Tag: Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro: One of The Most Coveted Destinations of trekkers

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Mt. Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa which is located in Tanzania, i.e., at the border area of Kenya. It is about 5, 895 meter i.e., 19, 341 feet above the sea level. This mountain is known for its snow-capped peaks and is full of scenic beauty. In the year 1889, an Austrian mountaineer named Ludwig Purtscheller and a German geographer named Hans Meyer reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro for the first time. Thereafter, it becomes a popular hiking spot for both the local people and tourists.   Thousands of people from almost every part of the world visit this mind-blowing mountain and adjoining national park called Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania.

Why trekking to Mt. Kilimanjaro is fun and adventure?

It is a challenge and thrilling adventure to trek to the highest peak of Africa i.e., the mountain of Kilimanjaro. In this journey, the trekker needs to travel through diverse ecosystems starting from lush and dense rain forest to alpine deserts. The route to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro provides a unique sensory experience and breathtaking panoramic views to the trekkers. The trekker will experience the ultimate sunrise at Uhuru Peak which will encapsulate the sense of achievement and wonder. The journey to the peak of the mountain provides a unique sensory experience for the trekker and each step the trekker takes brings them closer to the summit which is a rewarding perseverance. 

This adventurous journey to the peak of the mountain is not only a mere physical but also a mental and emotional odyssey for the trekker. This mountain and the national park are full of majestic allure and it is a thrill to climb to the mountain for the trekker. Hence, this mountain stands as evidence of the unconquerable spirit of exploration and the joy that is found by the trekker while conquering the grandeur of nature. As the trekker reaches the peak of the mountain they experience an unparalleled sense of accomplishment since they ascend through varying climates and panoramic views that enhance their joy of expedition. 

Mount Kilimanjaro  

Different routes to Kilimanjaro

There are many routes to reach the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. Ice Rock Trekking is one of the most popular travel and tourism agencies in Tanzania and Kenya offering pocket-friendly and customizable tours to different parts of Tanzania and Kenya including trekking to this mesmerizing mountain. You can take different routes to Mt. Kilimanjaro but it’s feasible to take advantage of different facilities and professional support of Ice Rock Trekking.  Some of the popular routes are listed as follows:

  1. Machame route: This route is also called as Whiskey route and is known for its panoramic views and diverse landscapes. This route provides a gradual climb for the trekker due to which they get better acclimatization.
  2. Marangu route:This route is popularly called as Coco-Cola route. Among all other routes, this route is the most popular and is relatively easy to climb. In this route, there are features huts for accommodation in place of tents for the trekkers.
  3. Lemosho route:This route requires more time to climb but it provides a different range of ecosystems and stunning scenic beauty.
  4. Rongai route:In this route, you can approach the mountain from the north. This route is known for its quiet trails and is less crowded as compared to other routes.
  5. Northern Circuit route: This is the longest route and it provides excellent acclimatization. 
  6. Umbwe route:This route is known for its steep ascent and thus it is meant only for the experienced trekkers.  

 Visit Mount Kilimanjaro for its scenic beauty, one-of-a-kind ecosystem, and thrill of conquering one of the most popular summits in the world. Ice Rock Trekking offers professional support and the best facilities to the trekkers.

Ice Rock Trekking for Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour Package

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Kilimanjaro Trek

If you are on a domestic flight flying near Kenya, the pilot might announce to look out of the window to see the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa. A major attraction and a popular peak in all of Africa, you can imagine someone’s obsession to covet the title of climbing the tallest mountain in Africa. But do not be fooled by the majestic presence of the summit. You must not think of the Kilimanjaro trek as a walk in the park. Touted as one of the most challenging trek in the world, Kilimanjaro must be triumphed with absolute caution and with necessary precautions.

Must-knows of the Kilimanjaro Trek Tour

  1. Go Slow and Steady on the Trek

Trekkers are known to brain-stuff themselves with every blog before going on a trek, like altitude sickness, etc. So to save you from all that reading, the first thing that we recommend you to is to go slow. Don’t be haphazard in trying to keep up with everyone. Join the line right at the back. Your body works harder at altitude. The air gets thinner and there is less oxygen to breathe. Our quality guides will also tell you to go slowly. Walk slowly than you normally would. The favorite thing about hiking is that it is not a competitive sport, where everyone wants to succeed.

