MOUNTAIN TREKS ROUTES

KILIMANJARO ROUTES:

MOUNTAIN TREK INFO

What to pack when climbing mountains

(NOTE: THE 5 DAY OPTION JOINING DAYS 4 & 5)

This route has a moderate slope, makes it less difficult to climb, nick named “The Coca cola route”. It is the most popular route up to summit Kilimanjaro and is the only route on Kilimanjaro with huts, having dormitory and dining rooms.

ARRIVAL TO TANZANIA

On your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport a member of our staff will pick you up and accompany you to your Hotel.

DAY 1: ARUSHA ( OR MOSHI) – MARANGU GATE TO MANDARA HUT

Elevation: 1200m to 1847m to 2709m.

Distance: 9 km

Hiking time: 4-5 hours.

Habitat: Mountain forest.

A drive through Kilimanjaro’s semi-tropical foothills will get us to Marangu Gate (1847m.), where we enter Kilimanjaro National Park and start our climb. Today’s trek takes 4-5 hours through tropical rainforest to reach Mandara Hut (2709m.).

DAY 2: MANDARA HUTS TO HOROMBO HUT

Elevation: 2709m to 3720m

Distance: 13 km

Hiking time: 5-7 hours.

Habitat: Desert.

The day starts with a fairly steep climb through the last of the rainforest up to alpine meadows dotted with giant heather. Further on, the environment changes to open heath with stunted vegetation before opening out to bleak moorland. Today you will gain approximately 1,000m in altitude, so walk slowly in order to acclimatize properly. It is normally a 6-7 hour hike to reach Horombo Hut (3720m.).

DAY 3: FULL DAY AT HOROMBO HUT

Spend an extra day here at Horombo for acclimatization purposes. This day you will hike to Mawenzi Ridge or Zebra Rock to have your body adjust to higher altitudes. After this session you will return back to Horombo hut for lunch and resting until dinner and overnight.

DAY 4: HOROMBO HUT TO KIBO HUT

Elevation: 3720m to 4708m

Distance: 13 km

Hiking time: 5-7 hours.

Habitat: Desert.

The terrain now becomes progressively more rocky and rugged and giant groundsels and lobelias make their appearance. The trail skirts Mawenzi Peak , before crossing a stark, almost lunar landscape and the tundra desert of ‘the saddle”. We will arrive at Kibo Hut (4708m.) where you should make this an early night – your attempt on Uhuru Peak starts at midnight.

DAY 5: KIBO HUT – SUMMIT, UHURU PEAK – HOROMBO HUT

Elevation: 4708m to 5895m to 3720m

Distance: 4 km up, 14 km down

Hiking time: 10-15 hours.

Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Soon after midnight, you will be awakened to start the zigzag trek up a long scree slope. After roughly two hours you should reach Hans Meyer’s Cave and from here the gradient gets steeper. Continue your climb for approximately another 3 hours to Gilman’s Point 5861 m/18640 ft and you will be rewarded by the dramatic sight of the rising sun reflecting off the ice fields and craggy peaks of Mawenzi. Walk along the crater rim for another couple of hours to reach your goal – Uhuru Peak, towering at 5895m. (19340 ft.). After congratulating yourself and your companions on this great achievement, descend to Kibo Hut for rest and refreshment before continuing to Horombo Hut for your last night on the mountain.

DAY 6: HOROMBO HUT TO MARANGU GATE

Elevation: 3720m to 1847m

Distance: 22 km

Hiking time: 5-7 hours.

Habitat: Mountain Forest.

After a leisurely breakfast, make your final descent across the alpine meadow, past Mandara Hut and on down through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where your driver and vehicle will be waiting to take you back to the hotel where it is definitely time for certificate presentation and celebration!

