Overview

At 5895m, Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest point and the highest freestanding mountain in the world, yet it is possible to reach its summit, Uhuru Peak, without any technical climbing ability. However, that is not to say that it is an easy undertaking: each year, many people fail in their attempt, often due to poor preparation or insufficient acclimatisation. Those who do make it to 'the Roof of Africa' are richly rewarded, enjoying outstanding views, the unique experience of being 'on top of the world' and, of course, a tremendous sense of achievement. Alexander Stewart's guidebook is packed with advice to maximise your chance of reaching Uhuru Peak. The first chapter covers preparation and practicalities, offering guidance on how to choose a route and an outfitter, along with extensive information on travel, equipment, health considerations, guides and porters and ethical trekking. The second chapter tells the story of Kilimanjaro and the people, plants and wildlife of the region, presenting a fascinating insight to enrich your trip. This is followed by a description of the six main ascent routes - the Marangu, Machame, Umbwe, Lemosho, Shira and Rongai Routes, plus three summit routes, two descent routes and the circuit path which circumnavigates the mountain. As a result of its height and location six hours from Nairobi, trekkers climbing Kilimanjaro move from the lush tropics, through temperate climes, alpine moorland and barren high-alpine desert to the permanently snow-capped, volcanic summit - and back - in the course of five or six days. The stunning natural beauty of the scenery, the warm and friendly locals and the unique sense of achievement make for a truly unforgettable experience.

Full Product Details

Author:   Alex Stewart
Publisher:   Cicerone Press
Imprint:   Cicerone Press
Edition:   2nd Revised edition
Dimensions:   Width: 11.60cm , Height: 1.50cm , Length: 17.20cm
Weight:   0.310kg
ISBN:  

9781852847586

ISBN 10:   1852847581
Pages:   272
Publication Date:   26 May 2025
Audience:   General/trade ,  General
Format:   Paperback
Publisher's Status:   Active
Availability:   Available To Order  
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Table of Contents

Map key East Africa overview map Overview map Routes on Kilimanjaro Routes comparison table Introduction Preparations and practicalities Choosing a route Costs and budgeting When to go Pre-departure preparation Getting there Permits and visas Accommodation Money and currencies Language Maps Equipment Insurance Health considerations Selecting an outfitter Guides and porters Tipping Environmental and cultural considerations Using this guide The story of Kilimanjaro People of the region Origin of the mountain's name Exploration Kilimanjaro National Park Natural history Geology and volcanology Glacial recession Climate Animal and plant life Acclimatisation trek Route X Mount Meru Momela Route Climbing Kilimanjaro Ascent routes Route A Marangu Route Route B Machame Route Route C Umbwe Route Route D Lemosho Route Route E Shira Route Route F Rongai Route Circuit paths Route G Southern Circuit Path Route H Northern Circuit Path Summit ascent routes Route I Normal/Marangu Route Route J Barafu Route Route K Western Breach Route The summit Descent routes Route L Marangu Route Route M Mweka Route Appendix A Accommodation Appendix B Useful contacts Appendix C Further reading Appendix D Language glossary

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Author Information

Alexander Stewart is the Online Marketing Manager for WEXAS, the World Expeditionary Association. He has a particular interest in Africa and a passion for mountains. All his adult life he has walked in them, written about them and photographed them. Kilimanjaro made a significant impression on him during his first ascent in 1999, and he has often been drawn back to the 'Roof of Africa'.

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