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WORLD WIDE TREKKING OUR PLANET... WE GUIDE IT, YOU TREK IT. Why Trek? Trekking, traveling long distances on foot through remote areas, offers you the opportunity for intimate exploration each step of your adventure. Be in the moment as you take in your surroundings, experience the culture, learn about the history, plants, animals, landscape, and meet local people on your journey. This is why we trek.
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I want to personally thank you for signing up with World Wide Trekking for our KILIMANJARO CLIMB & AFRICAN LODGE SAFARI Signature Trek.
As you prepare yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually for your adventure, rest assured that the World Wide Trekking team is taking care of all the logistical details surrounding your trek. We want you to relax and focus on the important things in your life leading up to your trip.
We have enclosed all of the information and tools necessary to begin preparing for your adventure. We have included preparation tips, medical information, money tips, a gear list, and historical and cultural information as well as a suggested reading list prepared by our friends at Traveler’s Bookcase.
I can assure you that every member of the World Wide Trekking team, including myself, is going to be with you every step of the way. As an avid adventurer myself, I understand the stresses and excitement that coincide with travel. Please feel free to contact me, personally, at any time regarding any questions you may have or if you simply want to touch base about your trek.
Above all, my team and I truly believe that at the heart of our adventure is your experience. We know that each guest is different and has unique desires, so please, let us make this adventure what you’ve always dreamed of.
Thank you!
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What We Offer At World Wide Trekking, our international adventures are a first-class guest experience with personalized service every step of the way. Let our team at World Wide Trekking focus on the details and plan a perfect adventure for you, whatever your particular needs may be. From pre-departure trip planning and preparation, day to day safety and logistics, lodging and meals, entertainment, and every detail in between, World Wide Trekking has you covered each step of your journey.
At the heart of our adventure is your experience; we know that every individual has different and unique desires that make their experience right for them, and we at World Wide Trekking strive to exceed the expectations of our guests each and every day. Our itineraries are designed with the experience and comfort of our guests in mind. We have developed each day to balance exploration and relaxation with luxurious comforts throughout.
Our relationship with the communities of the international destinations we trek has earned our team respect abroad. We want you to experience the same satisfying relationships we enjoy throughout your adventure. Our local support staff welcomes you and the opportunity to share their home and culture. Each adventure also offers the opportunity to give back to the communities that welcome us through our non-profit, Human Outreach Project.
Travel with us and you’ll see why our guests become our friends and our friends keep coming back.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
YOUR AFRICAN EXPERIENCE | 6-36
TRIP OVERVIEW 6-7
DAY TO DAY BRIEF 8
TEMPERATURES AND WEATHER 17
DAILY ITINERARY 9-16
KILIMANJARO KIDS COMMUNITY 18
SERENGETI AFRICAN LODGE SAFARI 19-21
ADDITIONAL ADVENTURES 22-23
ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION 24
COMMUNICATIONS 25 FOOD 26-27
AREA FACTS 28-36
PREPARING FOR AFRICA | 37-53
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS 38
INSURANCE AND EMERGENCIES 39
GEAR 44-47
MONEY TIPS 40-43
PHYSICAL PREPARATION 48-49
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS 50-53
MEDICAL AND HEALTH | 54-61
A QUICK NOTE FROM OUR MEDICAL ADVISOR 55-56
JET LAG TIPS 57-58
ALTITUDE ACCLIMATIZATION 59-61
HUMAN OUTREACH PROJECT | 62-65 HUMAN OUTREACH PROJECT OVERVIEW
KILIMANJARO KIDS COMMUNITY 64-65
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NOTES | 66-71
PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST 67
TERMS AND CONDITIONS 68-69
WORLD WIDE TREKKING LEADERS 71
IMPORTANT AND PERSONAL INFORMATION 70
TREK: An adventurous journey, especially one on foot.
TRIP OVERVIEW
This adventure intertwines the allure of international travel, the mystique of the mountains, and the exotic wilds of Africa. This two week adventure has two parts; a seven-day trek to the “roof of Africa,” Mount Kilimanjaro (19,341’), followed by a four-day safari of the Great Rift Valley. Your trek through Tanzania will provide you the exhilarating experience of summiting the world’s tallest free-standing mountain alongside the exploration of its diverse natural ecosystems. You will witness the culture of the local tribes as well as encounter the magnificent wildlife that roam Africa.
As one of the most fascinating and diverse regions on earth, the mighty Kilimanjaro has attracted both climbers and nature enthusiasts with its magnetism. The ascent up this great mountain is non-technical by nature, yet affords its patrons a full mountaineering experience with all of the rigors and rewards of high altitude trekking. This extinct volcano looms over five ecosystems (from tropical rainforest to arctic tundra), large game reserves, and is certainly one of the world’s most impressive sights. Summiting Uhuru Peak, the “House of God,” at sunrise will provide a panoramic display of Africa’s vast and dramatic landscapes.
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A safari of the Great Rift Valley is a journey of the rawest sort. The archetype of paradise, the land has remained relatively unchanged in the past million years. ‘Discovered’ 100 years ago by the white man, the Great Rift Valley has a two million year old history rich in human, animal, and plant life. Today, bones of early man lie beneath the hills that vibrate under the step of wildebeest and zebras during the Great Migration. Visiting the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti National Park will allow us to witness African wildlife up-close, both predator and prey alike, in their natural environment. In addition, we will have the opportunity to see Tanzania through the eyes of the people who call it home. Welcomed by local tribes, we will have the privilege of learning about their culture and relationship to the land through activities such as building fire, shooting bows and arrows, and touring their village.
We look forward to sharing this experience with you!
Asanta Sana, - World Wide Trekking Team
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DAY TO DAY BRIEF Arrival: Arusha, Tanzania – Africa. Welcome and Cultural Tour DAY 1) Arrive Tanzania: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
DAY 2) Coffee Plantation and Cultural Tour and Lunch, Orientation and Gear Check
Kilimanjaro: Machame Route, 7 days to Uhuru Peak, 19,341 feet DAY 3) Machame Trailhead to Machame Camp DAY 4) Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp DAY 5) Shira Cave Camp to Barranco Camp DAY 6) Barranco Camp to Karangu Camp DAY 7) Karangu Camp to Kosovo Camp Leave for summit around 12 midnight DAY 8) Summit Kilimanjaro Uhuru Peak, descend to Millennium Camp DAY 9) Millennium Camp to Meweka Trailhead, Return to Lodge for Celebration Dinner
Kilimanjaro Kids Community | Human Outreach Project DAY 10) Volunteer Projects with Human Outreach Project at KKC DAY 11) Volunteer Projects with Human Outreach Project at KKC
Serengeti Safari: Ngorongoro Crater / Serengeti National Park DAY 12) Ngorongoro Conservation Area / Ngorongoro Crater
DAY 13) Ngorongoro Conservation Area / Serengeti National Park DAY 14) Serengeti National Park DAY 15) Serengeti National Park / Charter Flight to Arusha / Cultural Heritage Center / International Departures Home
“Kilimanjaro is a snow-covered mountain 19,710 feet high, and is said to be the highest mountain in Africa. Its western summit is called the Masai ‘Ngaje Ngai’, the House of God. Close to the western summit there is a dried and frozen carcass of a leopard. No one has explained what the leopard was seeking at that altitude.” ~ Ernest Hemingway
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Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania Welcome to Africa! Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Tanzania, Africa. After you purchase your visa and clear customs, a World Wide Trekking representative will meet you and transfer you to the lodge in Arusha. We will have a Welcome Reception, meet some of our team, enjoy some hors d’oeuvres, and then turn in for the night.
Day 2: Arusha Cultural Walking Tour Today after breakfast we will depart for a cultural walking tour of the small villages in the foothills of Mt. Meru. We will tour a coffee planation, learning about the harvesting and roasting process from tree to cup. We will enjoy lunch on the plantation and then return to the lodge for a Kilimanjaro briefing and gear check. Afterward, you will pack a duffel (37 lbs. max. weight) for the trek (that your porter will carry), and prepare a duffel of travel and safari gear to leave at the hotel. You will also need to prepare your day pack with items you’d like to access during the day such as extra clothes, camera, sunblock, and daily supplies. During this time your World Wide Trekking guide will make the rounds to check each person’s gear and answer any questions you may have. Once your gear is sorted, you can rest and enjoy the lodge.
Arrival Note: Please have $100 cash (exact change), your landing card (received in flight) and a pen handy for customs. You can complete a visa application (printable online) prior to your arrival or fill one out at
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the airport.
DAY 3: WWTREK STATS MACHAME TRAILHEAD: 5,380 ft MACHAME CAMP: 9,350 ft ASCENT ▲: 3,970 ft DESCENT ▼: 0 ft TIME: 5-7 HOURS DISTANCE: 7 MILES
KILIMANJARO Machame Route
There are six trekking routes to ascend Kilimanjaro and two routes to descend. Our route, the Machame Route, is the favored route. On our trek, we will ascend 13,498 feet and cover a total distance of 37 miles.
Day 3: Machame Trailhead (5,380’) to Machame Camp (9,350’) ECO ZONE: RAINFOREST We travel to the Machame trailhead, winding through coffee fields, small villages, and forests of ferns and flowers. After registering with the park service, you will meet our local team and gear up with our porters to start our climb. We trek through a beautiful heath forest on our gradually ascending journey to the Machame Camp.
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DAY 4: WWTREK STATS MACHAME CAMP: 9,350 ft SHIRA CAMP: 12,500 ft ASCENT ▲: 3,150 ft DESCENT ▼: 200 ft TIME: 5-7 HOURS DISTANCE: 3.3 MILES
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Day 4: Machame Camp (9,350’) to Shira Camp (12,500’) ECO ZONE: HEATHER - MOORLAND We leave the Machame Camp and exit the forest continuing our ascent. The environment changes from heath forest to moorland. Halfway up the trail we meet the river gorge and ascend across the remote Shira Plateau. We set up camp and sleep at the Shira Cave campsite.
DAY 5: WWTREK STATS SHIRA CAMP: 12,500 ft
LAVA TOWER: 15,190 ft
BARRANCO CAMP: 13,077 ft ASCENT ▲: 2,585 ft DESCENT ▼: 2,103 ft
Day 5: Shira Camp (12,500’) to Barranco Camp (13,077’) ECO ZONE: ALPINE DESERT - MOORLAND This morning, after a hearty breakfast, we set out to climb to 14,800 feet. While crossing the ridge at the Lava Tower, we will have great views of the rolling African
TIME: 8 HOURS
plains far below. Here we will eat lunch, acclimate and admire the ancient glacier
DISTANCE: 4.5 MILES
ice of the Breach Wall from the Lava Tower (15,190'). Capture the stunning beauty here with time for photographs before we descend to our campsite at Great Barranco. By days end we will descend into the Barranco Valley and make camp at 13,077 feet; this is a great acclimatization day.
Did You Know?
On October 26, 2007, Gerard Bavato of France ran 36.5 km to the Marangu Gates atop Kilimanjaro in 5 hours 26 minutes, and 40 seconds. Such a feat would take normal trekkers 4 to 6 days to complete.
