MOUNT KILIMANDJARO

Why go to Mount Kilimanjaro?

SAFARI

Near Kilimanjaro, you can go on safari in Kenya’s Arusha National Park or Amboseli to see lions, giraffes, elephants, wildebeest and many other animals that are emblematic of East Africa.

You can also take advantage of your time in northern Tanzania to discover the spectacular scenery of Lake Natron and its thousands of pink flamingos.

If you want to relax after your excursion, you can also go and unwind on the sumptuous beaches of the Zanzibar archipelago with its turquoise blue waters.

ANIMALS PRESENT

During your expedition you will have the opportunity to see different types of animals:

• The diademed cercopithecus
• Angolan and Kilimanjaro guerezas
• Olive baboon
• Leopard
• Striped mongoose
• the serval
• The potamochoerus porcus
• The ratel
• porcupine

THE FLORA OF KILIMANJARO

Plains

The plains of Kilimanjaro lie between 600 and 800 metres above sea level. The hot, dry climate also favours vegetation dominated by savannah , with many species of grass.

Tropical forest

Between 1,600 and 2,700 metres altitude lies the tropical forest. This zone is threatened by human activity (deforestation, fire).

Fog forest

This forest covers the southern slopes of the mountain, between 2,300 and 2,500 metres above sea level. It is dominated by the podocarpus tree and several species of moss and fern, which cover around 80% of the trees.

The cloud forest

This fascinating forest will surprise you with its spectacular character. It is found in the escarpments to the west, north and north-east. It generally lies between 2,500 and 2,700 metres above sea level and features many fascinating examples of tree heather, juniper and Afrocarpus gracilior.

TRIP TO TANZANIA: CLIMBING KILIMANJARO

Climbing Kilimanjaro is no mean feat. But with the help of a local guide, you can reach the summit. There are different routes to the top of the mountain, short and long, difficult and easier. Let us help you reach the summit.

• The Machame route
• The Rongaï route
• Marangu Route
• Lemosho Route

The Machame route

Often regarded as the best route for acclimatisation, this is the most popular choice for climbers attempting to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro for the first time. The route is long and varied, exposing climbers to a variety of landscapes and experiences throughout the trek. From the rainforest at Machame Gate, through rocky plateaux, to the glacial peaks of the final ascent.

The Marangu Route

The Marangu route is the shortest and therefore fastest part of the trek (just 20 km).

You’ll pass through a richly wooded area teeming with fruit trees, butterflies and ferns, as well as waterfalls.

Be prepared to walk for 5-6 hours a day, except on the last day when you’ll have to draw on your reserves for a 10-hour hike.

The Rongaï Way

This is the only route north from the top of the mountain.

It will be a 6-day journey, with much of the terrain off the trails and wild. You’ll start your journey along the Kenyan border, and finish along a wooded track in Tanzania.

The Lemosho route

The Lemosho route is breathtakingly beautiful, with a high success rate and a tranquillity rarely found in the heart of Africa.

Please note that the price of the Lemosho route is slightly higher than other routes for transport reasons.

When should you climb Kilimanjaro?

A trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro is an adventure you’ll never forget, but planning your ascent is essential.

Tips for climbing ?

Our guides are professionals trained to accompany you and help you reach the summit in the best possible conditions. Trust them and listen to their sound advice.

We recommend that you drink at least 2.5 litres a day, protect yourself effectively against the sun and, above all, take your time. The energy you save during the first few days of walking will be essential for you to reach the summit.

If you have any doubts or problems, don’t hesitate to ask your guide for advice.

Please note: You are only allowed one 12kg rucksack for the climb, and rucksacks are weighed by the rangers at the park entrance!

• 1 rucksack (size 60 litres) containing all your belongings in waterproof plastic bags
• 1 rucksack (25-30 litres) for the day’s essentials
• 1 quality sleeping bag – Comfortable at -15°C, of the sarcophagus type
• 1 meat bag is strongly recommended
• 1 self-inflating mat for extra comfort (we provide a 5 cm foam mattress except for the Marangu route, where you sleep in a hut)
• 1 pair of mountain boots with good ankle support for walking
• 1 pair of tennis shoes for the evening1 pair of warm woollen socks
• 2 pairs of warm underwear (tights, jumpers, etc. – it can be very cold – avoid cotton)
• 1 warm fleece or woollen jacket
• 1 waterproof goretex or micropore jacket
• 1 rain cape
• 1 warm hat
• and 1 good pair of gloves (for the last few days)
• 1 cap or equivalent to protect you from the sun
• 1 very good pair of glasses (don’t forget you’re at altitude below the equator!)
• 1 water bottle
• 1 LED headlamp (with spare battery)
• Telescopic poles (also recommended)
• Sufficient T-shirts for the duration of the trek (synthetic or wool)
• 1 pair of canvas trousers
• 1 pair of warm waterproof trousers for the final ascent 1 survival blanket

How do I get to Kilimanjaro?

DRIVING TIME TO KILIMANJARO

• The journey from Arusha to the foot of Kilimanjaro takes two and a half hours.
• From the Tarangire National Park / Lake Manyara National Park to Kilimanjaro takes 4 hours.
• Ngorongoro – Kilimanjaro about 4.5 hours’ drive
• From Serengeti National Park to Serengeti about 6.5 hours’ drive

Travelling by car between the different parks allows you to appreciate the landscapes and African wildlife that Tanzania has to offer.

Where to stay?

Before your ascent of Kilimanjaro, we recommend that you stay at the Moyoni Airport Lodge, located near Kilimanjaro airport. This charming 12-room lodge with views of Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru is the ideal place to start your journey north of Tanzania. It is also the ideal starting point for resting before a trek up Kilimanjaro. Take advantage of its swimming pool and green spaces and contemplate your goal: the summit of the highest mountain in Africa…

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