Hey - anyone going in January? I'm leaving next weekend and still looking for a guide company to go with and not sure what route to do. Thinking Rongai but not sure...also, we have most of the equipment we need but are hoping to rent poles and headlamps from Tanzania. Do you know if you can? Also - what is the vegetarian diet looking like on the mountain? Do I need to bring a ton of food with me or do the guides have pretty decent food? Lastly, what do you think about diamox - really bad side effects or are you okay? Not a big fan of meds and not sure how this will react to my body but wanted to hear what other felt. Any guidance, insight or advice would be helpful.
Thanks -

Send a PM to Donovan....he is by far the most knowledgeable on the subject.

The coca-cola route is easiest, but you'll see the least amount of wildlife. (Maybe some blue monkeys and colobus....)

Good luck on your trip.

Diamox was a lifesaver when we climbed in Nepal but a few things to keep in mind.

-begin taking it 1-2 days before your ascent
-stop taking it when you reach your highest point of the trip (diamox helps to prevent a low oxygen level when you are sleeping by preventing "periodic breathing") after you have reached your max altitude, this is no longer an issue
-it will make soda and beer taste slightly unpleasant
-drink lots of water with it
-Always climb higher than you sleep

Good luck.

David