Thursday, October 16, 2014

The Adventure Of A Lifetime Awaits With Mount Kilimanjaro Tours

By Dominique Martin


Where else can you experience five climate changes in the course of a few days? If you have an adventurous spirit, Mount Kilimanjaro tours could be perfect for you. The untouched natural beauty of the mountain is unsurpassed and will fill you with wonder.

The mountain is famous for being the highest peak in Africa. The native people of this area are the Chagga. Thanks in part to their early acceptance of missionaries, most Chagga people are Christian by faith. However, their original faith was steeped in superstition and mythology. It is notable that one of their mythical stories is similar the biblical tale of Adam and Eve, only the forbidden fruit was a sweet potato.

People of all ages have made this mountainous journey. A ten year old boy holds the record for being the youngest. If you think you are too old to make the trek, just consider that the oldest climber was an eighty four year old man. If you are reasonably fit and healthy, you can check this achievement off your bucket list.

Taking the time to research the various companies that provide the guides will help ensure a good experience. There are many websites available. Here prospective travelers can compare prices, dates and qualifications of the company and its guides. It would be very informative to contact people who have already made the climb and ask them to share their views. Information such as testimonials, how long the company has been in business, their success rate, and the experience of your particular tour guide will help you make a good choice.

Careful planning is necessary. There are different types of checklists. Travel documents, hiking gear, clothing are some of the categories that require thought and research. Warm layered clothing and good shoes are so important. Make sure your shoes offer good support and can stay dry. If you buy new shoes, be sure to break them in before your trip.

Even very healthy people can experience negative reactions to the extremely high altitude. Perhaps the most common is a malady known as acute mountain sickness-AMS. The quickest remedy is to escort the climber to a lower altitude. Careful, steady and slow climbing is the best prevention. The tour websites have a wealth of information about AMS, and it is wise to be well informed so you can recognize the symptoms.

Hypothermia is another risk of the climb. This too can be prevented by purchasing the best clothing available that is lightweight and maintains warmth. There have been technological advances in fibers to keep mountain climbers warm and dry. At the same time it is important to protect your skin and eyes from sun exposure. The ultraviolet rays from this altitude can be very harmful. Liberal use of sunscreen, professional grade sunglasses and a good hat are needed.

With careful planning and preparation, this adventure will provide climbers with beautiful and astounding memories. There is something spiritual about being so close to the sky and in reaching the summit with a cohort of like minded climbers. Tanzania is a breathtaking country to see. If your climb leaves you hungry for more adventure, you can extend your trip with a wildlife safari. Do not forget your camera. This will be a trip to remember.




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