Mt. Kilimanjaro (Kili) is the tallest freestanding mountain in Africa and a bucket-list favorite for hikers. But who do you go with? Real Life Adventure Travel (RLAT) has consistently been ranked a top-three tour operator for customer and porter satisfaction. Run by some of the most-experienced guides in the business, and with travel groups purposely kept small, RLAT offers wilderness comfort, safety, and insider knowledge. (It also gives a percentage of profits back to the local communities.) New for January 2011: the Kibo Circuit routes—a series of climbing options created for those who want to hike Kili in style at an affordable price. Get 10% off with an early bird discount by mentioning Weekend Sherpa. Start your adventure with RLAT owner Freddy Chikima, who grew up in the small village of Mbahe at the base of Kili. He'll share lore about his village, people, and culture; you'll also see firsthand the community projects RLAT supports. Then start on the route less traveled by most Kili trekkers and work your way around the Northern Circuit, staying at the scenic (and seldom used) Mori camp, before continuing to Lava Tower, Arrow Glacier and up the Western Breach. Spend the night at the stunning Crater Camp (18,500 feet), before heading for the summit. Kili conquered!
BONUS: Weekend Sherpa readers, book your climbing or safari adventures by Sept. 30 and get a 10% discount on trips. RLAT offers premier safari adventures and has just added gorilla treks and donkey treks!
Real Life Adventure Travel; 877-UGO-KILI.