The Adventure Of A Lifetime Awaits With Mount Kilimanjaro Tours

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.

The mountain is famous for being the highest peak in Africa. The native people of this area are the Chagga. Thanks in part to their early acceptance of missionaries, most Chagga people are Christian by faith. However, their original faith was steeped in superstition and mythology. It is notable that one of their mythical stories is similar the biblical tale of Adam and Eve, only the forbidden fruit was a sweet potato.

People of all ages have made this mountainous journey. A ten year old boy holds the record for being the youngest. If you think you are too old to make the trek, just consider that the oldest climber was an eighty four year old man. If you are reasonably fit and healthy, you can check this achievement off your bucket list.

Take the time to research your trip. Websites offer many choices for touring companies that tell you all about the adventure and what to expect. It would be prudent to speak to some former clients of these companies and hear their experience first hand. You want to know that your guide is highly qualified and has made this climb in the past.

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 another risk of the climb. This too can be prevented by purchasing the best clothing available that is lightweight and maintains warmth. There have been technological advances in fibers to keep mountain climbers warm and dry. At the same time it is important to protect your skin and eyes from sun exposure. The ultraviolet rays from this altitude can be very harmful. Liberal use of sunscreen, professional grade sunglasses and a good hat are needed.

This mountainous adventure can be the trip of a lifetime. The thrill of reaching the top with you fellow climbers will be like nothing you have experienced in the past. There is a spiritual quality about being so close to the heavens. When you finally make your way down the mountain, you just might be ready for a Serengeti safari.




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