Kilimanjaro and Meru

The two peaks are both accessible from Arusha , Moshi and Marangu .

Accommodation is available ranging from hotels in the major towns to guesthouses or camping (take your own tent) and there are bunkhouses on Kilimanjaro (if following the Marangu trail) and Meru.

Selecting a good trek operator is important and can improve your chances of success. Poor operators could also present a severe risk to health (and there are deaths on the Mountains each year). The longer routes (taking 7 days instead of 5 or 6) can have a higher success rate although this could be because these routes are served by better operators and undertaken by trekkers who are fitter and better prepared.

In terms of fitness, you will be walking for several hours a day for five or more days in a row. If you would struggle to do this at home, then do not expect it to be easy because you are on holiday! The effect of the higher altitudes also needs to be considered. Altitude sickness can however hit anyone irrespective of their level of fitness.

Your climb should be enjoyable but will certainly be hard work. It may be both the most dangerous and the most rewarding thing you ever do, but to give yourself the best chance of success do not undertake the trek lightly or without proper planning.