Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa is on every adventure traveler's bucket list. The tallest peak on the continent, and the highest free-standing mountain in the world, is an impressive accomplishment on any adventure resume. It also provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscape throughout the climb and from the summit. But, not everyone is as prepared as they should be before they go, which is why Nat Geo has put together a list of 8 things your guide probably forgot to tell you.
Anyone who has ever climbed the mountain (I've been there twice) will likely get a chuckle out of some of the things that made the cut. We can probably relate to more than a few of these, with some of the tips bringing back fond memories while others might make you cringe. For those still planning a trip to Kili, this article will actually offer some insightful suggestions on what to expect and how to make the most out of the experience.
A few of the suggestions include how to handle the toilet situation on the mountain, ways of staying hydrated, and how to enjoy the time at camp a bit more. Staying relaxed and focused are two keys to a successful climb, but that isn't always easy with the uncertainty that comes with the physical challenges and the thinning air as you go higher. The article also talks about how to prepare for the ascent and how to deal with chilly temperatures, not only for yourself, but your valuable electronics.
There are a thousand and one tips I could share with someone who is climbing Kilimanjaro for the very first time. Everything from how to train for the mountain to how to celebrate when the expedition is over. This article shares some of the advice that I would provide as well, and while it doesn't cover the really big, over-arching questions that many have, it does touch on some smaller topics that not everyone thinks about when preparing for such a big adventure. For that alone it is worth a look.
Check it out here.