HAVE A SAFE TRIP HOME OR CONTINUE LIVING THE DREAM WITH AMAZING SAFARI EXTENSIONS

(NOTE: THE 6 DAY OPTION JOINING DAYS 4 & 5)

Machame is a challenging and at times steep trek with stunning scenery as it traverses through Kilimanjaros 5 diverse climatic zones. This route provides the opportunity to “trek high and sleep low” which is considered important in minimizing the potential for altitude sickness. The climb starts above the picturesque mountain village of Machame to the south of Kilimanjaro. After passing through the Machame forest and into the moorland zone, we scramble up and over some rocks and eventually emerge onto the Shira Plateau. We then advance counter-clockwise traversing below the southern face of Kibo, climb Lava Tower for magnificent 360 degree panoramas, ascend the Great Barranco Wall, a challenging and exhilarating rock scramble, and approach Uhuru Summit from Barafu or Kossovo Camp and the ridge that abuts the Southeast Valley. The climb from Barafu offers incredible views of Mawenzi Peak and Kilimanjaro’s remnant volcanic cone.

DAY 1: ARUSHA (OR MOSHI) – MACHAME GATE TO MACHAME CAMP

On your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport a member of our staff will pick you up and accompany you to your Hotel.

DAY 1: ARUSHA (OR MOSHI) – MACHAME GATE TO MACHAME CAMP

Elevation: 1200m to 1950m to 3033m.

Distance: 13 km

Hiking time: 5-7 hours.

Habitat: Mountain forest.

Depart Machame Gate and trek upwards through the mountain rainforest, characterized by dense vegetation, a muddy trail and short sections of steep climbs. Our first campsite, Machame Camp (3033m, 5h.), is right after the dense tree cover.

DAY 2: MACHAME CAMP TO SHIRA CAVE

Elevation: 3033m to 3750m

Distance: 10 km

Hiking time: 7 hours.

Habitat: Moorland.

A hike through increasingly sparse trees and bushes into moorlands. Picturesque hanging mosses often cover trees offering an ethereal quality to the landscape. The day finishes with Shira Camp, which is on a small plateau in the high moorlands, and features views of Kibo in the northwest and Mount Meru to the east.

DAY 3: SHIRA CAVE TO BARRANCO CAMP

Elevation: 3750m to 3976m

Distance: 13 km

Hiking time: 5-7 hours.

Habitat: Moorland.

An ascent of a rocky path to the Lava Tower (4637m) for lunch from where a steep descent of more than 600m. will lead us into the Great Barranco Valley. You will also feel the clear benefits of this acclimatization day as we lose altitude.Barranco Camp (3976m, 5h.) is set on a col (flat area) enclosed on three sides by the Breach Wall and the Kibo Massif itself.

DAY 4: BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP

Elevation: 3976m to 4033m

Distance: 6 km

Hiking time: 4-5 hours.

Habitat: Moorland.

Today we undertake the Great Barranco Wall – an imposing face above Barranco camp. A steady climb up the eastern wall takes us just below the Heim Glacier. Our trail continues down into the alpine desert of the Karanga Valley, where we finish this second acclimatization day at Karanga Camp (4033m, 4h.).

DAY 5: KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP

Elevation: 3976m to 4673m

Distance: 8 km

Hiking time: 3-4 hours.

Habitat: Alpine Desert.

The trail continues down into the alpine desert of the Karanga Valley where we follow the trail climbing through this barren and dry landscape up to the Barafu camp (4673m, 3h.) Barafu is the Swahili word for “ice”. In preparation for your final ascent tonight, you will familiarize yourself with the terrain before dark, and prepare your equipment and thermal clothing for the summit attempt.

DAY 6: BARAFU CAMP TO UHURU PEAK TO MWEKA CAMP

Elevation: 4676m to 5895m to 3068m

Расстояние: 15 km

Hiking time: 11-14 hours.

Habitat: Desert and ice.

We will rise early to leave camp at around 12am and after a warm drink and a light snack, you will begin the most difficult though most rewarding day of the trek – a hike to the roof of Africa. After approximately 6 hours of slow but strenuous hiking, you will reach the rim of the main crater, Stella Point, at 5685m. From Stella Point the trail is normally snow-covered, passing alongside the iridescent blue Rebmann and Tarzel glaciers we reach Elveda Point (5882) we can see Uhuru Peak now only minutes away. The roof of Africa is within your grasp. Once reaching the summit (5895m.), and spend some time there, we will start our way down through Barafu camp and all the way down to spend the night in Mweka Camp (3068m, 11-14h.).

DAY 7: MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE-ARUSHA OR MOSHI

Elevation: 3068m to 1700m

Distance: 9 km

Hiking time: 3-4 hours.

