Mount Kilimanjaro is without a doubt a formidable formation. It stands at an impressive height of 5,895 m (19,341 ft). The highest peak on the continent, Mount Kilimanjaro is known as the rooftop of Africa. Kilimanjaro is the world’s highest freestanding mountain.
The dormant volcanic mountain is located in the northern part of Tanzania, 325 km away from the equator. It has three volcanic cones: Kibo (5,895m), Mawenzi (5,149m) and Shira (3,963m). The Mawenzi and Shira peaks are extinct but the Kibo could erupt again. The last eruption, however, was hundreds of thousands of years ago.
For its majestic beauty Mount Kilimanjaro is regarded as one of the 7 wonders of the Africa. It boasts scenic, snowy summits but to reach the top requires focus and determination. Every year 15,000 people aspire to hike Mount Kilimanjaro.
Mount Kilimanjaro made an appearance on Conde’ Nast Traveller’s list of the world’s best hiking trails. Hikers heading for the mountain summit have trekking options. There are the Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai and Umbwe trails.
Machame Route
This is the most scenic route though more difficult to walk. It has 5 climatic zones. The route is very popular but only offers fully catered camping.
Marangu Route
This is the easiest trail. It is the shortest and cheapest but not very scenic because its ascent and descent follow the same path. While hiking the Marangu accommodation is available in dormitory huts.
Lemosho / Shira Route
This route has a higher success rate because it offers acclimatization. It is remote with stunning views of Kilimanjaro. The route converges with the Machame route and only offers fully catered camping.
Rongai Route
If you’re looking for a scenic experience forget the Rongai, which is the least scenic of all the routes. It is the easiest walk and does offer more wilderness. Fully catered camping.
Umbwe Route
The Umbwe is short and steep with a lower success rate due to a rapid climb and little opportunity for acclimatization. It is a quiet route and offers only fully catered camping.
The travel time up to the summit and back down varies between 5 – 9 days. There are porters and guides to assist climbers and accommodation stops are offered on all routes with different facilities depending on the route taken.
The hike up Mount Kilimanjaro is often underestimated for its difficulty. It might not be as difficult as the Himalayas but it is challenging for its low temperatures, high elevation and high winds. It is advised to research the Mountain before attempting a climb. Climbers should expect to experience uncomfortable symptoms such as shortness of breath, hypothermia and headaches. Porters often die from hypothermia. Mount Kilimanjaro is not an easy walk.
Few tips for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro:
* While climbing Mount Kilimanjaro do it slowly and carefully to increase your chances of reaching the summit.
* Take a minimum of five nights to climb the mountain; this will help you in keeping altitude sickness at bay.
* Climbers who reach Uhuru Point or Gillman’s Point are often rewarded with climbing certificates.
* Tip your porters at the last meal on the mountain or near end of the trip.
