Roof of Africa - Mt. Kilimanjaro
- Manas Saha
- Oct 25, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 24, 2024
Kilimanjaro needs no introduction!
Mount Kilimanjaro, often referred to as "The Roof of Africa," is the highest mountain on the African continent. It is located in Tanzania, in East Africa, near the border with Kenya.
Brief Information about Kilimanjaro :
Geography and Location:
Mount Kilimanjaro is a free-standing volcanic mountain and is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania.
It is situated at the coordinates 3.07°S latitude and 37.35°E longitude.
Height and Elevation:
The summit of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak, stands at an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. This makes it the highest mountain in Africa.
Volcanic Origins:
Kilimanjaro is a strato volcano formed from several eruptions over the past one million years.
The mountain has three main volcanic cones: Kibo (the highest and dormant), Mawenzi (dormant), and Shira (extinct).
Climate Zones:
Kilimanjaro is known for its unique and diverse climate zones. As climbers ascend the mountain, they pass through several distinct ecological zones, from tropical rainforest at the base to an arctic summit.
The zones include the rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and the summit zone.
Flora and Fauna:
The lower slopes of Kilimanjaro are covered in lush rainforests, home to various plant and animal species.
As climbers move higher up the mountain, the vegetation becomes more sparse. The alpine desert zone, near the summit, is characterized by rocky terrain and little vegetation.
Climbing Kilimanjaro:
Kilimanjaro is a popular destination for trekkers and climbers from around the world. It's considered a non-technical climb, meaning it doesn't require advanced mountaineering skills.
There are several routes to reach the summit, with the Marangu and Machame routes being among the most popular.
Challenges and Preparations:
Climbers need to be prepared for high-altitude conditions and temperature variations. Acclimatization is crucial to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
Permits are required to climb Kilimanjaro, and it's advised to hire a licensed guide and support staff for safety and logistics.
Cultural Significance:
The Chagga people, who live in the Kilimanjaro region, have a deep cultural and spiritual connection to the mountain.
Kilimanjaro and its surrounding areas have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their cultural and natural significance.
Conservation:
The Kilimanjaro National Park and the Tanzanian government have made efforts to protect the environment and wildlife on the mountain. This includes regulations to prevent littering and environmental damage.
Tourism and Economy:
Tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, with many visitors coming to Tanzania to climb the mountain.
The town of Moshi is a common starting point for climbers and serves as a hub for tourism related to Kilimanjaro.
Kilimanjaro is an iconic symbol of Africa and attracts climbers and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. It offers a unique and challenging adventure with stunning views and diverse ecosystems. However, due to its high altitude, climbers should take safety precautions and be physically prepared for the journey.
The story behind this Journey with friends
"Story of Two Sticks "
This all started with friends from Munich and the USA, and we decided together to spend our reunion holiday in Africa with some adventure involved. That is when I had an idea to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, which is a perfect mountain for everyone and is doable by foot with bare minimum fitness, followed by a visit to the Hotsprings and a Wildlife Safari in Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater National Park.
The entire planning and organization process took a year for us, followed by numerous workshops and awareness sessions on high altitude by Mr. Satyarup Siddhanta, a Guinness Book of World Record Holder. It was very fortunate for us as a group to have Satyarup as a mentor on high-altitude mountains organized by his company Winners and Achievers.
Speaking of representation by country, we had friends from Germany, USA, Colombia, Finland, Russia, Greece, and India.
One year of planning flew by quickly for us, and we booked our tickets. I was traveling along with Satyarup and Dipanjan from Calcutta International Airport.
Our entire program was well-equipped with logistics, followed by 8 days of hiking, 1 day for recovery in the Hotsprings, and 3 days in Serengeti and Ngorongoro National Park. As I was the overall organizer for this tour, I decided, along with Satyarup, to arrive two days before our tour to avoid any last-minute trouble with lost luggage and renting our gear.
