Kilimanjaro National Park Travel Forum

An opportunity to leave work for a month and a half has come up. My friend and I are excited about our decision to try Africa for the first time. I'm a little concerned about the weather in May as I start my research in the little time I have left. Is May in peak wet season, which would not make Kilimanjaro, and Rafting the Zambezi possible?
Any suggestions on trekking outfits, and rafting outfits. We are both experienced in High altitude and moderatly difficult terrain. Apparently a guide is required on Kili. Whats the most inexpensive angle on this. I normally organize this when I'm there, and not over the internet. The local library where I live may not have much info on the mountain. Any suggestions on the route to take?
Also want to see Zanzibar and do some snorkelling,maybe some night life. Both of us like to party, and take things lightly. Any suggestions on fun beach towns? We may do this first if the weather is a factor.

Basically, this is a short notice trip. We are a couple of single fun lovin Canadian boys who like to drink bear, hang on the beach, climb high mountains, and do some rafting. Somewhere along the way we'd like to see some animals.

Is May/June totally a bad time. I buy plane tickets at the last moment, and have more than once in the past totally changed destinations at the very last second.

www.go-kilimanjaro.com has all the info you need about routes, etc.

In May, avoid the routes that start in the jungle unless you like mud. Rongai route is drier.