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1. When is the best time to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro?
Even though one can climb throughout the year, January, February and September are the best months, with June, July, August, October and December also being good.
2. Does climbing the Kilimanjaro involve technicalities?
Not at all. Any person in good physical condition can climb and reach the summit. You should be able to run for half an hour or more without feeling short of breath. No one with a sore throat, cold or breathing problems should go above 3000 meters. People with heart or lung problems should not attempt the mountain at all without consulting their doctors. Being in the right mental state is important. Do not push yourself to go if your body is exhausted, or if you have extreme mountain sickness or more serious symptoms.
3. Can children climb Kilimanjaro?
The minimum age limit set by the National Park Authorities for trekking to Uhuru Peak is 12 years old.
4. What is the weather like on Mt.Kilimanjaro?
Equatorial to arctic conditions are present on the Kilimanjaro. The range begins with the warm, dry plains with average temperatures of 30c, ascends through a wide belt of wet tropical forest, through zones with generally decreasing temperatures and rainfall, to the summit where there is permanent ice and below freezing temperatures. The temperature at the top of the mountain get as Low as minus 25 degrees Celsius
5. How long does it take to reach the submit?
Climbing through the Marangu route, one can reach the summit in 5 or 6 days, including a day and a half of descending. On the Machame, Lemosho, and other routes it is normal for one to reach the summit in 6 or 7 days including a day and a half of descending
6. What kind of climbing gear do I need?
You need to have the following stuff for your climbing:
Boots, thermal underwear, warm clothes- top and pants, water/Windproof Pants and shell, socks (at least 6pairs- to be changed at least once on the way up), winter hat/balaclava (cover head and ears), water bottle, gators (for wind and mud), gloves (water/wind proof), neck warmer or scarf, sunglasses, flash lights, and batteries, walking stick, sleeping tent (for all other routes other than Marangu), sleeping bag and rain wear. Please be advised that we do provide sleeping tent and mattresses on our climbs.
7. How do I cope with change of altitude?
As you ascend the oxygen in the air decreases. Low oxygen in the blood causes shortness of breath during exertion, increased ventilation and heart-beats. You can acclimatize/adapt to the altitude by ascending slowly and pacing yourself, avoiding exertion and breathing regularly and deeply.
8. Are rescue facilities available?
Yes. Only Marangu route has reliable, equipped rescue team. Rescue services on other routes, is done by contacting the Park Headquarters who will then quickly send the rescue team. The mountain rescue fees covers rescue service from the top to the base of the mountain. We recommend flying doctor service membership (a $50 value) to cover from the base of the mountain to your hospital.
9. What kind of accommodation is available during climbing?
Only Marangu route offers accommodation in a dormitory style huts- having beds and mattresses. All other routes offer accommodation in tents. There is a very limited number of climbers on Marangu route allowed, making a necessity for a well in advance booking.
10. How is cooking done on the mountain?
Meals are prepared on portable kerosene and gas stoves by skilled cooks. Our low-impact policy prohibits us to use firewood on the mountain.
11. What about drinking water?
It is recommended that climbers drink about 4 -5 liters of fluid each day. Water is best, but fruit juices are a good supplement. Carry your own water bottle at all times, as dehydration is a real problem on the mountain. The air is very dry above 4000 meters so avoid panting and dry to breath through your nose. Control sweating by wearing removable clothing and pacing yourself. Sip fluids frequently. Monitor your urine; output should be at least 1.5 liters per day and the urine should be clear.
12. Can we buy drinking water/soda on the Kilimanjaro?
Yes, drinking water and soda can be bought on the mountain in Marangu route. It is much more expensive however than in Moshi town. However, there will be enough water for you up the mountain, and our stuff will boil, filter and refill your bottles.
13. What shots should I get?
For medical advice it is always best to consult your doctor. Please contact Tanzania embassy in your country for any updated info on minimum requirement to get into Tanzania/ Kenya if any.
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