African Mountain Climbing & Hiking experience
East African mountain climbing destinations
Mountain climbing is one of the few things that adrenaline junkies opt for, and what better way to enjoy the sport than to pack a suitcase and fly to East Africa? East Africa comprises six countries: Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Burundi, all of which contain mountains that may be climbed to relieve stress.
The East African community has a lot to offer and should not be passed up when it comes to mountain climbing and trekking.
You may visit the Mountain of the Moon and see the snow-capped John Speke Peak, Kilimanjaro Mountain with its glacier cape, Elgon Mountain with its slopes, and many other nations.
There are various tourist firms that can assist you in scheduling a mountain trek in any of the East African nations, and their fees vary depending on the length of time that you wish to spend trekking. You will be accompanied by a guide who knows the best routes that lead to the summit of the various Mountains. Please keep in mind that not all East African countries are suitable for a mountain hiking adventure, so you should be aware of the various Mountains that are suitable for climbing.
Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing
Mountain Kilimanjaro is the tallest peak in Africa, rising to a height of 5895 meters above sea level in Tanzania. It is a volcanic mountain with three volcano peaks: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Kilimanjaro offers various ascending and descending hiking routes, including the Rongai, the Mweka, Machame, Umbwe, Marangu, Shira, and Lemosho. Machame is the most difficult path since it takes over a week to finish owing to its step structure. As a result, anyone planning to climb Kilimanjaro should prepare for a long yet exciting adventure.
The Rwenzori Mountain, located in western Uganda, is the tallest peak in the country, standing at 5109 meters above sea level. Rwenzori has several peaks that provide spectacular views, but the Margherita mountain is the most popular owing to its snow-capped character. You may go up any of the peaks, but only with the assistance of tour guides who can advise you on which pathways are much better to choose for your adventure. There are also rest stops along the route up the mountain to keep you from being too exhausted.
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Mount Kenya hiking
Kenya has the second tallest peak in Africa and is located in the country’s eastern district. The mountain features three summits, the tallest of which is the Batian peak, which stands at 5119 meters, the Nelion peak, which stands at 5188 meters, and the Lenana peak, which is at 4985 meters. There are several ways that go to the mountain, and all of them reward you with the glacier top at the summit.
The walk up the mountain takes around four days, depending on the trekking path you select.
The most common way is the Sirimon route, which takes two days for those in a hurry, and the Burguret route, which takes three days but is not typically utilized by trekkers, and these two routes are normally employed while ascending the mountain. The descending routes are the Chogoria route, which takes three days to complete, and the Naro Moru route, which takes two days to complete. The trip up the mountain is tough for the faint of heart, but you will love it since you will be able to witness many animals and birds, as well as the ultimate prize of the glacier when you reach the peak.
Mount Meru climbing
Mount Meru is located in western Tanzania and rises 4562 meters above sea level. For those who enjoy hiking with fewer people, this is the perfect mountain to start from because it is less frequented by tourists. The optimum time to walk Mount Meru is during the dry season, and the hike usually begins at the Momella gate. The trek takes around three days, but keep in mind that there are several unlawful hiking paths that you cannot use, particularly those in the northern section of the mountain, but scholars can receive special licenses that allow them to use the illegal trails.
Hiking Virunga Volcanoes
The Volcanoes Mountains in Uganda contain two extinct volcanoes, which are part of an eight-volcano system that extends over Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. When it comes to trekking, these two mountains are excellent.
The Sabinyo Range
The Sabinyo Mountain features a summit in three countries: Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo, with Uganda being the best side to walk from. Sabinyo means “old man with crooked teeth,” and the peak got its name from its form. The landscape in Uganda is significantly superior, and you will be able to witness the many golden monkeys present in the area while hiking. It is important to note that going up Sabinyo Mountain is difficult owing to its steep nature, but there are a few pathways you may follow that are virtually acceptable for your walk. Furthermore, don’t forget to bring a bottle of water since you will need it.