Kilimanjaro Moments with friends
How does each day look for us :
Day 1
As per our itinerary, this starts our first day reaching Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA/JRO) Airport in Tanzania and transfer back to the Hotel.
We had booked Panama Garden Resort which is located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro which is a Three Stars elegant Resort, an ideal place for unique moments of relaxation. The surroundings are those of gardens with local flowers and trees and outdoor pool with a pool bar, BBQ Corner, Outdoor Garden area Catering setup rest area, children playground, free WiFi all over, fully stocked curio shop, and also free parking.
However, entire members had reached one day earlier. So technically it became a leisure day for all of us to explore Moshi Town and explore nearby cafes and restaurants.
Everyone of us took their own sweet time to spend afternoon together on Lunch at Union Cafe. More details can be found in this link.
After our lunch, we came back to our Hotel and socialized with refreshing Traditional Kilimanjaro Beer and some local cuisines before our expedition.
Day 2
Our goal for today is to reach Machame Hut. We started from the hotel and arrived at the gate for our official processes (permit issuance, bag scan, and porters allocation) to kickstart our hike along with our packed lunch. The entire trail is a cross-cultivation land and evergreen forest.
We all are pretty excited to climb Kilimanjaro !!
Members at the Main Gate
Background: Machame Camp Hut is one of the campsites along the Machame Route, one of the popular trekking routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The Machame Route is known for its scenic beauty and is often chosen by trekkers for its varied landscapes and higher success rates in reaching the summit. Machame Camp Hut is situated on the Machame Route, located on the southern slope of Mount Kilimanjaro. It serves as one of the stopping points along the route as trekkers ascend the mountain.
In a nutshell, we have to hike for 10 kilometers, starting at an elevation of 1790 meters and reaching 2835 meters.
Everyone was super happy and in good health and high spirits. The evening at the campsite was spent socializing, enjoying snacks, sharing laughter, and sleeping under the sky filled with brilliant stars. One should not miss capturing the mesmerizing Milky Way.
Day 3
Our goal for today is to reach Shira Camp, which is situated at 3845 meters, followed by a steep ascent, and that is where we feel the altitude. This time, we enter the Moorland Zone from the heather zone.
Background: Shira Camp is one of the campsites along the Machame Route, one of the popular trekking routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It's a significant stop on the route as trekkers make their way to the summit, offering trekkers a chance to acclimatize and enjoy the unique high-altitude landscapes of Kilimanjaro. It's important to plan your trek with a reputable outfitter and follow their guidance to ensure a safe and successful climb.
Shira Camp is the place where one cannot miss the landscape and sunset of course!
Day 4
Our goal for today is to perform a type of rotation where the concept of 'Hike high and sleep low' is applied to our human body, which helps in acclimatization. At the end of the day, we will stay at Baranco Camp at 3960 meters, following a hike to Lava Tower at 4630 meters.
However, we experienced unforeseen changes in the weather forecast and ended up getting wet due to mild rain throughout the trail with strong winds.
Background: Baranco Camp is another essential campsite on the Machame Route, one of the popular trekking routes for ascending Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is strategically located as trekkers make their way towards the summit. Baranco Camp is a memorable stop, providing trekkers with stunning scenery and an opportunity to acclimatize to the higher elevations. Proper preparation
and choosing a reputable outfit is essential for a safe and enjoyable trek on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 5
Our goal for today is to reach Karanga Camp after crossing the 240-meter Barranco wall, which involves some scrambling and steep terrain.
It was totally unexpected when we did not anticipate the volume of the crowd and the scrambling section. The Barranco wall is one section where one should not underestimate the sheer strength required. In the end, it was all fun climbing. As a group, we supported each other, pushing ourselves and extending our helping hands to find the proper trail from time to time.
