This is the highest mountain in Africa as well as the highest standing mountain in the world.
Hundreds of climbers climb to the snowy top of Mount Kilimanjaro every year and also book an African safari to make the experience even more magical.
If you are dreaming of conquering the roof of Africa and also want to see exotic wildlife in their natural habitat view our guide to Kilimanjaro and the best safaris you can do.
Getting There
Before embarking on a hiking expedition in Mount Kilimanjaro, most international visitors fly in to the Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) which is the closest airport to Kilimanjaro.
From there you will be transported by car if you are on a self drive back to the point of actual ‘climbing’ per-SE which also marks the beginning of the ‘safari’ experience in Africa.
Popular Routes
There are several different routes that can be taken to reach the top of Mount Kilimanjaro; all of them are challenging but all offer stunning views.
These are three most popular routes to choose:
1. Marengo Route
This is also known also as the ‘Coca-Cola Route’, and is the most convenient and least costly in terms of reaching the top of the mountain. While it is, however, the most crowded trail, its success rate is quite poor, primarily due to the steep incline of the climb. However, the Marengo Route offers wonderful view of the country side and is widely known among the lovers of the African safari.
2. Machame Route
As having received the reputation one of the most beautiful, the hike by the route of Machame route reveals wonderful view of different territories of the mountain. This particular route records high success rates because its gradient rises gradually unlike other steep routes; thus if ever you have plans for a slow moving over Africa then this route will entice you.
3. Lesotho Route
Similar to the Macramé route, Lesotho is interesting because one has a possibility of having magnificent views and experiencing slight success. This route is for the travelers who wish to take the same route but at a manageable pace and keen interest on the standard encounter of the African savannah.
Cost
Climbing tours of Kilimanjaro are generally between around $2000 and $2300 depending on the route and the operator.
You can book with local and international companies such as Alatza Travel provide very high end level of safari services together with qualified and experienced guides as well as extensive information about the places you visit.
If you are looking for an adventure and excited by hiking but within the realms of quality safety and comfort, we suggest that you climb Kilimanjaro with a highly rated tour company like Alatza Travel.
Today, they provide group tours for every 2-3 days where you will always be accompanied by professional guides and senior tour consultants to ensure your African holiday is fantastic.
Important Things to Know Before You Go
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is one of the most incredible and exciting Africa safari experiences ever. Adding aesthetic beauty, gorgeous sceneries, fabulous geographical features, and the sense of triumph, this kind of adventure is a good one for every real-life adventurer. But there are some essential things to consider before departing.
Below is a checklist of important things that you should know before starting your Kilimanjaro adventure.
• Acclimatization: It is also necessary to demoralize and facilitate your body accommodation at the altitude because high altitude reduces oxygen supply.
• Physical Conditioning: It is very important to be in very good health to respond to this kind of physical demand.
• Gear: Other items that should be carried for the hike are; shoes suited for the exercise, warm weather appropriate clothing and a first aid kit.
• Guides: Avoid contracting inexperienced tour guides because they do not have adequate knowledge of the mountain.
• Responsible Tourism: You should always respect the local people’s culture, try to conserve the environment, and uphold the values of the native people.
Top 5 Top Tips for Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro
These recommendations will be really useful and enhance your climbing experience.
1. Take a hot water bottle
Your waiter or cook will fill it with hot water. It's very cold at night, usually around -5 degrees.
2. Chat to your guides and porters
Ask them questions about themselves, their families, Tanzania, politics, history and tell them about your life too. It will make the climb even more interesting and they love to talk and have fantastic humour,
3. Lighting
Invest in a good quality head torch.
4. Buy rehydration tablets
Take rehydration tablets which can be dissolved in water bottles. It will make the water taste better and gave you essential salts and electrolyse. Keeping well hydrated helps you acclimatise.
5. Take enough USD to tip your climbing team
You'll want to tip as the local guides and porders are absolutely dedicated to doing their best to make sure you succeeded in summiting. You might not realise what a massive expedition it will be and the organisation and equipment that is required. You will not be able to thank them enough for all their help!
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Tanzania has some of the best national parks in Africa and it would be a shame to visit the country and not go on a safari.
During a hiking trip to Kilimanjaro you are likely to come across various types of the animals but going on a safari in the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park helps you to get up close. This can make your African holiday even more exciting.
Wildlife you may encounter can include:
• Monkeys: The other parts of the Mount Kilimanjaro is inhabited by two types of monkeys including the blue monkey and the coleus monkey.
• Birds: There are 188 avian species in Kilimanjaro region of which include eagles and hawks.
• Buffalo: These representations of nature are placed in the lower part of the mountain and explain to the our travelers what type of animals lives there.
• Large Mamals: Lions, giraffes and elephants.
If you have more time you might also want to visit the Serengeti National Park which is one of the top destinations to see in Tanzania.
Plan Your Tanzania Adventure
Are you looking to take on the momentous challenge of reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjiro? Don’t wait, plan your trip today and get excited for the ultimate African safari adventure.
