Author: TranquilKilimanjaro

Hut-to-hut hiking in Africa offers numerous advantages: it provides a convenient way to embark on a multi-day outdoor adventure, allowing for a backcountry camping experience without the crowds. This type of hiking allows you to witness breathtaking sunrise views, immerse yourself in the depths of the wilderness, and enjoy long, magnificent days on the trail. Additionally, hut-to-hut hiking ensures the comforts of home, such as running water, toilet facilities, and a warm, dry place to rest. Although Tanzania may not be renowned for its hut systems, having personally hiked several of Africa's most famous hut-to-hut trails, I can assure you that some international trekking systems are truly worth the journey. On Mount Kilimanjaro, only the Marangu Route offers hut-to-hut hiking. Mount Meru on the other hand, exclusively offers hut-to-hut hiking via its sole route, the Momella Route. Prepare to be amazed by the remarkable accommodations available, ranging from charming A-shaped huts in Tanzania to high-altitude cabins on Mount Kenya and well-established accommodation huts in South Africa nestled amidst awe-inspiring landscapes that are sure to bring solace to your soul. Undoubtedly, each hut-to-hut trip in Africa is an extraordinary escape that belongs on your bucket list. Hut to hut hiking is a form of multi-day hiking where you spend the night in mountain huts along a long-distance hiking trail. These huts vary in terms of amenities, from basic shelters with only essential supplies like mattresses and outdoor toilets, to luxurious and fully-staffed mountain lodges that offer comfortable bedding, running water, and even a restaurant. It's important to note that mountain huts primarily serve hikers and climbers and should not be compared to hotels. Expectations of privacy and ensuite bathrooms should be adjusted accordingly. Situated at high elevations in remote areas, mountain refuges can only be accessed by foot, making them seasonal

High-altitude mountains like Mount Kilimanjaro, Everest, K2 and the like always attract countless numbers of myths. One of the popular myths for example is that individuals with good physical fitness are immune to AMS. Physical fitness does not guarantee immunity to AMS. Even the fittest individuals can experience symptoms of AMS if they ascend too quickly without allowing their bodies to adapt to the altitude. Proper acclimatization, regardless of fitness level, is crucial for minimizing the risk of AMS. When it comes to participating in high-altitude trekking, it is common to receive a plethora of suggestions on how to handle potential acute mountain sickness (AMS) and the change in elevation. However, it is important to note that many of the ideas surrounding the most effective methods of acclimating to reduced oxygen levels are actually not based on factual information. In this article, we will debunk seven popular misconceptions regarding how to manage altitude-related challenges. MYTH #1 – DRINKING WATER PREVENTS ALTITUDE SICKNESS Staying hydrated is crucial during a Kilimanjaro trek due to the sunny and dry climate on the mountain. To prevent dehydration, we recommend our clients to drink four to five liters of water each day. However, it is important to note that while many believe drinking extra water can prevent altitude sickness, research suggests otherwise. Despite this, there are numerous anecdotal accounts of individuals feeling better at higher altitudes after drinking water, leading to the belief that it aids in acclimatization. One possibility is that these individuals may actually be experiencing symptoms of dehydration, which can be mistaken for altitude sickness. Regardless of the exact reason, we always emphasize the importance of staying hydrated. However, it is essential to understand that consuming a large quantity of water does not guarantee protection against altitude sickness. See Why is Drinking Water So

