LIFE CHANGING KILIMANJARO
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Climbing mountains isn't just about improving your physical fitness, you also might find that all the problems in your life dissolve when you are around them or that life just slows down a bit. after spending time surrounded by them or climbing them you will feel the urge to come back. One of the easier mountains to climb, is the tallest peak in Africa, but is still not for the faint hearted, Kilimanjaro. Here's how to get ready for it.
Photo by Joel Peel
Climbing is best done during the dry season
Kilimanjaro is technically climbable throughout the year, but the two Tanzanian wet seasons, March through May and November to early December, are slippery and stormy. As a consequence, most climbers choose to attempt the summit in January and February or June and October. Arrive at one of the yearly changes between wet and dry, or vice versa, for a combination of good conditions and less crowds—but be aware that you are gambling with the weather.
Choose your path with diligence
There are seven official summit climbing routes, but most people choose one of three. The Marangu Route is the shortest, cheapest, and most pleasant, taking five to six days. The Machame Route climbs the peak's southern flank in six to seven days and is arduous. The Lemosho Route is a picturesque climb up the mountain's long western crest that takes six to nine days. The trip becomes more expensive as the number of days spent on the mountain increases. Unless you are very sure in your ability to function at altitude, however, it is best to play it safe and schedule one of the longer excursions to allow yourself time to acclimate. Climbers who attempt a five-day ascent have a success rate of fewer than half.
Photo by Kristoffer Darj
Bring your mediCations
Mosquitoes abound in the lowland jungle, the altitude can make you dizzy, and the new microorganisms can devastate your immune system. Bring insect repellent and antimalarial medication with you. To combat the effects of the altitude, take Dramamine and ibuprofen. In case of traveler's diarrhoea, keep Pepto-Bismol on hand. Also, carry a tube of high-SPF sunscreen, as well as any specific medications or toiletries you may require; these items may not be readily available in rural Tanzania.
There is no wifi and no electricity
On the mountain, there is no access to the internet. Cell service is sketchy at best. Each day, there may be only one or two opportunities to call, text, or email. However, you should not rely on it. The signal's power can be affected by cloudy weather. Ask the guides when and where you might be able to get a signal if you want to use your phone. Alternatively, keep an eye out for when the local crews are on their phones.
Kilimanjaro, too, is devoid of electricity. There are no charging stations for camera batteries or smart phones, so prepare ahead. Make sure you have enough camera batteries to get you through the entire hike. For recharging phones, a portable external battery pack is ideal. Solar chargers, in our experience, are unreliable and often do not perform well.
It is going to be costly
Kilimanjaro climbing is not cheap. Despite the fact that Tanzania is a developing country, the fees charged to tourists visiting national parks are rather hefty. In fact, park fees account for the majority of the costs borne by Kilimanjaro tour operators. The park permits, extra fees, and government taxes total more than $120 per person per night at this time. When you notice high fees for Kilimanjaro hikes, keep in mind that these are a function of costs over which the operator has little influence.
Second, every Kilimanjaro expedition requires a significant amount of labour. A crew of more than 60 people is required for a group climb of 15 people, for example. As a result, labour costs account for a significant share of total expenses.
The Natural Beauty of its Surroundings
The geography, natural diversity, and wildlife of Africa are utterly unique and the perfect setting for this incredible hike.
In Tanzania, you’ll have the chance to see bushbuck and red duiker, impressive cape buffaloes, blue monkeys, and leopards can be found throughout the forest. If you’re lucky, you’ll be gifted with the sight of elephants lining the rivers.
As you climb the mountain, be sure to gaze at the grasslands and lush forests before you disappear into the clouds.
IS IT WORTH IT?
Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is absolutely worth it. Of course, there are risks to conquering this peak, but these are easily overcome by knowing what to expect and taking the necessary precautions to ensure it is a safe experience. With the proper preparations, your odds of reaching the peak and earning that life-altering view improve significantly.
Reaching the peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro is unlike any experience most human beings have in their lives. The sheer height of this mountain puts you right in the clouds, and the panoramic views are purely spectacular.
Be sure to bring your camera because you’ll be proud about this accomplishment and want to memory everything for the rest of your life.