The Kilimanjaro Mountain is a volcanic mountain. It is a dormant volcano that has three cones or peaks namely: Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. The tallest peak is Kibo and is also called Uhuru which is derived from Kiswahili a local language to mean freedom or independence. The Kilimanjaro is estimated to be about 750,000 years old. It has its last major eruptions over 400,000 years ago.
The Kilimanjaro Mountain is massive in size and height but that does not make it impossible to hike even for beginners or first time climbers. This mountain is among the most visited in east Africa attracting a lot of people from all over the world. It has also been used a lot for international charity hikes and a place for most Hollywood celebrity adventures.
Most people refer to this mountain as a “wake Up” Mountain. Hiking it does not require any skills or complicated equipment. However, it should not be underestimated as altitude sickness is a real danger when traveling to extreme elevation. It is however surprising that over 50% of the hikers have failed to reach the summit.
It is important that you hire a guide most probably through a reputable company. It is by the way illegal to hike without a local guide as it can be dangerous. Choose a local tour operator that is run very well and takes into consideration the safety precautions of hiking. Be so selective while choosing a guide as this is a life time safaris and you want good memories. Companies like Achieve global safaris have many years of experience, thousands of clients, the best guides, established safety protocols, quality name brand camping equipment, nutritious meals, and are Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) members.
To get to Kilimanjaro, you will need to fly from Dar essalam most probably into Kilimanjaro airport or fly directly into the Kilimanjaro airport since it meets international standards and then you will go by road to either Arusha or Moshi. Both the gates are almost 45mins form the airport by special taxi.