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DAY 6: WWTREK STATS BARRANCO CAMP: 13,077 ft KARANGU CAMP: 13,235 ft ASCENT ▲: 1,148 ft DESCENT ▼: 1,083 ft TIME: 5 HOURS DISTANCE: 3.23 MILES
Day 6: Barranco Camp (13,077’) to Karangu Camp (13,235’) ECO ZONE: ALPINE DESERT In the beautiful morning light, we climb the breakfast wall, up and over the great Barranco, topping out at about 14,500 feet. We will wind through a gently descending trail down to our camp Karangu, 13,235 feet. This completes another day of acclimatization as we pass below the famous Breach Wall, the largest ice and rock face in Africa. Here daytime temperatures can reach 80 degrees Farenheit, while evening temperatures often drop below freezing.
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DAY 7: WWTREK STATS KARANGU CAMP: 13,235 ft KOSOVO CAMP: 15,900 ft
Day 7: Karangu Camp (13,235’) to Kosovo Camp (15,900’) ECO ZONE: ALPINE DESERT
ASCENT ▲: 2,665 ft
No doubt a chilly morning, we will greet the sun eagerly as it rises over the moun-
DESCENT ▼: 164 ft
tain to warm our tents. After our typical morning routine, we climb about five to
TIME: 5-6 HOURS
six hours to our high camp, Kosovo. We obtain a special permit to stay at Kosovo,
DISTANCE: 2.05 MILES
which is about 600 feet higher than the high camp the the majority of the trekkers use. This puts us closer to the summit, giving us a better chance for success.
As we wind through these sparsely traveled regions, we enter a high desert plateau, littered with volcanic boulders. Looking south, we view the desert plains as the pinnacles of Mawenzi Peak tower before us. At Kosovo, we prepare for our summit attempt. While our cook staff prepares our dinner, we will spend our time packing and preparing for an early departure time around 12:00 A.M. for our summit push.
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DAY 8: WWTREK STATS KOSOVO HIGH CAMP: 15,900 ft
KILIMANJARO | UHURU PEAK: 19,341 ft
MILLENNIUM CAMP: 12,556 ft ASCENT ▲: 4,045 ft DESCENT ▼: 7,484 ft
Kilimanjaro Summit Day! Congratulations! ECO ZONE: ARCTIC - GLACIERS
Day 8: Uhuru Peak (19,341’)
TIME: 10-14 HOURS
We will wake at midnight and prepare for our ascent through the arctic Kiliman-
DISTANCE: 9 MILES
jaro. We begin our climb in the darkness, wearing headlamps until the pre-dawn light reflects off the African plains and high mountain glaciers. Following a distinct
ridge, we approach the rim of the crater and then traverse northwest along the rim to the main summit of Uhuru Peak! You will now be standing on the highest free standing mountain in the world, as well as the highest point on the African continent! From here we can view the Bismarck Towers, rock pinnacles along the rim, and the hanging Redman Glaciers.
As the sun rises, awakening Africa, we will take in a panorama of incredible views. To our west, the second highest point in Tanzania, Mount Meru (14,977’), and the southern exposure reveals the sprawling plains of Tanzania and East Africa as well as the Mawenzi Peak (16,893’) of Kilimanjaro. After enjoying the view from the roof of Africa, we descend to Kosovo Camp, rest for an hour or two, eat lunch, pack camp, and begin our hike down. Our route takes us down the southern side of the mountain via the Mweka Route. We descend down to the edge of the jungle and spend our final night on the mountain at Millennium Camp (12,556’).
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DAY 9: WWTREK STATS MILLENNIUM CAMP: 12,556 ft MWEKA GATE: 5,380 ft ASCENT ▲: 0 ft DESCENT ▼: 7,176 ft TIME: 5 HOURS DISTANCE: 6 MILES
Day 9: Millennium Camp (12,556’) to Mweka Gate (5,380’) ECO ZONE: RAIN FOREST The sun’s rays congratulate us with a spectacular light show as we awake below the towering mountain on our final day of our Kilimanjaro journey. We descend through the lush green landscape of the Mweka Route into the thickest jungle we have encountered yet. The environment becomes primordial, with 20 foot-tall fern trees creating a prehistoric atmosphere. After reaching the Mweka Gate, we will
sign out with the rangers and say farewell and thank you to our mountain staff. After our good-byes we drive to our lodge for a well-deserved shower and enjoy a celebration dinner. Later that evening we will re-pack gear and brief you on the details of your safari.
You will again separate your gear, this time taking your safari gear and leaving your travel and trekking gear stored at our lodge in Arusha.
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TEMPERATURES & WEATHER
It’s said that to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is to climb through four seasons in as many days. There are few other places on earth where you can experience such diversity. Climbers experience all kinds of weather and scenery on Kilimanjaro. Climbing below cloud, through cloud and above cloud, climbing in tropical sun, rain and snow, climbing through a forest, over heather, across a desert and finally on ice fields to the summit. Once you get above the forest, the morning and evenings are cool until the sun fully rises. Throughout the morning, some cloud usually build up, dissipating mid-afternoon. If you’re climbing through the clouds, it can be chilly, especially if there is wind. For much of the day you will be climbing in and out of sunshine, and when you are in the sun, it gets very warm.
Best Times of the Year to Summit Kilimanjaro January, February and September are the driest and warmets months in Tanzania, and are therefore also the busiest months for climbing Kilimanjaro. March through early June is a rainy season, and visibility is low, though the crowds are gone. Our personal favorite is mid-June through early August. Because the rainy season has just ended and there is more vegitation and biodiversity, and less dust in the air. The temperatures in late June through early August are cooler.
TEMPERATURE AVERAGES LOW (F)
AVG (F)
HIGH (F)
January
54
70
82
February
54
70
82
March
56
70
80
April
57
68
75
May
55
64
69
June
52
62
68
July
50
61
68
August
50
62
70
September
50
63
73
October
52
67
78
November
54
68
79
December
54
69
80
Note: The above temperatures are relative to an approximate mid-point during the ascent.
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KILIMANJARO KIDS COMMUNITY
Day 10: Kilimanjaro Kids Community / Departures for “Trek Only” Guests Today we will tour the Kilimanjaro Kids Community (KKC), a children’s home run by Human Outreach Project (HOP), a 501(c)(3) humanitariun non-profit. HOP was founded in 2006 by Dean Cardinale, the owner of World Wide Trekking, as a means of giving back to the places where World Wide Trekking visits. The KKC was established in 2009 and now hosts 12 children, aged 7-11 years old, as well as five full-time staff members. HOP hosts programs in which high school students from the U.S. attend a two week expiriential Global Health Educations Program at the HOP KKC. Your visit will allow opportunites to interact with the children and staff from the home, as well as participate in a special project. In the afternoon, “Trek Only” guests will transfer to KIA Lodge for a day room stay to prepare for international depratures.
Day 11: Kilimanjaro Kids Community After breakfast we will depart for the KKC. Enjoy opportunities to interact with the children and staff from the home. Read to them, write with them, help them with their homework or talk with them. Depending on which projects are needed at the time, different service projects will be initiated upon the groups arrival. Examples of projects in the past have been varnishing cubbies, painting buildings, organizing the learning center, and helping out harvesting food in the garden.
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SERENGETI AFRICAN LODGE SAFARI Day 12: Ngorongoro Crater and Ngorongoro Conservation Area Our Serengeti Safari of the Great Rift Valley is a journey steeped both in cultural exploration and wildelife immersion. This luxurious adventure takes us through the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Diverse animal and plant life can be seen throughout the journey. You will have an opportunity to experience varied cultures in these precious areas.
This morning we will make our way to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. After checking in with the park service, we will make our way down into the Ngorongoro Crater. We will spend our day driving the world’s largest un-broken crater looking for game and the opportunity to experience the wilds of Africa first hand. We will keep a relaxed, comfortable, and enjoyable pace as we make our tour. We will stop for a picnic lunch along the way and at the day’s end we will return to our lodge at the crater rim. We will spend our evening enjoying a group meal while watching the sun set over the crater.
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Day 13: Ngorongoro Conservation Area / Serengeti National Park Early starts are the norm, after breakfast we will embark on yet another exciting day. Today we head out on safari and load into our open-topped Land Cruisers, prepared to safely view the wildlife we are sure to encounter. We will spend the day game driving on our way to the Serengeti National Park. During the safari we will stay in African lodges each night. Depending on our luck and timing, we will see elephants, giraffes, baboons, lions, and thousands of flamingos. We will enjoy a fine dinning experience as a group.
Day 14: Serengeti National Park The Serengeti National Park was established in 1951 and spans over 5,700 square miles. The name Serengeti is derived from the Maasai word siringet; which roughly translated means “endless plains.� The annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest has made the Serengeti a must-see safari destination. Spend the day touring from the comfort of your own safari vehicle throughout the Serengeti National Park. Witness the diverse wildlife in the park, including herds of buffalo, elephant, and giraffe.
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Land Cruiser Seating Diagram GUIDE
DRIVER
WINDOW SEATS
COOLER BOX LUGGAGE LUGGAGE
Day 15: Serengeti National Park / Fly to Arusha Greeting the day with a sunrise breakfast, we will have a morning game drive and a visit to the Serengeti Visitor Center then take a one hour scenic flight back to Arusha. After arriving in Arusha we continue on to the Cultural Heritage Center. Here we enjoy a meal and shop in the largest market in East Africa. The Cultural Heritage Center features the best variety of souvenirs including a large selection of Tanzanian gem stones, local art and crafts. They offer shipping to the U.S. and don’t pester you with salesmen. We enjoy plenty of time to wander around the Heritage Center and art gallery. We will then make a stop at the Kilimanjaro Kids Community, to say farewell to the children.
In the afternoon we make our way to the KIA Lodge near the airport where you will have a day room to prepare for your departure. You can relax, say your goodbyes, and re-pack your gear with plenty of time to catch your evening flight home or set off on your next adventure.
Thank you for joining us!
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AD AD D VE ITI NT ON UR AL ES If you choose to continue exploring the depths of the African continent with gorilla tracking, our guides will take you into the Rwandan Mountains in search of silverback gorillas. This adventure puts you up close with 600 pound gorillas and their young offspring in their natural environment. This is a truly special experience.
Rwanda: Mountain Gorilla Tracking
• Our gorilla tracking additional adventure allows you to trek through dense jungle in the Rwandan Volcanoes National Park in serach of a unique and endangered species, the silverback gorilla. • This moving adventure puts you face to face with these amazing creatures. • Less than 750 great apes are still alive in the world today. • Observe gorilla families complete with females, offspring, and other mature males as they live together in the jungle. • This adventure is five days and includes flights to and from Rwanda (from JRO), transportation in Rwanda, permits, trackers and guides, accommodations, meals, Kigali city tour, and Gisozi Memorial visit. • Must be at least 15 years old to track gorillas.
For more information on an extended adventure please call Harvard Alumni Travels at 800-422-1636
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L NA S O E TI UR DI NT AD VE AD Zanzibar Island sits in the Indian Ocean just off the coast of Tanzania. Enjoy the exotic Stone Town, a seventh-century Persian slave trading port, and explore the island’s Muslim culture. Then head North to Nungwi Beach and enjoy crystal clear waters, ancient dhow sailboats, snorkeling, a turtle preserve, and white sand beaches.
Zanzibar Island: Stone Town and Nungwi Beach
• Our Zanzibar Island adventure to exotic Stone Town is a great way to complete your African experience. • Reward yourself with beach time on this gorgeous Indian Ocean island getaway. • Explore the ancient Persian city of Stone Town. • Stone Town offers an array of cultural sights including historical museums and forts complete with great shopping and entertainment to enjoy. • This seventh-century slave trading port has quaint hotels and restaurants set in the narrow streets and Arabic architecture. • Nungwi Beach offers great accommodations and crystal clear waters. • Take a sunset sail in a handmade Dhow sailboat. • Stroll down the beach and explore the turtle preserve at the lighthouse. • This adventure is five days and includes flights to and from Zanzibar from (JRO), ground transfers to and from the airport to your beach resort, and
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accommodations.
ACCOMMODATIONS & TRANSPORTATION Accommodations
All of your accommodations will be provided for you throughout your adventure as a standard part of your trek. Our accommodations will range from expedition style tent camping while trekking to luxury lodges while on safari. While trekking, we will provide tents to spend our nights modestly, yet comfortably in our natural surroundings. During our safari, we will pamper ourselves after our successful summit by staying in the best lodges Tanzania has to offer.
Camping During our trek up Kilimanjaro, we will set up a comfortable, expedition style camp. Each day our crew will set up and break down camp. Every two guests will have a spacious three-person, four-season, The North Face tent to share. There will be a dining tent with a dining table and chairs set up daily for our meals. Every day while trekking, our lunches will be served on a dining table with chairs, and weather depending, inside our dining tent. We bring along flushing portable toilets and set it up inside a toilet tent for privacy. The staff will utilize a cook tent and separate staff tents. Warm washing water will be brought to your tent in the morning and the evening.
Lodges While we are preparing for our trek and while on safari, we will stay in Tanzania’s most elegant lodges. The lodges are luxurious and offer standard and contemporary amenities such as internet, spa services, laundry, swimming pool, and fine dining.
In-Country Transportation From arrival to departure, your in-country transportation will be taken care of by World Wide Trekking. When trekking, your primary means of transportation will be your left and right foot, or “mguu wa kushotona kulia,” in Swahili. When not trekking, we have arranged safe, comfortable transportation. By land we use private, open-top Land Cruisers -- a must for safari -- and by air we charter an in-country flight for our return to Arusha .
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COMMUNICATIONS
You will have the opportunity to communicate with your family and friends back home throughout your trek and safari. However, your ability to communicate will be limited at times. While staying in the lodges, WIFI and internet are usually available. While trekking Kilimanjaro, cell service for international and satellite plans is available (although there are areas of intermittent service). If you want to maintain contact throughout your trip, you will need to purchase an international plan through your U.S. cell provider. Our recommendation is that you enjoy the mountain during your trek and rely on Skype or email to communicate at the lodges. We suggest that you take a few simple steps to ease communication efforts while in Tanzania.
Electricity: The lodges we stay at are equipped with electricity. However, as is the norm in Tanzania, power outages do happen. You will have the opportunity to charge your devices while staying at the lodges. We suggest bringing an all-in-one type power adapter as they are small and work in all countries.
Internet: The lodges we stay at have internet (WIFI). Please note that although available, it is not guaranteed to be up and running 24/7.
International Phone Calls: If you plan to bring a cell phone, you will need to discuss an international plan with your cell provider in the U.S. You will have cell reception throughout most of your trek.
Email: While at the lodges you will have access to internet. We advise that you create a web-serviced email account such as Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail for easy access from any computer.
Skype: Our recommended method of communication is using Skype. It is a cost effective way to keep in touch. You can set up an account and prepay before you depart. You can call computer-to-computer (which is free) or computer-to-phone. Video-chat and phone call capabilities will be available throughout the journey.
SPOT and GPS: Satellite supported locating type devices should work with no problems.
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FOOD
We offer a dining experience that is flexible and accommodating, yet flavorful and hearty. We will share our meals together while at the lodges and on the trek. The lodges offer buffet style breakfasts and banquet style lunches and dinners where you will have the opportunity to choose between two or more options during each course. Please let us know of any dietary needs such as allergies or restrictive diets as it is very important to stay well nourished and hydrated during the climb to increase the chance of success at high altitude.
Sample Menu Options - Trek Breakfast: tea/coffee, eggs, toast, oatmeal, pancakes, fresh fruit, etc. Lunch and Dinner: fresh homemade soup, pasta, fried chicken, fish, various fresh vegetable sides, Mexican, fritters, etc.
Sample Menu Options - Lodges Breakfast Buffet: tea/coffee, eggs, toast, oatmeal, pancakes, french-toast, fresh fruit, quiche, etc. Lunch: Picnic with cooler box Dinner: Various world cuisine dishes and sides Lodges have beer, water, soda, and candy. The prices are reasonable
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Water During our trek we carry a state-of-the-art Katadyn water filter to make clean drinking water available to you each day. At night, we heat the water so you can place a hot water bottle in your sleeping bag to keep you warm. The water is cool enough by morning to drink. Bring 2 wide-mouth Nalgene style bottles for this purpose.
Never drink water directly from the tap! Don’t even rinse your toothbrush! While at the lodges we will drink bottled water only.
Vegan / Vegetarian / Gluten Free Diets We can accommodate any dietary needs you may have. Please let us know of any allergies, intolerances, or sensitivities you have prior to your departure and we will be happy to make arrangements for you. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or are unsure. In Tanzania, it’s generally very easy to accommodate just about any special dietary need.
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AREA FACT SHEET Tanzania: Area Facts
Tanzania is the perfect destination for travelers looking for quintessential Africa. Located in East Africa and having an area roughly twice the size of California, Tanzania is one of the world’s oldest inhabited regions. For three million years man has roamed its regions, savanna to mountains, carving out an existence from the African countryside. Explorers, drawn to exotic Africa, have tried to tame her wildness to no avail. The story of Tanganyika, Tanzania, is one of unaltered wilds and progressive politics. “Kilimanjaro,” according to the President of Mozambique, Chissano, “carried the torch that liberated Africa.”
Human and Political History Tanzania’s human history, as the “cradle of humanity,” dates back to the beginning of mankind with Hominid (human-like) footprints unearthed at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. For three million years, early man has inhabited the plains and surrounding areas of Tanzania. As those creatures evolved, they became known as homo erectus and began to resemble modern day human, later to be known as homo sapiens (thats us!) around 100,000 years ago.
Starting in 8,000 BC, Tanzania began to see migrations of pastoralists and agriculturalists from the surrounding countries The Khoisan speakers and the Cushitic speakers from present day Ethiopia being the earliest, followed by the Bantu speakers from West Africa (where most Tanzanians trace their ancestry) around 1,000 BC, and later to see migrations of Nilotic speakers (ancestors to the Maasai) from southern Sudan continuing up to the 18th century.
Trade in this region began sometime around 400 BC with the Greeks establishing trade routes and posts along the coast. Those posts became full on settlements by 300 AD. Coastal trading and Arab settlements provide most of the known history
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of the region during this time. As cultures mixed, so too did the languages, giving rise to Swahili, meaning ‘of the coast’ in Arabic. Swahili is a mix of Bantu, Arabic, Persian, and Asian influences. Trade continued strong until the 15th century, dealing ivory, gold, and other goods to India, China, and elsewhere.
In 1498, Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama disturbed the trading culture of the region by subduing the coast and building forts. The Portuguese would control East Africa until the 18th Century when Arabs from Oman would enter the picture, again establishing trade. With the demand for slaves rising, the foreigners in search of expanding the slave trade would make its way to the inland regions of Tanzania.
In 1840, German missionaries, Ludwig Drapf and Johannes Rebmann, were the first to reach the interior of Tanzania, documenting Mount Kilimanjaro. The next 30 years would bring Anglican and Catholic missionaries into the interior. As exploration and mapping increased, the desire to colonize grew. Around 1880, Britain and Germany would split present day Tanzania, Britain controlling the Zanzibar archipelago and Germany controlling much of present day Tanzania.
Under German colonialism as German East Africa, the seeds of the Tanzanian colonial revolution are said to have sprouted. Dissatisfied under harsh governance, Tanzanians revolted against German colonial rule in 1888, 1905, and 1907. After WWI, Britain would take over administration of the region under the mandate of the League of Nations. German East Africa became Tanganyika.
Still under colonial rule, Tanganyika, would begin establishing itself as an exporter of crops. Alongside the cultivation of crops and farmers’ cooperatives, political organizations sprang up that began to challenge the colonial system; notably, in 1929, the African Association, and in 1948 the Tanganyika Africa Association (TAA). By the 1950s, when the Meru people were displaced to settle European farmers around Kilimanjaro, the people of Tanganyika had organized themselves in such a way as to begin the road to independence.
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In 1953, Julius Nyerere was elected president of the TAA, which became the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU). Their rally cry, “uhuru na umoja� (freedom and unity), pushing them toward independence at a time when only nine countries on the African continent were independent.
Independence would come in 1961 when Britain agreed to allow Tanganyika to establish self-government as a commonwealth realm, Nyerere as Prime Minister. Shortly after, in 1963, Zanzibar received its independence as a constitutional monarchy. The monarchy under the Sultan was overthrown and a new government was formed, lead by members of the radical Afro-Shirazi Party. Politically unstable, a violent revolution took place where much of the island population either fled or were killed. Nyerere was asked by Britain to step in and send troops to end the revolt.
After much compromise, in 1964, the United Republic of Tanganyika, later renamed to Tanzania, would be formed. Tanzania is the mix of Tanganyika and Zanzibar to form a new name, a new beginning. Tanzania committed to a policy of socialism and self reliance with the Arusha Declaration of 1967.
Since independence, Tanzania would witness decades of social progression despite its poverty. Dedicated to education, Nyerere fought to unify the nation under one party, banning multi-party demonstrations. Nyerere remained prime minister until 1985 when Ali Hassan Mwinyi took over. Western nations fueled by the fall of communism in Europe would push Tanzania toward legalizing oppositional parties. The first elections were in 1995 and went smoothly on the mainland. The island, however, had a bit of a rocky start as foreign development assistance was needed to smooth over the uproar in the accusation of a dishonest election.
Today, Tanzania is diverse and religously tolerant. With perserverance, Tanzania will continue to move forward.
“Without doubt Kibo is most imposing as seen from the west. Here it rises in solemn majesty, and the eye is not distracted by the sister peak of Mawezi, of which nothing is to be seen but a single jutting pinnacle. The effect is enhanced by the magnificent flowering sweep of the outline, the dazzling extent of the ice-cap, the vast stretch of the forest, the massive breadth of the base, and the jagged crest of the Shira spur as it branches away towards the west. ~ Hans Meyer
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Kilimanjaro Mountaineering History Kilimanjaro’s allure dates back to the early writing of the Arabs starting in the sixth century on up to the sixteenth but was ‘officially’ reported by missionary Redmann of Mombasa in 1848. From its discovery, many attempts of Kilimanjaro would be made before she’d give up her summit.
The first attempt to climb Kilimanjaro was in 1861 by German officer, Baron Carl Claus Von der Decken. Claus turned back from his attempt of Kibo after reaching 8,200 feet. The next attempt would see Von der Decken to 14,000 feet in 1862.
Many attempts later, Kilimanjaro was finally successfully summited in 1889 by Hans Meyer, a German geology professor. His previous attempts in 1887 and 1888 failed due to lack of equipment and the political unrest of the Abushiri Revolt, respectively.
Did You Know?
