Mount Kilimanjaro is an extinct volcano, and truly rises straight up from the African plain; a stunning sight to behold!
KILIMANJARO SUMMARY FACTS
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania, a country in East Africa. The mountain Size is 1668 sq km /641 sq miles and it is one of the seven summits (the highest peaks on each of the seven continents) Mt Kilimanjaro rises 5,895 meters or 19,340 feet above sea level. It is a dormant volcano. Its last eruption was 200 – 300 years ago. It is composed of three cones – Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. The highest point is on the Kibo cone, and is named Uhuru , which means freedom in Swahili.
How to get to Mt Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro is a major tourist attraction for experienced and beginning climbers. To get to the mountain, the most convenient way is to fly into Tanzania (Kilimanjaro International Airport) , and then travel to Arusha or Moshi, Kilimanjaro’s gateway towns, by vehicle. Both cities are approximately 40 minutes away from the airport and taxi services are readily available.
Best time of the year to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
The best times for climbing Kilimanjaro are the driest months of the year, especially Jan, Feb and Aug, Sep. But any time between Jan—mid March and June—October offers reasonable chances of an unforgettable trip. The most important issue is safety, being able to enjoy the hike and have a great experience. We don’t recommend trekking when it's the rainy season as The effects of rain, mud, snow, ice and cold can be very strenuous on the body. Correspondingly, your chances of a successful summit also increases significantly with nice weather. Of course, the mountain gets more foot traffic during these periods as well.
How do I prepare for climbing Kilimanjaro
Mt Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and does not require any technical climbing! All you need is to walk slowly but steadily. For the summit to be reached, your body must sufficiently acclimatize itself. It is important to be physically, emotionally and spiritually prepared for your Kilimanjaro trek. Another important part of the preparation is having the proper clothing before you depart to Tanzania.
Physical preparation:
It is very important that your body is properly prepared for the physical challenge of the Kilimanjaro. The better prepared you are, the better you plan to conquer the highest point of Africa. Good preparation will make a significant contribution to your confidence and mental strength.
Mental preparation:
Mt Kilimanjaro is an amazing experience and anyone is able to reach its summit(Uhuru peak). Think about this when you prepare yourself for the expedition. You will not be alone, our guides will make you feel welcome and will be there with you all the way. Always think positively and you WILL enjoy the climb!
How fit should I have to be?
The type of condition is more important than the degree of fitness. Kilimanjaro is a walk and the interesting part of it is you take your time, no rush , so the best preparation you can have is to walk, preferably under simulated conditions. Although to some extent it helps to go running/jogging, your muscles are still not preparing for seven days of quiet but heavy walking. I suggest that you will regularly walk long distances. Ignore the elevator and take the stairs or even take your dog for a walk,
Go walk, for example, in addition to regular fitness to let your muscles develop more. And try to opt for regular walks with altitude, so you can practice walking up and down at different incline levels.
If you can walk 80 kilometers (50 miles) in one week, you have done the Kilimanjaro Machame Route. Train your body for extra resistance for your muscles, because on the mountain the inclination varies.
In a period of eight weeks, using the gym and the many hikes, you can become fit enough for Mt Kilimanjaro climb.