Background: Karanga Camp is another important campsite on the Machame Route, one of the popular trekking routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Itʹs strategically located as trekkers progress towards the summit. Karanga Camp is a critical stop on the Machame Route, offering trekkers an opportunity to further adapt to the altitude while enjoying the unique beauty of Kilimanjaroʹs high‑altitude landscapes. Choosing a reputable outfi er and being adequately prepared are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 6
By now, we were pretty close to our goal and target is to reach Kosovo camp via Barafu camp which is situated at 4800m.
Background: Kosovo Camp is a special, high campsite on the arctic zone of Mount Kilimanjaro that is often used as a resting point on your way to the summit. It can also be used as an overnight camp but would need special permits to stay here, just like the crater Camp at Kibo. The nearest camps to Kosovo Camp include Karanga Camp and Barafu Camp which is usually used as the last accommodation point when you are about to summit Uhuru Peak.
Day 7
Finally, our judgment day arrived, and we all started our summit push at 5 AM in the morning. Everyone has completed their two rounds of acclimatization.
But that's not the end of the story. Even though you can see the glacier from the starting point, we're talking about a steep ascent!
Background: Uhuru Peak is the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and is also the highest free‑standing mountain summit in the world. It is the ultimate goal for climbers who embark on the challenging journey to conquer Africa's tallest mountain. The Roof of Africa Uhuru Peak is often referred to as the ʺRoof of Africa" and is a coveted destination for climbers from around the world. It offers a sense of accomplishment and awe‑inspiring views that make the challenging journey worthwhile.
Day 8
After our successful summit, we have now begun the descent to Mweka Camp, just before our exit from the National Park the next day.
Day 9
Our goal for today is to exit from the National Park with our tired legs, following a long descent, and collect our Summit Certificate from the National Park officials.
Background: Mweka Gate is one of the main exit points for trekkers descending from Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is an essential part of the overall trekking experience for those who have successfully reached the summit or completed their chosen route, it marks the end of the Kilimanjaro trekking adventure and is a significant milestone for trekkers. Itʹs where climbers transition from the high-altitude challenges of the mountain to the lush surroundings of the lower slopes, providing a sense of accomplishment and closure to the journey.
Downloadable GPX file
That's a wrap from our Trekking tour and reunion at Roof of Africa - Kilimanjaro !!
Let's have a look at some basic Frequently Asked Questions :
When is the best time to visit Kilimanjaro?
January , February , July , August and September
Can this hiking be done Solo without a Guide?
No , you need to hire a guide as per Tanzanian park officials
How to choose a reliable tour operator for this tour?
There are many if you google it, however, we have collaborated with Winners and Achievers
How to reach Kilimanjaro Airport?
Easy , just book your flights from your home country
Are there weight limits to be carried by porter?
Yes , varies anywhere between 10-15 kilos.
What kind of rescue and evacuation process is involved in the event of an emergency?
Porters and guides mostly handle it, they carry you by hand and feet using a wheel cart. Still, a Heli evacuation option is available ( paid service and insurance covered )
How difficult is the Kilimanjaro Trekking?
Difficult , suitable only for Experienced Hikers
What to pack for your trek?
Mostly everything , concept of three to 4 layer of clothing involved and rest you can have a look for more information in Google
Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
You may a look at https://visa.immgigration.go.tz. It is recommended to have a e-visa prior to your departure
Do I need to have any kind of vaccination before entering Tanzania?
I took the Yellow Fever vaccination even though it is not mandatory. However, it is best to check with your Doctor for medical consultation
Is there any chance to lost my luggage at Kilimanjaro Airport?
Yes absolutely, you need to keep one day in a buffer prior to the start of your tour. Most airlines will deliver to your doorstep in case there is a delay
Is there any option to explore when you are in Moshi?
Based on my personal experience , visiting City Center or Town in Moshi is the only option during daylight as most of the shops will be closed by 19:00 PM.
Is there any Cab facility at the Airport to travel back to Town?
Yes , it is .
How to book a Cab when you are in Moshi?
Best bet is to get the contact details from your Hotel .