  1. Drink Plenty of Fluids

Hydration is one of the best remedies for altitude sickness. Pack a Platypus instead of a bottle for constant water accessibility while walking. This will help you when your hands are cold and you don’t want to take off your gloves to unscrew a bottle. Avoid the hassle to stop and take a bottle out of your bag every time you feel thirsty and want to take a sip.

But water alone won’t do the job. You must take hydration salts. Put at least one sachet straight into Platypus to be uber-hydrated. Also, Diarrhea is common at the upper ranges of Kilimanjaro. So adjust your body to be on peaks and carry salts like Dioralyte with you.

  1. Make Allies with your Travel Mates

One must never climb the mountains alone. If there was ever a time that you will need other people, climbing Kilimanjaro it is. You must be with each other and look out for another. You must literally keep guard as you pee behind a rock. There are no toiletries around since you will not be in a camp. 

  1. Prepare yourself physically for the Trek

Altitude sickness strikes everyone indiscriminately. You can be an Olympian or reigning pie-eating champion, the sickness will hit you hard. So, being fit for this hike is important. For this, you must hikes up hills back home before heading over to the Kilimanjaro Peaks.

Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour package

Where to get the best Travel Guide for the Kilimanjaro Trek?

Ice Rock Trekking is one of the tour package providers for the Kilimanjaro treks in all of Africa. As a famed as well as a reputed touring company, Ice Rock Trekking provides you with the entire list of itineraries as per the suitable days and the length for the excursion you are comfortable with. We also have a pool of qualified travel guides who will take you from the safest routes, better than the smallest, from the base station to the Kilimanjaro Peaks.

As the terrain is unfamiliar, and difficult, a learned guide is necessary to make your trekking trip successful, and you bring you safe and sound back the base station. For such purposes, Ice Rock Trekking has an excellent track record. Many trust us with our services. We might not be the cheapest, but we surely are the most quality touring organizers of the region.

Mount Kilimanjaro 5 Days Marangu Route Trek with Ice Rock Trekking

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5 days Marangu route

Kilimanjaro is the highest peak on the African Continent. One of the most difficult places to be, the trek routes to this pinnacle are also difficult and varied. To climb Kilimanjaro, there are six established routes, such as the following:

  • Marangu
  • Machame
  • Lemosho
  • Shira
  • Rongai
  • Umbwe

Out of the aforementioned, the Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe routes start from the south of the mountain, whereas the Lemosho and Shira routes approach from the west. Only the Rongai route is climbed from the north side near Kenya. With such elaborate trekking routes, why is it that the Marangu route becomes suitable for many people? We will learn about this in the following sections.

 

Climbing Kilimanjaro via Marangu Route with Ice Rock Trekking

This seven-day itinerary, specially designed by Ice Rock Trekking, centers around the easiest route to take to ascend Kilimanjaro with the following main summits:

  • Mawenzi (5149m)
  • Kibo (5896m)

From these summits, you can see the glaciers, screes, cliffs, afro-alpine moorland, and forests down to the cultivated foothills. Our Marangu route takes you at a gentle pace through these dramatically difficult terrains.

Ice Rock Trekking Itinerary for Marangu Trek

Day 1: Nairobi to Moshi

You will leave Nairobi at 7:30 a.m. on your commute. Then, you will drive to Moshi arriving in the evening. We have arranged dinner at your arrival in the Zebra Hotel.

Day 2: Marangu Gate (1980m) – Mandara Hut (2700m)

Your day second will start with a hike with an estimated time of five hours. The distance of the trek is about 12 km. The habitat of the terrain is montane forest.

Day 3: Mandara Hut (2700m) – Horombo Hut (3720m)

Your day third will start with a hike with an estimated time of six hours. The distance of the trek is about 15 km. The habitat of the terrain is Moorland.

Day 4: Horombo Hut (3720m) – Kibo Hut (4700m)

Your day fourth will start with a hike with an estimated time of six hours. The distance of the trek is about 15 km. The habitat of the terrain is an Alpine forest.

