Reaching The Top of Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and an iconic landmark. At 5,892 meters, it is the highest mountain in the continent and one of the world’s greatest tourist attractions. Ascending Mount Kilimanjaro is an adventure of a lifetime that requires physical strength and resilience and many people are determined to add this feat to their bucket list. To start the journey, a successful Kilimanjaro Climbing trip starts with one question: where to fly to climb the mountain?
The answer depends on where you are located in the world. If you’re in North America, you’ll need to fly to either Amsterdam or Frankfurt. Once you’ve arrived in Europe, the most common route is to fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport. It is located about 56 km from Moshi, the base for most climbing expeditions. From Kilimanjaro International Airport, you can take a local bus or taxi to Moshi.
Many people traveling from Europe also choose to fly to Nairobi and take a connecting flight to Kilimanjaro International. However, many experts do not recommend this approach due to the number of connections required and the risk of missed flights.
For travelers coming from Australia, the most popular route is to fly to Johannesburg, South Africa, and then take a connecting flight to Kilimanjaro International airport. This flight route can be more expensive than originating in Europe but it is worth considering.
Hiring A Reliable Guide
In addition to gathering the necessary supplies and preparing yourself physically, it is also important to consider hiring an experienced local mountain guide. Your guide is your best resource for navigation, navigation advice and survival. They can also provide practical advice on which mountain route to take based on your skills and goals.
While hiring a reliable guide may mean an additional cost to your trip, it will enable you to have a safe and enjoyable experience. When researching and interviewing guides, look for guides that have prior experience leading climbs on Kilimanjaro. Do not take any chances – it is important to hire reputable guides that have the experience and resources to guide you to the top.
Creating A Climbing Schedule
Most climbers use a 6-day or an 8-day schedule to acclimatize to the altitude and increase their chances of success. Once you’ve found the right route and hired an experienced guide, it is important to create a detailed and realistic timeline for your climb. This should include factors such as rest days, where to camp, and how long each day will take to complete.
When making plans, remember that you need to account for the effects of altitude on your body and the weather. Additionally, it may be a good idea to give yourself an extra day or two in case the weather turns bad or you feel the effects of altitude sickness.
Choosing The Right Gear
When preparing for your climb, make sure you have the proper gear. This includes high-quality layers and waterproof outerwear, headlamps, trekking poles, hiking boots and more. Additionally, make sure to bring enough food and water for the entire expedition.
It is best to consult with other experienced climbers before purchasing any equipment and also doing research online. Good quality gear is worth the investment as it can make all the difference when climbing the mountain.
Safety Protocols
Ensuring your safety while ascending Kilimanjaro should be your top priority. Make sure to follow all safety protocols recommended by your guide. This includes taking frequent breaks to acclimate to the altitude, wearing a helmet if you’re traversing over loose rock, and drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
When you reach high altitudes, it can be difficult to move and breathe. Make sure to monitor your body and take it slow while ascending. If you start to experience symptoms of altitude sickness, do not hesitate to inform your guide and make a plan to descend the mountain immediately.
Conclusion
If you are planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, there are many important factors that you need to consider. It is essential to find the right route and plan an itinerary, pick the right supplies and pack right clothing, interview and hire an experienced guide, and put safety protocols in place. With the right preparation and research, you can make your dream of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro come true.
