Mt Kilimanjaro Experience
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6. MT. KILIMANJARO TREK

Mt. Kilimanjaro or THE ROOF OF AFRICA

At 5895m high its not only the highest mountain in Africa and one if the world’s “Great 7” summits, it is also the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

This dormant volcano has drawn climbers from all over the world for more than 120 years. Aside from the striking natural beauty, the breathtaking vistas and sunsets and the distinct and often other-worldly ecological systems that are boasted by this snow-capped giant, Kilimanjaro's popularity also stems from the fact that it can be summited without technical gear or extreme fitness , and fairly cheaply. You will need willpower, a sense of humour, a healthy body and a little bit of luck. Aside from that, with Kilimanjaro-Experience at your side there is nothing to stop you from standing on the roof of Africa, a moment that you will never forget

Mt.Kilimanjaro

 At Wildgem Expeditions  safety and professionalism are our main concerns – we never compromise here.

Many of our guides have been on the mountain several hundred times; they know Kilimanjaro like the back of their hands and are fountains of knowledge about the mountain and anything it might throw at you. Along with the porters, they will go out of their way to ensure your comfort, good health and safety as you head up to Stella or Gilmans Point and then on to the summit at Uhuru Peak. Then, most importantly, they will make sure you are brought safely back down again.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a virtual climatic world tour, from the tropical rain forest on the lower slopes and alpine heath, to an almost bare alpine desert and finally the wintry Arctic summit of snow and ice, just 3 degrees south of the Equator.

The ascent of Kilimanjaro can be done from six routes: Mweka, Umbwe, Shira, Rongai, Machame, and the Marangu Route which is the easier one. Depending on which route one wants to take, the climb of Kilimanjaro can take between four to six nights on the mountain. The two most popular routes are Marangu and Machame. On the Marangu Route, accommodation is in alpine huts while on Machame Route it is camping throughout. While expert guides and porters will accompany you on your climb, no technical equipment is required on these routes.

MT KILIMANJARO ROUTE DESCRIPTION 
Mt.Kilimanjaro
MARANGU ROUTE

The Marangu or main route is by far the most popular way to the summit. The ascend is more gradual and no professional equipment is required. The accommodation on the way up and down is provided in mountain huts with all the basic necessities. There are 60 bunk beds each (for 60 people each) at Mandara Hut (2700m) and Kibo Hut (4700m), and 120 bunk beds (for 120 people) at Horombo Hut (3720m) which is also used for descent. Climbers are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags should be brought along. There are communal dining halls, washrooms and toilets.

It usually takes 5 days/4 nights for the round trip. The trek can also be taken in 6 days/5 nights to add acclimatization with an extra day at Horombo Hut.

MACHAME ROUTE

This is probably the most scenic route up Kilimanjaro. The accommodation on the way up and down is strictly camping (mobile tents) only. This trek is strenuous and may be better suited to more adventurous hikers. The Machame route is normally completed in a minimum of 6 days/5nights on the mountain.

RONGAI ROUTE

There is only one route over on the north eastern side of the mountain, Rongai, which is usually a five night climb. This lesser known track may not be quite as spectacular as the western routes, but it does usually have far lower traffic than the other five night routes. This route retains a sense of unspoilt wilderness and offers a different perspective on Kilimanjaro by approaching it from the north.It is generally considered to be the easiest of the quality routes on the mountain. Rongai is the best route for people who are looking for a decent quality experience and are perhaps not absolutely confident about their fitness.

Kilimanjaro

 UMBE ROUTE

The Umbwe route, which is based in the south, is a 6-day / 5-night tour and is said to be the most scenic and difficult one offered on Kilimanjaro. The first two days are extremely steep, muddy and generally strenuous making it only suitable for well-trained mountaineers. An acclimatization day is rarely offered on the standard programme, but can be added whereby giving the climber an extra day in the Karanga Valley. The descent trail is the same as the Mweka route.

LEMOSHO(SHIRA) GLADES ROUTE

The Lemosho Glades route is perhaps the least used initial ascent route on Kilimanjaro, partly because of its remote location and likewise the difficult roads leading to the trailhead. The road to the trailhead is only accessible by 4-wheel drive vehicles and can be impassable during wet periods. The trailhead is at relatively high elevation, and thus we start slowly and easily on this route. Buffalo and elephant sightings are possible on the first day trekking through the forest, and the trail is often overgrown from lack of use.

The route is the longest distance to trek up Kilimanjaro, so fitness certainly plays a role in the enjoyment and success of this trek. The Lemosho (Shira) route takes 7 days / 6 nights on the mountain. Overall, the distance covered and the intensity of the final few days make this trek a good choice only for the experienced hiker. The many changes of scenery and spectacular hike across the Shira Plateau make this trek truly special. There are no huts on this route, the accommodation is in mountain tents.


Mt.Kilimajaro


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