Category: Mount Kilimanjaro

After years of speculation and theories, Andrew Irvine's foot inside a boot has finally been found on Mount Everest, his presumed resting place of over 100 years, since 1924 when Andrew Irvine, popularly known as Sandy disappeared mysteriously in the upper part of Everest with his climbing partner George Mallory. Sandy's remains were found at the base of Everest The finding was more of an accidental stumble upon by a team from National Geographic led by Jimmy Chin while coming down the Central Rongbuk Glacier on Everest's North Face route, the team found an old oxygen tank from 1933, from a British expedition that happened nine years after Mallory and Irvine went missing. This got them thinking, especially since an ice axe thought to be Irvine's was found in 1933 on the northeast ridge, quite a distance below where Mallory was discovered. This boot belonging to Sandy was discovered at an elevation of about 5300m meaning it was way below where Percy Wyn-Harris, a member of the fourth British Everest Expedition discovered Andrew Irvine's ice axe at an elevation of 8,460 metres (27,760 ft), about 20 metres (66 ft) below the ridge and some 230 metres (750 ft) below the First Step. The oxygen tank being so far down the glacier made them think that maybe Irvine's body could have also slid down further. With this in mind, they started looking around the area. A few days later, while moving through the glacier's rough terrain, Erich Roepke, one of the team members, saw something odd sticking out of the ice. As they got closer, they saw it was an old boot with part of a human foot inside. When Chin checked inside the sock, there was a red label with "A.C. IRVINE" sewn on it, which confirmed they had found

Choosing whether to climb Mont Blanc or Kilimanjaro depends on what kind of adventure you're looking for because both mountains offer different experiences. Comparing Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe vs Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa would take forever as each of these mountains is unique in its way. For starters, Kilimanjaro is over a thousand meters higher than Mont Blanc. To be honest, technically speaking, Mont Blanc takes the edge especially if you are climbing on your own since you can climb Mont Blanc without a crew or guides. Most of Mount Kilimanjaro is walkable and doesn't require any specialized skills or equipment. Mont Blanc on the other hand, you will need tools like crampons and ice axes to climb, also there are a few risks involved like, rock falls, avalanches and crevasses. This can be evident in recent research that shows Mont Blanc is responsible for about 100-120 deaths per year, compared to Kilimanjaro's which claims less than 10 lives per annum.  Altitude sickness is the main issue on Kilimanjaro and it can also be physically demanding since it is higher than Mont Blanc. Kilimanjaro is Africa's tallest peak, known for its towering height and the physical endurance it takes to climb it due to the altitude and weather changes. Climbing it means spending several days on the mountain, moving through various routes that can be either somewhat gentle or quite tough. Mont Blanc, on the other hand, is the pride of the European Alps and while it's not as high as Kilimanjaro, it's famous for needing more climbing skills. The climb is shorter but packed with steep paths and requires you to be ready for quick weather shifts. Unlike Kilimanjaro, where you might have help carrying gear, climbing Mont Blanc often means you're

Chappal Waddi, also known as Gangirwal (meaning "Mountain of Death"), is the highest point in Nigeria, standing at approximately 2,419 meters (7,936 feet). Seeing this elevation it is no doubt that East African mountains like Mount Kenya, Rwenzori and Kilimanjaro are much higher than their West African counterparts. Chappal Waddi, often referred to as the "Mountain of Death," stands as the highest point in Nigeria, with an elevation of 2,419 meters (7,936 feet). it is the highest mountain in not only Nigeria but also West Africa and is located in Taraba State, near the border with Cameroon, it forms part of the Mambilla Plateau and is within the Gashaka Gumti National Park. This mountain, also known by its indigenous name "Gang Peak," carries significant cultural and mythological importance among the local Mambilla people. On your way to this peak, you will pass through undulating roads filled with monkeys and there's an appreciation for the natural beauty and the challenge of Chappal Waddi, with some hikers reflecting on its imposing presence and the natural erosion that has shaped it, contributing to its status as one of Nigeria's most beautiful and highest peaks. The mountain itself serves not just as a physical landmark but also as a centrepiece for conservation efforts, tourism, and local myths that speak to harvests and fortunes, reflecting its deep integration into the cultural fabric of the region. For those interested in visiting, Chappal Waddi offers an adventurous climb, demanding respect for its challenging terrain and the weather conditions typical of high-altitude environments. If you're considering an adventure to this remote and lesser-known peak, here's everything you need to know: Why Climb Chappal Waddi? Highest Point in Nigeria: For those looking to conquer Nigeria's tallest mountain, Chappal Waddi is a rewarding summit that will take you through breathtaking

The best and recommended base layers for trekking Kilimanjaro should be insulating, breathable and above all, comfortable. Embarking on the journey to summit Mount Kilimanjaro requires not just physical preparation but also the right gear to tackle the mountain's diverse climate zones. Among the essentials, choosing the appropriate base layers and hiking shirts stands paramount. Since hiking shirts are composed of unique materials intended for outdoor use, they differ from regular clothing in terms of breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and durability. These specialized features help hikers stay comfortable and protected during their outdoor adventures. Features on these shirts ensure your comfort when engaging in outdoor activities such as climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or trekking through the rainforest for days on end. The moisture-wicking properties also help to regulate body temperature and prevent chafing, making hiking shirts an essential piece of gear for any outdoor enthusiast. Here is the recommended gear list for Kilimanjaro. Here's an in-depth look at what you need to know to stay comfortable, dry, and protected on your ascent. What is a Base Layer? A base layer is the first clothing layer you wear directly against your skin. While often thought of for the upper body, base layers can also refer to leggings or tights for the lower body. For climbers of Kilimanjaro, we focus on the top layer - your hiking shirt. This layer is crucial as it manages moisture, provides insulation, and protects from the sun. The Importance of Base Layers: Moisture Management: The primary function of any base layer is to wick sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry. This is vital because staying dry means staying warm, reducing the risk of hypothermia. Insulation: While base layers provide some warmth, their main role in insulation is to work with other layers to trap body heat.

As a seasoned mountain climber for the East African Mountains like Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro, an idea just popped and I just felt the need to talk about the trio of jackets, you should not afford to miss when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Climbing Kilimanjaro demands the right gear to keep you warm, dry, and protected from the elements. Among the most crucial items are the three key jackets that form the core of your layering system, ensuring you’re prepared for the rapidly changing weather at high altitudes. These include a waterproof jacket, insulated jacket, and a softshell or fleece jacket. Each jacket plays a distinct role in shielding you from the rain, wind, and cold as you make your way to the summit. When you're gearing up to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, understanding what to wear is as crucial as any physical or mental preparation. The mountain's varied climate zones, from tropical to arctic, demand a strategic approach to clothing, particularly when it comes to jackets. Here, we keenly take an insight look into the three indispensable types of jackets you'll need to ensure your summit attempt is safe, comfortable, and successful. 1. The Waterproof Jacket: Your Shield Against the Elements A waterproof jacket is essential for protecting you from rain, snow, and wind, keeping you dry and comfortable in the unpredictable weather conditions on Kilimanjaro. It also doubles as a windbreaker, making it a versatile outer layer to carry in your daypack. Waterproof Jacket (Rain Jacket, Hard Shell) Why It's Essential: Imagine climbing towards the Uhuru Peak, and suddenly, you're caught in a downpour or a snowstorm. This is where the waterproof jacket, often called a rain jacket or hard shell, comes into play. Its primary function is to keep you dry, which is vital