From the introduction, it seems like Kilimanjaro is climbed by A LOT of people – people with very little experience in climbing or high altitude exertion, therefore the success rate is as low as 60%.

According to the author, most serious danger on Kilimanjaro is altitude, and gradual acclimatization is the best way to against this.

If you climb fast and become exhausted the chances of achieving your aim are reduced and the dangers of high attitude sickness increased… walk at a steady pace, stick to the recommended climbing schedule, drink four to six liters of water daily… do no proceed above 2750 meters with a sore throat, cold, cough, or high temperature…”

Well… more to come as I read more. Oh yah. I realized that PacWest offers trips to Kilimanjaro too, but not to the Shira route unfortunately. Its about S$4K for the 7 day Machame Route to the crater, including airfare via Emirates.

I also checked travelocity for the airfares. Seems like there is not straight flight from Singapore to Nairobi. Have to stop over at Dubai. The United Emirates return trip costs US$1.2K! Gosh~! So expensive!