Habitat: Mountain forest.

The trail descends steeply through the lush Mweka rain forest. The route follows the crest of a broad ridge separating two river leading to the Mweka Park Gates (3-4h.) where we stop for a well-deserved picnic lunch where successful hikers will receive their summit certificates (gold for Uhuru Peak, Green for Stella point) from the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority. Post celebrations, we are taken by either private jeep /bus and then drive back to Arusha or Moshi and drop off.

HAVE A SAFE TRIP HOME OR CONTINUE LIVING THE DREAM WITH AMAZING SAFARI EXTENSIONS

The least travelled route. Originally the trail began right at the Kenyan border, though recently the trail was moved eastwards and now starts at the Tanzanian town of Loitokitok, after which the new trail has been named (most trekkers refer to this trail as the Rongai Route). As this is an isolated route less frequented by trekkers, it is likely that you will encounter wildlife, as animals tend to gather where humans don’t.

ARRIVAL TO TANZANIA

On your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport a member of our staff will pick you up and accompany you to your Hotel.

DAY 1: ARUSHA (MOSHI) – LOITOKITOK GATE TO SIMBA CAMP

Elevation: 1200m to 1950m to 2633m.

Distance: 9 km

Hiking time: 4 hours.

Habitat: Mountain forest.

ПAfter breakfast, we begin the drive from Arusha (or Moshi) and approach Kilimanjaro in a counter clockwise direction around the eastern flank of Kilimanjaro through Chagga villages that cling to the mountain slope, up to the border with Kenya before turning in to the Loitokitok Gate. Our ascent begins in at the small village of Nalemoru 1950m (6400ft) following a trail that winds through lush farmland, pine and cypress forests before ascending into the thick rainforest zone where you may see troupes of black and white colobus monkeys. We set camp at the edge of the Mooreland zone where the rainforest begins to thin out and panoramic views of the Kenyan plains unfold.

DAY 2: SIMBA CAMP TO KIKELELWA CAVE CAMP

Elevation: 2633m to 3665m

Distance: 17 km

Hiking time: 7 hours.

Habitat: Moorland.

The trek begins with a steady ascent up to the ‘Second Cave’ with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim. After stopping for lunch, we leave the main trail and set out across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. Our campsite is in a sheltered valley near Kikelewa Caves

DAY 3: KIKELELWA CAMP TO MAWENZI TARN HUT

Elevation: 3665m to 4308m

Distance: 7 km

Hiking time: 4 hours.

Habitat: Semi-Desert.

Our trek today starts gently before a short but steep climb through a forest of senecios before emerging onto the highland desert zone. The steep Western slopes of Mawenzi rise abruptly from the surrounding flatness to numerous craggy peaks, the highest point being Hans Meyer peak at a height of 5149m. Our camp is spectacularly situated in a valley directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi, offering stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo.

DAY 4: MAWENZI TARN HUT TO SCHOOL HUT

Elevation: 4308 to 4710m

Distance: 8 km

Hiking time: 5 hours.

Habitat: Alpine Desert.

We leave camp the way we had come the previous afternoon. Once at the top of the ridge we walk along the undulating trail through the foothills of Mawenzi till we get to the saddle. The saddle is the barren alpine desert between Kibo and Mawenzi. The trails steepens from here on and the going slows down. After stopping for lunch, we continue our steep ascent for the next 2.5 hrs until we arrive at School Hut. The remainder of the day is spent hydrating, eating and taking in our amazing Kibo panorama before retiring early in preparation for the final ascent to summit.

DAY 5: SCHOOL HUT TO UHURU PEAK TO HOROMBO HUT

Elevation: 4710m to 5895m to 3720m

Distance: 4 km up, 14 km down

Hiking time: 10-15 hours.

Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Soon after midnight, you will be awakened to start the zigzag trek up a long scree slope. After roughly two hours you should reach Hans Meyer’s Cave and from here the gradient gets steeper. Continue your climb for approximately another 3 hours to Gilman’s Point 5861 m/18640 ft and you will be rewarded by the dramatic sight of the rising sun reflecting off the ice fields and craggy peaks of Mawenzi. Walk along the crater rim for another couple of hours to reach your goal – Uhuru Peak, towering at 5895m. (19340 ft.). After congratulating yourself and your companions on this great achievement, descend to Kibo Hut for rest and refreshment before continuing to Horombo Hut for your last night on the mountain.

