Want To Climb A Mountain Without Actually Climbing? Head To Kilimanjaro

For most trekking/ travel enthusiasts, a luxury Kilimanjaro trek is probably right up there on their bucket list. The reason for this popularity is simple; climbing Kilimanjaro does not require any special mountaineering skills. You can simply walk up to the peak of this dormant volcano.

Standing at a height of 5895 meters above sea level, Mt. Kilimanjaro is the tallest peak in Africa and the 4th highest in the world. This makes it the highest peak you can climb without mountaineering experience or training. However, there are certain decisions to make before you can go on your luxury Kilimanjaro trek. These include:

1. Picking A Route

There are multiple routes that take you to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The most popular ones are called Marangu and Machame. These are the shortest. There are also other, longer routes like Rongai, Lemoso and Shira. The route you pick decides how long it will take to get to the top, and in turn the cost of your tour package.

2. Choosing A Date

The best time to go for a Kilimanjaro trip in Tanzania is during June to end of February, as these are the driest periods in the year. Avoid going in March as the weather will generally be rainy, making it difficult to trek and camp.

3. Choosing A Tour Operator

Mt. Kilimanjaro is a protected area under the Kilimanjaro national park and access is restricted. It is therefore mandatory that you have a guide with you while climbing Kilimanjaro.

Choosing a Kilimanjaro tour operator automatically provides you with the best Kilimanjaro guides, and many other facilities including a cook, porters, food, water and even camping equipment. Thus, you will not have to worry about the details.

While choosing an operator, check ratings for the quality of service. It is easy to lose track of this in an attempt to save money thanks to the wide variety of tour operators available at Kilimanjaro.

Additional Points To Remember To Climb Kilimanjaro

Though luxury Kilimanjaro treks are easy when compared to climbing other mountains, you will still need to be relatively fit to cope with the altitude. Previous trekking experience is recommended, though not mandatory. As such, only about 50% of the people who trek up Kilimanjaro make it to the top.

Additionally, certain vaccinations, like that for yellow fever, are recommended before going for the Kilimanjaro trek. It is also a good idea to be prepared with anti-malaria medication and any other emergency medicine you may need.

However, the most important thing you need to climb Kilimanjaro is a strong will; that along with all proper prep will definitely get you to the top.