MOUNTAINEERING IN TANZANIA.

TREKKING ON MOUNTAIN KILIMANJARO

Mountain Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Tanzania with 5896m, and it is also the highest peak in Africa as well. This mountain is one of the continent’s most magnificent sights. From cultivated farmlands on the lower levels, the mountain rises through lush rainforest, alpine meadows and a barren lunar landscape to the twin summits of  Kibo and Mawenzi.
           
This mountain has got the major activity as trekking and a trek lures hundreds of trekkers each year, and is even more attractive because, with the right preparation, you can walk all the way to the summit without the need of ropes or technical climbing experience. For more details about trekking on the mountain, check out Lonely Planet’s Trekking in East Africa.

INFORMATION

It’s not permitted to climb Kilimanjaro independently, and you’ll need a guide and at least one porter (for the guide). Most trekking companies allow two to three porters per trekker depending on the length of  the trek, guides should be registered with the national park authorities and should have permit, although sharing of permits for guides working for some of the less reputable companies is fairly common.

It can rain at any time of the year, so water proof your gear and bring waterproof clothing. You can rent sleeping bags and some cold-weather gear at the Marangu park gate (quality and availability can’t be counted on.)

ROUTES

There are at least 10 trekking routes that begin on the lower slopes but only three continue to summit. You will need to camp on all except the Marungu route which is a series of three huts(bankhouses) spaced a day’s walk apart.
The Marungu route which was traditionally been most popular, usually takes five days(four nights) return,although an extra night is recommended to help acclimatization. Other routes usually take six or seven days. The increasingly popular Machame route has a gradual ascent before approaching the summit. The Umbwe route is much steeper, with a more direct way to the summit. The top, very steep section(up the western Beach) is often covered in the route should only be considered if you are experienced and properly equipped, and going with reputable operator. Trekkers on the Machame , Umbwe route and Shira Plateau routes descend via the Mweka route. Treks on the Rongai route use the Marungu route for descent. The Marungu route is briefly described later.

MOUNTAIN CLIMBING AND HIKING

For most climbers who visit Tanzania, the 5869 metre Kilimanjaro is the top prize. Most reasonably fit and properly guided climbers reach the summit of  Kili with little more than a walking stick, warm clothing and determination. Mount Meru, another of Tanzania’s volcanic peaks, is also popular, with the varied animal and plant life to be found on it’s slopes a major draw. Meru is Africa’s fifth highest peak, with fabulous views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Momela Lakes from the summit. The challenging ascent to the scenery, with panoramic views of the Rift Valley. The track to the top Lengai is very steep, and a true challenge attempted only by hikers with good level of fitness.

Other mountain trekking and climbing activities

TREKKING ON MOUNTAIN MERU