DAY 6: HOROMBO HUT TO MARANGU GATE

Elevation: 3720m to 1847m

Distance: 22 km

Hiking time: 5-7 hours.

Habitat: Mountain forest.

After a leisurely breakfast, make your final descent across the alpine meadow, past Mandara Hut and on down through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where your driver and vehicle will be waiting to take you to back to the hotel where it is definitely time for certificate presentation and celebration!

HAVE A SAFE TRIP HOME OR CONTINUE LIVING THE DREAM WITH AMAZING SAFARI EXTENSIONS

A pioneering route around Kilimanjaro, with optimum acclimatisation and captivating views.

ARRIVAL TO TANZANIA

On your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport a member of our staff will pick you up and accompany you to your Hotel.

DAY 1: ARUSHA (OR MOSHI) – LONDROSSI GATE TO MTI MKUBWA CAMP

Elevation: 1200m-2250m-2750m.

Distance: 8 km Hiking time: 3-4 hours. Habitat: Mountain forest. After breakfast we travel by 4wd to Londrossi gate (2250m.)where you will meet your guides and mountain crew. We take care of all national park formalities, registering all climbers and weighing all duffle bags to ensure the load carried by each porter does not exceed the mandatory 20kgs limit. Depending on your program and weather conditions we may take lunch at the gate. After completing the registration process at Londrossi Gate we drive for 11kms along narrow dirt roads through pine plantations, gradually climbing to the Lemosho Glades where we begin our trek. A hike uphill through the thick and montane forest where you may meet some wild animals will lead us to Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite, (2750m, 3h.)

DAY 2: MTI MKUBWA CAMP TO SHIRA CAMP

Elevation: 2750m to 3511m

Distance: 12 km Hiking time: 6-7 hours. Habitat: Mountain forest – Moorland. The trail gradually steepens and enters the giant heather moorland zone then crosses the Shira Ridge at about 3600m to drop gently down to Shira 1 camp located by a stream on the Shira Plateau (3511m, 6 hours). The Shira Plateau ,with an average height of 3810m, extends for about 13 kms to the west of Kilimanjaro. It is a caldera, a collapsed volcanic crater.

DAY 3: SHIRA 1 CAMP TO MOIR HUT

Elevation: 3511m to 4165m

Distance: 9 km Hiking time: 5-6 hours. Habitat: Alpine desert. A walk into the barren high altitude desert towards the natural landmark called Shark’s Tooth. We gain altitude slowly and continue to acclimatize.We walk up a ridge and into a valley, which we then ascend to Moir Hut camp (4165m, 5 – 6h.) just below the Lent Group, a collection of massive volcanic dykes.

DAY 4, MOIR HUT TO POFU CAMP

Elevation: 4175m to 4027m

Distance: 10 km Hiking time: 5-7 hours. Habitat: Semi-Desert. The path goes around Kibo’s northern face, with many ascents and descents until reaching Pofu campsite (4027m, 5 – 7h.) on a remote rocky ridge.

DAY 5, POFU CAMP TO THIRD CAVE CAMP

Elevation: 4020m-39520m

Distance: 8 km Hiking time: 5-6 hours. Habitat: Alpine desert. Hiking around the little visited northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, still ascending and descending frequently as you pass through a mixture of rocky alpine desert and sparse moorland. Once reaching Third Cave Camp (3952m, 5 – 6h.) the Northern Circuit is completed.

DAY 6, THIRD CAVE CAMP TO SCHOOL HUTS

Elevation: 3952m-4710m

Distance: 5 km Hiking time: 4-5 hours. Habitat: Alpine.

A day of a sharp ascent up to School Hut (4710m, 4 – 5h.), with an altitude gain of approximately 780m School hut itself is a mountain training facility for park rangers and is in an impressive position with wonderful views of Kibo Peak.

DAY 7, SCHOOL HUTS TO SUMMIT TO MWEKA CAMP

Elevation: 4710m – summit 5895m – 3068m> Distance: 17.5 km Hiking time: 17-18 hours. Habitat: Mountain forest.

