Thursday, October 16, 2014

Mount Kilimanjaro Tours: Plan Your Next Climbing Adventure

By Dominique Martin


There is an experience of a lifetime literally takes tourism to a new level. Mount Kilimanjaro tours are not for the faint of heart. In the seven to ten days it takes to make the trek, climbers will actually experience five climate zones before making it to the top.

When you reach to top of this mountain, you have reached the very highest point in Africa. The people of Kilimanjaro, the Chagga, often work as tour guides for the climb. The formation of this group is somewhat unusual. Hundreds of years ago the area was inhabited by aboriginal people called the Wakonyingo. A diverse group of immigrants eventually drove these people out and took over the land. They formed clans with many languages and beliefs. Ultimately this diverse people became the Chagga.

There is a wide breadth of ages that attempt the climb. Historically, the youngest adventurer was boy, only ten years old. On the other end of the spectrum, an eighty four year old man has the distinction of being the oldest person to reach the top. This is proof that the trek can be suitable for all ages.

Taking the time to research the various companies that provide the guides will help ensure a good experience. There are many websites available. Here prospective travelers can compare prices, dates and qualifications of the company and its guides. It would be very informative to contact people who have already made the climb and ask them to share their views. Information such as testimonials, how long the company has been in business, their success rate, and the experience of your particular tour guide will help you make a good choice.

Planning for your trip is key to your success. Make a checklist of the things you will need, such as passport, travelers checks, hiking gear and high altitude gear. The right footwear is essential. The last thing your feet will need is to break in a new pair of shoes. The ability to layer light weight clothing is also a necessity.

Start healthy and stay healthy. A very common occurrence is acute mountain sickness. This can usually be prevented by pacing yourself and realizing the potential effects of the high altitude. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms so you can react quickly. It may seem odd, but simply getting to a lower altitude is the best remedy.

Hypothermia is a dangerous condition. The best prevention is the proper clothing. There is a wide variety of materials available that will ensure dryness and warmth, even in very cold conditions. Sun exposure can be very painful. Take every precaution to limit exposure with frequent reapplications of good sunscreen. A good hat will limit sun exposure, and professional grade sunglasses will prevent damage to your eyes. Eyes.

This adventure and a successful climb to the top can give you bragging rights that even exceed sky diving. Not to mention the spiritual experience of being so near the sky. There is a oneness with nature that you cannot imagine. The friendships you form on this trek may last a lifetime. All the beauty of Tanzania awaits. First climb the mountain to see the top of Africa, then consider a safari to see the incredible wildlife. The memories will last as long as you live.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment