Mount Kilimanjaro - Climbing Tips: Proper Guide 2023

Altezza’s Ultimate Kilimanjaro Guide, the first step to the adventure of a lifetime!
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Mount Kilimanjaro - the highest free-standing mountain in the world - has been enticing adventure-seekers for over a century. While some are still wondering "why should I climb Kilimanjaro?", others are determined to conquer the magnificent African mountain and experience everything it has to offer. Glacier-covered peaks dissolve into alpine meadows, which, in turn, contrast the formidable mass of verdant rainforests and darker gorges that cover the slopes of this volcano. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable experience. Here, trekkers enjoy the wonders of African nature through varying climatic zones and the experience culminates as the morning sun gleams off the snow-covered glaciers at the summit of the highest point of the African continent.

For most of the trekkers reaching the summit is a pivotal lifetime achievement. Many of them put a great deal of thought into the decision to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. After all, it is a long trip to a remote country in Africa. Also, compared to other hiking trips all over the world, Mt Kilimanjaro adventures are more expensive. Together combined, all these things make it necessary to plan your trip carefully.

How to plan a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro?

There are many things to consider while planning your Mount Kilimanjaro climb. Lack of information, and, consequently, failure to make proper preparations is the main reason why even young and fit trekkers sometimes fail to reach the summit. On the other hand, armed with the right information, climbers of all ages and physical fitness levels confidently make their way to the top.

In addition to that, numerous operators market Mt Kilimanjaro too aggressively, often failing to inform the hikers about the required safety measures and preparation. The Kilimanjaro hiking challenge is often described as “easy” and hardly a thing is ever told about high-altitude acclimatization and its impact on climbers. Everything is made to maximize the number of clients, while safety aspects are often forgotten.

As the number of those eager to climb Kilimanjaro is rising, we decided to make this guide so that future adventurers can avoid common pitfalls. It answers the most frequently asked questions: what is “high altitude acclimatization”; what equipment is needed; what is the best time for a comfortable and safe Kilimanjaro hike and how to get to Kilimanjaro. Our guide also explains the differences between Kilimanjaro climbing routes, gives you a sneak peek into the inner workings of a successful climbing expedition and prepares you for the camping experience.

When is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro

In short, the best time to visit Mt. Kilimanjaro is from early June to late September and from late December to late February. These times are short on rain and sunny most of the time, which goes a long way to ensuring the best views and a comfortable climb.

Check our article to find out more about the best seasons to climb Kilimanjaro.

RAIN AND SUN SEASONS IN TANZANIA

Month
Weather
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Tanzania has two rainy seasons and two dry seasons. The first dry season starts in the middle of December and lasts until early March. After a period of long rains, dry weather returns in the late June or early July. The second dry season lasts until the middle of October to complete the annual cycle.

Dry seasons are the time when there are a lot of trekkers on Kilimanjaro, especially on Machame and Marangu routes. If you want a more private experience of summiting Kilimanjaro, you should opt for Lemosho, Rongai or Northern Circuit routes.

Though Kilimanjaro climbing is more challenging during the rainy season, this choice has a number of fair advantages. First, the number of other trekkers is minimal. Secondly, everything around is lush green. Thirdly, it is the only time to see the snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro. The photographers will enjoy the time!

FULL MOON DATES | KILIMANJARO

Month
2019
2020
2021
Jan
21st
10th
28th
Feb
19th
9th
27th
Mar
21st
9th
28th
Apr
19th
8th
27th
May
19th
7th
26th
Jun
17th
5th
24th
Jul
17th
5th
24th
Aug
15th
3rd
22th
Sep
14th
2nd
21st
Oct
14th
2nd / 31st
20th
Nov
12th
30th
19th
Dec
12th
30th
19th

Tour Groups with Altezza you can join!

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Kilimanjaro Airport
Kilimanjaro International Airport(JRO) is the most popular tourist gateway in Tanzania. It is the best choice for Kilimanjaro trekkers because the mountain is located nearby.
Getting to Tanzania
Different international airlines operate flights to Tanzania. Recommended options include Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Flydubai.
VISA REQUIREMENTS
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Mount Kilimanjaro Map and Routes

While parts of some of Kilimanjaro climbing routes overlap, each has its own attraction. Varying degrees of physical challenge and acclimatisation opportunities are offset by magnificent views and, sometimes, traded off for greater privacy on the less frequented treks.

Choosing the right route is critical for your summit success. Below we are giving a short description of each route, examining their pros and cons.