We will rise early to leave camp at around 12am and after a warm drink and a light snack, you will begin the most difficult though most rewarding day of the trek – a hike to the roof of Africa.

After approximately 6 hours of slow but strenuous hiking, you will reach the rim of the main crater, Stella Point, at 5685m. From Stella Point the trail is normally snow-covered, passing alongside the iridescent blue Rebmann and Tarzel glaciers we reach Elveda Point (5882) we can see Uhuru Peak now only minutes away. The roof of Africa is within your grasp. Once reaching the summit, and spend some time there, we will start our way down through Barafu camp and all the way down to spend the night in Mweka Camp (3068m, 11-14h.).

DAY 8: MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE-ARUSHA (OR MOSHI)

Elevation: 3068m – 1652m

Distance: 6 km Hiking time: 3-4 hours. Habitat: Mountain forest. The trail descends steeply through the lush Mweka rain forest. The route follows the crest of a broad ridge separating two river leading to the Mweka Park Gates (3-4h.) where we stop for a well-deserved picnic lunch where successful hikers will receive their summit certificates (gold for Uhuru Peak, Green for Stella point) from the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority. Post celebrations, we are taken by either private jeep /bus and then drive back to Arusha and drop off.

HAVE A SAFE TRIP HOME OR CONTINUE LIVING THE DREAM WITH AMAZING SAFARI EXTENSIONS

(NOTE: THE 3 DAY OPTION JOINS DAYS 3 & 4)

This wonderfully tranquil and extremely scenic mountain offers adventurers a rich and varied wilderness experience with incredible sightings of wildlife including buffalo grazing, black and white colobus monkey, baboon, warthog, elephant and giraffe.

ARRIVAL TO TANZANIA

On your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport a member of our staff will pick you up and accompany you to your Hotel.

DAY 1: ARUSHA TO MOMELLA GATE TO MIRIAKAMBA HUT

Elevation: 1650m – 2516m.

Distance: 10 km* Hiking time: 4-5 hours. Habitat: Mountain forest.

We will leave Arusha after breakfast to drive to Momella Gate, Arusha National Park. Where we complete registration formalities and a national park ranger is assigned to accompany our group.

Setting off from Momella Gate, we take the southern route known for its abundant wildlife. The track passes through open grassland where there is the possibility of spotting buffalo grazing in one of the clearings. The fortunate few may see giraffe and elephants. The forest section is especially scenic at this part of the trek, with strangler figs, wild mango, African olive and wild elder. Birdlife is abundant with common sightings of Hartlaub’s turaco, olive pigeon, white fronted bee eaters, fiscal shrike, stone chat, variable sunbirds and the tropical boubou. The path crosses the Ngare Nanyuki river just above the Maio Waterfalls climbing steadily through lush montane forest until we reach the “Fig Tree” (famous for the roadway passing through it) where we enjoy our well-deserved lunch. After lunch, the canopy begins to thin and around 2300m the higher montane forest begins and is home to juniper and podo trees while beautiful wild flowers such as the empetient species, red-hot poker, orchids, fire ball lily and gladiolus adorn the trail. By mid-afternoon the path clears and we encounter the first close views of the towering cliffs of Mt Meru and the stunning ash cone. Miriakampa Hut (2514m.), situated in idyllic grassy glade, is reached in time to enjoy the afternoon sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro. From here we can go on an evening game walk in hopes of watching some wildlife at one of the watering holes in the crater.

DAY 2: MIRIAKAMBA HUT TO SADDLE HUT

Elevation: 2516m – 3570m

Distance: 4 km Hiking time: 3-4 hours. Habitat: Heath.

The track from Miriakampa Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a steep sustained trek. Passing the halfway point of Mgongo wa Tembo (Elephant Back Ridge) we pass through giant heather and moorland vegetation. The last steps of the stage reach the alpine zone of Saddle Hut (3570 m) walking on sand and ashes. In the afternoon, trekkers feeling energetic can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3820 m/ 12,533 ft) for superb views of Socialist Peak and the steep winding trail that awaits us the next morning. The round trip ascent of Little Meru takes 1-1.5 hours.