Mountain Muhabura
Muhabura rises 4127 meters above sea level and is located on the border between Uganda and Rwanda. The mountain’s name translates approximately as the Guide in Kinyarwanda. A trek up the mountain will provide you with a stunning view of the summit’s Crater Lake.
Mountain Mgahinga is a volcano in western Uganda that rises to 3474 meters and is part of the Volcanoes Range. It features a crater lake at the summit that will be your reward after you reach the pinnacle, and once you descend the mountain, you will get a good view of the remainder of the Volcanoes Mountain and the Batwa people. In comparison to other mountain treks, the hike up Mgahinga is incredibly short and not too strenuous.
Karisimbi Mountain
Mountain Karisimbi is a Virunga Mountain that is found in Rwanda. It reaches a height of 4507 meters above sea level. Mountain Karisimbi features a white-capped top, making it an ideal location for a trek. The ascent of Karisimbi takes more than six hours and normally begins in the morning. You must be physically fit for this tough journey since it will use most of your energy, but the trip is worthwhile because you will be able to observe numerous monkeys, gorillas, and other exotic creatures as you ascend the mountain.
Mountain of Lesatima
Lesatima is Kenya’s third tallest peak, situated in the northern section of Aberdare in the Great Rift Valley. The mountain has seen many people hike up to its summit, and it is an experience you do not want to miss, and the pinnacle offers a spectacular outlook.
Elgon is located in the eastern part of Uganda and is one of the country’s few extinct volcanoes, rising 4321 meters above sea level. Mountain Elgon was once thought to be the highest point in Africa, but erosion has caused it to fall in height. Because they are in the same location, you may combine mountain climbing on Elgon Mountain with the trip up to Sipi Falls. The greatest time to mountain climb on Elgon Mountain is during the dry season since the paths are less treacherous than during the rainy season.
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Longonot Mountain.
Longonot is a dormant volcano in Kenya’s Rift Valley area that last erupted in the 1800s. While going mountain climbing, there is a clear road that one may take, and it takes around four to five hours to trek this specific mountain. When you climb the mountain, you will have a fantastic view of Lake Naivasha as well as the local animals and birds. The trek is not difficult, and you can simply hire a potter to assist you to carry your bags for a little charge while you enjoy the scenery.
Hiking to Tororo Rock
Tororo Rock is located in the eastern section of Uganda, roughly 230 kilometers from Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. The rock offers several tourist attractions, including the caverns located in the vicinity, and it climbs to a height of 1800 meters above sea level. As you reach the peak, you will get a clear perspective of the surrounding region as well as an excellent view of Elgon Mountain. The trek up the rock is exceedingly difficult due to the tiny windy slopes going up to the peak, hence one must be physically fit or an adrenaline junkie to go hiking on the Tororo rock.
Mountain Climbing at Kinangop
Mountain Kinangop is located in southern Kenya and reaches to a height of 3909 meters above sea level. The mountain is suitable for climbing, but keep in mind that when you reach the rocky summit, the temperature is a little cold, and along with the bamboo trees that surround the mountain, you will need to bring warm clothing.
Mountain climbing is best done during the dry season since there are fewer risks of slipping owing to the poor routes prevalent in most places of East Africa. Other things you may do while hiking up the mountains include bird watching, gorilla and chimp trekking, wildlife viewing, and swimming in one of the volcanoes that contain crater lakes if you have permission. Some mountain terrain is not difficult, therefore individuals of all ages may go mountain climbing since it is excellent for one’s health and entertainment.
The following are some of the tools or criteria that everyone needs if they want to go mountain climbing.
- Boots for hiking
When climbing the mountain, hiking boots will keep you from slipping too much.
- A raincoat and warm clothing
The rain jacket is for when it rains since the weather in mountainous locations is unpredictable, so it is best to be prepared. Warm garments should also be carried because the further you walk up the mountain, the colder it becomes.
- Gloves for gardening
The gardening gloves are meant to protect your fingers and hands from scratches if you happen to grasp yourself on something sharp while climbing.
- Camera A camera will be used to save your memories of mountain climbing when you eventually descend the mountain.