Exploring Kilimanjaro: A Guide to Trekking Routes

Posted on May 18, 2024 by Brain Pulse

Kilimanjaro is the tallest freestanding mountain in the world and is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Mt. Kilimajaro is popularly called the “roof of Africa”. It’s natural beauty is mesmerizing. Located in Tanzania, there are several trekking routes available, each with its unique charm and challenges.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner explorer, Kilimanjaro has something to offer for everyone. Here, we will explore three of the most popular Kilimanjaro trekking routes: Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho.

Marangu Route

The Marangu route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is a popular choice for those who prefer a less challenging climb up Kilimanjaro. This route is the only one that has sleeping huts along the way, providing shelter, and eliminating the need for camping gear. It is a gradual ascent, which allows for better acclimatization, but it also means encountering more fellow trekkers.

One of the main highlights of the Marangu route is that it passes through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts. Trekkers will have the opportunity to enjoy stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes as they make their way up to Uhuru Peak.

Although it is considered the easiest route among the Kilimanjaro trekking routes, it is still essential to prepare adequately for the altitude and physical demands of the climb.

Machame-Mweka Route

If you are looking for a more challenging and picturesque trek, the Machame route is an excellent option. It is also known as the “Whiskey” route and offers breathtaking views and a more diverse terrain compared to the Marangu route. During the trek, you will pass through dense forests, rocky ridges, and vast moorlands, offering a varied and immersive experience. Ou will ascend through Machame route but descend through Mweka route.

The Machame route is popular for its steep ascent, which requires a good level of fitness and stamina. However, the stunning views and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit make it all worthwhile. With proper preparation and pacing, trekkers can conquer the formidable Uhuru Peak and witness the sunrise over the vast African plains.

Kilimanjaro

Lemosho Route

The Lemosho route is known to be one of the most picturesque and least crowded routes for trekking. It offers a more secluded and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. Trekkers on this route get to enjoy stunning vistas, pristine wilderness, and diverse ecosystems. The gradual ascent profile allows for better acclimatization and increases the chances of a successful summit bid.

The Lemosho route approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, providing ample time for trekkers to adapt to the altitude and soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Trekkers traverse through dense rainforests, alpine meadows, and rugged terrain, encountering a rich array of flora and fauna on their journey. The route joins the Machame route at Shira Plateau, offering trekkers a combined experience of both routes as they ascend towards the summit.

Choose the most trusted tour and trekking operator

Ice Rock Trekking is a popular name in this domain. They offer complete package tours and trekking with experienced guides and all necessary gear and articles. Ice Rock Trekking arranges trekking through all these three popular routes in Kilimanjaro.

Kilimanjaro trekking routes come with their unique characteristics and challenges. Embarking on a Kilimanjaro trek can be an unforgettable experience, whether you opt for the comfort of the Marangu route, the adventure of the Machame route, or the serenity of the Lemosho route. Remember to pack wisely, stay hydrated, and take it one step at a time as you journey towards the roof of Africa.

Mount Kilimanjaro: One of The Most Coveted Destinations of trekkers

Posted on January 5, 2024February 8, 2024 by Brain Pulse

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:

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.
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.
Lemosho route:This route requires more time to climb but it provides a different range of ecosystems and stunning scenic beauty.
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.
Northern Circuit route: This is the longest route and it provides excellent acclimatization.
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.

Climbing Batian via North Face Standard Route with Ice Rock Trekking

Posted on December 19, 2023 by Brain Pulse

Ice Rock Trekking is one of the foremost Trekking Expedition organizers of Mount Kenya. We are well-known for providing some of the best trekking experiences to people from around the world. One of our famous routes is the Batian Climb. We prefer to design the trek route from the North Face of Mount Kenya. This is the standard route to Batian attempted via the North side of the mountain, as the most direct route to Mount Kenya’s summit.

Hardness Level of the Batian Route

The Batian Climb is technically harder than the normal route. It involves some harder pitches. The Normal route climb can be broken up into several sections. The Bivvy here is often taken in the large Amphitheater before heading to the first light summit.

Details of the Batian Climb

The North Face route starts from Kami Hut in the Shipton camp. To get to the top, it will take you 7 to 8 days, which will include two days of climbing. When on North Face, you must stay overnight at the Firmin Tower by putting a tent or bivouac. For this trek, climbers don’t need crampons. In case you want to traverse the “Gates of Mist” to Nelion, then crampons are a must.

