Travel Guide for Mount Kilimanjaro

The climb requires a minimum of five days, but the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro is amongst the world’s most iconic mountain peaks. An area of 760 square kilometers is covered by the famous Kilimanjaro National Park.

The park was opened in 1977 in order to protect the mountain above the 2,700-meter contour and also includes the two very important peaks. These peaks are Mawenzi (5,149 meters) and Kibo (5,895 meters). Below there is a buffer zone between the forest reserve and the 1,800-meter contour.

Dr. Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller were the first to reach the summit by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in 1889. Now more than twenty thousand people a year try to climb Africa’s highest mountain peak.

As the numbers keep on increasing, some environmental impact has been made on the park’s trails as so many people take the same route. However, to counteract the erosion efforts are being made. There are also other two routes that are referred to as the Marangu and Mweka routes and these have been recently upgraded.

Tour Operators

Going for a climb to Kilimanjaro should be arranged through a tour operator. That way it will be made a lot easier. To climb the mountain you should go in January, February or September. Some people also go in July and August but it’s colder.

Cost may vary as it depends on a lot of factors. It is important to note that most people think that it’s expensive to go with a reputable tour operator, as low price usually means poor equipment. However, Kilimanjaro tours operators will offer competitive pricing with no compromise in quality.

Climbing costs

Climbing the Kilimanjaro mountain is not going to be cheap. National park fees used to conserve the environment, a hut/camping fee per night, add a daily entrance fee per person, and even a rescue fee per climb. These will add up to make a hefty amount. Also let us not forget the cost of food, transport, relating to porters and guides. You must have the required budget per person if you do not want any problems when you go to make the climb.

As mentioned previously, climbing Kilimanjaro costs can depend on a lot of factors. Climbing costs will be attributable to the route taken, the number of people in the party and the number of days spent on the mountain.

Camping could prove to be more expensive than having to stay in huts as you will need to carry more equipment. In addition to the cost of the climb itself, you may want to keep a budget for tipping the porters and guides. You can talk more about this with the tour operator that you choose before you depart.

Prepare for altitude

It is considered an easy trek to the roof of Africa by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and this attracts a lot of people. Especially those who have little experience of climbing and who are not very well-prepared. However, Mount Kilimanjaro should not be underestimated as it has claimed several lives.

Even though walking or trekking on the easy routes may not be very dangerous, people should also take into account the effects of altitude such as headaches and nausea. It doesn’t matter how fit you are, reaching the summit can not be guaranteed. However, you could increase your chances by spending a few days preferably walking at altitude so that you can get ready, before the climb.

Similar Stories