Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro lies on the border of Tanzania and Kenya, just south of the Equator. To the west lies the Great African Rift Valley, created by tremendous tectonic forces which also gave birth to a string of other volcanoes. One of these, Mount Kenya, was originally much higher than Kilimanjaro. The three summits of Mount Kilimanjaro, Shira, Kibo and Mawenzi are all of very recent origin. Shira and Mawenzi both have suffered considerable erosion and only jagged peaks remain. Kibo, the central, youngest, and highest peak has survived as an almost perfect cone.
Climate
The best time to climb the Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons, which are from mid-December to March, when the weather is generally dry and warm, and from June to early October, when it is dry and cool. Then one misses the two wet rainy seasons. Climbers should always be prepared for cold weather and sudden storms, as the upper reaches of the mountain are very cold, especially from June to August, which is the African winter. It is often very windy, which can make the temperature as low as -10 degrees Celsius.
Flora and Fauna
Kilimanjaro is a fantastic mountain and is rich of flora and fauna. Due to the many climatic zones on the mountain, there is a vast range of flora, making it of particular interest to botanists. One of the most spectacular plants is the giant groundsel with its tree-like stems holding large rosettes of leaves as high as 6 meters in the air.
Tanzania is most famous of its game reserves, so it is not surprising that its flanks are roamed by a diverse array of wildlife. Many climbers take the opportunity to go on a climb and nearby visitors go on a safari before or after the climb.
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| General |
Trekking Routes
Since 1991, independent Trekking is not allowed in Park Kilimanjaro and all treks must go through licensed tour operators. You are also obliged to hire a guide as well as at least one porter for the guide. Although you can carry your own gear, normal porters are used, about two to three porters per person. There are six main Trekking routes that begin on the lower slopes and most routes reach the North and South Circuit Paths that circle the base of the main Kibo dome. These are Marangu, Mweka, Umbwe, Machame, Shira, and Rongai. Beyond the Circuit Paths, only three routes continue to the summit and these are all on the southern side of Kibo. Therefore, the Trekking routes on the western and southern slopes are more used than the ones on the north side.
The Marangu route is the easiest and most popular route up the Kilimanjaro and is used by most Trekking companies. A trek on this route usually takes five days and four nights for the round trip. You can increase your chances of reaching the summit by spending an extra night on the ascent, ideally at Horombo Hut.
The Umbwe route is a steep route leading straight to Uhuru Peak. It is interesting and very enjoyable if you don't gain height too quickly. A tent on this route is essential as the huts are in very bad condition on this route. The route takes five days and four nights.
The Machame-Mweka route is the most scenic route on the mountain, passing through Kili's complete range of landscape and vegetation. The ascent is longer and more gradual than the two other routes. Trekkers must also use tents here. The trek takes six days and five nights.
Climbing Routes
The Heim Glacier
This was once a snowy route, but due to climate changes, this is now a taxing climb on steep, mixed ground until the upper glacier is reached. Difficulties are concentrated in the first 600m with vertical ice and loose rocks.
The Breach Wall Direct
This route climbs the giant icicle which links the Balletto and Diamond glaciers on the Breach Wall.
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| Targeted Activities |
Camping, Hiking, Mountaineering, Rock Climbing |
| Season Availability: |
December to February
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| Altitude: |
5895- meters |
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Canada West Mountain School
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Vancouver / British Columbia / Canada
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Starting Price: $100.00
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Established in 1982, Canada West Mountain School is one of the premier Mountaineering, Climbing and Avalanche Safety centers in Canada. Owned and operated by IFMGA Mountain Guide Brian Jones, Canada W...
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