I'm doing a medical rotation in Tanzania in January and am planning on climbing Mt Kilimanjaro. I understand that guides are required and plan on choosing a trekking company in Moshi. However I am not a fan of having someone carry my gear for me, cook for me, fetch water for me, etc. I plan on going along with a group, but I hope to keep some degree of independence in terms of self support. From what I have read in Kilimanjaro: The Trekking Guide to Africa's Highest Mountain – 2nd Edition I'm confident I can find a trekking company that will go along with this, but if they are instantiate I may hire a porter in case I need help. I will post a gear list for scrutiny later, but I was wondering if anyone in the community had any experience with KilimanjaroTanzania or other initial advice. For starters what stove would you recommend? I have a MSR XGK that I know I can get fuel for (gasoline), but of course it is heavy. I would prefer to take a homemade caldera cone, but I don't believe I could find fuel there.
A little information about me: I've been to Nigeria for a month so I know a little about interacting in Africa (culture, visas, vaccinations, etc.), but I've never been to Tanzania. I understand the importance of supporting porters work in the there economy. The highest I have been in the past was Mt Whitney last April. I did not experience any symptoms of AMS beyond the typical shortness of breath. I'm 5'10” and 155 pounds and don't have any joint problems. I've run marathons in the past and am training for Kilimanjaro the same way I would train for running a marathon. I expect my total pack weight including food and water to be around 30 pounds at the start of the hike. Any advice is appreciated.
Brett