Machame Route Machame is the second most popular route on Kilimanjaro. It is often busy during high season. Featuring excellent acclimatization and great views it is a really good route to consider. Make sure to choose the 7-day program. A shortened 6-day version of Machame, while cheaper, has one of the lowest success rates.

Marangu Route The most popular and difficult route for a Kilimanjaro climb. Though crowded at times, it is the only route that offers huts- rather than tents- for your overnights. The fact that ascent and descent follow the same path will not be felt as a disadvantage, as the views are ever-changing under the African sky.

Lemosho Route Lemosho route combines excellent acclimatization and high scenic value. Because the route trailhead is quite remote very few local operators run this Kilimanjaro trek. 7-day option is highly recommended.

Northern Circuit Route This newest trekking route on Kilimanjaro will be ideal for those keen on seeing the northern, rarely visited slopes. This option is the longest on Kilimanjaro but you will never see crowds on Northern Circuit.

Rongai Route Rongai is the only route with a trailhead in the northern part of Kilimanjaro. It features great views and a moderate altitude acclimatization transition. Those seeking a more private experience of communing with nature away from the crowds will find this less-frequented trek an excellent option.

Umbwe Route Umbwe is the shortest way to Uhuru with the steepest ascent. Acclimatization there is challenging. Recommended for the experienced mountaineer only.

Accommodation in Tanzania

Based in the foothills of Kilimanjaro, Aishi Machame Hotel is a home away from home (before and after the trek)for many climbers. Located only a 10-minute drive from Machame Gate, this is one of the quietest places around Kilimanjaro.
Brubru Lodge is a good choice for those who prefer a chance to explore the German-built Moshi town from a top-quality 3-star hotel.. While luxury-seekers may find this to be a no-frills place, the Lodge does offer everything you need for a comfortable stay; nice rooms, a good restaurant, caring staff, hot water, reliable internet and swimming pool.

Mount Kilimanjaro Quick Facts

Height:
19,340 ft / 5,895 m
Type:
Stratovolcano
Location:
330km South of the equator on the East African coast
Peaks:
Kibo, Mawenzi, Shira
Climate zones:
Rainforest, Heather, Moorland, Alpine, Arctic
Cities nearby:
Moshi (Kilimanjaro region), Arusha (Arusha region)
Closest airport:
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
First climb:
1889, Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller
Fastest ascent:
6 hours and 42 minutes in 2014 by the Swiss Karl Egloff

Preparing and Training for Climbing

Fitness for Kilimanjaro climb

Though climbing Mount Kilimanjaro does not require special mountaineering skills, the experience will be more enjoyable and memorable if you are in good physical shape. This is not to say that you must be an athlete- if you can comfortably walk up to 15 km per day, you may consider yourself physically prepared for a Kilimanjaro adventure.

At the same time, there are some basic exercises that you should include in your training plan for Kilimanjaro hike to maximize your fitness level.

Cardio (aerobic) training

The purpose of cardio training is to stimulate and optimise your body’s oxygen consumption. Being able to trek without being unduly short of breath despite high altitude goes a long way towards making the climb more enjoyable.

Good examples of cardio training include jogging (or running on a treadmill), swimming, martial arts, and cycling. They train your circulatory system, making it better prepared for using limited amounts of oxygen efficiently.

If you haven’t practiced any aerobic activity for a while, our advice is to start training 2-4 months before the start of your Kilimanjaro adventure. If, however, you are training rather regularly, you should just keep the regime.

At the same time, we recommend giving yourself a break from exercise for a couple of weeks before the climb.

Mistakes of the physically fit climbers

Those who are in excellent shape are particularly prone to everextending themselves by hiking too fast, especially on the first days of the trek. This has often been seen to result in the fittest climbers, including professional athletes, dropping out of the climb after 3-4 days, while the less fit members of the group would have gone on to summit successfully. The importance of allowing sufficient time for acclimatisation can not be overstated!

Remember: good fitness level helps you tackle fatigue, but it only has a moderate effect on your acclimatization transition. However fit you may be, always walk slowly.

Hiking trips in the countryside

Essentially, Mount Kilimanjaro adventure is a long hike over often rugged mountain terrain with many up- and downhills. Making a few day trips (hiking time should be 5-10 hours) in the countryside is a good way to understand what lies ahead and prepare yourself.

Moreover, if you buy new boots for your Kilimanjaro climb, these trips will be a good way to break them in. Using previously unworn hiking boots can easily detract from one’s enjoyment of the mountain by giving one sores and blisters.

