For those who are interested in mountain climbing; Kilimanjaro, at 5895m or 19,335 ft, is the roof of Africa and one of the 7 continental summits (after 8848m Everest of Asia, 6960m Aconcagua of S. America, and 6200m McKinley of N. America.) It is one of the few which can just be hiked and non-technical.
It offers such a dramatic contrast: at 1st (day) you walk in tropical rain forest, 2nd (day) in bush, 3rd on barren, followed by perminant ice above Gilman Point (5700m), which is reached by 75-80% of the climbers (who will be given a green certificate). The success rate to the summit (Uhuru peak) is about 40% (golden certificate). Most people take Diamox, except me, when I was there last time.
Since everyone has to buy a package from the locals, it is the best to shop around in Moshi, which is cheaper than in Arusha, Dar, or booking from overseas. The shortest package is 5D/4N, costing about $850-1000 (out of which >$520 goes to the government). It is better to go sooner, for the price is up all the time (the climbing fee of Aconcagua, e.g., was $250 a few years ago, now reached $700-1000). Of course one can always add $120-140 for an extra day of acclimatization.
While many recommend the western route (sleeping in tents), I prefer Mandara route, which allows for better sleep (in wooden huts).
It is located in Northern Tanzania, not too far away from Serengeti - beyond which you won't want to see any more animal parks.
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