basic) and $7,000 (luxury package) and more. When you combine this knowledge with the reality that the region has 250 legal and hundreds of unauthorised operators, making the appropriate pick becomes a huge effort. In truth, several various aspects must be considered in order to understand how the cost of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is calculated.
Cost of Climbing Kilimanjaro
The price of A given package can give you an idea of what your Kilimanjaro climbing journey would entail. However, making your final decision basing just on pricing would be a mistake. In truth, the expense of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro includes a number of unnoticed but critical costs.
Choosing the lowest option also not the best idea when it comes to personal safety and a lifetime climbing experience In general, it is hard to organise a safe and fun Kilimanjaro hike for less than $1,400.
On the other hand, one does not have to pay $7,000 or more for a VIP experience.
The following example is based on a Machame route 7-day “Classic” package for two or more climbers. This is by far the most popular option since it provides an acceptable (neither a budget bargain nor an expensive event with hundreds of porters) degree of comfort at a reasonable price.
Kilimanjaro National Park Fees
Every Mount Kilimanjaro climber is required to pay park fees, which include conservation, camping, rescue, and crew expenses. Special forest fees apply on the Lemosho and Rongai routes as well. It is yet another important component of the Mt Kilimanjaro trek expense.
Total park fees will range between US$800 and $1,100 depending on route and number of days (all calculations and prices henceforth are given in USD).
Prices of Climbing Mountain Kilimanjaro
What is the best Month to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
The best time to climb Mountain Kilimanjaro during December to March and June to October since these months fall in the warmest and driest times of year together with the wildebeest migration season
However, while these are the greatest months to climb the peak in terms of climate, these are also the busiest.
In July to end of August, the weather is usually colder but really drier than the June While it is possible to have rain throughout the year, the month of July and August will definitely give you the best trekking experience of Mount Kilimanjaro
You’ll be more comfortable and enjoyable trek since you will stay dry. Another thing is that climbing during these dry months is that the skies is often clear blue
The only challenge of climbing during these months is that the trails can become quickly busy, but some guests enjoy the chance to meet up with other trekkers at the campsites.
Mountain Kilimanjaro Hiking Prices and Packages
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7 Days Lumosho Route $2185 per person based on 2 pax
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8 Days Northern Route $2755 Per person based on 2 pax
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6 Days Marangu Route $1,827 per person based on 2 pax
Mount Kilimanjaro Routes
There are seven ways to climb the ‘s tallest free-standing volcano, each with its own set of pros and disadvantages. Choosing which route to take is entirely dependent on personal mountain experience, what you want to see and do all along way, acclimatisation factors, and cost.
Here’s a quick rundown of the seven routes:
Marangu Trail – Mount Kilimanjaro route
Distance: 70 kilometres / 5 to 6 days
Highly popular and the fact that coke was once offered in all of the cabins along the road, the Marangu Trail is also known as the “tourist route” or “Coca Cola Route.” This is one of the simplest paths up to the summit, with a steady, moderate climb until the final night, when the elevation dramatically increases.
The route has a poor success rate because the five-day ascent does not allow for enough acclimatisation. Furthermore, the Marangu Route attracts many unprepared and unskilled tourists, resulting in many individuals turning at before climbing Uhuru Peak.
The trail is also the only one on the range that follows the same trail up and down, so it will be busier than the other options. However, this is the only path that has dormitory-style huts, and picnicking is not permitted. If you can’t stand the notion of campsites for a week, this is the choice for you!
Machame Trail – Mount Kilimanjaro route
Distance: 61 kilometres / 6 to 7 days
This is more picturesque trail to Kilimanjaro’s summit. It’s also known as the “Whiskey Route,” because it’s more difficult in comparison to marangu Route. Despite being more challenging, the climb has a substantially greater rate of success Marangu route though
There are six and seven day itinerary alternatives, with the seven day route being recommended because it allows for just an additional day of acclimatisation. The path includes several difficult sections and also countless ups and downs, including climbing the Barranco Wall! The Machame Route, however, is definitely doable with the proper preparation.
The view along the journey is breathtaking, as you pass through four distinct climate zones and see landmarks like the Shira Plateau as well as the Lava Tower. This path is ideal for acclimatisation because it allows you to ascend high and sleep low. It is also the path we travel to reach Africa’s highest point!
Lumosho route – Mount Kilimanjaro route
Distance: 67 km / 7 – 8 days
The Lemosho Route starts from the mountain’s western flank, providing amazing views of Kilimanjaro’s steep valleys. The path begins in the remote forests before connecting the Machame Route.
This route may be done in 7 – 8 nights, with enough time for acclimatisation – and a high success rate! the only disadvantages of this alternative would be that, due to its distance and isolation, it usually to be more expensive.
