Climbing Kilimanjaro - Preparation and Itinerary

Climbing Kilimanjaro (5,896m) is not only to Africa's highest point, it is the highest free standing mountain in the world.
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Kilimanjaro is actually a huge crater known as Kibo over 2km wide with several distinct cones the highest being Uhuru Peak. The name Kilimanjaro is believed to come from Swahili, Kilima meaning 'hill or little mountain' and Njaro meaning 'white or shining'. Tower over 4,500m above the rift valley and the surrounding landscape it makes for an impressive sight.
This 12 day itinerary includes seven days of trekking on the Machame Trail, the most scenic route to the summit. The mountain is often underestimated with many companies ascending too fast and then failing due to altitude sickness. Seven days on the mountain allows for greater acclimatisation and maximises chances of a successful summit attempt. The route leads us along rough terrain but provides spectacular scenery and a wide variety of landscape. We start with scrublands thick with African wildlife and then move into lush forests followed by flowering alpine tundra. Above 4,500m we encounter more snow and rock as we approach the summit. This trek is suitable for people with a good level of fitness who enjoy a challenge. The sense of achievement and view from the roof of Africa make all the hard work and effort well worth it!