Frequently Asked Questions – Kilimanjaro

You will be assigned 3-6 porters per climber for your group. The number will be determined by the size or weight of your luggage and the number of climbers in your group. porters are the ones responsible for carrying all the camping equipment like tents, tables, chairs, portable toilets and setting up of camp each day. So that it is easier for you to climb Kilimanjaro with a backpack only.

More about Mount Kilimanjaro porters

You will be assigned one lead guide and an assistant guide for 2-3 climbers.
For 4-6 climbers, we will assign one lead guide and 2 assistant guides for your climb.
For 7-8 climbers, we will assign one lead guide and 3 assistant guides for your climb.
For 9-10 climbers, we will assign one lead guide and 4 assistant guides for your climb.

Read more about Tranquil Kilimanjaro guides

A private climb with tranquil Kilimanjaro offers flexibility to choose an addon for a safari or a Zanzibar beach adventure. From the rugged mountain adventure to a rather moderate and fun-filled game drive to the famous national parks in Tanzania or simply choose to relax on the sandy beaches of Zanzibar spice islands.

To book a Kilimanjaro climb, contact us here

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) just 45 minutes away from Moshi is the best way to get to Mount Kilimanjaro since Moshi is the closest town to the mountain. The airport located between Moshi and Arusha only receives direct flights from the Netherlands, the Middle East and Turkey. From Europe, the best options are with KLM via Amsterdam or Turkish Airlines via Istanbul.

Travellers from North America, the United States (USA) or the Far East the best options are to fly via the Middle East. You can read more about flights to Tanzania for climbing Kilimanjaro and Kilimanjaro International Airport transfers.

Click here to read more about how to get to Kilimanjaro.

The minimum age for a child to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is 10 years old. Many young children have climbed to the top. There is no age limit for older climbers but senior citizen above 60 years of age need to undergo a checkup and follow their doctors advise before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

The recommended insurance cover for Mount Kilimanjaro should be able to cover up to 6000m above sea level. There are many Insurance companies that can cover mountain climbing emergencies. Please make sure that you are choosing the correct package and read the small print before buying.

Read more about insurance for Kilimanjaro.

Depending on your location on the mountain and the urgency of the problem, our may get assistance to take you down or off the mountain by either, being stretchered off, being carried by the porters, by vehicle or by air evacuation, mostly helicopter. Please let your mountain guide immediately you notice anything strange with your condition.

Read more about Kilimanjaro Helicopter Rescue and Evacuation.

First of all, to begin climbing Mount Kilimanjaro you must get all the necessary vaccines to visit Tanzania. You can read about the recommended vaccines here but most importantly, consult your doctor. Also, Tanzania is a malaria hotspot, do not forget your anti-malarial tablets.

Read more about Vaccinations and Malaria in Tanzania

No it is not possible to climb Mount Kilimanjaro alone, without a guide or porters. The Kilimanjaro national park Authority (KINAPA) forbids people climbing the mountain on their own without any assistance.

Read more about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro solo.

Yes, we do organize Mount Kilimanjaro charity climbs because we believe the world can be a better place. We would love to be part of your charity climbing guide and support your worthy cause.

Read more about climbing Kilimanjaro for charity

We are leading members of KPAP, the Kilimanjaro Porters protection group and comply fully with their recommendations about tips. Depending on the group size recommended tips are between $2-300 per person. These are simply recommendations: if for any reason you are not happy with the service provided you are not required to pay.

Read more about tipping porters

Every morning and evening you will be provided with a bowl of hot water for washing. As well as this we strongly recommend a good supply of baby wipes for cleaning hands during the day. Also when it gets very cold higher on the mountain you can get by with what we call a “pits and bits” wash for which a baby-wipe is perfect. Remember though that whatever you take up the mountain has to come down so you will need a waste bag to carry used wet wipes.

Read more about day to day happenings on the mountain

We use strong, waterproof and durable tents on Mt Kilimanjaro. Mountain Hardwear Trango tents that a re capable of housing 3 people and are made to withstand tough mountain conditions. These are the same tents used for climbing Mount Everest in the Himalayas. They are very spacious and to create even more room to store your luggage, we allow two people to sleep in the tents instead of three. For dinner, lunch and breakfast, we use mess tents that are strong Good head-height, warm and extremely tough. Along with comfy camp chairs they make for a relaxing mealtime.

