Mountain Climbing

MT KILIMANJARO CLIMB

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain on earth. Mount Kilimanjaro is crowned with snow-cap, this mountain is found inside the Kilimanjaro National Park of Tanzania.

An ascent of Mawenzi requires rock climbing and/or snow/ice climbing skills. The climb to Uhuru Peak is considered to be a relatively straightforward endeavour; however, ample time must still be provided for proper acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness. The three shortest routes, Marangu, Rongai and Machame can be climbed by a person of good health and limited mountaineering experience. Many who climb employ altitude-sickness medication and find this to be helpful in preventing the pounding headaches that plague many travellers. Those who travel on the Marangu route usually take four to five days to complete their climb. Huts with cooking facilities, bathrooms, and electricity are available at the end of each day’s journey.

The final part of the climb, from Kibo hut at 15,500 ft (4,720 m) to the summit, is generally undertaken at night, because the screen is frozen together, making the climb significantly easier. Gilman’s Point, on the rim of the crater but about a 1½ hour hike from Uhuru, is attained at 5:00 – 6:00 am; those who have the strength to continue may then hike on to Uhuru in the growing sunlight and rising temperatures. Another route is the Western Breach, which is much more technical in nature. Annually, approximately 15,000 people attempt to climb the mountain, of whom 40% reach the summit.

MT MERU CLIMB

At 4566 meters (14,979 feet), Mt Meru is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania. It is a volcanic cone, with a break in the wall that creates a huge horseshoe. A climb to the top takes you through some beautiful areas of grassland and the thick forest in the beginning, followed by an impressive and exciting walk along the narrow rim of the crater horsseshoe. Although Meru seems small when compared to Kilimanjaro, the climb is as serious. Altitude can still be a problem so, if you are not properly acclimatized, don’t rush up. The climb is steep but not very strenuous. It can be done comfortably in four days (three nights).