Packing List

Make sure you pack everything you need for your Kilimanjaro adventure. Pay attention to the following:

Documents:

  • Passport, valid for 6 months or more
  • Visa, unless you are eligible for visa-on-arrival
  • Yellow fever vaccination, if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission

Hiking gear

Pack your Kilimanjaro outfit - check our article to see what gear and clothing you will need for this trip. And remember- poor-quality equipment and hiking boots that have not been broken in are a fail-proof way to turn what should be the adventure of a lifetime into disaster.

Personal medication

If you have any medical conditions, consult your physician before undertaking the climb and make sure to bring the medications you may require. While your guides will be equipped with standard medical kits designed to handle all common emergencies, you should take care of any special medical requirements, i.e. insulin or antiallergens.

Snacks

Though all meals and drinks are provided on the trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, having a reasonable amount of snacks and energy bars of your choice is not a bad idea.

Kilimanjaro Hiking Routes

There are six routes leading to the peak of Kilimanjaro. Each route has something special to offer. Some are known for great acclimatization, others for epic panoramic landscapes. Two of them - Lemosho and Machame - are our favorites.They combine great acclimatization transition and high scenic value. Though Machame is sometimes crowded, Lemosho is always a great choice. You should not, however, think that the other routes are bad. Despite the fact that acclimatization on other routes may be more challenging, the hiking experiences are nevertheless unique.

Choose Your Route

Climbing Equipment and Gear List

While camping equipment is provided by your guiding service, you will be responsible for bringing your personal hiking and clothing gear. Your choice will largely determine the comfort and safety of your Kilimanjaro experience.

On this trip you will be traversing five different climatic zones, ranging from rainforest with its hot and humid conditions to the glacial planes at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro with their sub-zero temperatures. You should be adequately prepared.

In short, your hiking gear pack should include light clothes for the first days of your adventure, warmer ones for the middle leg and al sturdy and warm outfit for the summit night. Remember to take an insulated waterproof jacket, pants and rain poncho because tropical showers are not that infrequent on Mt Kilimanjaro. A good sleeping bag is an absolute must. Overall, you should be ready for the hot (+25 C°) days and cold (-15C°) nights.

High-quality, sturdy hiking boots are especially important. You can not hike Kilimanjaro in training sneakers, though it is advisable to bring them along for walking at camp. Quality hiking boots that have been well broken in will make all the difference on your way to conquering the highest point in Africa.

Buy high-quality gear only. This does necessarily mean focusing on world-class brands- there are many affordable alternatives. However, do not consider cheapest models and fakes. Ensure that your boots are neither too big nor tight. This will ensure you avoid sores, blisters and possible traumas.

Because buying everything may be too costly you should also consider the option of hiring some items or the whole kit on the spot from one of the Kilimanjaro rental shops.

Check our Kilimanjaro kit packing list to learn everything you need to know about equipment and gear.

Packing List

Footwear
Sturdy pair of hiking boots
The footwear you choose for the hike is critical for your safety and summit success. Quality and well-fitting boots are a must. It is advisable to break them in before your Kilimanjaro adventure by making 2-3 simpler treks.
Clothing and headwear
High-quality trekking outfit
Your inner and outer layers for Kilimanjaro should be both warm and breatheable. Cotton should be avoided and, once again, a good fit will maximise your comfort. We would recommend the North Face, Mountain Hardwear, and RedFox brands
Accessories
Headlamps, trekking poles, and other items
Your Kilimanjaro packing list should also include durable and strong trekking poles, a headlamp with spare batteries, water bottles (or hydration bladders) and other essential items that will make your adventure safer and more convenient.
Read more

Weather on Mount Kilimanjaro

The weather on Kilimanjaro varies with the seasons. The first half of January till the beginning of March and early July through early October are short on rain with clear skies making these the best times for climbing. These, however, are also the times when some of the routes may feel somewhat crowded.

Do not cross out the rainy months from your travel dates - though the hike will be more arduous, you will be rewarded with the snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro and significantly lower numbers of hikers, even on the popular routes.