Read more about Tranquil Kilimanjaro mountaineering tents

The food prepared by our chefs/cooks everyone at a surprise because even with limited kitchenware and equipment, our chefs/cooks prepare sumptuous meals, specifically prepared for the tiring treks on the mountain. They are nutritious, fresh and energy-giving foods. We are also capable of preparing speciality foods and work with you to come up with a meal plan suitable for your dietary restrictions for vegans and people of religious restrictions and low carb diets.

Read more about meal plans and food on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Private climbs are a tailor-made and personal type of climbs that offer complete flexibility giving you more freedom and a considerably higher summit success rate. The flexibility of private climbs gives you the freedom to choose your travel date, route and even meal program. It is worth to note that private climbs are a perfect choice for close-knit groups like friends, family, couples or a charity group. Private Kilimanjaro climbs are also great for certain events that need privacy like birthdays, honeymoon climbs or anniversaries.

Do you want to join a group or book a private climb?

You will need to be kitted with mountaineering gear that will keep you warm on Mount Kilimanjaro. From footwear to clothes to gloves. Here is a complete list of the Mount Kilimanjaro gear that will help make your hike more enjoyable and comfortable.

Check out the complete Mount Kilimanjaro gear list

Climbing Kilimanjaro can take about 5 days to 9 days. We do recommend the longer route variations that take at least 6 days for better acclimatisation and summit success rates. Please read more about choosing the best Mount Kilimanjaro routes before you decide to climb.

Mount Kilimanjaro is not a really difficult mountain to climb as it is walkable. It does not require any technical skills to climb and has a rather high summit success rate on average.

If you are a regular weekend walker with lots of determination we can get you to the top. That does not mean that it is not an incredibly tough challenge. The difficulties arise from a number of different factors. First, you are walking every day for at least 6 days for an average of 7-8 hours a day. There is then one very long day of up to 18 hours. You need to be really determined to handle this.

Second, you are climbing to nearly 20,000 feet at which altitude, air pressure and oxygen availability is about 60% of sea level. This means with every breath you are only getting just over half as much oxygen. To compensate for this you have to do everything slowly with a goal to avoid altitude sickness. Finally, you will be camping for up to 8 nights, sleeping on the floor and washing and cleaning in tough conditions. This is nothing that a positive attitude can’t overcome, though.

Climbing is best in early October. The mountain is dry, the temperatures aren’t as cold as they are in the winter (June-August), and October is off season, so you’ll be able to locate cheaper tickets to Kilimanjaro.

Kilimanjaro is a really high summit; look it up on the internet. Climbing any mountain, in my opinion, maybe deadly if you are unprepared, out of shape, trekking alone, or encountering unforeseen weather conditions. Many individuals attempt to climb Kilimanjaro; nevertheless, to prevent risky situations, be prepared, in shape, and seek guidance from previous climbers.

If you want greater comfort, upgrading to a walk-in tent and sleeping cot for your Kilimanjaro trek may be beneficial. For some folks, crawling in and out of normal-sized tents for Kilimanjaro numerous times a day might get tiresome. It’s possible that the area will feel cramped, with little room to layout your gear or change, especially if it’s shared by two climbers. A bigger tent will give you more area to walk about and will seem roomier. Larger tents, on the other hand, will seem cooler since they do not trap as much heat. It’s a personal preference whether you like sleeping on a cot or the basic foam sleeping mats used on the mountain.

For some individuals, cots are more pleasant to sleep on since they are softer and resemble a traditional frame bed. Others, on the other hand, may find beds less comfortable than sleeping closer to the ground, where they may easily lay their arms or legs on the floor if they need more room.

Your decision will be influenced by two factors: how warm you sleep and how nice of a pad you have. You will lose heat to the ground because sleeping bags compress under your body weight. A 15F or 0F bag with a dual pad (foam + inflatable) is recommended. The inflatable is for comfort, and the foam acts as insurance (it’s quite indestructible).

Anything below 0F isn’t necessary. Denali class, not Kilimanjaro class, is a -40F bag.
To keep the bag clean, liners are acceptable. For those especially chilly nights, you can always toss on a sweater.

Read more about recommended sleeping bags for Kilimanjaro.

So, just in case, I’d recommend a 0F down bag. If you sleep warmly, 15 degrees Fahrenheit is OK. Because you will not see your duffel from morning to evening, I like to store mine in a dry bag (and I also line my duffel with a sturdy garbage bag).

Hiking boots for climbing Kilimanjaro? To avoid any potential injury, this is a must. This is not an area where you want to cut corners.

These are some of the most important reasons to wear suitable hiking shoes:

Rubber soles: Your footwear should be able to take you through a variety of terrains and weather conditions. You should feel comfortable ascending the damp stones you’ll come across along the journey.

