Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro on a Bike Is as Hard as It Looks

As a common practice, the African Safaris are the adventurous trips made for various purposes like: finding the African notorious animals in their natural habitats, or cruising on rivers and lakes, or hiking the mountains or trekking the deserts. But some want to be different by opting for “Biking or Cycling on Kilimanjaro”.

Those never die who do something extraordinary: uncommon and unusual.  Only those persons who are more adventurous than others can dare to do something different than what the common mass is doing. Doing something uncommon is a special quality found in very few people in the world. The absurd thought may accrue at any moment for any work and implementing over that may bring you happiness or fame. For example: as a common practice, the African Safaris are the adventurous trips made for various purposes like: finding the African notorious animals in their natural habitats, or cruising on rivers and lakes, or hiking the mountains or trekking the deserts. But some want to be different by opting for “Biking Or CyclingOn Kilimanjaro”. This special event brings a special flavour and fun for those who participate in it.

A relatively new concept on Africa’s highest mountain, Mountain Biking Expeditions were once strictly limited to just a few charity tours each year, but today, anyone can do Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing, all you need is a good pair of cycling shorts, the support of qualified mountain crew, and the mental and physical determination to hike and cycle to 5,895m above sea-level, on what is sure to be the journey of a lifetime! In fact this funny but adventurous concept started from 1985 after Dick and Nick Crane became the first recorded people to reach the summit of Kili with bikes. The book written by them “Bicycles Up Kilimanjaro” inspired thousands to adapt it in their list of itinerary on AfricanSafari. Its popularity grew day by day and now around 20-25% of the young climbers is opting for this.

Since the millennium, as the mountain became ever busier, so cycling has largely been forbidden. But now the Kilimanjaro authority is willing to promote the Kilimanjaro Cycling expedition looking at the growing demand of the visitors.  Most surprisingly the authorities have decided not only to allow cyclists back on the slopes, but have even opened up a whole new route and they have planned out a unique itinerary just for them. Everyone carrying a cycle to the summit must be charged an extra of US$50 per person per day in addition to the park fee. But the factor important is that, is it like someone hiking on Kilimanjaro on foot?

Yes: it is something like exploring Kilimanjaro on foot. You have to cycle through solitary rainforests, fertile fields of crop and through wild, dry acacia rich savannah,( the home of the Masai).You have to fight with the altitude, gear malfunctions, weather, and emotional ups and downs unlike the hikers. The experience would be same but the adventure and the pleasure would be more. If you have decided to cycle to 5,895m above sea-level, to make your expedition extraordinary and a life time achievement, then the following tips may help you to complete your expedition in a comfortable manner.

What Route To Choose To Cycle On Kilimanjaro?

The recommended routes for Cycling On Kilimanjaro are the Marangu Route and the Lemosho Route. While you can cycle it in 5 days, it is recommended that you go for a 6 or 7-day itinerary, which will give you extra time for acclimatization, and a higher chance of reaching the summit.

Take Your Own Mountain Bike?

While it is possible to rent mountain bikes in Arusha for as little as $20 per day, it is recommended that you should take your own bike with you. It is because you are comfortable with your bike in your practice session and secondly you can make it repaired if something goes wrong on the mountain. Your adaptability with your cycle would bring you more comfort.

How Much Of The Route Can One Cycle?

Many a factors govern to this like your stamina, the weather and atmosphere, your health and so on. So that is up to you. Besides you have to choose, if you want to cycle up and down Kilimanjaro or only hike up when a porter would carry your cycle down? A guide would always be there with you and you would have to decide each day exactly how much cycling you would like to do. Make sure that the higher you get, the more challenging it gets. The top portions would be tougher than the base part.  So you need to pace yourself in the beginning by which you can finish your expedition within the scheduled time. 

Is Cycling Costlier Than Hiking On Foot?

Yes. There is a daily fee for taking bicycles in the KilimanjaroNational Park. This will add approximately $400 on to the price of a regular 7-day expedition.

What Happens If You Fail To Ride Half Way?

Don’t bother for this. Your guide knows that cycling uphill is not an easy task and at some point you may fail to do so. In this case you will have a porter specifically for your cycle and if you don’t feel like cycling: feel too ill to continue or simply prefer to walk, they will carry it for you.

What Is The Best Time Of The Year To Cycle On Kilimanjaro?

 It is possible to cycle Kilimanjaro at any time of the year, but it is best to avoid the rainy season (February to May) as the conditions may be unsuitable for mountain biking. Because the routes would be slippery at some points muddy. That would prevent your pace which may be resulted in consuming more time than the scheduled one. September and October are great months to hike and bike Kilimanjaro – although it is the busiest time of the year.

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Difference Between The Rongai And Lemosho Routes To Mt Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, a spectacular dormant volcano in Tanzania attracts climbers, tourists, and researchers from around the globe. Mount Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones along with the fact that it’s the highest mountain in Africa make it a spectacular sight and an area of interest. Kilimanjaro is every Trekker’s dream. It’s not an easy task to scale Mount Kili and requires you to consider several important factors. But once you get to the top of this fantastic peak, you can soak in its everlasting snow-cap. The Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing offers the largest freestanding mountain on Earth and is enclosed by the National Park of Tanzania.

The thrill of scaling a peak is unparalleled. Mount Kilimanjaro provides an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to journey through 5 different ecosystems. What’s more, scaling Mount Kilimanjaro doesn’t require extensive training although over 75000 climbers come here every year. There are 6 different Kilimanjaro Routes namely the Marangu Route, the Machame Route, the Rongai Route, the Shira Route, the Northern Circuit, and the Lemosho Route. The amount of time taken to scale Kilimanjaro depends on which route you take and the minimum time required to get to the top is 4 nights.

