Mount Kilimanjaro trek is regarded as one of the most renowned adventures in the globe. At 5,895 meters (19,341 ft), the Kilimanjaro mountain is the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain on the earth. It is also referred to as the Roof of Africa, and it is an opportunity in a lifetime as a trekker is allowed to pass through rainforests and arctic-like glaciers in just a few days. In contrast to numerous other high-altitude climbs, Kilimanjaro does not demand any technical knowledge of mountaineering and, can thus, be done by beginners with proper preparation and condition. This accessibility, beauty and difficulty is the reason why thousands of trekkers worldwide strive to climb it every year.
It is not merely a climb it is a journey through five distinct ecological zones, the Mount Kilimanjaro trek. You start your journey by walking in heavy rain forests with monkeys and other exotic birds then move to heater and moorlands of the country and as you go near the peak you will have alpine deserts and glaciers. There is hardly a hike in the world that provides such a fast shift in the views and weather conditions.
Kilimanjaro is also non-technical, which is another reason why it is a favorite among the adventurers. Although it is difficult to walk in the high altitude, the task does not require any rock climbing or use of a rope. Even the first-time trekkers have the chance of being with the mountain to the summit called Uhuru Peak with the correct acclimatization and with the help of the good guides. It is really something one can not forget standing above the clouds and observing the sunrise on the African continent.
The Kilimanjaro mountain has many routes to the summit, some of which are more difficult, some simpler, and some provide better views and chances of acclimatization:
Marangu Route- It is the most direct route and is commonly referred to as the Coca-Cola Route. Trekkers do not sleep in tents, but huts which makes it more comfortable. The reason why it has a lower success rate is however because it has a rapid rise.
Machame Route -It is a scenic route that contains a variety of landscapes although it necessitates camping. It gives an opportunity to be better acclimatized compared to Marangu.
Lemosho Route- It is regarded as the most beautiful and least congested route which provides a good acclimatization. It usually takes 7–8 days.
Rongai Route- This route is not as busy and also has special views since it is approached by the north. It is not so overcrowded and yet average difficult.
Northern Circuit - The most long way, which is the most acclimatizing and successful, and it takes more days to climb the mountain.
Selection of the correct path relies on your fitness, time at hand and the purpose of trekking.
The Mount Kilimanjaro trek can be done all the year round, but the most desirable seasons are:
Jan-March: Rainless weather, average temperatures and less number of trekkers in the trail.
June to October - This is the most desirable season and the weather is dry and clear. However, it can get crowded.
April-May and November- Rainy seasons that have slippery paths and less visibility. Well only to advanced trekkers who need privacy.
The weather drastically influences the success and pleasure of the trek and it is therefore important to plan about the appropriate season.
Despite its lack of technicality, the Mount Kilimanjaro trek poses grave difficulties. The most significant one is altitude sickness. Since trekkers tend to ascend to heights as high as almost 6,000 to almost 1,800 meters in a short time span, it is essential to allow time to adapt to the environment. The usual symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue and overworking is hazardous. The longer the route that has slow ascents, the higher the chances of success.
The others are cold temperatures at the top at night, physical exhaustion after long days of trekking and endurance of mind which is necessary to persevere through the difficult situations. The summit day is the most challenging day because the trekkers would be walking overnight a distance of 6-8 hours to make it to the Uhuru peak to enjoy the sunrise.
The mountain climbers can climb the Mount Kilimanjaro all the year round but the best seasons to do it are:
Preparation is important to finish the trek up Mount Kilimanjaro. Trekker ought to pay attention to developing endurance by exercising with cardio exercises such as running, hiking, or riding. Endurance in case of prolonged uphill rides is enhanced because of strength training, and preparation when carrying a backpack so that you would carry gear at high altitudes. It is also essential to prepare mentally, being positive and determined can help a lot on summit day.
Another important component of preparation is packing. Among essentials, there are clothing in different layers with regard to seasons, durable trekking shoes, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and high-energy snacks. Professional guides and porters recruited means safety as well as offering you the best experience during the trekking process.
Mount Kilimanjaro trek is not merely a climb it is a life changing event which challenges your stamina but places a breathtaking scenery and memories of an aficionado experience. Through expert advice, risk-free travel plans, and personalized services, Trek The Himalayas is making sure that not only is your trip to the top of Africa successful, it is also life changing. Regardless of which route you take Machame, Lemosho, or any other, every single step on the mountain of the mountain will lead you nearer to the summit of a dream.
1: Mount Kilimanjaro trek: How hard is it?
It is a difficult walk but needs no technical climbing experience, as well as mostly because of height. Most fit trekkers are able to succeed with preparation and acclimatization.
2: What is the number of days it takes to climb Kilimanjaro?
It may take 5 to 9 days dependent on the route. The longer paths provide more probability of acclimatization and the success of the summit.
3: Do you require some previous trekking knowledge?
Not necessarily. The trek is successful to many beginners with good physical fitness and preparation being very important.
4: What is the success rate of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?
The success rates of the shorter routes (such as Marangu, about 5060% success) are lower, whilst the success rates of the longer routes (such as Lemosho or Northern Circuit, at 8590 success) are higher.