DAY 3: SADDLE HUT TO SUMMIT TO MIRIAKAMBA HUT

Elevation: 3750m – summit 4566m – 2516m

Distance: 5km ascent + 15 km decent. Hiking time: 4-5hours ascent + 6-8 hours descent. Habitat: Alpine desert. At around 3am we rise, put on all our warm clothes and enjoy a hot cup of tea or chocolate before setting out on the trail. The first hour is a steep climb to Rhino Point (3800m/12,467ft), and then the path continues along a narrow but spectacular ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4350m/14,272ft).

The summit is now within our reach and after an hour of climbing and light scrambling over rocks and boulder we look up to see the summit flag beckoning us onwards and upwards. Arriving at the summit we are greeted with stunning views of the crater rim, the spectacular ash cone rising from the crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds just 70km away, and the Rift Valley in the distance. After soaking up the magnificent vistas and celebrating our summit success we begin our descent where we may encounter the delicately-hoofed klipspringers bounding from rock to rock in the early morning light. The route back to Rhino Point in the sharp morning light traverses a narrow ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater and the sheer cliffs of the inner wall is one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa. Arriving at Saddle Hut mid-morning, we enjoy a sumptuous brunch before retracing our steps to Miriakamba Hut for Lunch, dinner and overnight

DAY 4: MIRIAKAMBA HUT TO MOMELLA GATE-ARUSHA

Elevation: 2516m – 1650m

Distance: 10 km Hiking time: 3-4 hours. Habitat: Mountain forest.

After a leisurely morning we complete our 2-3 hour descent taking the direct route through open grassland and mixed forest, with good chances of seeing wildlife. The northern trail has excellent views back towards the crater, Momella Lakes and over the plains of the national park. By late morning we reach Momella Gate and receive our summit certificates, say farewell to our crew and have time for a short picnic lunch and game drive before returning to Arusha for a well-deserved shower and fresh clothes.

HAVE A SAFE TRIP HOME OR CONTINUE LIVING THE DREAM WITH AMAZING SAFARI EXTENSIONS

Ol Doinyo Lengai, “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language, is an active volcano located in the Gregory Rift, south of Lake Natron within the Arusha Region of Tanzania, Africa. It forms part of the volcanic system of the East African Rift, height 2962 m. (9715 ft.) Ol Doinyo Lengai, the “Mountain of God,” is a sacred site for the Maasai people who believe that the god Eng’ai dwells within the majestic landmark, triggering eruptions and drought when he is dissatisfied. The Maasai honour their God with a long pilgrimage to the mountain to celebrate fat_list_header_get_quotes_button_click blessings of rain, cattle and children, and women who are unable to have children are taken to the mountain by elders to receive the Eng’ai’s blessing of motherhood. The power of Ol Doinyo Lengai captures every safari visitor on a Great Rift Valley safari in Lake Natron.

Ol Doinyo Lengai is an extremely fascinating volcano: it is the only active volcano known to erupt carbonatite lava, a sensational discovery scientists made as recently as in the 1960s: the lavas it erupts are NOT melts based on silica, but on natroncarbonate! Thus, the temperatures of these lavas are much lower, “only” about 510 °C (950 °F).., and Lengai’s lava does not emit enough light to glow during day,- only at night, a dull reddish glow that does not illuminate anything is visible. Also because of its peculiar chemical composition, the lava is extremely fluid and behaves very much like water, with the exception that it is black like oil. After it is cooled down it quickly alters and becomes a whitish powder. The sodium and potassium carbonate minerals of the lavas erupted at Ol Doinyo Lengai are unstable at the Earth’s surface and susceptible to rapid weathering, quickly turning from black to grey in colour. The resulting volcanic landscape is different from any other in the world.

Elevation: 1200m-2962m.

Distance: 10 km Ascending time: 6-7 hours. Descending time: 5-6 hours.

