Africa’s biggest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro is a top destination for the trekking and climbing fans all around the world. It was conquered for the first time in 1889, by the German Hans Meyer and since then hundreds of people managed to ascend to the summit.

Mount Kilimanjaro is an inactive volcano in north-eastern Tanzania, measuring 5,895 meters (19,340 feet). It covers an area of 388,500 ha and the highest point of the mountain is situated in the southern part of the crater. The origin of its name is unknown, but the early European explorers think that it means “white mountain” or “shining mountain” in the ancient language of Swahili.

You can choose from several routes if you’d like to get on the top: Marangu, Rongai, Lemosho, Shira, Umbwe and Machame. Rongai and Marangu are the easiest ones, therefore if you’re a beginner you should consider them. Machame is the most scenic, but it takes 7 days to get on the top. Keep in mind that you have to choose an authorized tour operator before doing this, since you are not allowed to go up by yourself. Also, book in advance and don’t forget that January-March and September-October are considered “high season” for climbing Kilimanjaro.

Also, train intensively before trekking on Kilimanjaro. Take up some hills and mountains and get used to temperature variations. Also, get travel and medical insurance before getting on Kilimanjaro. Take extra batteries and protection bags for your digital camera, since the electronic equipment tends to malfunction at low temperatures.

Once you get there, climb slowly. Drink at least 4 liters of water a day. Get high altitude walks, then go down and sleep. Make sure the tour operators you contracted have a medical kit and never take medication for high altitude sickness without talking to a doctor. Once you pass 2,400 meters, expect to suffer some form of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Expect to pay about $2,400 for this whole experience. But also expect to enjoy the greatest sunrise or sunset once you reach the summit.

Image credit: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

Popularity: 1% [?]