Mt. Kilimanjaro
“...as wide as the world, great, high, and unbelievable white in the sun, was the square top of Kilimanjaro.”
-Ernest Hemmingway, The Snows of Kilimanjaro
Crowned in eternal snows, Mt. Kilimanjaro, “Uhuru,” or “Kibo” as the peak is locally known, is one of the worlds seven summits and is the highest mountain on the continent of Africa. It is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, rising in breathtaking isolation from the surrounding land – elevation 900 meters to 5,895 meters (19,340 ft). Kilimanjaro, the name itself is a mystery. Some say it means Mountian of Light, others Mountain of Greatness or Mountain of Caravans. The local people, the Chagga, don’t even have a name for the mountain simply Uhuru or Kibo for the snowy peak that stands above the clouds.
Kilimanjaro offers a spectacular and unique journey through different ecological and climatic zones, and views of Africa that can only be experienced to be appreciated. The ascent of the slopes is a climatic tour from the tropical rainforests to the snow and glacier covered summit. The cultivated foothills give way to the lush forest, inhabited by elusive elephant, leopard, buffalo, small antelopes and primates. Higher up lays the moorland where giant heather and giant lobelias can be found. Above 4000 meters the alpine dessert shows little plant life other then hardy mosses and lichen. Finally, the last vegetation gives way to the ice and snow and the magnificent beauty of the Roof of Africa.
The summit of Kilimanjaro attracts people from all over the world. Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s most accessible summits, often referred to as Everyone's Everest. And while the trek to the top is far from easy, most physically fit and determined climbers reach the summit. Kilimanjaro is a world to be experienced and in doing so she divulges her secrets to those who are bold enough to try. Climbers are challenged physically and at the same time fulfilled emotionally and spiritually. The old African proverb says it all ..."Adversity is your best friend, because it introduces you to yourself."
Our climbing philosophy...
We climb all routes; however, we specialize in the lesser traveled routes like Lemosho, Rongai, Kibo Circuit, Western Breach and Crater Camp. Our climbs are lead by highly skilled guides and porters using the best equipment and saftey gear. Our guides are all internationally trained in Wilderness First Responder rescue training, and use systematic monitoring and evacuation methodologies to ensure our climbers safety. Even our porters are taught first aid in swahili and evacuation protocols. The result of these practices is an over 95% success rate for our clients.
We use Leave No Trace camping techniques. This means we pack out all debris. We use environmentally sound methods of waste disposal, and we adhere closely to environmental regulations and guidelines. We are also recognized by the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) for our ethical treatment of our climbing crew. You can read more about KPAP and our socially responsbile climbing practices here.
Contact us for more information on our climbs, the routes and let the Journey begin!