How is the overall internet connectivity on the Kilimanjaro trail?
Unfortunately, this is not the good news. You won't have a proper telecommunication network across the National park areas. Better to rely on Satellite Devices if you have one with a valid subscription and are allowed in your home country to carry, e.g. - Garmin Inreach Mini 2.
Do I need to take Mountain Insurance for Kilimanjaro Trekking? Isn't this covered by Travel insurance?
Mountain and Travel insurance are totally different things. Better to book insurance from a reliable provider who supports Heli Rescue evacuation in the event of an emergency and covers peak meters 6000 meters and above. Generally, these insurance are expensive but most of the providers do offer yearly and monthly subscription plans, e.g. Global Rescue, UHC Safetrip, etc...
What is the common language spoken?
Swahili and English are the primary languages spoken mostly around in Moshi Town
Are there any Medical facilities available near Moshi Town?
Yes, there are several facilities to cater to residents and travelers. It is essential to keep the travel insurance handy for all the needs
Is there any ATM or Bank available nearby in Moshi Town or nearby?
Yes, you will find many of them. But for currency exchange, you need to showcase your passport
Is it Safe to carry a Passport every time with you?
It is highly recommended to place it safely in locker if you are staying at Hotel. I did the same as well during my Trek
How much Cash is allowed to carry in Kilimanjaro?
During the entry, your guide will inform you and take your consent for carrying not more than 100 USD
Can I carry USD and EUROs and are acceptable in all shops?
Yes, both the currency is acceptable. Cards do work in most of the super market and local shops but do keep enough cash with you to purchase souvenirs and for your miscellaneous expenses like Tea and Coffee on the way.
How much do I expect to spend only for Trek?
Depends on your chosen operator based on your preferences.
Do I need to bargain for souvenirs?
Ofcourse, you should do that by default. Tagged prices are super expensive but it is recommended to be wise enough to spend based on your needs
What is Unique to look out in Tanzania as a Souvenir?
Tanzanite and Artworks from renowned and authorised shops. They will give you the certificate of authenticity
Do I get an official certificate after I climbed Kilimanjaro?
Yes, you will get one from Mweka Gate. Your guide will collect on behalf of the group.
Are there any shops available on the trail to buy anything specific like Tea, Coffee, water, etc?
No, it will be organised by your tour operator
Do I need to take water purification tablets?
Generally, you will be served with chlorine purified water but it is best to carry water purification tablets with you for safety purposes or water filters itself
Do I need to be worried about Malaria?
Yes, for initial two days. It is recommended to consult with your doctor and get the prescribed preventive medicines like Malarone with you
Is there a need for Diamox?
Yes or No, It is recommended to consult with your doctor if you never been to high altitude event before and speak to your guides about how you are feeling in the morning and night so that they can guide you with next course of action
Random Pictures from Moshi Town
Moshi is a vibrant town located in the Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania, near the border with Kenya. It serves as the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa
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Thank you Note !!
I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for taking the time to read my blog. Your support and interest mean the world to me.
Blogging is a labor of love, and knowing that there are readers like you who appreciate the content I create is incredibly motivating. Your feedback, comments, and the fact that you chose to invest your time in my writing are sources of inspiration.
I'm always striving to provide valuable information and insights through my blog, and your readership fuels my passion to continue doing so. Your engagement, whether through comments, shares, or simply returning to read more, is what makes the blogging community so special.
If you have any suggestions, questions, or topics you'd like to see covered in the future, please feel free to reach out. Your input is invaluable.
Once again, thank you for being a part of my blogging journey. I look forward to sharing more content with you in the future and hope that you find it as enjoyable and informative as you have thus far.
Warm regards, Manas Saha
Instagram : manassaha_traveller , storyoftwosticks
******************************************************************************************************************************** Upcoming Blogs on the pipeline :
- Masai Village
- Chemka Hotsprings
- Serengeti National Park
- Ngorongoro Crater National Park