Waterproof: Despite its proximity to the tropics, the mountain’s summit is snow-covered, and you should anticipate to walk in snowy circumstances. It is prone to tropical rain towards the bottom. Please keep in mind that anything damp will not dry as you climb higher. You will feel cooler if your feet are moist.

Ankle support: You’ll come across some rough terrain along the route. The chance of twisting your ankle is reduced when you have sufficient ankle support.

If you do not want to purchase hiking boots because you will not use them after the trip, etc., you may rent them from your trekking organization (make sure they have your size). Wearing shoes you aren’t used to can create severe blisters, therefore I wouldn’t advocate it.

There are a wide range of affordable hiking shoes available. Hi-Tec is one of the brands I suggest. They are less expensive than high-end brands yet work well (I wore them for Kili after hiking in it for 3-4 times and did not have blisters).

No, you cannot climb Kilimanjaro without a guide. You still need a guide to climb Kilimanjaro. That is the law, and Tanzania relies on Kilimanjaro tourists for revenue. In terms of technical difficulty, a competent alpinist might climb Kilimanjaro without the assistance of a guide.
Climbing Kilimanjaro requires the assistance of an official guide. Although, in terms of large mountains, it is not very tough. Despite the fact that it is 19,000 feet tall, the oxygen level at the peak is just 45 percent of that at the base. Hypoxia (loss of oxygen) and altitude sickness are possible side effects. These might range from inconvenient to fatal. Because of a scarcity of oxygen, half of the climbers give up. Hypothermia is a constant danger. The ascent to the peak is difficult and rough, and it is frequently undertaken in the dark in order to catch the dawn. Without a guide, summiting is risky.

Technically, you could, as the climb or trek is rather basic and follows well-marked paths.

However, visiting the national park requires the presence of a qualified domestic (Tanzanian) guide.

So, in practice, you won’t be able to since you’ll need to be accompanied by a guide.

Kilimanjaro is a walkable mountain that can be easily climbed on foot. Many visitors, whether novice or skilled climbers, attempt to ascend the famed peak. There are numerous options accessible, and you may pick the one that best suits your needs. The climb is normally not too difficult, and acclimatization is the most common issue that prevents a successful summit attempt.

Because of its higher success rates to the summit compared to many other routes, the Lemosho and Machame routes have been highlighted as the mostly best route in Kilimanjaro. In these two routes, you acclimatize and make your body get used to altitude easily every day; for more successful trekking, Machame 7 days and Lemosho 8 days are recommended. Please feel free to browse our home pages for additional information on Kilimanjaro and Tanzania.

There are seven camping routes on Kilimanjaro and only one lodge route, the Marangu route. The Coca-Cola way (Marangu route) is considered the quickest, although the journey from base camp to the summit has never been simple. Also through Marangu, you ascend and descend along the same way and sleep in the park hut; during the busiest season, advance booking is necessary three months before to the trip.

There are seven camping routes, one of which is specifically designed for descending, namely the Mweka path. Rongai, Umbwe, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, and northern circuit routes are among of the other rising camping routes.

Yes, it is possible to view Mount Kilimanjaro from Nairobi, Kenya, but only in a clear sky day without obstructions, on a high building or on a plane. To view it, clearly, you’ll need to be closer to Tanzania’s border. Amboseli National Park in Kenya is the best site to see Mount Kilimanjaro. Since Mount Kilimanjaro is located just near the border of Kenya and Tanzania, it can be easily seen from Loitoktok town. Seeing this shy mountain that towers into the clouds is a big gamble when you are in Nairobi, Kenya. Everything has to align and the sky has to be blue and perfectly cloudless, on top of that you need to be at a high elevation like on top of a building. As evidenced by these users on Twitter, Mount Kilimanjaro is visible from Nairobi, Kenya, though it is very rare but possible, weather permitting.

Related: Is Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya or Tanzania?

Beautiful weather. Clear enough to spot Mt. Kilimanjaro from Nairobi. https://t.co/fvXiQe1ZXx pic.twitter.com/C9qLbdpbWC

— Geography of Kenya (@kenyangeography) August 23, 2021

A view of Mt Kilimanjaro from Nairobi. This country Kenya… pic.twitter.com/4dUJn2DpWj

— Eunice Kariuki (@eunicekariuki) May 6, 2021

Honestly the fact that people are just now realizing you can see Mt Kenya (and Kilimanjaro) from Nairobi is worrying. Took this in 2016 from Wilson airport. pic.twitter.com/ULWwLy6FBJ

— Khadija M. Farah (@kmfarah) April 13, 2020

Mt. Kilimanjaro is actually visible from Nairobi. pic.twitter.com/Fa1rhYNpBA

— Kalamzinga (@Kalasinga_) April 16, 2020

Nasimah took this pic from balcony of her apartment, Langata, Nairobi, this morning. pic.twitter.com/JNCPkInMyl

— Rashid Abdi (@RAbdiAnalyst) April 16, 2020

There is no such thing as the easiest and fastest route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. All routes are unique, they have their pros and cons. Here is a testimonial from one of our past clients.