Month
Low (C)
Average (C)
High (C)
Rainfall (in)
Jan
17,7
25,5
33,3
1,4
Feb
17,7
25,5
33,3
2,0
Mar
18,8
25,5
32,2
4,7
Apr
19,4
24,4
29,4
13,8
May
18,3
22,2
26,1
9,3
Jun
16,6
21,1
25,5
1,5
Jul
15,5
20,5
25,5
1,0
Aug
15,5
21,1
26,6
0,7
Sep
15,5
21,6
28,3
0,6
Oct
16,6
23,8
31,1
1,0
Nov
17,7
24,4
31,6
2,5
Dec
17,7
25
32,2
2,1

TEMPERATURE IN MOSHI, TANZANIA

40
30
20
10
0
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Lowest t C°
Average t C°
Highest t C°

RAINFALL IN MOSHI, TANZANIA

15
10
5
0
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Rainfall (in)
Read More

Safety on Kilimanjaro

MEDICAL SERVICES AND HEALTHCARE
There are good hospitals in the Kilimanjaro and Arusha areas with qualified medical personnel. However, keep in mind that certain medical services and standards, which are commonplace in the Western countries, are still unavailable in Tanzania. If you have a serious medical condition, make sure to consult your physician before making travel arrangements.
VACCINATIONS AND IMMUNIZATIONS
Unless you are entering Tanzania from an area where there is a risk of yellow fever transmission (see this WHO list), there are no vaccination requirements for entering the country. Yet, it is recommended to have shots for yellow fever, hepatitis (A and B types), rabies and typhoid.
THE WILDLIFE ON KILIMANJARO
The wildlife of Kilimanjaro poses no threat to hikers. The most common species are monkeys, honey badgers, and galagos (“bush babies”). You may be lucky to spot an elephant or a buffalo on the northern slopes, but these animals avoid contact with humans and you will likely view them from a safe distance.
SECURITY IN TANZANIA
It is recommended to follow usual travel precautions when traveling in Tanzania:do not leave your luggage unattended, do not hire unofficial taxis (use those provided by the hotel only), don’t give money to strangers asking for help or selling on the street (buy only in licensed shops instead).
ACCLIMATIZATION
Choose longer trekking routes (7,8 and 9-day programs are better than 5 and 6-day ones). Do not walk too fast - ideally, your trekking pace should be twice as slow as your normal one. “Pole-pole” (walk slowly in Swahili) will be your climbing motto. Drink a lot of water and avoid caffeine. Follow these simple rules and you will acclimatize smoothly and successfully.
ALTITUDE SICKNESS
Altitude sickness is a dangerous physical condition resulting from exposure to low-oxygen conditions. Unless a climber is promptly evacuated upon showing signs of altitude sickness, it may take severe forms - high-altitude pulmonary oedema (HAPE) or high-altitude cerebral oedema (HACE). Inform your guide immediately if you start feeling unwell. Your Altezza guide will perform two health checks on all climbers each day to determine how you are coping with the altitude and note your health status.
DAILY HEALTH CHECKS
Daily medical check-ups are very important. Every morning and evening your guide will measure your pulse and bodily oxygen level. In some cases, they may decide to use a stethoscope to listen to your lungs. However excellent you may feel, it is important to attend these check-ups.
ALTITUDE MEDICATIONS
Kilimanjaro medical kits have common medications for typical disorders caused by the altitude transition, such as nausea, diarrhea, and headache. If you require any sort of specialized medication, make sure to bring it with you.
INSURANCE
An outdoor sports insurance package can save you a lot of money if something goes wrong. It is an absolute must for all Kilimanjaro treks. The insurance should cover high-altitude trekking activities (up to 6,000 m/20,000 f) and helicopter evacuation. Make sure to check with your insurance provider. Also, it is recommended to avoid booking with companies which do not require travel insurance.
MOUNTAIN RESCUE
A climber affected by high-altitude sickness should start descending immediately. In cases where the climber is no longer capable of walking, stretchers are used for descent to lower altitudes. The most severe cases may require helicopter transfers directly to the hospital, which should be arranged by your operator. Altezza has experience with helicopter evacuations, if you book with us you can be sure that this service is included. If you choose to climb with an other operator, ask about mountain rescue measures.

Climbing Crew

Professional guiding crews make Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions strikingly different from other popular mountaineering trips. While on most of the other popular treks the guides simply lead your way, your Kilimanjaro climbing crew will be taking care of everything - from carrying your duffel bag with gear to preparing meals and pitching tents. Each member of the climbing crew receives special training and certification according to his/her role in the team. Most Kilimanjaro climb crew members dream of becoming chief guides someday, yet only a select few succeed. Apart from good English, this position requires years of training, perseverance, and dedication. The specific composition of your guiding team largely depends on the tour type and duration. Thus, longer trips and remote routes both require larger crews for more equipment and supplies.

