Hi,
Has anyone climbed Kilimanjaro by Western breach route? Sleeping next to the glaciers has its pull, but I'm not sure how fit / experienced I have to be.
I am fit -- doing cardios and lower body training 3-4 times a week for the climb -- but have no trekking experience in high altitude and will be doing it alone in the last week of Feb 2005 (with guide and porters, of course). Am also prepared to do it in 8 days. Is Western breach advisable?
Several sources including LP seem to advise against it, but I've also read of unexperienced older / less-than-fit people going up this route.
Your insight and advices much appreciated.
Paisarn
khunlee
1
khunlee
Also. If there's anything I should prepare for this particular route, on top of what's necessary for Machame or other routes (better sleeping bag, etc.) please advise.
2
kilisafari
Paisarn,
As most people will tell you, you need not be overly fit or have climbing experience to climb Kilimanjaro on even the western breach.
Any averange fit person can climb this mighty and beautiful mountain but what makes many fail is how their bodies respond to altitude change. I advice that you spend as much time on the trek as possible to allow your body adjust well. Also have proper climbing gear because apart from mountain sickness, cold and wind are the other problems that lead to climbers failure.
Choosing a tour operator who cares about their porters and provides good service is very vital.
I could advice on this if you do not mind.
All the best and keep training for climbing Kili also requires some muscle endurance.
Pro tip
Lonely Planet
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