All of the hikes are short and simple.

Coca-Cola route was my choice since it was both quick and simple.

It was a wonderful trek. There are many vegetation zones.

The summit day was the one thing I didn’t like – there was no reason to get up that early since I didn’t want to wait 30 minutes for the sun to rise – I could have arrived 2 hours later or anything.

It’s also a short trek to the peak on summit day. It’s so short that the guides don’t even bring tiny day bags, ostensibly so they can carry the backpacks of the weaker visitors.

I would suggest investing in a nice sleeping bag with a temperature rating of minus 20 degrees Celsius. You’ll also need a decent mattress of some sort – if you’re bringing your own gear (it’ll be carried by porters), a Thermarest will suffice (self-inflating mattress). The tent, mattress, and other essential equipment are frequently provided by the business through whom you make your reservation. Before you travel to Africa, you must determine what they will supply.

Above 3,000 meters, it will be chilly, and it will be quite cold in the final camp and on the final ascent. For the last ascent, I had top-of-the-line thermals, a down jacket and overpants, excellent quality gloves, and double caps. It was windy and chilly.

Climb Kilimanjaro first, then take a break and go on a Tanzania Safari, before relaxing on the Zanzibar beach. It does not take long; one month is plenty to cover practically all of Tanzania.

Check our Kilimanjaro and safari packages

Going on a Mountain Gorilla Trek in Uganda or Rwanda is also a fantastic adventure.

Check out Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar packages

For both clients and our Tranquil Kilimanjaro trekking staff, Kilimanjaro Climbing necessitates a nutritious meal diet consisting of Proteins, Carbohydrates, and Fats. Kilimanjaro Cuisine

Our expert cooks will make three hot meals every day while trekking. Breakfast, lunch, and supper, for example.

Our dishes are prepared using the most recent seasonal harvests. The local markets in Moshi provide all fruits, vegetables, seafood, steak, and poultry. We have re-supplied new food to the camp/hut for all expeditions lasting more than 5 days.

Check our Kilimanjaro Meal Plan

Yes, individuals with asthma can climb Kilimanjaro, but it requires careful preparation and consideration of potential risks. Since asthma varies from person to person, the impact of high altitude can affect individuals differently. Here are some important points to understand for asthma sufferers planning to climb Kilimanjaro:

1. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): As you climb to higher altitudes, the available oxygen per breath decreases, leading to altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid AMS. Altitude sickness can cause symptoms similar to an asthma attack, and it is essential to differentiate between the two.
2. Cold Weather: At high altitudes, temperatures can drop significantly, especially during summit night. Cold weather can trigger asthma symptoms in some individuals, so proper clothing and precautions are necessary to stay warm.
3. Exercise-induced Asthma: Climbing Kilimanjaro involves physical exertion, which may trigger exercise-induced asthma. It is crucial to be as fit as possible before the climb and proceed at a slow pace to aid acclimatization.
4. Allergies: Some asthma sufferers may experience improved symptoms at high altitudes if their asthma is triggered by allergens like pollen and dust mites, which are generally lower at altitude.

Best practices for climbing Kilimanjaro with asthma include:

• Ensure your asthma is well-controlled before the climb and consult with your doctor to review your condition and trekking plans.
• Carry your inhaler and any other necessary medications with you at all times during the climb.
• Choose a trek that allows adequate time for acclimatization, such as the 7 or 8-day Lemosho route or the 7-day Machame route.
• Go slowly throughout the trek, stay hydrated, and monitor your breathing closely.
• Obtain appropriate trekking insurance that covers asthma-related issues.
• To acclimatize, take your time when you ascend to higher altitudes.
• Put on a warm, puffy jacket that will keep you warm at higher elevations.
• Maintain your level of fitness; it is advised to attempt a few shorter hikes before trying Kilimanjaro.
• Carry an attack card for asthma and give it to your operators so they’ll know what to do if you get an attack.