Fair treatment of porters

When booking a Kilimanjaro tour, remember to check if a tour operator is taking proper care of the climbing crew. A good outfitter, such as Altezza Travel, always provides three nutritious meals a day and proper equipment - sleeping bags and well-insulated tents - to guides and porters.

Also, it is customary to give tips to your climbing crew if you liked their performance. An amount of USD 250-350 (to be distributed throughout the climbing crew) from each climber is today's standard.

First responder
Victor Mahonge
Mt Kilimanjaro guide
Climbing experience - 8 years
First responder
Makeke Sandy
Mt Kilimanjaro guide
Climbing experience - 7 years
First responder
Gerald Kimaro
Mt Kilimanjaro guide
Climbing experience - 12 years
First responder
Baraka Ayo
Mt Kilimanjaro guide
Climbing experience - 10 years

Kilimanjaro Climbing and Camping Conditions

On most of your Kilimanjaro days, you will be reaching camp in the afternoon. By that time your camp crew will have everything ready for your stay - tents will have been pitched and hot lunch prepared for you to replenish your strength. You will also find your duffel bag brought straight to your tent. The whole team will assemble in the dining (“mess”) tent at 18:00-18:30 for dinner. After that, the guides will perform obligatory health checks and have a short briefing about the next day’s program.

Free time on the mountain may be occupied with pastimes of your choice. Some choose to socialise with fellow climbers, while others prefer solitary reading or listening to music in their tents. That extra nap that may mean all the difference in the way you feel the following day is always an option. Your acclimatization will be growing with each new day spent on the Mountain, preparing you for the culmination of your trip - summiting at Uhuru Peak.

Do not forget about acclimatization hikes - they will seriously boost your stamina and improve acclimatization on the way to Uhuru Peak, not to mention that they are the most exciting pastime in the camp. The guides will be informing you about such hikes after the group arrives at the camp.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to charge gadgets on Kilimanjaro?

There are no power outlets at Kilimanjaro camps. Some guests use a power bank to charge their devices. Solar charging options are also useful.

Can I climb Mount Kilimanjaro without a guide?

No, you can’t. The rules of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park expressly state that licensed guides shall accompany all trekkers.

What is the correct spelling of Kilimanjaro?

The correct contemporary English spelling is Kilimanjaro. However, other spellings of the name may be found in other European languages. For example, the word Kilimandzaro is quite popular in Poland and other East European countries.

Can I climb Mount Kilimanjaro to fundraise for charity?

Of course you can! There are plenty of international organizations running charitable Kilimanjaro climbs. Some great examples include:

  • Wings of Kilimanjaro. Apart from giving you a chance to fly from the roof of Africa, this project focuses on helping the impoverished local communities by building schools and wells.
  • Also, joining Lifewater trips is a great way to helpprovide clean water to rural areas. Action against Hunger is another project which focuses on running various food security, water, and sanitation programs in developing nations.
  • Action against Hunger project focuses on running various food security, water, and sanitation programs.
How long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Depending on the route, standard Kilimanjaro itineraries take from five to eight days to complete. 5-day and 6-day packages should only be considered by experienced hikers with prior acclimatization. A longer duration is always recommended for better acclimatization transition. Adding extra acclimatization days to the standard package is possible and advisable.

Is Swahili a difficult language to learn?

Not at all, though, as with any other language, it takes some time. Here are some basic phrases:

  • Hello = jambo
  • How are you? = habari gani?
  • Good = nzuri
  • Goodbye = kwa heri
  • A pleasure to meet you = nafurahi kukuona
  • Have a good sleep/Goodnight = lala salama
  • Please = tafadhali
  • Excuse me = samahani
  • My name is = jina langu ni
  • What is your name? = jina lako nani?
  • Do you speak English? = unaongea Kiingereza?
What power outlets are used in Tanzania?

The standard voltage in Tanzania is 230 V. Power plugs used in Tanzania are D and G types (similar to the ones used in the United Kingdom).

What is Tanzanian food like?

It is a mixture of Indian, Arabic, and traditional African cuisines. As food is an integral part of any culture, tasting local dishes is highly recommended.

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About the author

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dima is a Tanzania-based travel expert with multiple Kilimanjaro hikes under his belt. He contributed his knowledge and skills to many notable expeditions, including Wings of Kilimanjaro 2019, BASE-jump trip with Red Bull, National Geographic trips and many other adventures.

At Altezza Travel Dima is the Kilimanjaro Expeditions Coordinator. Every year he supervises the departure of over 1500 Kilimanjaro trekkers, appoints the guides and makes sure that everything goes as planned before, during and after the expedition.
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