Every rugged trip to Ol Doinyo Lengai offers a once-in-a-lifetime geological journey through nature’s own volcanic sculptures. When you include the Mountain of God in your adventure holidays to Tanzania, you should bring some essential items for your comfort and safety. The climb is quite challenging, though not compared to Mount Kilimanjaro and Meru, with the ascent on some parts crawling on hands and feet taking at least six hours and the descent taking at least four hours. Climbs up the mountain begin at night, so you should have a headlamp and wear layered clothing as the temperature rises during the day. Take the time during your climb to gaze at the stunning star-filled sky! Other items that you should bring for your climbing vacation to Tanzania are energy bars, climbing stick, gloves and hiking shoes that have a good grip.

HAVE A SAFE TRIP HOME OR CONTINUE LIVING THE DREAM WITH AMAZING SAFARI EXTENSIONS

TECHNICAL CLOTHING:

Below is a list of highly recommend items. Required items are indicated with an *. Please know the weather is very unpredictable and temperatures can fall as low as -25. We recommend it is always better to be over, than under prepared. Any items you do not wish to purchase or bring from home can be hired here from local gear shops specializing in quality imported items. A price list of each item is available upon request.

• Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood*
• Weather rated Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down *
• Soft Jacket, fleece or soft-shell
• Long sleeve shirts: light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric (2)
• Short sleeve shirts: light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric (2)
• Waterproof Pants, breathable*
• Hiking Pants (convertible to shorts recommended) (2)
• Fleece Pants
• Shorts (optional)
• Long Underwear (moisture-wicking fabric recommended) (2)
• Underwear, briefs (moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
• Sport Bra (women)

FOOTWEAR:

• Hiking Boots, warm, waterproof, broken-in, with spare laces
• Gym Shoes, to wear at camp (optional)
• Socks, thick, wool or synthetic (3-5)
• Sock Liners, tight, thin, synthetic, worn under socks to prevent blisters (3-5)
• Gaiters, waterproof – highly recommended to prevent loose gravel and sand

EQUIPMENT:

• Sleeping Bag, warm, four season rated*
• Sleeping Bag Liner, for added warmth (optional)
• Trekking Poles (highly recommended)
• Head lamp, with extra batteries*
• Duffel bag, for porters to carry your equipment*
• Daypack, for you to carry your personal gear*

PAPERWORK:

• Visa (available upon arrival )
• Trip Receipt
• Passport
• Yellow fever vaccination card
• Insurance Documents

HEADWEAR:

• Brimmed Hat, for sun protection
• Knit Hat, for warmth
• Balaclava, for face coverage (highly recommended)
• Bandana (optional)

ACCESSORIES:

• Sunglasses or Goggles
• Backpack Cover, waterproof*
• Poncho, during rainy season (optional)
• Water Bottle* (Nalgene recommended, must have 2-3 Liters combined)
• Water Bladder* Camelback type – note disposable plastic bottles are not allowed on the mountain per National Park regulations
• Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (optional)
• Pee Bottle, to avoid leaving tent at night (highly recommended)
• Stuff Sacks or Plastic Bags, various sizes, to keep gear dry and separate

OTHER:

• Toiletries
• Medications
• Sunscreen*
• Lip Balm
• Insect Repellent, containing DEET
• First Aid Kit
• Hand Sanitizer*
• Toilet Paper
• Wet Wipes
• Snacks, light-weight, high calorie, high energy
• Camera, with extra batteries

WHAT IS HIGH ALTITUDE?

Altitude is defined on the following scale High (8,000 – 12,000 feet [2,438 – 3,658 meters]), Very High (12,000 – 18,000 feet [3,658 – 5,487 meters]), and Extremely High (18,000+ feet [5,500+ meters]). Since few people have been to such altitudes, it is hard to know who may be affected. There are no specific factors such as age, sex, or physical condition that correlate with susceptibility to altitude sickness. Some people get it and some people don’t, and some people are more susceptible than others. Most people can go up to 8,000 feet (2,438 meters) with minimal effect. If you haven’t been to high altitude before, it’s important to be cautious. If you have been at that altitude before with no problem, you can probably return to that altitude without problems as long as you are properly acclimatized.