Shira route – Mount Kilimanjaro route
Distance: 58 kilometres / 6 to 7 days
The Shira Route, like the Lemosho Route, starts on the western part of Mount Kilimanjaro, but on a higher elevation. Day 1 of this route includes using a 4×4 car or walking . Please note that since you,will begin the climb at an altitude of almost 3,500m, driving will shorten the time for your body to be used to high altitude
It is possible to do the Shira route in 6 – 7 days, depending on your trekking experience. The path is a little less crowded as compared to the Machame Route. But also bit more expensive
Rongai route – Mount Kilimanjaro route
Rongai Route – The Most Convenient Route
Distance: 74 kilometres / 6 to 7 days
The only path that begins on the Northern side of the mountain is the Rongai Route. Because this route is more dry than the other routes, it is favoured when hiking in the rainny seasons. Although the trail is not as spectacular than other routes, the camp below Mawenxi Summit is among the most beautiful on the mountain!
The hike begins with a steady, gentle ascent, and the campgrounds are well spaced out. The route is typically seven days lengthy, with such a good track record of climbing up to Uhuru Peak.
Umbwe route – Mount Kilimanjaro route
Distance: 48 kilometres / 5 to 7 days
Umbwe route is the most difficult route, with few opportunities for acclimatization, and should be tried only if you have previous mountain experience.
Umbwe is quite with less people Because of its steepness, this trail is rarely travelled, keeping it free and nearly untouched.
While the Umbwe is not difficult to some, it has some high climbs and demands hikers to climb across cliffs.
It is the most difficult and direct way up the mountain, with multiple uncovered sections that is not for weak of heart.
Hikers’ fitness and stamina may well be tested along the journey, and it is best suited for expert mountain trekkers seeking for a challenge.
Northern route – Mount Kilimanjaro
Distance: 88km / 8 – 9 Days
The Northern Route is definitely the longest trail on Mountain Kilimanjaro but also has the highest success rate according to the park records
Using this route will take you something like 8 to 9 days to summit the Uhuru peak it is actually also the best when it comes to acclimatization
Starting this trek on the northern route will start west of mountain Kilimanjaro and follows the Lemosho route for the first couple of days. The route then branches of north wards near Lava Tower and cuts across around the mountain to the summit.
Whatever path you select, be completely prepared before attempting Kilimanjaro. You should train thoroughly ahead, have all necessary equipment, and be accompanied by competent guides and porters. Climbing Kilimanjaro should not be undertaken carelessly; there might be numerous difficulties, primarily owing to the high altitude, especially Severe Altitude Sickness, which can be fatal.
Our Kilimanjaro journey take you mainly through the Machame Trail, this normally gives time for the very needed acclimatisation and to increase your chances of summit success.
Is Climbing Mountain Kilimanjaro worthy it?
The success rate percentage for reaching the top of mountain Kilimanjaro is approximately 65%. Did anyone realize who really has the lowest rate of success? The individuals we all believe would perform best. According to a handbook, it is young boys between the ages of 20 and 30. Whether you reach the summit or not, there are many valuable lessons to be learned from of the experience.
Is it hard to climb Mountain Kilimanjaro?
It depend since the trek does not require any specialist equipment and is not a technically difficult ascent. But don’t be misled: this is no stroll in the park. Tens of thousands of hikers set out on what should be the walk of a lifetime, however the potential risk of altitude sickness remains high, and not all reach the top. It is critical to adequately prepare in order to reach the top. For at least six to eight months before to your climb, prepare for severe gradients by carrying a weighted backpack.
How fit do you need to be to climb Mountain Kilimanjaro?
Climbing Kilimanjaro is considered tough hike, You’re encouraged to be in good physical condition and have expertise with multi-day trekking or walking preferably in high elevation before attempting the Mountain Kilimanjaro hike. Most days come with 4 – 7 hours of altitude walking, and the summit day is quite demanding, with most people walking for 14 – 18 hours. The affects of altitude can make the climb difficult for people considered fit
What to do to Prevent Altitude sickness when Hiking Mountain Kilimanjaro
Here are few things you can do to minimize the chances of getting altitude sickness on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Prior to the hike, acclimate. If you live at sea level, this is easier said than done, try to get a place to acclimatize before you face the Kilimanjaro, this is the greatest approach to avoid altitude sickness.
Take it eassy: No stress and try to rest well before you try the Kili hike. One is more likely to have altitude sickness if they are tired, sick, or stressed.
On the route and at camp, take it easy. You will hear your guides telling you pole pole meamning take it slow and they’re right! If you push yourself too hard, you will most likely suffer for it afterwards.
Drink plenty of water. Altitude dehydrates you, and the better you water, the faster your body can acclimate. (You should also abstain from all alcohol.)
Eat healthily.
This will provide you with the much needed plenty of energy and make you feel fantastic. It also helps me stay warm and sleep better at night.
Get enough rest. Getting used to Sleeping well in a tent need practicing. Try spending a few nights out in a tent and sleeping bag before your climb to get used to sleeping quite rough on hard surface
Relax.
Think positively and relax.
Although unpleasant, the great majority of people only feel a slight altitude sickness.