To date, WWTrek’s youngest person to climb Kilimanjaro was 11 years old and the oldest was 75 years old.
Did You Know?
World Wide Trekking has one of the highest success rates climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
Geography and Landscapes Tanzania is home to the highest and lowest points on the African continent, Mount Kilimanjaro (19,341’) and Lake Tanganyika (1,148’ below sea level). It is bordered to the north by Kenya and Uganda, to the west by Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and to the south by Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique. Tanzania has 14 national parks that comprise 1/4 of its land. From grassland savanna to lush green jungles to arctic mountains, Tanzania runs the gamut of landscapes.
Great Rift Valley The Great Rift Valley began two million years ago and runs from Northern Syria to Mozambique. Originally it was a huge plain that ran from the Red Sea to the Kalahari, but due to fault lines and shifting plates that buckled the earth, the Great Rift Valley is like a “patchwork quilt” with volcanoes, craters, lakes, plateaus, and plains.
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Kilimanjaro Geology Comprised of three volcanoes (one dormant, two extinct) and topped in glaciers, Kilimanjaro’s history has been shaped by two of nature’s most powerful forces -- fire and ice. Kilimanjaro was born 750,000 years ago during one of the many shaping episodes of the Great Rift Valley. Molten lava under the earth’s crust flowed through the “pinpricks” to push earth skyward. Kilimanjaro was created over several tectonic episodes and ended its growth around 450,000 years ago. The three volcanoes of Kilimanjaro are Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Most of Kilimanjaro’s mass is underground, as volcanoes only reveal 1/100 or possibly 1/1,000 of themselves above ground. While Mawenzi and Shira are extinct, Kibo remains dormant with its last documented activity 200 years ago.
“There, ahead, all he could see, as wide as all the world, great, high, and unbelievably white in the sun, was the square top of Kilimanjaro. And then he knew that there was where he was going.” ~ Ernest Hemingway Kilimanjaro has three main glaciers, Heim, Kersten, and Kecken. The African continent has about 20 square kilometers of glaciers present and Kilimanjaro claims 1/5 of that. However, the glaciers are disappearing. The theories include, global warming, natural cycles, or the amount of trekkers Kilimanjaro hosts each year as possible causes of glacial melting.
Climate Tanzania has a tropical climate that varies according to elevation. From season to season, the temperatures and precipitation vary slightly, staying much the same due to Tanzania’s proximity to the Equator. The coastal zone is hot and humid, the central plateau is hot and dry, and the highlands are semi-temperate. The highlands see temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees and the rest of the country rarely falls below 70 degrees.
Expect during your trek to encounter tropical to arctic weather as you climb. Although we will be climbing during the dry ‘anti-trade’ winds season between May and October, precipitation is always likely at low elevations. As we climb, the chance of precipitation will drop with the temperatures (70 to 80 degrees at the base and 0 to 15 degrees at the summit). Prepare for intense sun, wet days, and cold nights.
Economy Agriculture is the backbone of Tanzania’s economy. Eighty percent of the population are employed through agricultural practices. The main crops grown are cassava, maize, bananas, rice, sorghum, sweet potatoes, coffee, tea, cloves, cotton, cashew nuts, flowers, and seeds. Mining is also becoming increasingly significant with the development of gold and diamond mines.
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Culture and Religion Tanzanians have a surprisingly strong national association, or ujamaa (family-hood). Rarely will a Tanzanian identify himself by tribe from the start. This collective attitude comes from the days of Julius Nyerere and his push to unify over 120 tribes in a socialistic type society. Such a national mindset has allowed Tanzania a relatively peaceful existence with tribes co-existing and Christians and Muslims living side by side with minimal friction. Tribes in Tanzania range from as few as 100 members to as many as a few thousand members.
Tribes of Tanzania Sukuma Making up 13% of the population, the largest tribe in Tanzania, with three million Tanzanians, is the Sukuma. Living in the northwestern area of Tanzania, they speak Bantu and are traditionally cattle herders and farmers of subsistence crops such as cassava.
Nywamwezi The “people of the moon,� or Nywamwezi, are the second largest tribe in Tanzania. Similar to the Sukuma, they are also historically cattle herders, farmers, and Bantu speakers. Living in the northwest of Tanzania, near Lake Victoria, the tribe has about 1.5 million members.
Chaga Living on the south and eastern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru and Moshi, the third largest tribe of Tanzania is the Chaga. They speak Kichagga, a Niger-Congo language. The Chaga were one of the first tribes to convert to Christianity. Among the richest and most powerful people in Tanzania, they have a strong sense of identity. They are known for their advanced farming techniques and for their trade and politics. They are a highly successful tribe.
Shirazi The Shirazi are descended from Persia, and make up the majority of the people of Zanzibar Island. They speak Swahili and practice Sunni and Shia Islam.
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Environmental Zones of Kilimanjaro There are five major environmental zones on Kilimanjaro: bushland, rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine or highland desert, and arctic summit. Each zone, correlating with altitude, has its own standard rainfall, temperature, plants, and animals. In general, as altitude increases, every 3,000 feet the zone changes.
Bushland Altitude: 2,600 to 5,900 feet Rainfall: 20 inches per year at lower altitude to 70 inches at higher altitudes. The bushland is primarily a mix of grassland and croplands. In addition to the rainfall they receive directly, they also receive the runoff from the forest areas via underground channels.
Rainforest Altitude: 5,900 to 9,200 feet Rainfall: 79 inches on the southern slopes and less than 40 inches on the north and west sides. The rainforest is the richest zone in terms of plant and animal life. The mossy jungle hosts fruit bearing trees, flowering plants, and shy animals hidden in the thickness. Monkeys, leopards, rodents, birds, butterflies, and deer call the rainforest home.
Heath and Moorland Altitude: 9,200 to 13,100 feet Rainfall: 40 to 20 inches varying by altitude (less as altitude increases). Abundant wildflowers and shrub-like plants paint the landscape with the occasional Senecio tree. Birds such as the alpine or hill chat, streaky seed-eater, and buzzards and rodents like four-striped grass mouse are more likely to be seen as opposed to large mammals (elands, common duikers) in this zone.
Alpine or High Desert Altitude: 13,100 to 16,400 feet Rainfall: 10 inches per year. The vegetation becomes even more sparse in this zone known as “summer every day, winter every night� due to its intense sun and high altitude. Lichens and mosses are common but flowering plants and grasses still survive. Constant freezing and thawing of groundwater moves soil and uproots plants often. There is hardly any wildlife to speak of in this region.
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Arctic Summit Altitude: above 16,400 feet Rainfall: less than 4 inches per year. This region is the harshest for life. Extreme cold at night, burning sun during the day, and half the oxygen available at sea level, this region sustains virtually no plant or animal life. A few lichens cling to rocks and the highest documented flower was at the eastern fumarole of Kibo’s crater.
Animals of Tanzania Africa hosts a wide variety of animals. In the Ngorongoro Conservation area there are 115 species of mammals and 550 birds as well as an impressive array of reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Some of the animals you will see on safari include: eland, gazelle, giraffe, wildebeest, elephants, hippos, rhinos, buzzards, water buffalo, zebras, lions, cheetahs, and hyenas - just to name a few!
Tanzania’s Big 5 The “Big Five” are among the most deadly mammals in Africa. The term was originally invented by big game hunters based on how difficult each animal was to hunt. The expression is still used by tourist and wildlife guides but isn’t actually contingent on the animal’s size.
LION : SIMBA
ELEPHANT : NDOVU
LEOPARD : CHUI
RHINO : FARU
Did You Know? The giraffe is Tanzania’s national animal, the tallest living terrestrial animal and BUFFALO : NYUMBU
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the largest ruminant. Giraffes have never been observed bathing.
Language The national language of Tanzania is Swahili. It is spoken by 50 million people in East Africa. Swahili was primarily an indigenous language spoken along the coast but soon became the language of trade. The language moved inland as development and trade increased. Swahili means “coastal” in Arabic and is appropriately influenced by the Arabic, Bantu, Portuguese, Persian, and English languages.
Swahili Key Words and Phrases Hello/How are you?
Habari
ha-ba-ree
Goodbye
Tutoanana
too-ta-ah-an-na
Welcome
Karibu
ka-ree-boo
Please
Tafadhali
ta-fa-dha-lee
Thank you
Asante
a-san-tay
You’re Welcome
Karibu
ka-ree-boo
Yes
Ndiyo
n-dee-yoh
No
Hapana
ha-pa-na
Excuse me
Samahani
sa-ma-ha-nee
Sorry
Pole
poh-lay
Help!
Saidia
sa-ee-dee-a
Where are the toilets?
Vyoo viko wapi?
vyoh vee-ko wa pee
Do you speak English?
Unasema Kiingereza?
oo-na-say-ma kee-een-gay-ray-za
Jambo Song Jambo - Hi Jambo bwana - Hi sir Habari gani? - How are you? Mzuri sana - Very fine Wageni mwakaribishwa - Visitors are welcome Kilimanjaro - Kilimanjaro Hakuna matata - (there are) no worries
“We were in an amiable frame of mind ourselves and, notwithstanding all the toil and trouble my self-appointed task had cost me, I don’t think I would that night have changed places with anybody in the world” ~ Hans Meyer
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We live in a fast paced society. TREKKING slows us down.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
There are many flight options from the U.S. to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). We highly recommend that you use a travel agent. The benefit of using a travel agent is that you do not have to spend your valuable time researching confusing flight plans, the travel agent will find the best flight connections for you. Though third-party travel websites are convenient, they are not recommended, due to the instability in the itineraries.
We recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket. Note: The best route to fly is through Amsterdam. KLM flies once daily from Amsterdam to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where your Wolrld Wide Trekking guide will meet you for your adventure. For passport and visa services, we recommend the services of G3 Visas.
U.S.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
We recommend contacting Danny Genung at Harr Travel. Harr Travel | Danny Genung | (909) 266-0117 danny@harrtravel.com | www.harrtravel.com 38
INSURANCE & EMERGENCIES
We recommend you purchase travel insurance to cover unexpected trip interruptions, cancellations, or lost baggage. We will be covering you for emergency evacuation insurance. Please contact us for further details. We work with the following providers:
Emergency Evacuation: • www.GlobalRescue.com/WWTrek • http://flydoc.org/
* CARRY YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE INFORMATION WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES. Find out in advance if your health insurance provider makes payments directly to providers or reimburses you later for overseas health expenditures. Some policies require you to call a center in your home country for immediate assesment of the problem. Not all policies will cover ambulance or transport of patients to a better medical facility, to a medical evacuation location, or to a hospital in a major city, which may be the only way to get medical attention in a serious emergency.
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MONEY TIPS TOP 10 Money Tips #1 NEW BILLS Bring only new bills, newer than the year 2000, that are in good condition with no rips or damage to them. Old, worn out bills often cannot be exchanged.
#2 SEPARATE Do not put your money with your passport since you may have to show it when you do not want to show your money. Money belts come in handy for this reason.
#3 DAY WALLET Take a small amount of money for your pocket and keep the rest in a safe place.
#4 COUNT YOUR CHANGE Many people do not count their change and get shorted regularly when they travel.
#5 SMALL BILLS When you exchange money be sure to ask for small bills. It is hard to buy anything with large bills because local people often times do not have enough change.
