Frequently
Asked Questions
What
is the best time of year to climb Kilimanjaro?
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Climate
does not vary greatly between seasons on Kilimanjaro, making it
a great climb year-round. The most popular months to climb are
July/August and December/January. If you would rather avoid the
crowds, we run trips and highly recommend other months (May/June,
September).
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What
is the weather like on Kilimanjaro?
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The
average temperature at the foot of the mountain is 25° to 30°
C. On the summit, it can range from -12° to 10° C but is usually
below freezing. At 3000m (above the treeline), the day temperatures
range from 5° to 15° C and then cool off significantly at night.
As you work your way up the mountain, you will traverse through
many different climates that vary in temperature and precipitation.
Light rain is fairly consistent in the lower rainforest section
while the upper parts of the mountain often experience passing
snowstorms.
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How
do we deal with rain during the climb?
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Good
rain gear is a must for the climb including waterproof pants/jacket.
We provide modern rugged mountaineering tents equipped with outer
flysheets and large enough to comfortably sleep four people with
their gear safely inside.
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You
do not need climbing experience to successfully ascend Kili. A
strenuous hike fits the description better than a technical climb.
Being in good physical condition greatly increases your chance
of success.
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What
about altitude sickness?
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Oxygen
thins as you climb. Most begin to notice this above 3500m. Every
individual reacts differently to this change and unfortunately,
altitude sickness is impossible to predict. Our guides however
have years of experience understanding the difference between
fatigue and altitude sickness. They will take the necessary precautions
at the first signs of altitude sickness, which usually means a
timely descent to lower altitude.
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What
are the health issues in traveling to East Africa?
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In
preparation for the trip, you should consider getting vaccinated
or medicated to prevent against Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis
B, Meningitis, Yellow Fever, and Malaria. Please consult with
your doctor or visit the CDC website (www.cdc.gov) for more information.
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How
many miles do we hike per day?
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The
number of hours you hike each day varies from 3 hours (minimum)
to 8 hours (maximum), depending on the intensity of the slope
and difficulty of the climb. The various routes are anywhere from
55 to 70 miles.
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How
many days do we need to climb Kilimanjaro?
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The
time required varies greatly by route. The majority of climbers
take 6 to 10 days. More days generally gives your body more time
to acclimatize and greatly increases your chance of success.
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What
if I don't make it to the summit?
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Some
climbers may fall short of Uhuru Peak, but not at the expense
of their overall experience. There are many wonders on Kilimanjaro,
and the experience is rewarding even for those who never reach
the top. If one or more members of a group cannot continue (either
by self-recommendation or recommendation from a guide), they are
escorted quickly and calmly to the most convenient campsite, which
is often down the mountain.
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You
will need a medium sized backpack (say 2500 to 3500 cubic inches)
that can hold multiple layers of clothing. Porters carry the majority
of your packs, tents, food and equipment. In your daypack, you
will carry clothes, water, a sack lunch and perhaps a camera.
In terms of gear, you'll need: wet-weather clothing; layered cold
weather clothing; a good pair of waterproof boots; sleeping bag
& pad; hiking gators; a headlamp; any personal meds. Tents are
provided. We boil and provide safe water for you as well. See
'Preparation' for more info.
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Are
there any age limitations?
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An
active young teenager of 13 years can reach the top as can a fit
65 year old as long as adequate preparation takes place beforehand.
If you're looking to break the record, the oldest person ever
to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro was 87 years old!!!
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You
will be served three complete meals each day. Maintaining a good
diet is crucial to keeping your energy up. Here's a sample of
day's meals on the mountain:
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Scrambled
eggs, toast, sliced cucumber and tomato, fruits, coffee, tea, cocoa
LUNCH:
Sandwich, fruit, boiled egg, candy bar, orange juice
AFTERNOON
SNACK: Hot tea, popcorn, cookies
DINNER:
Soup, salad, chicken with rice/pasta, vegetables, potatoes, fruit
for dessert |
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Where
is Mount Kilimanjaro?
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Mount
Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania, Eastern Africa.
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What
language is spoken there?
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Swahili
is widely spoken in Tanzania, as well as in Kenya, Uganda, eastern
Zaire and Rwanda. Your guide will speak excellent English as well
Swahili and usually also a native language. Some porters know
English while others may have just picked up a few words here
and there.
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Can
I combine the climb with a safari?
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Absolutely.
East Africa has some of the world's most wonderful safaris to
offer. You can very easily do a multi-day safari before or after
your climb. Contact us and we can refer you to a reputable tour
operator.
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Yes.
Ringo Expeditions is fully outfitted to lead trips as large as
25-30 people. Contact us and we can make special arrangements
around your group's preferences.
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For more information on
visiting Africa, please visit:
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OUR
MISSION
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- To maximize the chance of success and safety of our clients
through our years of experience
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- To offer top-notch service in the way we care for our clients |
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- To ensure our prices are always competitive with other local operators |
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- To employ, empower and reward local guides and porters |
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