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Mount Kilimanjaro Tours: Plan Your Next Climbing Adventure

By Dominique Martin


Maybe mountain climbing is something you have always wanted to do but it seemed out of reach. Mount Kilimanjaro tours may be just what your thirst for adventure needs. You may be surprised to find so many websites that provide choices and information so you can make this dream a reality.

Knowing something about the local culture is helpful. It is likely that your guide would be from the ethnic group of Chagga. This group of people have extremely diverse origins. They were immigrants with various beliefs, customs and languages. They evolved into clans that eventually formed the Chagga. Early on, the clans were open to the teachings of missionaries, and today they are predominantly Christian.

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.

It is wise to do your research to carefully select the tour guide you want to accompany you up and down the mountain. There are multiple websites that offer planning tips and suggest research materials. Check to see how long the company has been in business and the average success rates of their climbs. The best case scenario may be to use a guide based on the recommendations of former climbers.

Careful planning is necessary. There are different types of checklists. Travel documents, hiking gear, clothing are some of the categories that require thought and research. Warm layered clothing and good shoes are so important. Make sure your shoes offer good support and can stay dry. If you buy new shoes, be sure to break them in before your trip.

It is important to be informed of the health risks associated with this climb. Acute mountain sickness has been experienced by as much as seventy percent of climbers. If you are aware of the symptoms, you can react quickly to getting your body back to normal. Also preventive measures are better than the cure. This is not a race. Rather it should be a slow, steady climb. Pace yourself.

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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