Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Safari Tour
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
Mount Kilimanjaro the highest point in Africa is also one of the
highest mountains in the world accessible to walkers. It lies in
Tanzania just south of the Kenyan border and the area above 2750m.
is a National Park. The park headquarters are located by the Marangu
Park Gate, 5km. above Marangu. Park fees are payable through an
officially approved agent (hotel or tour operator - beware of
impostors), most of whom offer a full package. Park fees for the
year 2008 are $60 per person per day entry fee plus $50 per person
per night camping or hut fee. This fee, payable in foreign exchange
only, covers entrance, mountain hut and camping fees only (no
porter, guide or service fees)
Porters and Guides
Guides are compulsory and are available at the Park Gate. It is best
to make arrangements one day before the planned ascent. Porters are
selected by the Guide, their wages are generally paid by your agent
(Porters - $10 per day, Cooks - $15 per day, Guides - $20 per day).
Guides and porters are self-sufficient; wages are low compared to
park fees but they will negotiate high tips. Porters often prefer to
carry equipment in sacks on their heads.
Access Routes
Marangu (Normal) Route Trip
The tourist route, an easy walk as far as the Kibo Hut. The lower
sections provide fine forest and moorland walking. The lunar
landscape of the Saddle leads to the Kibo Hut; above this tedious
scree leads to the crater rim. All huts on the route are manned and
in radio contact with the Park Headquarters at Marangu. Just above
the Park Gate the western route through the forest provides a
longer, more difficult but beautiful walk along narrow paths beside
streams. There is often no water at Kibo Hut and it either has to be
carried from last water or melted from snow or ice if this is
available. During peak periods the huts are sometimes overfull
because of groups altering itineraries or for other reasons. At
these times all facilities will be severely overstrained.
Note: The path in the forest is often realigned on account of
erosion. Above Mandara hut the main path has been realigned and now
passes closer to Maundi Crater - a worthwhile viewpoint.
Marangu Route (above KIBO HUT)
Easy walking up steep, tedious scree slopes to Gillman's Point then
along the broad crater rim with good views over the caldera and of
Mawenzi. A very early departure to arrive at sunrise at Gillmans
Point is recommended. The final section undulates and is
occasionally snowy. No special equipment is required. Grade l.
Mweka Route
A very direct and fast way down the mountain providing limited views
across the Southern Glaciers. The track in the forest is often
impassable even to 4WD vehicles. Beyond the roadhead the path is
steep and slippery in parts. Above the Mweka Huts water must be
carried. Sometimes a long walk is required at the Barafu Hut to find
snow or ice for water.
Umbwe Route Trip
A very strenuous walk up steep, slippery paths with many fallen
trees to negotiate. The middle section follows a narrow spectacular
ridge with magnificent views of the Great Barranco and Southern
Icefields.
Machame Route Trip
Machame village is served by a tarmac road. There is a park
checkpoint at the start of the route. The walking is strenuous,
initially up narrow, slippery paths through beautiful forest. It
provides good access to the South Western Glaciers and the Western
Breach.
Shira Route
Depending on its condition and the weather, this track provides an
access route for 4WD vehicles to within 1 hour of the Shira Hut. The
Shira Plateau is very beautiful with good views of the Western
Glaciers. There are several fine minor summits to be climbed; the
Shira Needle can be gained by a scramble and provides a nice
viewpoint.
Lemosho Glades Route
This magnificent variation to the Shira Route is as yet unspoilt and
little used. It takes paths through forests rich in game south of
the Shira Route. On day 3 the Machame Route is rejoined. Detailed
description.
Rongai Route
This used to be the route used by the Outward Bound Mountain School
at Oloitokitok in Kenya. The border is open during daylight hours
but all park fees and arrangements must be made (via an agent) at
the Marangu Gate before starting on the route. It is possible to
arrange transport from Marangu to Naromoru / Rongai. Only a limited
number of groups are allowed on the route at any time and it may not
be used in descent. There are several big caves along the route,
these are used by porters and tents should be carried. The "Outward
Bound School" Hut is privately owned, no water or firewood in the
vicinity. Allow 5 days for the traverse.
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