Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

If you talk about mountain climbing, than the first thing that comes to a mind is the Himalayas. The Himalayas are the world’s mightiest mountain range consisting of Mount Everest and many other 8000 meter plus mountain peaks. It is the pride of Asia, but when we move across other continents, and find that every continent has its own mountain range and tallest mountains, that every professional mountaineer would want to climb upon.

There is also the famous Seven Summit challenge that requires a mountaineer to conquer the tallest mountains of all continents after which he is considered to be a real name in this extreme sport.

No if we leave behind all the other continents and talk about only Africa, than many things come in our mind like; the beautiful rain forests, world’s most unique and diverse animal habitat, the traditional people, African cultures, African Safaris and much more. Above all the most important thing that would run through a person’s mind, specially a mountaineers mind, is the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is no doubt the pride of Africa; it is one thing that has attracted many people from around the globe. Not just professional mountaineers, but tourist from all walks of life visit the place for hiking and other adventures.

This is because Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s most easiest summit, and one can easily walk all the way up to the top, without much professional training, however a little training and tutorial is required if you plan to climb Mount Kilimanjaro since the mountain peak is at great height above sea level.

Here I said the word ‘easy’ but this word is only for professional climbers as they are used to things much extremer than this. So amateurs will still find it uncomfortable to cope with the high altitudes and changing climate to complete the mega climb and go on top of Africa.

Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest peak standing at a height of 5,895 meters above sea level. Geographically speaking, Mount Kilimanjaro is actually an inactive volcano and this is the reason that it sits all alone isolated from any mountain range. But it is indeed Africa’s highest point.

Mount Kilimanjaro is situated in north-eastern Tanzania and it is surrounded by some lush green plains that can be seen far away to the horizon right from the top of Kilimanjaro peak. Mount Kilimanjaro has an ice cap right at the top of it that stays there all year round. However some experts believe that with time the ice at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro will melt down and only minor traces of ice will exist.

It has some unique vegetation like coffee plants which run on its slopes. The climate of Kilimanjaro drops down as one start to climb up the mountain also as the altitude rises, people might face breathing difficulty and other conditions. There is also snow fall at times, on the top which is really fascinating to experience.

Like I have mentioned above, Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the easiest summit in the world and one can go up walking. But as always knowledge about climatic conditions at the top, essential thing and of course proper trekking route, is always required. There are many trekking routes that lead all the way up to the top of Kilimanjaro.

It will be better if you go for the climb in a group with and experienced person. A good tour operator can find you the best routes so that you also don’t find much difficulty in camping during the ascent.

Before going for the climb you should give some time to yourself in exercising your body so that you have enough stamina and are fit enough to go for the ascent. You should take all the things necessary in you bag pack so that in case of emergency you don’t run short of anything.

Finally you should be aware of all the medical complications that may occur when going at high altitudes. The most common things that may happen are running short of breath and altitude sickness. Altitude sickness can even take life, if proper medical treatment is not provided in time. So consult a physician before the ascent.