#6 CHEAT SHEET Make an exchange rate cheat sheet. This way when you are buying things it makes sense to you how much you are spending and helps you bargain effectively. A small calculator can be handy as well.
#7 PHOTOCOPY Photocopy or scan the front and back of your credit cards and passport and keep them in a separate place. If either of them get lost or stolen you will have all of the information necessary to quickly call and report it.
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#8 LOCK BOXES Use the lock boxes in your room and carry a small amount of money outside the hotel. The lock boxes are a safe place for anything valuable.
#9 CHECK FEES If you use a credit card, check the fees associated with overseas charges. Some places charge as much as 10% to run a card from overseas.
#10 POCKET CHANGE Keep a small amount of change in your pocket. A quick tip for some help is much easier if you have small bills in your pocket rather than a large bill.
Money Belt / Leg Cache Money belts and leg caches keep your valuables out of sight and out of reach of pick-pockets. Leg or arm wallets are h a n d y for cash and credit cards. We like the leg cache, as it is comfortable to wear, well hidden under your pant-leg,
and easy to access under a table.
Tanzania Entry Visa When clearing customs in Tanzania, you will be required to purchase a 12-month multiple-entry tourist visa. The cost of the visa is $100, so make sure to bring cash with you. It helps to have exact change.
Travelers’ Cheques Travelers’ cheques are not widely accepted in Tanzania. In order to use them, you’d have to take them to a bank and exchange them for local currency. In doing so, you will receive a much lower exchange rate than you would for exchanging cash in the form of U.S. dollars. To avoid the hassle, we suggest bringing US $100 or $50 bills (smaller denominations get a lesser exchange rate) to exchange upon arrival and use your bankcard for additional money.
ATM’s ATM’s are available throughout Tanzania and will dispense local currency. They will ask you how much you want to withdraw in Tanzanian shillings, so choose an easy amount such as, 100,000 TZS ($61.79). Be sure to alert your bank of your travel plans prior to departure to avoid having your card shut off.
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Credit Cards Credit cards are widely accepted by larger shopping centers and by the lodges. VISA is by far the most popular. Be sure to research the applicable fees for overseas uses of your credit card.
Cash We recommend using cash exclusively during your trip as it is the easiest and most widely accepted, especially the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). The U.S. dollar is widely accepted in addition to the Tanzanian shilling throughout Tanzania. You will be able to use U.S. dollars while shopping for souvenirs as well as at the lodges for additional services. However, we recommend using the TZS. Be sure to take note of exchange rates when shopping.
Foreign Currencies The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling. The Tanzanian shilling replaced the East Africa shilling in 1966 and is abbreviated TZS. The shilling is subdivided into 100 senti and written as such x/y where x is the amount over one shilling and y is the senti.
Due to fluctuating exchange rates, we recommend going to www.google.com to find the current rate.
Where can I expect to exchange money? We recommend exchanging money at the airport as soon as you clear customs. Exchanging $100 should suit your needs for the trek and safari.
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Tips As in many parts of the world, tipping is a symbol of a job well done. In addition to recognizing service people such as taxi drivers, restaurant and hotel personnel, we also acknowledge our staff with a tip. Gratuities for the mountain trekking staff and the safari drivers are included in the rate for this trip. You should plan to tip any service person that helps you, 10% for taxi drivers and restaurant staff is the norm. Check to see that a tip is not already included in the bill. Remember, if tipping in U.S. dollars, to calculate the exchange rate; be careful not to tip too much. As you know, tipping is your option, and a reflection of the quality of service you receive.
Trekking Staff: Gratuities for the mountain trekking staff are included in your rate for the trip. Safari Driver: Gratuities for the safari drivers are included in your rate for the trip.
The Art of Bargaining In Tanzania, bargaining is customary. Expect to bargain for everything other than restaurant meals. Shopping the local markets is a fun way to get involved in local culture. Here are some procedures and tips for your market haggling adventure! • The customer asks the price of an item and the shop owner gives it; the customer looks doubtful and makes a counter offer at 25% - 50% lower. They settle somewhere in the middle. • Always stay good-natured and the shop owner will too. Add in a little small talk to ease yourself if you are nervous about bargaining. • If you can’t agree on a price it’s perfectly fine to say goodbye and walk out of the shop. Sometimes this helps finish the deal. • It is considered poor form to haggle over a price, come to an agreement, and then change your mind. • To bargain effectively, you must be prepared to take your time and you must know the market price of the item in question. The best way to do this is by asking prices but not making counter offers on similar goods in several shops. • Buying multiple goods from one shop usually gets you a better deal, as does paying cash. • Know the currency exchange and avoid haggling over pennies. • If you don’t have time to shop around, find something you like at a price you’re willing to pay, buy it, enjoy it, and don’t worry about it.
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GEAR
Gear selection is one of the most important steps when preparing for your trek. The right gear is pivotal in your trekking experience. The following is a suggested gear list to help you prepare for your Kilimanjaro adventure. Feel free to tailor it to your specific needs while keeping in mind to pack light.
There are many brands and types of clothing and gear. Usually higher quality leads to longer life of the item. Take note of items you will use again after this trip when buying new items. Things you will only use once may be of lower quality. Make sure your gear is comfortable and fits properly. Wearing new items before departure helps to break them in properly, which leads to a more comfortable experience.
Traveling ¨¨ Large duffel bag: this should be a poly water-resistant duffel. You should be able to pack all of your gear for the trek in one duffel bag. Harvard Alumni Travels will provide you with a duffel bag around 30 days prior to departure.
¨¨ Bring an extra small duffel for storing clothing and items not necessary for your trek at the lodge in Arusha. ¨¨ Daypack: 25-35 liter maximum, large enough to carry day use items such as 2 water bottles, camera, snacks, extra clothing, and rain gear.
¨¨ Travel locks: make sure you purchase TSA approved travel locks. Remember to lock your duffel bags on the trek and when you check them at the lodges. Store a key in your daypack.
¨¨ Two plastic trash bags and large zip lock bags: these come in handy for quick waterproofing, separating laundry, toiletries, and compartmentalizing your gear.
¨¨ Toiletry bag: include toilet paper, soap, travel towel, washcloth, toothbrush, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer. ¨¨ Electrical adapter: all in one travel adapter fit for any country.
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Clothing ¨¨ Travel clothes: you will need street / casual clothes for air travel and while in Arusha. ¨¨ Safari clothes: you will need 4 sets of loose fitting cotton pants, shorts, and short sleeve shirts. ¨¨ Lightweight long underwear: 2 pair, tops and bottoms. NO COTTON. Lightweight is preferable as it is more versatile. It can be worn single or doubled up if it is colder. Zip T-Neck allows more ventilation options. One pair should be lighter or white color for intense sunny days. Breathable is key.
¨¨ Light trekking pants: 2 pair. ¨¨ Insulated pants: sweat pants or fleece pants. ¨¨ Hard shell pants: waterproof, breathable. Any side zip length is fine as long as you can get them over your boots. ¨¨ T shirts / sport shirts ¨¨ Medium weight fleece jacket ¨¨ Insulated down Jacket: medium to heavy weight. ¨¨ Hard shell Jacket with hood: waterproof, breathable shell with full zipper, underarm zips, and no insulation. This is an outer layer to protect against wind and rain.
¨¨ Light jacket for around town and on safari. ¨¨ Swimsuit ¨¨ Rain poncho: an inexpensive rain poncho is nice to have for the safari and around Arusha. ¨¨ Lightweight fleece gloves ¨¨ Shell gloves or ski gloves/mittens
Footwear ¨¨ Light trekking shoes / running shoes: 1 pair for casual wear or while we are on safari. ¨¨ Hiking boots: 1 pair of sturdy, water repellent, warm hiking boots. Boots should be well broken in. ¨¨ Hiking gaiters: keeps rocks out of shoes and boots dry in the event of precipitation. ¨¨ Wool or synthetic socks: 4-6 pair of heavy / medium weight socks. You can wash and dry socks at the lodges. Make sure they fit well with your boots.
¨¨ Sandals: Tevas, flip flops, or Chacos for around the lodges or while on safari.
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Headwear ¨¨ Headlamp: make sure to bring extra batteries. ¨¨ Sun hat or ball cap ¨¨ Warm hat: a ski hat works well. ¨¨ Face buff: bring 2 for sun protection and face masks. ¨¨ Sun Glasses: 100% UV rated high quality for intense high altitude sun with good side protection.
Personal Equipment ¨¨ Sleeping Bag: expedition quality rated to at least 15 degrees. If you have trouble sleeping in the cold, get a 0 degree bag. A hood or mummy style bag are nice features. Down is lighter and less bulky but more expensive compared to synthetics.
¨¨ Sleeping pad ¨¨ Trekking poles: lightweight, three-section adjustable poles. ¨¨ Water bottles: we recommend two wide-mouth bottles with a minimum 1 liter capacity per bottle. ¨¨ Trail snack food: energy bars, GU packets, or similar energy foods for along the way and on summit day. Bring stuff you like!
¨¨ Hand / Foot Warmers (optional) ¨¨ Camera and chargers ¨¨ Binoculars (optional) ¨¨ Lightweight entertainment: paperback book, Ereader, writing tab, playing cards, music player.
First Aid: Drugs and Medications ¨¨ Small personal first aid kit: Band aids, Aspirin, blister kit, tweezers, safety pins, pocket knife, gauze, and scissors. ¨¨ Sunscreen and lipscreen ¨¨ Hand sanitizer ¨¨ Insect repellent with DEET ¨¨ Cirprofloxin (Cipro): 500 mg tablets for traveler’s diarrhea and urinary tract infections. ¨¨ Loperamide (Lomotil) or Immodium: for diarrhea. ¨¨ Acetazolamide (Diamox): 125 or 250 mg tablets for altitude sickness. ¨¨ Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): 200mg tablets for altitude headaches, sprains, aches, etc. ¨¨ Any personal medications.
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Our Favorite Gear Over the years we have experimented with a variety of different brands and we are happy to pass along our knowledge and expertise to you. Contact us and we will send you an interactive gear list that includes links to the best vendors and products.
www.thenorthface.com
www.blackdiamondequipment.com
www.goalzero.com
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www.kuhl.com
www.scarpa.com
www.clifbar.com
www.backcountry.com
PHYSICAL PREPARATION
Climbing Kilimanjaro (19,341’) is strenuous, and conditioning is necessary in order to reach the summit. Many people who have the endurance to run a marathon fail to summit high altitude peaks. Pure cardiovascular fitness is simply not enough. You will need to ascend several thousand feet of elevation day after day carrying a day pack. Conditioning your body will help you enjoy your climb and increase your chance for success on the mountain. Be sure to include at least one recovery day per week and listen to your body. If you have specific concerns about training, be sure to consult your physician and/or a personal trainer to help you develop a physical fitness plan that will be safe for you. Take the final week to taper down and gradually reduce intensity and volume of training so that by the time you leave for your trip you will be well rested and up for the challenge.
Prioritize Your Training • Climbing conditioning • Strength training • Cardiovascular training • Flexibility training Most people will need to train for 3-4 months specifically for their trek. During your training you should progressively ramp up your times, distances and elevation gains. Increase your training a little each week to safely and effectively build your body conditioning. Trying to rush conditioning will only increase the risk of a training injury.