The First Ascent of the North Face to Batian was done by Arthur Firmin

In 1944, PH Hicks made a very daring attempt with two brave and internationally famous mountaineers to climb the Bation. Thereafter, the climbing duo would go on to complete several other ascents on Mount Kenya.

Batian Climb

About the Climb

The Ice Rock Trekking follows the North Face standard route from the North Side to reach the Batian summit. The Summit of the Batian is situated at 5199m or 17,057 feet in height. It has a technical grade of 4+. The best season to make the climb is July, August, and September. The length of the pitches is 600m with 24 pitches in total, and the duration of the climb is ten hours. This will include one overnight stay and 5 hour’s descent to the climb base.

Things to take care of:

Every climber is recommended to carry their supply for the trek, as these equipment are indispensable for the trek:

Harness
Climbing Boots
Crampons
Ice Axe
Warm Sleeping Bag
Bivvy Bag
Light Tent

Some of the other climbing equipment needed is friends (chuckles), the figure of eight, stoppers. The tour guide will provide you with the ropes for the trek.

Ice Rock Trekking is a premier Travel and Expeditions Company that offers trekking services to Mount Kenya as well as Mount Kilimanjaro. We arrange technical climbing guides for the main peaks of Batian. As a professional tour company, headed by Mr. Joseph Muthui Gathu, we are well-versed in dispensing our services effectively to our clients. Mr. Joseph Muthui Gathu is a well-known former member of the Mt Kenya Rescue Team. He has graduated from the American National Outdoor Leadership School, colloquially known as N.O.L.S.

Ice Rock Trekking for Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour Package

Posted on October 25, 2023October 25, 2023 by Brain Pulse

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Posted on October 23, 2023October 23, 2023 by Brain Pulse

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

Posted on August 24, 2023 by Brain Pulse

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.

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

Posted on July 14, 2023 by Brain Pulse

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.

How to Prepare Yourself for the Hiking Trip to Kilimanjaro Uhuru Peak?

Posted on July 5, 2023 by Brain Pulse

Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most famous bucket list destinations for hikers and climbers. Uhuru Peak is located at 5,895 meters above sea level and it is considered Africa’s highest free-standing peak. Every year more than 20,000-30,00 hikers target to reach Kilimanjaro Uhuru peak. This peak is located on the Kibo which is the highest among the three peaks that make Mt. Kilimanjaro. The name of this peak was given when Tanzania got independence in 1961. The meaning of the word Uhuru is freedom.

The beauty of Kilimanjaro Uhuru peak

When the travelers reach the highest point of Africa, along with enjoying the scenic beauty, they also get a sense of accomplishment which can be described as a spiritual experience where the travelers get the chance to feel nature and the universe.

The mind-blowing views of snow-capped peaks will make you mesmerized. When the sun rises, the views look just mesmerizing.

Kilimanjaro Uhuru Peak allows inexperienced hikers to experience the scenic beauty of nature beautifully. Moreover, travelers get the chance to see the world from a different perspective.

Mount Kilimanjaro

How can you prepare yourself for the hiking trip to Uhuru?

Although hiking up Kilimanjaro doesn’t require any serious climbing skills, it is essential to prepare thoroughly for the trip to reach the Uhuru peak successfully.

You need to pack sensibly

While it is essential to pack the absolutely necessary things, you need to also be concerned about your comfort level. You need to pack such clothes that can be easily layered for meeting the challenge of fluctuating temperatures. Make sure that you are carrying sleeping bags and an air mattress. Don’t forget to carry a water bottle. Try to drink around 3-4 liters of water every day.

Try to build up endurance

Before the trip, you need to consider a few simple endurance as well as strength training. Walk every day with weighted packs so that it can help to stimulate the day-to-day treks required for this tour.

Do proper research regarding when to plan the trip

Although there are different tours available throughout the year, different times of year suit different travelers. However, the best time for this trip is January through early March and June through October.

Trust an experienced trekking and tour organizer

Trekking is popular worldwide. Passionate trekkers move from place to place around the world to experience trekking in different locations. Of course, Kilimanjaro is a popular choice of trekkers. You need an experienced organizer that can provide all sorts of services during trekking.

If you want to climb Kilimanjaro Uhuru Peak, you can contact Ice Rock Trekking, a renowned travel and trekking organizer in Africa that offers trekking expeditions to both Mount Kilimanjaro and Kenya. To get a safe and guided tour experience, don’t forget to contact this company which provides onsite guiding and safe route descriptions. Clear all doubts, avail the best services, and proceed for the mind-blowing experience at Kilimanjaro.