WHAT CAUSES ALTITUDE ILLNESSES

The concentration of oxygen at sea level is about 21% and the barometric pressure averages 760 mmHg. As altitude increases, the concentration remains the same but the number of oxygen molecules per breath is reduced. At 12,000 feet (3,658 meters) the barometric pressure is only 483 mmHg, so there are roughly 40% fewer oxygen molecules per breath. In order to properly oxygenate the body, your breathing rate (even while at rest) has to increase. This extra ventilation increases the oxygen content in the blood, but not to sea level concentrations. Since the amount of oxygen required for activity is the same, the body must adjust to having less oxygen. In addition, for reasons not entirely understood, high altitude and lower air pressure causes fluid to leak from the capillaries which can cause fluid build-up in both the lungs and the brain. Continuing to higher altitudes without proper acclimatization can lead to potentially serious, even life-threatening illnesses.

ACCLIMATIZATION

The major cause of altitude illnesses is going too high too fast. Given time, your body can adapt to the decrease in oxygen molecules at a specific altitude. This process is known as acclimatization and generally takes 1-3 days at that altitude. For example, if you hike to 10,000 feet (3,048 meters), and spend several days at that altitude, your body acclimatizes to 10,000 feet (3,048 meters). If you climb to 12,000 feet (3,658 meters), your body has to acclimatize once again. A number of changes take place in the body to allow it to operate with decreased oxygen.

The depth of respiration increases. Pressure in pulmonary arteries is increased, “forcing” blood into portions of the lung which are normally not used during sea level breathing. The body produces more red blood cells to carry oxygen, The body produces more of a particular enzyme that facilitates the release of oxygen from haemoglobin to the body tissues.

PREVENTION OF ALTITUDE ILLNESSES

Prevention of altitude illnesses falls into two categories, proper acclimatization and preventive medications. Below are a few basic guidelines for proper acclimatization. If possible, don’t fly or drive to high altitude. Start below 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) and walk up. If you do fly or drive, do not over-exert yourself or move higher for the first 24 hours. If you go above 10,000 feet (3,048 meters), increase your altitude a little per day and for every certain elevation gained, take a rest day. “Climb High and sleep low.” This is the maxim used by climbers. You can climb more in a day as long as you come back down and sleep at a lower altitude. If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude illness, don’t go higher until symptoms decrease (“Don’t go up until symptoms go down”). If symptoms increase, go down, down, down! Keep in mind that different people will acclimatize at different rates. Make sure all of your party is properly acclimatized before going higher. Stay properly hydrated. Acclimatization is often accompanied by fluid loss, so you need to drink lots of fluids to remain properly hydrated (at least 3-4 quarts, litres, per day). Urine output should be copious and clear. Take it easy; don’t over-exert yourself when you first get up to altitude. Light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating the symptoms. Avoid tobacco and alcohol and other depressant drugs including, barbiturates, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills. These depressants further decrease the respiratory drive during sleep resulting in a worsening of the symptoms. Eat a high carbohydrate diet (more than 70% of your calories from carbohydrates) while at altitude. The acclimatization process is inhibited by dehydration, over-exertion, and alcohol and other depressant drugs.

PREVENTIVE MEDICATIONS

Diamox (Acetazolamide) allows you to breathe faster so that you metabolize more oxygen, thereby minimizing the symptoms caused by poor oxygenation. This is especially helpful at night when respiratory drive is decreased. Since it takes a while for Diamox to have an effect, it is advisable to start taking it 24 hours before you go to altitude and continue for at least five days at higher altitude. The recommendation of the Himalayan Rescue Association Medical Clinic is 125 mg. twice a day (morning and night). (The standard dose was 250 mg., but their research showed no difference for most people with the lower dose, although some individuals may need 250 mg.) Possible side effects include tingling of the lips and finger tips, blurring of vision, and alteration of taste. These side effects may be reduced with the 125 mg. dose. Side effects subside when the drug is stopped. Contact your physician for a prescription. Since Diamox is a sulfonamide drug, people who are allergic to sulfa drugs should not take Diamox. Diamox has also been known to cause severe allergic reactions to people with no previous history of Diamox or sulfa allergies. Frank Hubbell of SOLO recommends a trial course of the drug before going to a remote location where a severe allergic reaction could prove difficult to treat. Frank Hubbell of SOLO recommends a trial course of the drug before going to a remote location where a severe allergic reaction could prove difficult to treat. Frank Hubbell of SOLO recommends a trial course of the drug before going to a remote location where a severe allergic reaction could prove difficult to treat.