Background Information
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s greatest adventure challenges. Standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, it is the highest mountain on the African continent and the third highest mountain in the world. The mountain is located in a national park in northern Tanzania and it is technically accessible to anyone, with no prior mountaineering experience required. However, the trek to the summit is a challenging undertaking, often cited as a strenuous undertaking due to the steep gradients and rapidly changing temperatures.
Choosing the Right Route
A number of routes have been created leading to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro and each of these offers a different journey, with varying levels of difficulty. All of these routes take seven to eight days for an ascent up Kilimanjaro. The most commonly used trail is the Marangu Route, which is considered to be the Easiest Route and is classed as an uncomfortable, not difficult hike. It is often referred the “Coca-Cola” Route, due to the fact that there is a hut filled with a drinks on this route. This route has low success rate. However, some of the harder routes, such as the Umbwe Route, provide a much higher success rate and are preferred by experienced climbers who take on the Kilimanjaro challenge.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is the most common risk associated with Kilimanjaro climbing. This can affect anyone, regardless of physical fitness, and is caused by the body’s inability to adjust to the low levels of oxygen at high altitude (over 2,500 metres). Typically, symptoms of altitude sickness can include headaches, nausea and vomiting, lethargy and loss of appetite. The only way to avoid this is to acclimatise to the environment by ascending slowly, something which is encouraged by most Kilimanjaro guides.
Weather and Climate on the Mountain
The weather and climate conditions on Mount Kilimanjaro vary significantly during the trek from warm tropical temperatures below the 2,700 m mark to very cold temperatures of around zero degrees at the summit. Because of this rapid change in temperature, it is important for trekkers to be well equipped for the journey. Crucially, trekkers must wear high quality wet weather gear as the mountain is prone to heavy rainfall and dense cloud cover, especially during the wet season (April-May and October-November).
Equipment and Preparation
In order to make the journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro as safe and comfortable as possible, trekkers must ensure they are properly prepared and equipped with all the necessary supplies. Items such as thermal layers, water-resistant outer layers, hats and gloves, walking poles and good quality hiking boots are all essential. The minimum weight that should be carried by trekkers is around 12 kg, although some may choose to carry extra items such as a sleeping bag and extra snacks.
Physical Fitness
Trekking to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is not a task for the physically unfit and it is therefore important for anyone looking to take on the challenge to ensure that they are in good physical condition. Physically fit trekkers will be much better equipped for the rigours of hiking for seven to eight hours a day, at altitude, and will have a much better chance of completing the journey.
Expert Perspectives
Many mountaineering professionals agree that, while a difficult undertaking, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is accessible to anyone with a reasonable level of physical fitness, provided they allow enough time for acclimatisation, as well as good preparation and equipment. Lucas Jackson, a professional mountaineer and guide to Kilimanjaro, explains that “The biggest challenge with Kilimanjaro is the altitude. On the other hand, it’s also the magic that keeps drawing adventurers to the roof of Africa. Preparation, understanding and respect for the mountain should be taken into account while attempting the challenge.”
Analysis
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an incredibly challenging undertaking, but one that is ultimately achievable by most people with the right preparation and equipment. It is important, however, to understand the risks associated with the climb, such as altitude sickness and the rapidly changing weather conditions. By following the recommended routes and taking the necessary precautions, however, most people should be able to make it to the summit and experience the incredible sense of accomplishment that comes with it.
Accessibility
It is important to note that trekking Mount Kilimanjaro is physically challenging and certain aspects of the trail may be inaccessible to those with physical disabilities or mobility impairments. Moreover, certain sections may not be suitable for those who are blind or partially sighted, as well as those with hearing impairments. It is therefore important to research the route thoroughly and ensure that the trek is suitable for any impairment before embarking on the journey.
nutrition and Hydration
When undertaking such a physically demanding journey, it is important to prepare for the trek with the correct nutritional and hydration strategies. Trekkers should focus on consuming high quality proteins and carbohydrates, such as meat, eggs, nuts and grains. It is also important to drink plenty of water while trekking to keep hydrated. To make sure you are getting enough water, try to drink at least 3 litres a day.
Unexpected Delays
The journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is not a straightforward undertaking and there is always the possibility of unexpected delays due to inclement weather or technical difficulties. This is why it is important to always plan ahead and consider alternative routes and contingency plans in order to ensure a safe and successful journey.
Physical Challenges
The journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro will involve numerous physical challenges which require participants to be in good physical fitness and possess a certain level of determination and mental toughness. The trek will involve long days walking over steep and uneven terrain, so it is important to be prepared for this and make sure you have the necessary gear and supplies for the journey.
Safety and Support
When climbing Mt Kilimanjaro, safety and support should always come first. It is important to make sure that you have the necessary safety equipment, such as a first-aid kit and a GPS device, as well as the support of a guide and support team. Having a team of experienced climbers to keep an eye on you during the journey is one of the key factors responsible for successful summit attempts.
Acclimatisation
Acclimatisation is one of the most important elements when attempting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The higher you go up the mountain, the thinner the air becomes and the harder it is to get oxygen, so it is important to acclimatise slowly and take regular breaks in order to maximise chances of success. Taking regular breaks can allow the body to adjust to the changing conditions, helping to prevent altitude sickness and other issues.
