Climbing Mountain Kilimanjaro – Africa’s Roof
Are you planning to climb Mountain Kilimanjaro, but still Wondering on where to start or how to do it? Well worry no more. We offer you the latest guide to help you summit this towering mountain. The Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain on the African continent and several hikers have traveled from all parts of the continent to summit this mountain. A mountain climbing adventure on mountain Kilimanjaro requires prior preparation so in this article we bring you some of the best guidelines that will help you organize a successful safari.
Where is Mt. Kilimanjaro and how high is it?
Mountain Kilimanjaro is found within the Eastern part of the Africa continent in a country called Tanzania. it covers a size of 1668 square kilometers (641 square miles) and it is the highest mountain on the African continent rising to a height of 5,895 meters (19,340 ft) above sea level. This mountain is a dormant volcano that last erupted 200 to 300 years back. it has three (3) cones which include: Shira, Kibo and the Mawenzi. The highest point on this mountain is called Uhuru which in the local Swahili language means ‘Freedom’ and it’s found on the Kibo cone.
How to get to Mountain Kilimanjaro?
Mt. Kilimanjaro is a primary tourist attraction especially for climbers both beginners and the experienced. The mountain can be accessed either by flying to Kilimanjaro International Airport. or by connecting by road to either Arusha town or Moshi town the gateways to the mountain which are about forty (40) minutes away.
Best time to Climb Mountain Kilimanjaro
The best time to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro is during the dry months which run from January, February to Mid-March as well as from June, August to September and chances of you making it to the summit are higher. Avoid the rainy months as the trails are muddy, he layers of snow are thicker and it is very slow which makes the entire adventure very strenuous.
Mountain Kilimanjaro Routes to follow and the number of days they take
Mountain Kilimanjaro has six (6) established routes and these vary in length/duration as well as level of difficulty. All the routes except the Marunga route require camping. For accommodation along the Marangu route it is offered only in huts. Normally it takes five (5) days to summit this mountain however we recommend that you take six (6) or seven (7) days for better acclimatization. However longer treks can be organized depending on your interest and budget.
How to prepare for a Kilimanjaro Mountain Climb
Although this is the highest mountain on the African continent, it does not require special technique skills to summit it. The most important thing to do is to prepare mentally, physically and emotionally for this challenge, as well as have enough time for acclimatization. also you will be required to have the appropriate equipment to do this activity.
How to prepare Physically
Before taking on the Kilimanjaro, it’s very vital that your body is well prepared for the physical challenge. Proper physical preparation will give you mental strength as well as confidence. The best thing to do as you prepare for this adventure is to walk often especially in setting with similar condition. You can also go jogging however the most important thing is to avoid rush. Take each step in an unrushed manner and if possible do the walking or jogging in a place with higher altitude.
Mental preparation
The best mental preparation you can have is to think positively and be confident that you will certainly make it to the summit.
Medical / Health check-up
Even before starting your physical preparation program, it is highly recommended that you visit your doctor and inform him of the adventure you are planning to take. The will be able to analyze your vital organs and it should only be after his approval that you should go ahead and book this adventure. Don’t forget you will be hiking in high altitude so you can risk having any of your organs like the heart failing.
What is the importance of Acclimatize while climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro?
Acclimatization involves a person adjusting to the change in environment. Remember as you ascend the Kilimanjaro, you move to higher altitude which means the air is thing and oxygen levels dropping which automatically means that your body has to adjust to this changes so as to remain working well. failure of your body to do this adjustment is definitely not good and this will automatic lead to difficulty in breathing as well as some challenges with heart functionality.