Climbing Conditioning • Hike outdoors, starting without a pack. • Begin hiking mellow terrain for moderate distances. Listen to your body and push yourself moderately! • Gradually increase the steepness and durations of your hikes as well as your pack weight until you are comforable carrying a 25-pound pack, or what you plan to cary in your day pack.
• If you live where hiking trails are not available, use stairs to train or an inclined treadmill or Stairmaster. • A reasonable goal would be to ascen 3,000’ in 3 hours.
Strength Training • Training with free weights, bands, body weight exercises or gym machines will help you build your overall strength and muscle endurance.
• In the beginning, focus on building a foundation for harder workouts. • Focus on the core: abdominals, lower and upper back, shoulders, and legs.
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• Always focus on good form to prevent injury or strain. • Strength training your legs will help you ascend and descend through scree and dirt trails. • Light weights/good form; 2 sets of each exercise for 8-10 repetitions. • As you continue training, gradually increase weight and decrease repetitions. • Overall, this will help you feel comfortable day after day and recover each night after long days of trekking.
Cardiovascular Training • Aerobic training three or more days a week: running, walking on a treadmill, stair stepping, jogging, biking, elliptical machine, etc.
• Start every other day for 20-30 minutes per workout. • Gradually increase your distance and time. • Be sure to warm up (5-10 minutes) before working out. • Cool down, stretching the muscles you use most in your activity.
Flexibility Training
• Be sure to include 5-10 minutes of targeted stretching after each workout. • If you have areas of concern, add emphasis to make sure you have a normal range of motion in your joints. • This will become even more important as you add weight and distance to your training.
Physical Training Resources www.BodyResults.com www.YouTube.com: search for “strength training core exercises” or “stretching routines” www.alpineinstitute.com/articles/physical-conditioning-for-mountaineering-expeditions/
Putting It All Together Basically, a month before your trek you should be comfortable working out and hiking with a daypack for consecutive days This is referred to as back-to-back training. This should also involve using your gear, hiking boots, socks, clothes, backpack, so your gear is comfortable, tested, broken-in and ready for your trek. The better fitness and overall shape you are in the more comfortable you will be. You will be mentally confident and better prepared to achieve your goal.
As always, please consult our staff if you have any questions or concerns. 49
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS *** BRING $100 FOR ENTRY VISA *** What is included in the cost of the trip? World Wide Trekking provides all in-country transportation, hotel accommodations as double occupancy rooms, meals, porters, guides, drivers, park fees, and permits applicable to the scheduled itinerary of the trip.
What is NOT included in the cost of the trip? Expenses you are responsible for are: international round-trip airfare, Tanzania entry visa (12 month visa for $100), any travel expenses outside the listed itinerary, bottled or alcoholic beverages, excess baggage fees, personal gear, international vaccinations, optional single room supplement, additional porter service, lodge services, communication expenses, and charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of World Wide Trekking.
What size group will I be trekking with? Your Kilimanjaro trek with have a minimum of 10 guests and a maximum of 24 guests (including a faculty member).
How heavy will my pack be? Your daypack will be as heavy as you choose. The day pack will contain the items you need to carry for the day: rain gear, camera, snacks, sun block, and layers for cold or changing conditions. You should be able to carry a 15 pound daypack.
A porter will carry a duffel bag with your personal gear. This should be a waterproof duffel bag no more than 37 lbs. in weight with the items you need at camp and for changes in altitude. The duffel will not be available during the day between camps.
How much hiking will we do each day? Hiking times are usually 4-6 hours per day plus rest stops and lunch, with exception of our summit day, when we will hike for 10-12 hours at a moderate pace with ample time for rest. We take our time, enjoying the fantastic scenery and acclimatize along the way. We allow plenty of time for taking photos. We usually arrive at our night’s camp by early afternoon so guests have time to get settled in camp, relax, or write in journals.
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What will the World Wide Trekking staff be like? WWTrek will provide a Lead Professional Western Guide that is medically certified, for this trek. Additionally, the services of our Local Operations Manager in Tanzania, Raymond Massae, will be available for your convenience, throughout the journey. Raymond will coordinate the Tanzania operations of the staff and group. We will have local Tanzanian, English-speaking, Professional Guides along with us. On our trek, we will use all local porters to carry duffels and equipment and help us with our daily activities. Our drivers on safari are all well trained, speak English, and are extremely knowledgeable about the area.
What is a typical day like on the trek? Each night before you retire to your tents, your guide will brief you on the next day’s agenda. Each morning you will be woken with a gentle shake of your tent from your guide. Coffee or tea are served to you in your tent. Your team will bring you fresh washing water and signal you that breakfast will be served in about 30 minutes, giving you time to get ready for your day. After a hearty breakfast, you will return to your tent where you will prepare for the day’s hike as the guides break down main camp. When everyone is ready to begin the day’s trek, we will hit the trail, our guides finishing any camp clean up necessary. We will break for lunch and rest near midday, our crew setting up a dining table and tent. From there, we will continue to our next night’s camp at an easy pace, acclimatizing and enjoying our trek. Once at camp, your guides will set up camp and you will be free to enjoy the views, read, journal, take a nap, or socialize before dinner.
What is the protocol for taking pictures in Tanzania? You will have many opportunities to take photos while on the trek and while on safari. We encourage you to document your adventure. However, in an effort to be polite and not offend the local people, it is considered a common courtesy to ask before taking a picture. Be particularly sensitive when photographing religious ceremonies or older people.
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What are the toilets like? The lodges we stay at have western style flush toilets. During our trek, we will have portable flushing toilets with a toilet tent for privacy.
Can I wash my clothes? Yes. You will have the opportunity to leave your travel clothes at the lodge to be washed while you are trekking. Laundry service will also be available at the lodges on safari.
How should I dress? Modesty is key when preparing your wardrobe for Tanzania. Wear comfortable clothing. Generally, looking clean and dressing modestly shows respect -- and earns it.
For Men: Always wear a shirt in public and appropriate length shorts or long trousers. For Women: Always wear a conservative top with pants or skirt that hangs past the knees. Shorts are acceptable as long as they are not too short. In general, to avoid unwanted attention try to stray away from tops that show too much skin or are too tight.
Is Tanzania safe? In general, travel in Tanzania is relatively safe. As always when traveling, it is a good practice to watch your gear carefully in lodges and on the trail. Don’t be too showy with expensive items and always lock your room and baggage.
Can I smoke and/or drink alcohol? Yes, but we do not recommend it while on the trek. Smoking and drinking slows down the acclimatization process. We want you to be successful on your trek. You will have the opportunity to celebrate your successful trek while on the safari portion of your adventure.
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What sort of documentation will I need? You will need a passport valid for more than six months after your trip. Make two copies of your passport. Leave one at home and bring the other with you to Tanzania in case of an emergency. You will also need to purchase a $100 entry visa upon arrival at the airport. You may also need to show your WHO (World Health Organization) immunization card if you have ever been or are traveling through any countries that require a yellow fever vaccination.
What should I do if I plan to arrive early or depart late from Tanzania? If you plan to spend extra time in Tanzania outside of your scheduled trip with World Wide Trekking, please let us know. You will be responsible for your hotel before and/or after our scheduled itinerary. We can help make reservations for hotels and transportation as well as additional excursions during your extra days in Tanzania. World Wide Trekking also offers extended adventure packages that can be added on before or after your scheduled trek to Kilimanjaro. Please contact our office for pricing and details.
Who will pick me up from the airport? After you purchase your visa, collect your baggage, and clear customs, a World Wide Trekking representative will be outside waiting for you! Please look for the World Wide Trekking logo signboard or your name when you exit customs. At this time you will also have the opportunity to exchange money.
Look for the logo signboard or your name when you exit customs.
How do I handle specific needs or requests I have for my trip? There are many options for additional services and special needs accommodations. Please feel free to ask us any questions you may have or let us know what we can do for you. We want to make sure you are comfortable throughout your trek. The World Wide Trekking team is here to help you in any way we can!
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I TREK along serenely, with my eyes, my shoes, my rage, forgetting everything.
A NOTE FROM OUR MEDICAL ADVISOR Excited for your adventure with World Wide Trekking? Of course you are! To help you make the most of it, I am providing some basic health information, including tips on maintaining wellness. Above all, you should ensure that you are capable of performing the physical activity planned for your trip; if you have chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease, clearance for participation by your doctor is a must. As you look over the list on the next few pages, you’ll see a number of recommended medications and vaccinations. While most are relatively simple to obtain from your primary care physician some may require a visit to your local travel medicine clinic. Unsure where to go? The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene provides an online list of private physicians and clinics who offer pre-travel consultative services. Alternatively, you can search the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for clinics in your area that provide yellow fever vaccination.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or medical concerns surrounding trekking and travel. I am happy to help.
Here’s to a safe and healthy voyage!
Phillip Levy, MD, MPH Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Wayne State University Medical Advisor, World Wide Trekking
plevy@med.wayne.edu
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Staying Healthy While the World Wide Trekking team of guides will be equipped to handle medical emergencies, the old adage, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” always rings true. With that in mind, following is a list of tips to stay healthy as well as a list of recommended prophylaxis (preventative medicines).
Minimizing your Exposure to Potential Illness • Avoid eating potentially contaminated foods. • Don’t buy food from street vendors! • Approach salads with caution, especially if at a “locals” restaurant. • Stay away from pre-peeled or sliced fruit -- try to eat only those fruits with a “natural” wrapper. • Avoid consumption of potentially contaminated water. • Use bottled water to brush teeth. • Don’t drink tap or unfiltered water at restaurants and ask for your drinks to be served without ice. • Don’t swish or swallow shower water. • Let your trip leader know immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms, especially fever or headache!
Vaccines | Preventative Medicines We recommend you visit your local travel clinic to receive proper vaccinations for Tanzania.
Recommended Medications We recommend you bring a few medications with you in case you should need them, as they are difficult to find abroad.
• Cipro or Zithromax • Immodium • Diamox 250mg tablets • Throat lozenges • Aspirin or Ibuprofen
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JET LAG TIPS What is Jet Lag?
In simple terms, jet lag is a disruption of your body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm. This clock sets your sleeping and waking times. It is complex and sensitive.
Common Jet Lag Symptoms • Headache • Disorientation • Anxiety • Exhaustion • Indigestion • Dehydration • Impaired Coordination None of these are much fun, especially while traveling and trying to get the most out of your adventure. Without taking steps to avoid jet lag, your body will adjust to time zone changes at a rate of one hour per day. That means if you flew across seven time zones, it would take seven days to be rid of your jet lag symptoms. The best way to avoid jet lag is to be proactive when you prepare to depart, travel, and arrive in a far away place. Even if you are not crossing time zones while you travel, by following these simple tips you will arrive at your destination rested and ready for adventure!
Before You Leave Home
• Get plenty of sleep: NASA found that gettig as much rest as possible beginning two days before your trip can significantly reduce jet lag symptoms.
• Reduce your stress: Plan ahead and prepare for your trip so you’re not running around stressed out and getting ready at the last minute.
• Excercise: Get regular exercise and keep up that routine just before you travel • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water prior to your departure.
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In Flight
• Arrive early at the airport: Not rushing to make your flight will reduce stress. • Change your watch: Begin to adjust to the new time zone and schedule by setting your watch to your destination’s time, eat and sleep accordingly.
