The debate whether the famous Mount Everest or Mount Kilimanjaro is taller isn’t a new one and has been discussed for many years. Both of these mountains are located in two different parts of the world and offer different experiences for hiking and mountaineers. Mount Everest is part of the Himalayan range in Asia, while Mount Kilimanjaro is in Africa. In terms of height, it is Mount Everest that is slightly taller than Kilimanjaro, but both are impressive in their own right and make for stunning scenery.
Officially, Mount Everest stands at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) above sea level. Mount Kilimanjaro stands slightly shorter at 5,895 meters above sea level (19,341 feet). However, Kilimanjaro is also the highest mountain in Africa and the fourth highest in the world. With this slightly lesser height, Kilimanjaro is still a very impressive mountain.
The relative heights of these two mountains has been studied and discussed multiple times by geologists and scientists. Experienced mountaineers, too, can attest to the differences between the two. The scale of Mount Everest makes a trip to the summit a difficult and dangerous one, which is why many climbers choose to undertake the challenge of Kilimanjaro instead. The lower height also makes it easier to reach the summit and admire the stunning views.
In addition to the physical height differences between the two mountains, both provide hikers and mountaineers with a very different experience. Mount Everest is located on the border of China and Nepal and has become a popular destination for experienced climbers looking to challenge themselves. There are multiple companies that lead tours to the summit, though the trek is months long and requires a tremendous amount of preparation and training. On the other hand, Mount Kilimanjaro provides a much gentler environment. While still requiring some physical preparation, it is no where near as arduous as the Everest trek, and can be completed in a few days or a week.
The debate of which is taller, Mount Everest or Mount Kilimanjaro is one that is likely to continue for many years to come. Regardless of which mountain is actually the tallest, both provide spectacular views and offer an amazing experience for the intrepid climber. While both mountains are taller than any other peak in their respective regions, the debate is still an interesting one and the height difference is worth noting.
Challenges of Reaching Everest Base Camp
The challenge of reaching and conquering the base camp of Mount Everest is considered to be a great achievement. With the altitude being around a staggering 5,364 meters, reaching this point is no small feat. The physical and mental challenge of doing so is considered to be one of the biggest tests in the world. Although it requires a great deal of physical strength and endurance, it is also a test of mental focus, determination and courage.
These are all qualities that one must have to successfully reach the base camp and prepare for the climb up the rest of the peak. Many who have successfully reached the base camp have reported feeling a sense of accomplishment and humiliation due to the extreme toughness of the journey. Over the years, there have been multiple deaths and injuries reported due to altitude sickness. It is because of this that preparation and knowledge of the mountain and the environment are essential before attempting the challenge.
Although reaching Everest Base Camp can be quite a feat, the real challenge lies in scaling the summit. Reaching Everest Base Camp can take up to 18 days and, depending on the route taken, might require the required trekkers to cross terrain such as rivers and glacial moraines. Some tours also provide the opportunity to even spend time at the many lodges which have been constructed around the base camp. Despite the arduous task of reaching the base camp of Mount Everest, those who have the right preparation and goal set in mind can feel immense pride in achieving such a great feat.
Acclimatization and Disease
When planning a trip to climb the peak of Mount Everest, it is essential to take into account the risk of dangerous altitude exposure conditions such as high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high altitude cerebral edema (HACE). These conditions, both of which require medical attention, can be fatal and are caused by the reduced oxygen levels found on higher altitudes. It is important for climbers to be aware of these conditions and to be prepared for them beforehand.
In order for climbers to be able to cope with the low oxygen levels, they must undergo an acclimatization process. This process involves spending extended periods of time at lower altitudes and allowing the body to adapt to the environment before attempting to ascend higher altitudes. During this time it is very important to keep an eye on symptons such as headaches and nausea and to give the body enough rest and recuperation time.
Detailed planning and the right gear are crucial when it comes to climbing a mountain such as Mount Everest. Each team must have the right food, water and equipment to be able to survive the trek. In addition, it is essential that each climber has extensive medical and first aid knowledge of altitude sickness and how to prevent it from occurring. Such knowledge can reduce the risks of injuries or even death during such an arduous process.
Physical Preparation for Climbing
As previously stated, preparing for a climb such as Mount Everest requires not only mental determination, but physical preparation. To undertake such a difficult and dangerous challenge, individuals must ensure that both their body and mind are well prepared. This can be done through a consistent and disciplined training regimen, which can include a variety of exercises such as running, swimming, and weight training.
Increasing core strength is another way to increase physical preparation for undertaking a mountain climb such as Everest. This includes exercises that help build muscle strength in the lower back and abdominals. Additionally, endurance and strength exercises can help build up stamina, strengthen muscles and make it easier to manage fatigue. On top of this, practicing climbing techniques on smaller rock faces can help build up an understanding of steps, movements, and technique involved during mountain climbing.
It is also important to build up physical endurance before partaking in a climb. This can involve engaging in aerobic activities such as running for prolonged periods of time, as well as engaging in other activities such as yoga or Pilates. Such activities help improve balance, physical stability, and core strength which are all essential attributes for climbing mountains.
Difference in Temperatures and Altitude
Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 19,341 feet, is much lower than Mount Everest at its peak 29,029 feet. Therefore, the temperatures around these mountains will be quite different. On Kilimanjaro, the average temperature ranges from 60-90 degrees Fahrenheit (15 – 32 Celsius). On Everest however, temperatures can soar to -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 Celsius) in the winter and reach close to zero degrees Fahrenheit (-17 Celsius) during the day in the summer months.
With its significantly lower altitude, Kilimanjaro has much lower air pressure than Everest. This makes it far easier to breathe when on the mountain and therefore reduces the risk of altitude sickness. At higher altitudes, the air pressure is much lower and as such, breathing is much more difficult. This can make ascending the peak of Everest considerably more difficult than Kilimanjaro but also much more rewarding.
With its more extreme conditions, adventurers who take on the challenge of Everest must be properly equipped for the climb to ensure their safety. Specialized and insulated clothing, oxygen tanks and other equipment is necessary for a successful summit attempt. Climbers must also become very familiar with the mountaineering equipment and the proper usage of it in order to be prepared for the extreme cold and lack of oxygen.
Necessity of Proper Guiding and Training
Reaching the peak of Mount Everest and coming back alive requires proper guiding and training.
While experienced mountaineers can probably survive on their own, the most successful ascents and safest descents rely heavily on the inputs of experienced guides and the presence of other support personnel. Not only do the guides provide important information about the local culture and conditions, but their expertise and mountaineering knowledge can help keep adventurers safe.
Reaching the peak of Everest is a challenging task and the climbers should be well equipped with the appropriate skills to ensure the most successful and safe attempt. A good guide can help climbers set effective goals, such as pacing and maintaining adequate rest, as well as providing valuable instruction on dealing with the extreme weather and terrain.
Therefore, it is best to work with experienced guides and companies that have the right resources and know-how necessary for a successful expedition. The Mountaineering Exploration Company, for example, employs experienced, professional mountain guides and support staff to help provide a safe and enjoyable experience on Kilimanjaro.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the debate over which mountain is taller, Mount Everest or Mount Kilimanjaro, is an interesting one, both mountains offer an amazing experience for the intrepid climber. Reaching either of the peaks, whether as a group or an individual, will require a great deal of physical and mental preparation, as well as awareness of the effects of altitude and extreme weather conditions. The presence of experienced guides and support personnel can aid in both safety and the overall experience.
