Mt. Kilimanjaro, one of the tallest Mountains in the World

There is something magical about the name "Kilimanjaro".
Like "Zanzibar" it is a place that many people dream of visiting - just because of its name.
And like Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro is part of the wonderful nation of Tanzania.
A perfect dream vacation would involve trekking to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro -
followed by a period of well earned rest and recuperation in Zanzibar - Wow!

Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.
It rises 4600m (15,000 ft) from its base, and is the highest peak in Africa at 5,895m (19,340 ft).
Views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular.

Great name, great statistics -
But the greatest thing about Mount Kilimanjaro is that almost anyone in reasonable health can climb it.
You don't need to be a mountaineer to reach the summit of Africa's highest mountain.

And on your way to the top, you will see wildlife and scenery that will completely blow your mind!
There are several routes to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. The most popular routes are:-

The Marangu Route
Fairly easy walking on gentle forest paths. Then over some scree to Gillman's Point on the crater rim - followed by the final trek to Uhuru Peak.
Accommodation huts, with heating and cooking facilities are dotted along this route - making it far and away the most comfortable trek on Kilimanjaro.

The Machame and Umbwe Routes
Steep paths through the forest - often wet and boggy, followed by scrambling over scree to the crater rim.

The Mweka Route
Used primarily as the best way to descend from the top of the mountain.

The Shira, Nanjara and Oloitokitok Routes
Remote and less frequently used.

The Lemosho Glades Route
Probably the most beautiful route - and the richest in wildlife.

Getting Here
You can fly to Tanzania from most parts of the world. The best airport to arrive at is Kilimanjaro International Airport at Arusha.
This is much closer to the mountain than Dar Es Salaam. Visit the excellent http://www.airhighways.com website for the best advice and information.

Entry Requirements & Visas
All visitors to Tanzania need entry visas.
These can be obtained in your own country, or on arrival at Dar Es Salaam or Kilimanjaro Airport.
You will also need proof of enough money for your intended length of stay, and a return ticket.
A Yellow-Fever vaccination certificate is also required to enter Tanzania.

Money
The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSh) and it can be used for all transactions and local purchases. Us Dollars are also widely accepted. Credit cards are only OK at large hotels and restaurants. Cash Points (ATMs) allow cash advances - but at a poor rate and with an additional charge. Travelers Cheques are accepted at large hotels and can be exchanged for local currency at Bureaux de Change - you'll need your passport as ID.

Health
As well as the obligatory Yellow-Fever vaccination, it is a good idea to take precautions against Malaria.
Consult your doctor about the best malaria prevention tablets.
Make sure you have sufficient medical insurance.
Take plenty of mosquito-repellent and use it - especially at night. I would also recommend that you consider getting the following immunisations:

* Hepatitis A & B, * Typhoid, * Cholera, * Tetanus
Check with your local doctor for the latest recommendations.

Altitude Sickness
Caused by the inability to adjust to sudden gains in altitude.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is experienced by most climbers, and is more of an irritation than a danger. But it can be far more serious in some people - even (on rare occasions) leading to fatal Oedemas. Gaining altitude slowly is the best way to go - leave the rushing to the experts.
Serious symptoms are very rare - but the risk must be taken seriously. My best advice is to consult with your doctor before deciding to climb Kilimanjaro. And book your trek with an experienced and reputable company - one with full medical backup.
This obviously costs more than a stroll up the hill with some stranded hippie who happens to know the way!
Mount Kilimanjaro, even though it is accessible to everybody, must be treated with respect.

Sunstroke and Frostbite!
You will be at risk of both as you make your way up Kilimanjaro. This is possibly the only location on Earth where you can experience every climate on the planet - in one place!
Mount Kilimanjaro is very close to the Equator - so the start of your climb will be very hot.
But the summit experiences Arctic temperatures - even in mid-summer.
A reputable tour company will ensure that you know exactly what to expect.

Taken from The Top Ten Site "Top Ten Africa Vacations."
Visit The Top Ten Site to see all of the reviews - with some wonderful pictures!