• Rest: Sleep as much as you can on the plane. • Travel Pillows: Use the pillow provided from the plane to support your lower back. Also bring an inflatable (packs small) pillow that wraps around your neck to stabilize your head for better rest.
• Noise cancelling headphones / foam earplugs: You can’t control the noise level around you. • Wear comfortable clothing: Bring an extra warm layer so you can be comfortable. • Drink plenty of water: The humidity on an airplane is 2-3%. That’s like being in the desert! • Stretch frequently: Aisle seats are best if you’ll be getting up to stretch often. • Manage caffeine / alcohol intake: Both caffeine and alocohol dehydrate you and will slow down your circadian rhythym, or internal clock.
• Sleeping pills: Sleeping pills cause you to sleep without any body movement. This reduces circulation and increases the chance of blood clotting.
Arriving at your destination... Enjoy your trek! • Eat: Try to eat on the new schedule.
• Drink: Continue to drink plenty of water. • Sleep: Sleep on the new schedule. If you are flying eastbound you often arrive in the morning, making it harder to stay up the entire day. Try to tough it out. If you sleep well on the plane you should be able to stay up until the night time. If you need a nap, limit it to 45 minutes. If you are flying westbound, most schedules will have you arriving later in the day, making it easier to stay up until night time and sleep the entire night.
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ALTITUDE ACCLIMATIZATION
Please note this section is meant to inform you of the possible altitude related illnesses you could experience while on your trek. It is extremely rare that any of our guests need medical attention, but please keep us informed as to how you feel throughout your adventure so we may pace our trek accordingly and help you achieve your goals. We encourage you to speak with us if you have any questions or concerns regarding the potential risks of high altitude trekking.
What is altitude sickness? Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a condition that occurs when the body fails to adapt quickly to the reduced levels of oxygen at increased altitudes. Decreased levels of oxygen can affect individuals as low as 8,000 feet (especially if you live at or near sea level), but more serious symptoms do not usually occur until 12,000 feet or higher.
Our scheduled itinerary allows for slow, gentle acclimatization. Altitude alone does not determine if someone will suffer from symptoms of AMS, rather the rate of ascension, degree of exertion, and hydration play a larger role in susceptibility. There are no specific individual factors (age, sex, or physical condition) that determine whether someone is more likely to suffer from AMS.
At World Wide Trekking, we have factored acclimatization time into our trekking schedule. Acclimatization is the process of letting your body naturally adapt to the altitude. It is done by gradually increasing altitude throughout the trek as a whole, while going up and down in altitude day to day. The pace and schedule allow enough time for the body to rest and adjust each night to the increased altitude.
What are they symptoms of AMS? Mild AMS • • • • • • • •
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Headache Nausea and dizziness Loss of appetite Fatigue Shortness of breath Rapid pulse Disturbed sleep A general feeling of malaise
Moderate AMS • • • • •
Severe headache that is not relieved by medication Nausea and vomiting Increased weakness and fatigue Shortness of breath Decreased coordination
Severe AMS • • • • • • • • •
Gray or pale complexion Chest tightness or congestion Cough Coughing up blood or white, watery, or frothy fluids Decreased mental status or confusion Cannot walk straight or walk at all Shortness of breath at rest Fluid build up in the lungs Blue color to the skin (cyanosis)
How serious can AMS be? Acute mountain sickness can be life threatening if proper acclimatization is not allowed. If mild symptoms are not noted and treated accordingly, more serious conditions can occur. Symptoms will usually present themselves within 12 - 24 hours after arrival at altitude. The body will naturally adjust to the new levels of oxygen within one to three days for any given altitude.
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) results from fluid build up in the lungs which inhibit the effective exchange of oxygen in the blood stream. As oxygen in the blood stream decreases the skin of the affected individual will experience cyanosis (bluish skin) and potentially, if untreated, impaired cerebral function or death. In such instances, the affected individual must immediately descend by at least 2,000 feet and pursue proper follow-up treatment.
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) is the result of swelling brain tissue from fluid leakage. Symptoms of HACE include: headache, weakness, disorientation, loss of coordination, decreasing levels of consciousness, memory loss, hallucinations or psychotic behavior, and coma. Immediate evacuation to a medical facility is a must as this condition is rapidly fatal.
What will happen if I present symptoms of AMS? World Wide Trekking guides are experienced in identifying and treating altitude sickness. We will constantly monitor your well-being on the climb by watching you and speaking with you. It is important that you be open, and honest with your guide. If you do not feel well, do not say you feel fine or try to mask your symptoms. Only with accurate information can your guide best treat you.
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In some cases, you may be asked to temporarily descend to a lower altitude to see if the altitude sickness subsides, and if it does, you may continue your climb. Of course, there is always the chance that you will have to abandon your climb. In these situations, the guide will tell you to descend. It is not a request, but an order. Do not try to convince him or her with words, threats, or money to continue your climb. The guide wants you to succeed on your climb, but will not jeopardize your health. Respect the decision of the guide.
How can I help prevent AMS and properly acclimatize? Before your trek, try to train in high altitude areas if possible. Prepare your body by staying well fed and hydrated before and throughout your trek. You should be drinking 4-5 liters of water daily. Avoid tobacco, alcohol and other depressants, especially sleeping pills, so respiratory drive during sleep is not altered.
During your trek, focus on your breathing, taking deep, slow, and deliberate breaths. Your guide will be telling you “pole, pole” (“slowly, slowly”) throughout your climb, reminding you to ascend slowly and without over exerting yourself.
Is there any medicine to treat or prevent symptoms of AMS? We encourage our guests to speak to their health care provider about Diamox (Acetazolamide). Diamox is an FDA-approved drug for the prevention and treatment of AMS. The medication acidifies the blood, which causes an increase in respiration, thus accelerating acclimatization. Diamox does not disguise symptoms of altitude sickness, it prevents them. Studies have shown that Diamox at a dose of 250 mg every 8 - 12 hours before and during rapid ascent to altitude results in fewer and/or less severe symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS). The medicine should be continued until you are below the altitude where symptoms became bothersome. Side effects of Diamox include: tingling or numbness in the fingers, toes and face, taste alterations, excessive urination; and rarely, blurring of vision. These go away when the medicine is stopped. It is a personal choice of the climber whether or not to take Diamox as a preventative measure against AMS.
Bottled oxygen will be carried by the World Wide Trekking team. Each oxygen canister can provide a continuous flow of oxygen for a maximum of four hours. It is used only in emergency situations. It is NOT used to assist guests who have not adequately acclimatized on their own to climb higher. The most immediate treatment for moderate and serious altitude sickness is descent. Therefore, oxygen is used strictly to treat a stricken trekker, when necessary and in conjunction with descent, with moderate and severe altitude sickness.
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Many of our World Wide Trekking members find that their association with HOP is one of the highlights of their travel experience.
HUMAN OUTREACH PROJECT Part of our mission at World Wide Trekking is to give back to the wonderful places we visit. The Human Outreach Project (HOP) is our way of giving back. HOP is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization funded by private donations. HOP collects, transports, and distributes medical, dental, clothing and school supplies to areas in need on every World Wide Trekking trip. We encourage our members to take part in HOP on their trip; however, participation is not a mandatory part of the itinerary. Group treks will have the opportunity to visit our orphanage, Kilimanjaro Kids Community. Prior to your trip, HOP will collect donated supplies to be distributed by guests of World Wide Trekking during your adventure. If you would like to participate in the collecting of supplies to be donated, please contact our office for a list of appropriate items.
Human Outreach Project World Wide
Student Leadership Program: World Wide Trekking hosts special treks focusing on student leadership and service projects with college-aged and high school participants.
Tanzania: HOP provides school lunch at the Makuyuni Primary School in Makuyuni Tanzania for 850 children each school day. HOP also supports a womans group called Mama Na M’toto towards building a batik clothing business.
Nepal: HOP donates supplies to the Namche Dental Clinic, Himalayan Children’s Foundation, and to the education fund for Ang Pasang Sherpa’s three surviving children. (Dean’s friend who helped him summit Mount Everest in 2005 but was killed in an avalanche one month later). In 2016, HOP donated over 2,000 pounds of solar equipment to people in the lower Solokhumbu Valley (beneath Mt. Everest).
Peru: HOP supports the Hogar Clinicia San Juan de Dios and the Casa Mantay with needed medical and educational supplies. We also supply the necessary funds to host an annual chocolate festival in a small mountain town called Pashpa.
To learn more about the Human Outreach Project: Visit www.HumanOutreachProject.org
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HUMAN OUTREACH PROJECT
Kilimanjaro Kids Community Kilimanjaro Kids Community (KKC), our four-acre orphanage, officially opened in May of 2012. The orphanage currenlty cares for 12 children. With the help of two “mamas� (social workers), a grounds-keeper, a cook, and a guard, the children are provided three meals a day, housing, and an education. It is the goal of HOP to impact the lives of these children in such a manner that they will become successful, contributing members of their communities. The next phase of the Kilimanjaro Kids Community will include adding a administration buidling, a laundry and storage building, and a dormitory that will serve as a place to host visitors and groups.
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KILIMANJARO KIDS COMMUNITY
TANZANIA, AFRICA
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I dream of TREKKING into my old age.
PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST We are looking forward to trekking with you! If you have any questions regarding preparation for your trip or itinerary details, please contact us directly. Telephone: 801.943.0264 | Email: info@WWTrek.com
¨¨ Send the World Wide Trekking office a copy of your flight itinerary. Email info@wwtrek.com ¨¨ Send the World Wide Trekking office a copy of your passport. ¨¨ Make two photocopies of your passport and other documents. Leave one with a contact person at home. ¨¨ Have correct change for your Visa ($100 for a 12-month multi-entry tourist VISA). Bring a pen. ¨¨ Have all personal medications and prescriptions secure in your carry-on. ¨¨ Carry your passport and items that you need to show at customs separate from your money. ¨¨ Carry-on hard to replace items when you fly: boots, down jacket, rain gear, prescriptions, camera. ¨¨ If you have any questions about the trip please call or send an email.
