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Guide to Climbing Kilimanjaro


It is important to choose a good operator to climb Kilimanjaro, even if it is possible to climb the mountain without a guide. There are many tour operators today that offer different packages. These packages can include airfare, hotel accommodations, travel, equipment and many others. If you want to compare packages, you can do an online search. Here you can compare the products included in their packages; you can compare prices and other benefits. You should choose the one that would benefit your most in your goal to climb Kilimanjaro.

If you are going to the summit you can choose from five different routes to it. Hiking is also open to children from ten years old. You need enough time for acclimatization to high altitudes. You should also remember that there are great temperature changes between the foot of the mountain and its summit. It can even reach below zero during the night time at the summit. Temperatures decline as you are nearing the summit. Temperature variations are important and you should consider choosing the time of the climb and in the choice of your guide.

Any time of the year is ideal for climbing Kilimanjaro, You should just avoid the rains because the path could become very slippery and can be dangerous. There are two rainy seasons in this area between late March and mid June and from October to late November. From June to October, the weather is good but the trails are crowded and the houses are often full. This is not the best time if you are seeking tranquility and escape. January to March is the only period for those who want to see the snow caps of Kilimanjaro.

There are three extinct volcanoes in Kilimanjaro. The highest and the most popular is the Uhuru Peak. There are two roads leading to this peak, the Cola Road and the Whisky Road. The other routes are less crowded but they are more challenging or more remote access from Tanzania. the Maramgu or Cola Road is the easiest and fastest and will bring you these in five days of climbing. It is also more convenient and comfortable because there are shelters to house climbers. All other routes have tents. The Whisky Road offers spectacular scenery and it takes a day more to reach the summit, giving your more time to acclimatize.

You should carefully prepare your things before climbing Kilimanjaro. Seek for information from your country what you need to bring for this climb. If you go with a tour operator they will provide services like airline booking, tent rental and guide you with your choice of trekking equipment. If this is your first time to climb MT Kilimanjaro, expect it to be one thrilling experience.

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