At an amazing 19,341 feet above sea level, Africa’s only free-standing volcano is a rich and diverse ecosystem ranging from rainforest to ice and snow. This region is home to many species of flora and fauna, and is unlike anywhere else in the African plains.
The climb can be both exhilarating and challenging, depending on the route you take. Generally, it is not for the faint of heart. Therefore, being prepared is the best way to make sure you have a successful ascent up this impressive geological wonder.
Things to Do Before You Arrive
Long before your plane lands in Africa and you start your journey, make sure you have all the required vaccinations and visas. As a Canadian, you will only need a visa for entry into Tanzania if you are planning on staying for more than 90 consecutive days, or are planning multiple trips.
Due to the diverse range of insects that call Tanzania and its volcanoes home, as well as limited health care availability, you will be required to get the following vaccines prior to travel:
- Yellow fever. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is only needed if you are coming from somewhere where yellow fever is endemic.
- Hepatitis A and a combined tetanus shot
- Diphtheria
- Inactivated polio vaccine (Td/IPV)
Consult a medical professional about what is required and how long before the trip you need these vaccines so that you can plan accordingly. It is also worth taking out travel health insurance as medical assistance abroad is limited and can be costly.
Research Your Route
There are a variety of routes you can take in order to challenge yourself or to climb at an easier pace.
Make sure to choose the route that is best suited to your ability, and if necessary, do a little extra training to maintain your fitness levels prior to arriving. Your Mount Kilimanjaro climbing tour operator can give you more details about each route and help you determine the best one for you.
Marangu Route
If you are looking for a less strenuous path that can take you through different worlds, from lush, rich rainforests to temperate moorlands and, finally, to the icy wonder of the summit, then this is your route.
Machame Route
If adventure and beauty are what you are after, then this is the route for you. You will be able to trek through the rainforests to the desert plateaus and the awe-inspiring Barranco Wall. This strenuous route will challenge you in settings that you have only ever dreamed of.
Lemosho Route: The Shira Plateau Trail
With this path, you will experience serenity and beauty all in one trek. Fewer people take this route, so you can enjoy the views without fighting to see them through the crowds. Starting on the west side of the volcano, you can acclimatize slowly as you ascend to the summit at a gradual pace.
Rongai Route: The Northern Circuit Trail
This route offers an exciting opportunity to see the northern side of the volcano. It is a sight that is less seen and yet just as stunning and breathtaking, offering a different perspective.
Londorossi Route
If the hiking challenge itself is not as important to you as viewing the wildlife and vegetation, then this route offers a tranquil and beautiful setting as you make your climb.
Umbwe Route
This is the ultimate adrenaline rush for the expert climber who is here for the thrill and challenge. This path offers everything you require in an exhilarating climb that can take your breath away.
Breathing Techniques
The higher up the volcano you go, the thinner the air becomes. This means that your body will breathe in less oxygen, which can lead to medical issues if you are unprepared.
Practicing breathing techniques designed for thinner atmospheres before you travel will help your body when it comes time for your climb. You should also purchase small oxygen tanks that are portable to a) train with at home when doing core and endurance training and b) bring with you on the trek.
While your tour operator should have access to oxygen supplies on the journey, it is advisable to have your own in case of dire emergencies.
Hydration
Making sure you have enough water with you on the climb is essential to remaining healthy during the ascent into thinner air.
There are many reasons to remain hydrated, but in thinner atmospheric conditions, it can be the difference between a good, safe climb and requiring medical assistance. Thinner air means that there is less moisture in the air, and with colder conditions, your body will require this additional hydration to remain healthy.
You should also practice drinking water considerably more prior to the trip, roughly about 4–8 litres a day.
Apparel
As there are many different environments your hike will take you through, making sure you pack the right clothing will be necessary.
Many of the routes will start off hot and either wet or arid, but all will end up cold—and that is just during the day. Nighttime can see temperatures plummet, and that’s on ground level. The temperatures can drop to dangerously low levels the higher up the volcano you go.
You should wear the appropriate hats, socks, pants, and shirts for the climb. However, nothing will be more critical in this journey than your boots. The right climbing boots will offer support, comfort, and warmth, and carry you successfully to the summit. If you wear the wrong boots, your journey will end sooner than you would like.
Don’t Rush the Climb
The majority of climbing tours will take no less than 8 days, and some will take longer than 10. All the tours are designed to make sure you can face the challenges head-on, but safely while taking in the sights, sounds, and experiences.
The trips are also designed so you can gradually adapt to the change in atmosphere. Going slowly doesn’t mean you are not up to the challenge; it’s more about having a successful and enjoyable climb.
The Zara Tanzania Adventures Experience
No one is more knowledgeable and experienced about this region than those who call Tanzania their home. The people who live along the base of Mount Kilimanjaro and climb it daily will offer a tour experience that will blow your mind.
Packing the right equipment for your trip (including the right boots, portable oxygen, and water bottles) and preparing physically before you leave your home country will all serve to make your experience the best possible.
With Zara Tanzania Adventures, you will get the complete dream package. Call us at 1-866-550-1098 or go online to find out more about our unique Mount Kilimanjaro climbing tours, and begin your next challenge today!