Thank you for choosing Harvard Alumni Travels and World Wide Trekking! The World Wide Trekking Team
PERSONAL CHECKLIST ¨¨ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨ ___________________________________________________________________________________________
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Terms & Conditions: TOUR OPERATOR: World Wide Trekking ADMINISTRATION BY: Exclusively developed for Harvard Business School Alumni Travel by Harvard Alumni Travels PROGRAM RATES: Kilimanjaro Trek & Tanzania Safari: $11,695* per person double occupancy / $995 single supplement *Does not include $220 Value Added Tax imposed by the Tanzania government as of July 1, 2016 Kilimanjaro Trek only: $6,995* per person double occupancy/$395 single supplement *Does not include $160 Value Added Tax imposed by the Tanzania government as of July 1, 2016 PROGRAM COST INCLUSIONS: Meals as listed in the program (14 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 13 dinners, & welcome reception); accommodations as listed in the program (3 nights at Lake Duluti Serena Hotel in Arusha or comparable; 2 nights at KIA Lodge or comparable in Arusha; 1 day room at KIA Lodge in Arusha; 6 nights in World Wide Trekking Kilimanjaro camps [3-person, four-season, The North Face tents, with 2 guests per tent]; 3 nights in luxurious Safari Lodges); transportation by private vans, vehicles, and buses throughout; transfers and baggage handling on program arrival and departure for all participants; baggage handling throughout adventure; WWTrek Lead Guide(s) and local Tanzanian guides; gratuities to WWTrek Western Lead Guide(s); gratuities to porters, waiters at group meals, guides, and drivers; all services, tours, hikes, entrance and excursion fees described in the program; any necessary permits for trekking, national parks, etc.; domestic flight from Serengeti to Arusha; $200,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance. PROGRAM COST EXCLUSIONS: Tanzania Value Added Tax (as mentioned in the Program Rates section above); U.S. domestic and international airfare; passport fees; Tanzania visa fees ($100 multi-entry visa available for purchase upon arrival at KIA in Tanzania); medical expenses and immunizations; private airport transfers; deviations from the scheduled tour; meals and beverages other than those specified as included; dishes and beverages not part of the included meals; liquor or soft drinks except as otherwise indicated in inclusions; excess-baggage charges; tripcancellation/baggage insurance; laundry, room service, telephone/email/fax charges and other items of a personal nature. PROGRAM SIZE: This tour, (exclusively developed for Harvard Business School Alumni travel), is limited to 22 participants on a first-come, first-served basis. The minimum group size is 12. Should the minimum not be met, we reserve the right to cancel the program, levy a small group surcharge, and/or send the program without a Harvard study leader. We retain the right to add staff members and/or invited guests to any of our group departures regardless of the stated group-size limitation. RESERVATIONS, DEPOSITS, & FINAL PAYMENT: To reserve a space on this program, a $1,000 nonrefundable deposit is required per person. Please call Harvard Alumni Travels at (800) 422-1636 or (617) 496-0806 or fill out and mail or fax the registration form to (617) 496-4011. Reservations are acknowledged in order of receipt until the maximum enrollment has been reached. Deposits may be made by check, payable to Harvard Alumni Travels, or with a major credit card. Final payment, payable by check, is due March 16, 2017, 90 days prior to departure. CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS: Notification of cancellation must be received in writing by Harvard Alumni Travels from the participant. Should you have to cancel, the following terms will apply: Reservation cancellations received 90 days or more prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the nonrefundable deposit. Cancellations received between 89 and 50 days prior to departure will be assessed a cancellation fee of 50% of the total trip cost. Cancellations received 49 days or less prior to departure are subject to 100% penalty of all deposits and payments. We recommend that you purchase a travel insurance policy to cover cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances. INSURANCE: We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance to cover unexpected trip interruptions, cancellations, and lost baggage. An application for trip cancellation insurance will be provided by Harvard Alumni Travels upon confirmation. The pre-existing medical conditions exclusion is waived if the insurance is purchased within 21 days of initial deposit. Neither Harvard Alumni Travels nor our tour operators, including their representatives, employees and agents, will take responsibility for any costs, losses incurred or suffered by the guest, or guests’ dependents or traveling companions, with regards to, but not limited to, cancellation or curtailment of the tour, emergency evacuation expenses, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, damage/theft/loss of personal baggage, money and goods. Nor do they accept liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable airline ticket or other expenses incurred by tour participants in preparing for the tour. AIR ARRANGEMENTS: International airfare is not included in the program cost. In order to provide the greatest flexibility to participants, there are no designated group flights for this program. If requested, Criterion Travel can recommend a travel agent to arrange flights for this departure. Neither Harvard Alumni Travels nor the tour operator accepts the liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable airline ticket. The air ticket when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the airline concerned. WHAT TO EXPECT / PHYSICAL HEALTH: Climbing Kilimanjaro (19,341’) is strenuous, and conditioning is necessary in order to reach the summit. Your training regime should include strength and endurance facets. You will need to ascend several thousand feet of elevation, day after day, carrying a day pack at altitude. Conditioning your body will help you enjoy your climb and increase your chance for success
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on the mountain. You will be trekking for seven days and each day includes walking for an extended period of time over a variety of terrain. Often this terrain is very challenging and can include extended periods of time going uphill. For this level of activity, you need complete confidence in your physical condition and your ability to trek for many days and be able to cope with difficult underfoot terrain such as scree, rock, or difficult paths on steep mountainsides. Extremes of weather may also be encountered. Stamina is very important, as walking days can be from 6 to 9 hours long. This is a professionally guided trek that has been paced appropriately for success. In addition to pre-trip planning and guidance with your physical training, you will receive assistance on the mountain with coaching and motivation, daily. PREPARING FOR YOUR JOURNEY: You will be provided with comprehensive pre-departure travel information, including specific suggestions for packing, gear list, physical preparation guidelines, a recommended reading list and amenities pack. EMERGENCY MEDICAL & EVACUATION INSURANCE: As a service to our travelers the HAA automatically provides basic emergency medical evacuation insurance. At the time of publication, this policy has the following schedule of benefits: $5,000 Accident/Sickness Medical Expense; $200,000 Emergency Medical Evacuation & Return of Remains; $3,000 Emergency Reunion; $5,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment. This insurance covers travelers for the Harvardsponsored program dates, but not for any extensions or independent travel plans. You will receive detailed information on this coverage approximately 30 days prior to your departure. Should you also purchase the Travel Insurance Select offered to you at confirmation, it will provide you with benefits which are additional to those stated above. This insurance is secondary to any insurance the traveler may already have. CHANGES IN ITINERARY, PROGRAM AND COSTS: The itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of Harvard Alumni Travels and the tour operator. We reserve the right to change a program’s dates, staff (including study leader*), itineraries, or accommodations as conditions warrant. Deviations from the scheduled itinerary are at the expense of the individual. All prices quoted are based on prevailing fuel prices, airfares and currency exchange rates in effect as of July 2016 and are subject to change. *In the event of a cancellation by the Harvard study leader, we will attempt to notify all travelers as soon as possible. We will make every reasonable effort to find a replacement study leader, but our ability to do so will depend on the availability of appropriate lecturers and proximity to the departure date. If we are not able to provide an appropriate substitute we will make every reasonable effort to provide other educational opportunities or program enhancements to ensure a viable travel study experience. Please note that all participants are bound to the cancellation fee schedule and other terms and conditions of the program regardless of whether or not a replacement study leader is found. RESPONSIBILITY: The tour operator, its owners and employees act only as agents for the various independent suppliers and contractors providing transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurants, and other services connected with this tour. Such travel and services are subject to the terms and conditions under which such accommodations, services, and transportation are offered or provided, and Harvard Alumni Travels and the tour operator and their respective, employees, agents, representatives, and assignees accept no liability. Harvard Alumni Travels and the tour operator, assume no liability for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or other irregularity which may be caused by the defect of any aircraft or vehicle or the negligence or default of any company or person engaged in carrying out or performing any of the services involved. Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages, or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, of nature or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws of the country in which they are provided. Harvard Alumni Travels and the tour operator reserve the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience or safety of the tour participants. They reserve the right to withdraw this tour without penalty. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour, or to substitute another qualified leader or special guest. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. The price of the program is given in good faith based on current tariffs and rates, and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, or fuel increases will be passed onto participants. As part of the consideration and right to participate in this tour, each participant will be asked to sign a liability release. PERSONAL INFORMATION: All personally identifiable information provided by tour participants is strictly confidential. Personal information is not shared with third parties or made publicly available except under the following circumstances: Name, degree, home city, and email address*, may be included in the tour participant list that is distributed to tour staff and participants prior to departure; relevant information provided by tour participants to Harvard Alumni Travels and the tour operator is shared with the agents providing tour services in the destination. Per contractual agreement, the tour operator and its agents are prohibited to share or sell this information to other parties. *Please let us know if you would like to opt out of sharing your email address on the tour participant list. APPEARING IN PHOTOS: Photos from Harvard trips may be posted on photo-sharing web sites or on social networking sites. Your likeness may appear in some photos or videos, posted either by Harvard Alumni Travels or other travelers, and the circulation of the materials could be worldwide. Trip photos may also be selected to appear in future Harvard Alumni Travels promotions; Harvard Alumni Travels will attempt to notify the traveler in advance, but no compensation is available for appearing in a trip photo used for promotional purposes. DISCLAIMER: Every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented in this publication. Harvard Alumni Travels is not responsible for errors in or damages resulting from use of the information contained herein. Information contained in this document is subject to change. QUESTIONS Please call Harvard Alumni Travels at (800) 422-1636 or (617) 496-0806, or email us at alumni_travel@hbs.edu
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IMPORTANT AND PERSONAL INFORMATION Name as on Passport: Passport Number: Emergency Contact: Travel Agent: Flight Information: Important Phone Numbers: Email Log In and Password: Skype log In and Password:
American Embassy - Tanzania
World Wide Trekking
Tel: 255-22-229-4000 Fax: 255-22-229-4970 or 4971
Tel: 801.943.0264 info@wwtrek.com
686 Old Bagamoyo Road, Msasani P.O. Box 9123, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania http://tanzania.usembassy.gov
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7938 South 3500 East Suite B-100 Salt Lake City, UT 84121 WWTrek.com
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WORLD WIDE TREKKING LEADERS
We are looking forward to our upcoming adventure. Please feel free to contact us at anytime if you have any questions or concerns regarding your trip.
DEAN CARDINALE
FOUNDER | LEAD GUIDE
Contact Dean Phone: 801.230.9089 Email: dean@wwtrek.com
Dean Cardinale is an avid mountain climber, outdoors enthusiast, and adventure lover. Founder of World Wide Trekking and President and Founder of Human Outreach Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, he has climbed and led expeditions to North America, Central America, Africa, Europe, South America, and the Himalayas, including summiting Mt. Everest in 2005. Dean is the former president of Wasatch Backcountry Rescue and U.S. representative to the International Commission of Alpine Rescue (IKAR), where he served for over a decade. Dean is an avalanche instructor with the American Avalanche Association and an avalanche forecaster for Snowbird Ski Resort. He is also a level-III certified U.S. Sailing Captain. Dean recently authored a book, Inspired - Lessons Learned from a Life of Adventure. Dean has taught and guided people of all ages and professions, and is well known for his professional ethics and conduct evident in all of his pursuits. He has a longstanding record of leadership, program development, and community service. Dean lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with his wife Alison, and their two dogs -- Cruizer and Spike.
RAYMOND MASSAE
TANZANIA OPERATIONS MANAGER
Raymond is a professional educator and integral leader in our efforts in Africa. He has more than 15 years experience in the African tourism industry and helps organize all of our logistics for group treks and safaris. He works to organize all local endeavors, orversee operational details, and mentor the African staff. Raymond is a member of the governing board of HOP and plays a critical role in guiding HOP community service. Raymond holds a degree in education and uses his expertise to help the Tanzanian people.
ELINANI “COMFORT” MALEWO TANZANIAN SAFARI DRIVER
Comfort is World Wide Trekking’s private safari driver. He has over a decade’s worth of experience with some of the most outstanding safari and adventure companies in Africa. On your safari, Comfort will provide an interpretive experience and will answer any questions you may have. His skills include, but are not limited to: speaking fluent English and native Swahili, knowledge of Africa’s flora and fauna, and is an exceptional teacher of Tanzania’s natural history and culture. He attended Mweka College of African Wildlife Managment and received a certificate of wildlife management. Comfort holds a certificate in tourism and is certified in medical first aid. Comfort is dedicated to ensuring your safari is both safe and informative.
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www.WWTrek.com | info@wwtrek.com | 801.943.0264