Day 5: Summit Attempt Kibo hut (4700m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Horombo hut (3720m)

Your day fifth will start with a hike with an estimated duration of eight hours to Uhuru and six hours to descend to Horombo. The distance of the trek is about 6 km for ascent and 21 km for descent. The habitat of the terrain is stone scree and ice-capped summit.

Day 6: Horombo Hut (3720m) – Marangu Gate (1980m)

Your day sixth will start with a hike with an estimated time of six hours. The distance of the trek is about 27 km. Here, you have reached the two peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro, i.e., Uhuru and Kibo rise from the African plains.

Day 7: Departure

On the last day, after having breakfast, we will transfer to Nairobi or the Kilimanjaro airport, as per your preference.

 

Tips to keep in mind while hiking to Kilimanjaro

Ice Rock Trekking, after leading many successful trips to Kilimanjaro and other mountains, there are several trekking hacks we tell our clients to help them enjoy their time in the mountains, like the following:

  • Ski sticks are useful during the scree-to-summit to ascend
  • Ski sticks protect your knees during descent
  • Carry a hot water bottle at night to create a comforting heating pad and slip it in your bag or beneath your pillow
  • Carry powdered drink/sports mix to maintain hydration, like Tang or Gatorade
  • Find your pace of comfort for hiking to keep you going all-day
  • Pack some of your favorite snacks for a break while hiking

 

To know more about Kilimanjaro trekking routes, visit the Ice Rock Trekking website or connect with us.

Kilimanjaro Marangu route: Enjoy Your Trekking To Mt. Kilimanjaro

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Kilimanjaro Marangu route

Tekking Mount Kilimanjaro is an unique experience to trekkers. Mt. Kilimanjaro, also known as the “Roof of Africa” is the highest peak of this continent. Standing at 5,895 meters above sea level, the mountain offers awe-inspiring views at every turn. The mountain is popular for its five distinct climate zones with each having its unique ecosystems and landscapes. Hundreds of trekkers follow the Kilimanjaro Marangu route to the peak. The Marangu route is considered a gentle and gradual trekking route to the mountain. Before that contact an experienced safari and trekking organizer to plan your schedule. The best safari organizers will offer you the best experience in this part of the world.

Trek to Kilimanjaro through Marangu route

If you have prepared yourself for the best adventure, you can try the Marangu route. This is regarded as the original route of Kilimanjaro and it seems to be exceptional as trekkers do not camp here but stay in shared A-frame huts. It is not a difficult route and has a higher rate of success as trekkers don’t need to follow any stiff path. The Marangu is regarded as one of the most popular and oldest routes of Kilimanjaro and most often, it is known as the “Coca-Cola route” as the huts where you will stay at night and from time to time, offers different refreshments and Coca-Cola.

If you assess the Marangu route you will find it to be an easy route and it has only some steep climbs. The Kilimanjaro Maraungu route is the only route that offers hut accommodation to everyone because other routes need the trekkers to camp. If you go through this route, you require a dormitory where you can sleep and they are similar to huts where you will find all the basic amenities that include mattresses. It makes this route well-known for various budget operators who lack basic camping equipment. Hence, you must opt for this route only when you do not wish to camp.

5 days Marangu route

Key features of the Marangu route

  • The oldest path to Kilimanjaro

The Marangu route is the most established and most used path to the peak. Being the most popular route for trekking, its trails are well-marked and nicely maintained. Trekkers find it easier and faster to trek.

  • Hut accommodation

It’s one of the most interesting features of this Kilimanjaro Marangu route. At each campsite, dozens of huts exist for refreshment and night stays. All necessary accommodations are available in the camp. Moreover, Ice Rock Trekking ensures that you don’t face any problems in the huts.

  • The shortest route to the summit

The Marangu route enables the trekkers to complete the trekking to the summit in 5-7 days. Ice Rock Trekking arranges 5 days 4 nights trekking through the Marangu route. You have to cover almost 96 Km during that time. The journey is quite comfortable as the route offers gradual and gentle ascent.

Trekking is always fun and adventurous. If you love trekking, you can try the Kilimanjaro Marangu route. Starting from Nairobi till you return after touching the summit, Ice Rock Trekking takes the full responsibility of guiding and providing all necessary articles to the trekkers.