Things To Consider When Choosing A Kilimanjaro Route:

Who Is Climbing?

Every route to Kilimanjaro is unique. While climbing in a group, it’s important to gauge every member to collectively arrive at the best route that will take you to the top in the shortest time. Factors such as age, physical endurance, and health of each member need to be considered while picking a route.

What Limitations Surround Your Climb?

Depending on your Resources and Constraints, choose a route that will require minimum effort and that will get you to your destination without being drained of supplies and energy. Time variations also need to be taken into account especially if you have people in the group who only want to stay on the mountain for a specific time.

How Do You See Your Trek?

Trekking can be hard for people with less endurance. But it can also be a joyride for those who get excited about adventure. Different routes offer different experiences. Choose the one that will appeal to all.

Where Do You Want To Begin Your Climb?

Each route has a different starting point, but the western routes offer splendid views of the scenery. Prices may also vary so decide the best point by consulting all members of the group regarding cost and scenic appeal.

Why Are You Climbing?

Everyone has their own reason why they want to get to the top. Some want to enjoy the journey while others desperately seek the end. If you are an enthusiastic climber and want to take the best photographs of your trek home, you can choose a scenic route to stop and capture some precious moments of your uphill climb. But if you would like to reach the summit quickly and be done with it, a non-scenic route will take you there in the fastest time. Scenic routes are longer and more expensive than non-scenic routes that are shorter and inexpensive.

When Are You Climbing?

Seasons make a huge difference to your Kilimanjaro climb. The dry seasons are of course the best times to visit. If you visit during the rains, it can be a lot harder to complete your journey and enjoy every bit of it. But you will definitely have fewer people to accompany you. Full Moon periods and holidays are peak seasons and are also the most expensive.

Difference Between The Rongai And Lemosho Routes:

The Rongai Route To Mount Kilimanjaro begins from the eastern side and a trek up this route will last 5-6 days. One of the easiest routes to Kilimanjaro, Rongai is purely meant for trekking and will not require climbers to use their hands.

Pros:

·         The easiest among the 6 routes to Kilimanjaro.

·         A Quiet and Serene route allowing trekkers to peacefully ascend.

·         Leads to the driest side of the mountain that mostly has good weather.

·         If you ascend through Rongai, you will have to descend through the Mangaru Route, which are both at opposite sides of the mountain.

Cons:

·         To get to the other side, you need to pay additional travel costs.

·         Less scenery.

The Lemosho Route begins in the West and lasts for 7-8 days. It’s one of the most preferred routes since it’s less travelled upon and offers climbers a chance to spot large wildlife. The Lemosho Route converges with the Machame Route on the third day of the trek. This Route is longer and more expensive which is why it’s less preferred by trekkers and climbers.

Pros:

·         Highly Scenic.

·         The first few days see fewer climbers.

·         You get enough time for acclimatisation.

Cons:

·         Expensive

·         Higher difficulty level.

·         Converges with the Machame and Shira trail thus higher crowds during later days.

Remember! Pick The Kilimanjaro Route That’s Right For You!

Mount Kilimanjaro is increasingly popular among trekkers who are often left confused about which route to take. Each of the 6 different routes differs in length, cost, scenery, difficulty level, and success rate. Nobody has declared the best route to Kilimanjaro however; the right one for you depends on several factors. You can click to know the Best Kilimanjaro Routes. You need to list out your priorities and meticulously gauge each path before you arrive at the right pick. Below are a few tips to help you choose the route best suited for your priorities:

·         Choose A Longer Route:

If you do decide to trek up to Kilimanjaro, enjoying the journey and ensuring you’re safe is more important than getting to the top. The journey is after all what matters more than the destination. Acclimatization is crucial during ascent because your body requires enough time to adjust to the change in temperature and pressure. Out of the 6 routes to Kilimanjaro, choosing the longest one is considered a wise thing to do to allow higher acclimatisation time. Successful Summit Rate is seen to be 95% and above for climb duration of 9-10 days and decreases with lesser time taken. A 9-10 day trek will be more relaxing and enjoyable compared to a shorter, harder trek.

·         Climb During One Of The Dry Seasons (Dec-Feb And Jul-Oct):

These months are the warmest and driest months of the year and trekkers are blessed with clear mornings and evenings. Weather patterns stay predictable during these periods which make them ideal for a safe, hassle-free, and joyous ascent.

·         Find A Solid Guide Service:

There are several guide services that offer Mount Kili Treks At Affordable Rates. They organize group treks or personalised treks. Personalised treks let you choose the route, cost, and other specifics whereas group treks are planned by consulting all members of the group. Smaller groups are better than large groups and individual treks since you can comfortably climb up with good company. While choosing a Guide Service, choose the best among the lot who place high emphasis on safety and comfort of all members in the group.

·         Take Training Seriously:

Training before the ascent is exceptionally important because you’re taught how to adjust to the arduous climb and the right action steps to taken during emergencies. Don’t pass it off as insignificant because whatever’s taught in training is highly relevant to the ascent. You will only realise the importance of training as you undertake your tedious journey up the mountain.

·         Bring The Right Gear:

What you wear from head to foot makes a huge difference to your Kili climb. You need comfortable, warm clothing that will protect you from the biting cold always and keep you reasonably dry. Take extra care while choosing clothing for your ascent because the tiniest mistake will single-handedly ruin the entire experience for you. Your footwear also determines whether you will climb up in comfort or suffer through your journey. Buy comfortable boots and break them in before you wear them on your climb. Invest in high-quality, durable gear without worrying about cost, to be comfortable and to focus on getting to your destination. If you would like to follow us simply click on the facebook, twitter and Google+