Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
and most importantly, allow yourself enough time. If you're interested in reach-
ing the top, seriously consider adding at least one extra day onto the 'standard'
climb itineraries. Although the extra US$150 to US$250 may seem a lot when
you're planning your trip, it will seem insignificant later on if you've gone to
the expense and effort to start a trek and then can't reach the top. Don't feel
badly about insisting on an extra day with the trekking companies: standard
medical advice is to increase sleeping altitude by only 300m per day once above
3000m; which is about one-third of the daily altitude gains above 3000m on the
standard Kili climb routes offered by most operators.
It's also worth remembering that it's not essential to reach Uhuru Peak, and
you haven't 'failed' if you don't. If time (or money) is limited, choose other
treks and you can experience several different mountain areas for the price of a
single Kili climb. Consider trekking up to an area such as the Saddle, the top of
the Barranco Wall or the Shira Plateau to appreciate the splendour and magnifi-
cence of the mountain without the gruel of summiting.
West Kilimanjaro
West Kilimanjaro, encompassing the Maasai lands running north of Sanya Juu village up
to the Kenyan border and around to the Loitokitok area, is a region of savannah bush lands
and impressive wildlife populations. These include, most notably, elephants, lying as it
does along an elephant corridor linking Kenya's Amboseli National Park with Mt Kili-
manjaro National Park. Other draws include opportunities for walks, cultural activities and
horse riding. West Kilimanjaro also offers easy access to the western/Lemosho routes for
mountain treks.
Olpopongi Maasai Cultural Village
( 0756-718455;
www.olpopongi-maasai.com
;
per person with own transport for day/overnight US$59/96; ) is a good stop for anyone
wanting to spend a night in an authentically-constructed Maasai
boma
(a fortified living
compound) or learn about Maasai traditions. There's a small, informative museum, medi-
cinal walks, lessons in spear-throwing techniques and more. Turn off the Arusha-Moshi
highway at Boma Ng'ombe (23km west of Moshi). Continue 27km along a mostly sealed
road to Sanya Juu, from where a poorly signposted track continues 25km further to Ol-
popongi. Day and overnight visits are possible; pick-ups from Moshi (per person for day/
overnight US$129/169) and Arusha (per person for day/overnight US$169/190) can be ar-
ranged. An excellent destination for children with families.
Ndarakwai Ranch
( 0754-333550;
www.ndarakwai.com
;
s/d half board with wildlife
drives US$487/772; ) , a lovely, 12-tent camp just outside the conservation area,
makes a comfortable base for safaris, walks and horse riding. Day visits are possible with