Kilimanjaro Shira Camp: Where Majestic Landscapes and Unforgettable Memories Await

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Kilimanjaro trekking

Imagine standing beneath a sky adorned with countless glittering stars, enjoying the cold night breeze on your skin while you marvel at the immensity of Mount Kilimanjaro. This breathtaking sight awaits you at the Kilimanjaro shira camp, which is situated on the mountain’s western side. In this blog post, we will try to delve into the enchanting features that make Shira Camp a must-visit destination.

 

Shira Camp: A Captivating Oasis

Shira Camp, located on the Shira Plateau is a large, high-altitude volcanic plateau created by Mount Kilimanjaro’s volcanic activities. Kilimanjaro shira camp is surrounded by a barren, rocky terrain, resembling a lunar landscape. This rugged environment is a result of volcanic activity and erosion over millions of years.

 

Shira Route or Lemosho Route to reach Shira Camp

Trekking enthusiasts often find themselves in a dilemma when it comes to choosing the right route to reach Shira Camp 2. To alleviate this common confusion, let’s compare two popular trekking routes.

 

Characteristic

 Shira Route Lemosho Route
Starting point Shira Gate (3,600 meters) Londorossi Gate (1,800 meters)
Acclimatization period Shorter Longer

Trail difficulty

 Moderate Moderate
Scenery It offers a variety of terrain, including moorlands and alpine deserts. This Route is renowned for its scenic beauty, offering trekkers diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts.
Presence of Camp Simba Camp Shira camp 1
Success rate

(In terms of climbers reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro)

 High High

Trek Duration

 7-8 days 8 days

Exploring the Kilimanjaro shira camp 

  • Venturing Beyond the Camp: From Shira Camp, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area. To the east, the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro rises majestically, often covered in clouds. While to the west, the expansive plains of Tanzania stretch out, providing vast and awe-inspiring scenery. During trekking, you could spot elephants, buffalo, and other creatures as the plateau is home to a diversity of species.
  • Shira Cathedral: Hiking to Shira Cathedral provides an opportunity for nature lovers to relish breathtaking views. In fact, it adds a touch of geological fascination to the trekking experience.
  • Mesmerizing Sunsets and Sunrises: The experience of witnessing nature’s artwork unveiled during sunrise/sunset scenes viewed from the Shira Plateau is truly captivating.

Challenges and Tips for Success

  • Altitude sickness is a condition that occurs when you ascend to a high altitude too quickly.
  • To avoid that, you need to give your body time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels.
  • In addition, try to drink water, take a healthy diet and avoid alcohol and caffeine during trekking.

In conclusion, Kilimanjaro shira camp is a remarkable blend of nature’s glamour and personal triumph, resulting in an unparalleled adventure. It offers you opportunities to hike to Shira Cathedral, witness mesmerizing sunsets and sunrises, and encounter a variety of wildlife. Ice Rock Trekking is one of the most prominent names in this genre. They Organize Kilimanjaro trekking from different routes. They also provide all kinds of technical support throughout the itinerary.

Routes to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the Highest Free-Standing Mountain in the World

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Mount Kilimanjaro

As Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa, it gives a terrific challenge to the hikers who want to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. However, to climb the mountain, you can choose several routes like Marangu, Machame-Mweka, and Lemosho. To reach the summit of Kilimanjaro which is the highest free-standing mountain in the world, also known as the roof of Africa, climbers need to go through different ecosystems from the rain-forest zone, and alpine desert to arctic snow cap. Trekking to Kilimanjaro is one of the primary attractions of hundreds of tourists in this part of the world. Make a memorable trekking to Kilimanjaro through your preferred route with the help of an experienced tour organizer. 

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

This free-standing volcano lures thousands of trekkers every year who intend to conquer Uhuru Peak. To reach the twin summit of Kibo and Mawnzi, you need to go through thick and drenched forests along with crossing a desert-like lunar landscape. Although you will be able to climb this mountain throughout the year. The best time for climbing is July to early October, the rainy period (April- May), and November. However, as the weather is unpredictable on the mountain throughout the year, there is no guarantee of good weather. So, it’s recommended to keep your equipment and to keep yourself ready for rainy and cold weather.

