Plan Kilimanjaro Climb: A Comprehensive Guide to Conquering Africa's Tallest Peak
It is the world’s tallest free-standing mountain at 5,895 meters. Everest is much higher overall, yet it begins at approximately 4,000 meters.
Kilimanjaro is also Africa’s highest mountain, hence it belongs to the “Seven Summits” club, which includes the highest mountains on each continent.
Even with these impressive qualifications, you can quit work on a Friday, climb to the summit, and return to work a week later. Above all, its popularity stems from its ease of access. So book your Kilimanjaro climb immediately with the leading Kilimanjaro operator. If you climb with us, you’ll be in good hands; we’ve helped over 10,000 climbers summit successfully.
WHICH IS THE BEST ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?
Having helped over 10,000 people climb Kilimanjaro we know that for every one of them, the best route was the route which gave them the best chance to stand on the top of this awesome mountain. So there are just four routes up Kilimanjaro that we recommend: the Machame Route, Lemosho route, Rongai route and the Northern Circuit.
MACHAME ROUTE | This is our favourite route for a short climb as it offers a high chance of success over just 7 days. It has an interesting approach through all of Kilimanjaro’s diverse climate zones. Its downside is that everybody likes it, so in peak periods it can be very busy.
LEMOSHO ROUTE | Stepping up in cost and adding an extra day, this is the best 8 day route on the mountain. It has fantastic views and a really interesting approach from the West of the mountain.
NORTHERN CIRCUIT | If money and time are not an issue then it is worth checking out the Northern Circuit. It has the same attractive approach as the Lemosho but then heads North where you will find yourselves nearly alone.
RONGAI ROUTE | This route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north of the mountain close to the Kenyan border. It is a very quiet route, and is not normally our first choice as there is very little vegetation as it has much less rainfall. This means it is a good route to choose in the rainy season and it is always generally quiet.
Choosing the right route depends on various factors such as your fitness level, climbing experience, desired duration, and preference for solitude versus popularity.
Physical Preparation
While Kilimanjaro doesn’t require technical climbing skills, it demands a good level of physical fitness and endurance. Start training at least three to six months before your climb, focusing on cardiovascular exercises like hiking, running, and cycling to improve stamina and endurance. Incorporate strength training to build muscle strength, particularly in your legs and core, as they’ll bear the brunt of the trek. Additionally, practice hiking with a loaded backpack to simulate the conditions you’ll encounter on the mountain.
Acclimatization
One of the biggest challenges of climbing Kilimanjaro is acclimatizing to the high altitude to avoid altitude sickness. Choosing a route with a good acclimatization profile, like the Machame or Lemosho routes, is crucial. These routes offer longer itineraries, allowing for gradual ascent and additional time for your body to adjust to the altitude. During the climb, stay well-hydrated, maintain a steady pace, and listen to your body’s cues. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness such as headache, nausea, or dizziness, communicate with your guide immediately.
Logistics and Gear
Ensure you have all the necessary logistics in place before embarking on your Kilimanjaro climb. This includes obtaining required permits, arranging transportation to the mountain, and booking accommodation before and after the climb. Invest in quality gear suitable for mountain trekking, including sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking clothing layers, a warm sleeping bag, a reliable backpack, and essential personal items like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a first-aid kit. Consider renting equipment like trekking poles and insulated jackets if you don’t already own them.
Hiring a Reputable Tour Operator
While it’s technically possible to climb Kilimanjaro independently, hiring a reputable tour operator greatly enhances your chances of a safe and enjoyable experience. Look for operators with a proven track record of safety, experienced guides, and ethical practices. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and inquire about the company’s safety protocols, guide-to-client ratio, and emergency evacuation procedures. A knowledgeable guide can make all the difference in navigating the mountain’s terrain, ensuring your well-being, and maximizing your chances of reaching the summit.
When is the best time to plan Kilimanjaro climb ?
The short answer is to either go between May and October, or December and March. You can read lots more about the weather on Kilimanjaro here.
Simply put, Kilimanjaro has a long monsoon season in April and May, and a shorter monsoon season in November. During these periods there is a high probability of rain every day. Outside these periods the weather is mainly dry and clear.
Of course, most people want to climb when it is dry, so if you choose one of these two periods you can expect to meet a lot of other climbers. To mitigate this, choose one of the less popular routes. The Northern Circuit is a great choice at this time of year. If you want to climb when it is quieter, or during one of the rainy seasons, then look at the Rongai route. It lies in Kilimanjaro’s rain shadow and is much drier all year round.
Planning Your Kilimanjaro Ascent During Full Moon Phases
For avid adventurers, the allure of scaling Kilimanjaro under the luminous glow of a full moon holds a special appeal. Beyond the romanticism, there are practical benefits: the brightness of the full moon significantly lightens the overnight hike to the summit, enhancing visibility and easing navigation. If experiencing Kilimanjaro bathed in moonlight is your preference, it’s essential to coordinate your climb with the dates of the full moon.
Full moon dates, which occur approximately once a month, can influence the flow of climbers on the mountain. Expect these periods to be busier than usual, as many share the desire for an illuminated ascent. Consequently, booking accommodations and securing permits well in advance is advisable to ensure availability during peak times.
However, it’s worth noting that while a full moon illuminates the landscape, it diminishes the visibility of stars, disappointing stargazers and astronomers. Conversely, during a new moon, when the moon is barely visible, the night sky dazzles with an abundance of stars, offering a celestial spectacle unlike any other.
Ultimately, whether you opt for a full moon climb or prefer the unparalleled stargazing opportunities of a new moon, each phase of the lunar cycle brings its own magic to the Kilimanjaro experience. Whether guided by the gentle glow of the moon or the brilliance of the stars, embarking on this epic journey promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the breathtaking beauty of Africa’s tallest peak.
Conclusion
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a bucket-list adventure that offers unparalleled rewards for those willing to take on the challenge. With proper planning, physical preparation, and the right mindset, almost anyone can experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Africa’s highest peak. Whether you’re drawn to the sweeping vistas, the sense of accomplishment, or the opportunity for personal growth, a Kilimanjaro climb is an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve descended from its lofty heights. So lace up your boots, pack your backpack, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Kilimanjaro awaits.