If you are sceptical about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or maybe the mountains are not your thing, then maybe you should reconsider doing it if these warning signs do hover in your mind. People commonly assume that as a Kilimanjaro operator, we wholeheartedly encourage everyone to come and climb with us. However, this is not entirely accurate. Truth be told, we actually suggest alternative companies to certain customers. In other cases, we recommend different hiking experiences altogether. And there are even instances where we reject potential climbers outright. At Tranquil Kilimanjaro, we firmly believe that it is our responsibility to be transparent and truthful with every prospective client, even if it means forfeiting a potential sale. The reality is that climbing Kilimanjaro is not suitable for everyone. We often express that the most challenging aspect of undertaking this feat is simply deciding to do it. Scaling a formidable peak such as Kilimanjaro demands a significant investment of both time and money, as well as thorough preparation. Each person begins their journey with a modest amount of research to determine if they are truly committed to pursuing this expedition. Almost every individual embarking on this adventure with us discovers the experience to be extraordinary, sometimes even life-altering. We possess an abundance of testimonials to substantiate this claim. Nevertheless, there exists a small minority who do not find enjoyment in it. As an individual contemplating this expedition, how can you determine which category you might fall into? Here are 10 warning signs and reasons why you shouldn’t climb Kilimanjaro. 1. You aren’t all that excited about doing it. If your friend is persuading you to accompany them on a trip, and you reluctantly agree, it's worth reconsidering. The entire process, from gathering necessary equipment and gear, to organizing the arrangements, to undergoing training,

Unusual sightings of animals on Mount Kilimanjaro are rare, bearing in mind that the upper slopes of the mountain do not offer a conducive environment for animals to survive, let alone thrive. Kilimanjaro National Park covers a vast area of 652 square miles, making it a fascinating destination for adventurers seeking diverse wildlife. The mountain itself is an enormous volcano, standing majestically amidst lush and untamed forests that stretch as far as the eye can see. Within the park's boundaries, a variety of captivating mammals can be found, each offering a unique glimpse into the wonders of nature. As explorers venture through the park, it is not uncommon to stumble upon troops of blue monkeys gracefully swinging from tree to tree, their vibrant fur shining under the warm African sun. Among the treetops, black and white colobus monkeys are also known to make their presence known, with their striking appearance and playful demeanor captivating anyone lucky enough to witness their antics. In the past, the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro were adorned with the footprints of majestic creatures, awe-inspiring in both their size and beauty. These slopes were once home to awe-inspiring buffalo, gracefully roaming the plains, their strength and resilience harmoniously blending with the land. Giraffes could be seen gracefully extending their long necks, their spots mirrored in the trees around them, as if nature itself had painted a masterpiece. Elephants, looming in all their grandeur, left a trail of magic and mystery as they gracefully moved through the park, their majestic presence commanding respect from all who crossed their path. And in the depths of the wilderness, lions, the kings and queens of the savannah, roamed these lands, embodying power and grace. To ensure the safety of trekking parties, park rangers would accompany them, their extensive knowledge of

This list of the most dangerous routes on Kilimanjaro puts into consideration many factors, among them, safety concerns, acclimatization and trail conditions, among others. When it comes to planning a Kilimanjaro climb, one of the most common questions we receive is which route to take. We have our favourite routes that we highly recommend:- 9-day Northern Circuit and 8-day Lemosho route. We also like the 7 day Rongai route and the 7 day Machame route. These four routes are the ones we guide on for our group climbs because we believe they are the best choices for most people. We take into consideration factors such as scenic beauty, physical difficulty, foot traffic, and acclimatization profile. However, in this article, we would like to discuss the four routes on the opposite end of the spectrum. These are routes that we do not recommend for most people. As a rule, we tend to steer people away from these routes that we consider to be more risky. Our main goal is to ensure that everyone reaches the summit in the safest way possible. These four routes carry an increased risk of altitude sickness, injuries, and other potential dangers. It is important to note that each person's knowledge, abilities, experience, and risk tolerance may differ. What may be a terrible choice for one climber could be ideal for another, as long as the client is aware of the challenges and makes an informed decision. Keeping that in mind, here are the four most dangerous routes on Kilimanjaro. Now, let us delve deeper into the characteristics of these routes and why they pose significant risks. The first route that we strongly advise against is the Western Breach Route. This route is known for its treacherous terrain, including loose rocks and steep inclines. It demands a