You’re sitting at your desk, likely at home, working on this month’s spreadsheet, and you’re dreaming of a getaway. Something really special, something epic…
I understand. And I have a great suggestion. You should climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
I’ll tell you why. At Pristine Trails, we specialize in Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Tours. In fact, we know this mountain like the back of our hand. So keep reading to find out our top seven reasons you should climb Kilimanjaro!
1. Kilimanjaro Is The World’s Tallest Freestanding Mountain
Plenty of peaks are scattered all around the world, just waiting for climbers. But at 19,340 feet, Mount Kilimanjaro is not only the highest peak on the African continent, it is also considered the tallest mountain in the world that isn’t part of an existing range.
Why bother with tiny hills when you could stand atop the tallest point? Walk up the western side of Kilimanjaro on the Lemosho Route, or walk along the Rongai Route and explore the mountain’s jagged second peak in detail. No matter which path you take, you’ll emerge on one of the tallest points available in the world today.
2. You’re Already Prepared
You don’t need intense technical skills or fancy equipment to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. You’ll need a talented guide, of course, and good camping gear. And you’ll need to choose a Kilimanjaro Route that helps you avoid altitude sickness. But when the planning is done, you’re ready to get hiking.
Now, some people say the easiest mountain within the seven summits is in Australia. But Mount Kosciuszko is just 7,310 feet tall. That’s barely a mountain, in my opinion.
If you’re looking for a non-technical climb that packs a lot of punch, Mount Kilimanjaro is a natural pick.
3. You Can Easily Expand Your Tanzanian Adventure
Mount Kilimanjaro might inspire your visit to Tanzania. But with the summit scaled, you have so much left to see.
Tanzania is a large, beautiful country packed with sights. Enhance your climbing trip with one or all of the following:
- Tanzania Safari: Drive through the sprawling savannah during the day and watch wildebeests, zebras, flamingos, lions, and more. Spend your evenings surrounded by the sounds of nature from the comfort of your tented camp.
- Beach Holiday in Zanzibar: Dip your toes in the crystal-clear water of the Indian Ocean and warm up on white, sandy beaches. Fill your days with snorkeling or diving, other activities like a tour of Stone Town or a walk through spice plantations, or just lounging on the beach all day.
- Mountain Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda: Track some of the most interesting, amazing families of mountain gorillas as they go about their daily lives. Standing just feet from these majestic creatures is truly magical.
Add-ons like these turn a mountain climb into a weeks-long adventure that you’ll never forget.
4. Kilimanjaro Challenges Your Body and Mind
You’re in control of your climb up Mount Kilimanjaro. You’ll pick the route, the dates, and the itinerary. But make no mistake. This is a trek that will push you to your limit.
You’ll spend days hiking up the mountain, and the air will thin as you move. Reaching the summit is a true accomplishment. Everyone is moved by it. In fact, many climbers cry as they approach the summit sign, some have chosen to scatter the ashes of loved ones, while others crack open a beer and start their celebration.
Break away from everyday life and get back to adventure with a mountain climb!
5. You Deserve It
Sit in traffic, go to work, wash the dishes. I know all too well the monotony of daily life. And while you may have picked up some new activities over the pandemic, like baking sourdough bread or knitting, they can’t compare with an adventure.
These hobbies can never truly take the place of travel. You don’t get the chance to experience different cultures, sights, and sounds when you’re stuck at home or in your community. Take a trip to a culturally and environmentally rich part of the world and really break free of routine.
Up on one of the tallest mountains in the world, you’ll certainly get a new perspective on life.
6. It’s A Destination All On Its Own
You may be ready to take just one trip this year, so why not choose a spot that offers so much variety in its scenery, unique plant life, and unmatched views?
The mountain offers:
- Five climate zones – Hike through cultivated areas, rainforests, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and the summit glacier zone, all in just one week. On some days you may even pass through two climate zones.
- More than 1,100 unique plants – See flora here that you just can’t find anywhere else in the world. If you’re a big fan of exotic plants, or telling your friends about things they’ve never seen, Kilimanjaro is the right spot for you.
- Striking views – Climbers often tell me they feel like they can reach right up and touch the stars when they’re close to the summit. You’ll sleep under the full and bright southern hemisphere sky every night and you’ll see amazing sunrises and sunsets, too.
Few countries offer so much diversity in one place. Tanzania truly is special.To learn more about the experience, you can read our blog: Kilimanjaro – What happens when I get to camp?
7. See the Kilimanjaro Summit Glaciers (Before They’re Gone)
Climate change is, unfortunately, very real, and Tanzania is not spared. Ice climbers say they can see the damage firsthand. Climbs they took just a decade ago aren’t possible now due to melting ice and snow.
Standing amidst towering glaciers is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You feel awe at the imposing grandiosity of nature’s pure beauty.
But you really don’t have time to delay a trip like this. The glaciers melt a little bit every year, and the vacation opportunity you take now could be completely gone in a few years.
Prepare for Adventure with Pristine Trails
Have I convinced you to come to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? I hope so. It’s time to start planning your trip. Find out more about our Kilimanjaro Trekking Tours and our Group Treks on Kilimanjaro. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with us. Let’s make your dream a reality!