Kilimanjaro

Routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro 

  • 5 days 4 night the Coca-Cola route of Kilimanjaro

The Marangu route is known as the Coca-Cola route due to its popularity as well as for having the reputation that this is the easier route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and its two main summits which are Mawenzi and Kibo. A 5 km wide semi-desert, the Saddle has separated these two. During this trip, you will be mesmerized by the spectacular views of summit glaciers, afro-alpine moorland, cliffs, and foothills.

  • 6 days 5 night the whiskey route of Kilimanjaro

For climbing the mountain, Machame-Mweka is a more difficult route compared to the Coca-Cola route, due to which this one is named as the whiskey route. As this route is adorned with the terrain and spectacular scenery of Lava Tower, Shira Plateau, and Barranco Wall, it gives a huge chance for acclimatizing.

  • 7 days 6 night Lemosho route

This one is the least traveled but most rewarding route. The route remains uncrowded until it gets connected with the Machame route’s latter half. Through this route, you can hike across the Shira Plateau which is considered as one of the most beautiful hikes in Africa.

End note

The hiking journey to the snow peaks of Kilimanjaro will be partly hiking, partly slog, and partly trekking. As Kilimanjaro is 5896 meters high and remains snow-covered, trekking here is a strenuous as well as rewarding undertaking. To have a safe and guided tour, you can contact Ice Rocket Trekking, the best travel company that offers trekking expeditions to Mount Kilimanjaro as well as to Kenya.

Why Hells Gate National Park is so popular?

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Hells Gate National Park in Africa

Hells Gate National Park is an astonishing area of the Great Rift Valley which is south of Lake Naivasha. It is one of the most popular, amazing, and atmospheric Parks in Africa due to its spectacular scenic beauty including water-gouged gorges, towering cliffs, scrub-clad volcanoes, rock towers, and more. This National Park offers a remarkable climbing wall which is very beneficial for rock climbing along with offering the thrilling experience of climbing through tough pitches within the rocks. It is a vast area covering 68.25 square kilometers which are characterized by geological scenery as well as diverse topography. This park is just 90 km away from Nairobi making it an ideal addition to an African safari trip. So, if you have a wish list to visit this mesmerizing Hells Gate National Park then contacting one of the best tourism companies is a must.

What are the different activities that the visitors can enjoy at Hells Gate National Park?

Travelers always prefer to visit Hells Gate National Park not only for enjoying the spectacular view but also for experiencing various activities that are depicted below:

  • Rock Climbing: It is one of the most liked activities in the park. The most popular for beginners for rock climbing is Fischer’s Tower but skilled climbers opt for the Main Wall. Interested travelers are provided with an entire climbing kit including rope, stoppers, friends, helmet, seat harness, and carabiners along with a professional guide by the tour operators.
  • Cycling: It is another thrilling activity that travelers love to do at the Hells Gate National Park in Africa. It is the most satisfying way of exploring this National Park. This activity also offers personal contact and interaction with the flora and fauna of the park.

hells gate national park

  • Moreover, cycling through the Buffalo cycling circuit provides breathtaking views of Mt. Suswa, Lake Naivasha, and Mt. Longonot.
  • Trekking: It is also a favorite activity of the adventure-lovers. This activity is opted for by travelers to enjoy the wildlife outside of the city along with keeping themselves fit. This trekking journey starts from the main gate of the park known as Elsa Gate to the main valley of the park and the best part is that trekkers can enjoy fantastic views while trekking.
  • Bird Watching: This National Park is an absolute must-visit for all birders around the world. Since it is home to more than 100 species of birds so travelers enjoy having beautiful bird life.

With Ice Rock Trekking, you will get different trekking and safari packages covering the national parks of Kenya including Hell Gate. Choose your package or ask them to change the itinerary as per your choice. You will be able to cover the best of all national parks.

End Note

Are you thinking to visit Hells Gate National Park in Africa? Do not worry when one of the most trustworthy tourism companies like Ice Rock Trekking is here to guide and arrange everything as per your desire.

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