It’s important to remember that climbing Kilimanjaro is physically demanding, and individuals with asthma should consult with their healthcare provider and undergo thorough preparations before attempting the climb. Proper planning and precautions can help asthma sufferers have a successful and safe experience on the mountain.

Smokers and non-smokers alike can climb Mount Kilimanjaro. All that is needed is just mental and good physical preparedness plus following the acclimatization rules. You also need proper planning to climb Kilimanjaro.

Read more about how to prepare for a climb.

No, there are no dead bodies on Mount Kilimanjaro. There is no exact estimate of deaths on Mount Kilimanjaro either but the rough estimate of annual deaths on Mount Kilimanjaro is about 3-10 people annually on average, this includes porters, guides and everybody else.

More facts about Mount Kilimanjaro

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry months of January to march and June to October when it is warm and dry.

Read more about the best time to climb Kilimanjaro.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is challenging but not very hard to climb. Apart from a few stages like climbing the Barranco Wall and the summit night which requires you to make an ascent of about 1500m and a trek of about 16-18 hours between ascent and descent. All you need to do is to be both mentally and physically ready.

More about fitness and training for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing

Standing at a whopping 5,895 meters above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest freestanding mountain in the world, the highest in Africa and Tanzania too. The highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro is the summit Uhuru peak on Kibo, measuring 5,895m above sea level.

More about Mount Kilimanjaro

On Mount Kilimanjaro, you are not in danger of animal attacks, malarial mosquitoes, or mugging, however, due to the rugged terrain and high altitudes, you might be in danger of altitude sickness and injuries caused by fatigue and strain on the body when trekking. Learn more about altitude sickness and acclimatization.

Many celebrities have climbed Mount Kilimanjaro as a private climb or for greater causes and charities. Among the famous celebrities and notable persons that have climbed Mount Kilimanjaro include:

• Roman Abramovich, the Russian billionaire and owner of Chelsea Football Club, gave the mountain an attempt but sadly collapsed at 4,500meters (15,100 feet) due to respiratory difficulties.
• Jessica Biel and team: Jessica Biel, together with her team from “Summit on the Summit”, reached the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2010. Her team included: -Emile Hirsch, Isabel Lucas, Tipper Gore, Lupe Fiasco, Santigold and Kenna
• In 2009, celebrities Alesha Dixon, Gary Barlow, Ben Shepard, Denise Van Outen, Cheryl Cole, Chris Moyles, Fearne Cotton, Kimberley Walsh and Ronan Keating climbed Kilimanjaro using the Lemosho route for 8 days. They all made it to the top to raise awareness and raise money for malaria. Their charity climb raised almost $10 million from their charity group climb for their cause.
• Martina Navratilova, 9 times Wimbledon champion, attempted to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro back in the year 2010, but altitude sickness got the best of her which made her quit unfortunately with only 1200m remaining to reach the summit.

Below is a list of the famous people that have climbed Mount Kilimanjaro

1. Jessica Biel (2010) …
2. Isabel Lucas (2010) …
3. Lupe Fiasco (2010) …
4. Emile Hirsch (2010) …
5. Mandy Moore (2018) …
6. Haloti Ngata (2019) …
7. Brian Blessed. Brian Blessed (1988) …
8. Cheryl Cole. Dan Walker.
9. Eugene Kaspersky (2016)
10. Brennan Swain (2020)

Yes, there is a mobile signal on the mountain but at some places, there is little or no signals, like in the valleys and descends. It is worth noting however that network signal for calling might be available or sometimes scarce but there is no 4G or 5G signal on the mountain.

Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania, an East African Country the borders the Indian Ocean to the East and Kenya to the North. In fact Mount Kilimanjaro is near the border of Kenya and Tanzania that is why it is visible from Amboseli, Kenya but can only be climbed from within Tanzania. The nearest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport and the nearest town to Kilimanjaro is Moshi. Learn where Mount Kilimanjaro is exactly located

The success rate depends on the route chosen and the number of days it will take to climb. Shorter routes like the 5 days Marangu route report a low success rate of about 50% while longer routes of 7-9 days report a considerably higher success rate of 85-90%. The longer the route, the more ample time you get for acclimatization and the higher the success rate.

Get more route comparison and summit success rate stats here

You do not need to be superhuman fit to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. If you are able to do 5-7 hours walk a day then you are fit to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Many first timers have climbed to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro with tranquil Kilimanjaro. All you need is mental fitness but being in great shape will definitely help with acclimatization and having an easier and enjoyable climb. Click here to learn more about Mount Kilimanjaro fitness and download our training plan.

Yes, to get to Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro, you will need a negative Covid-19 PCR test certificate is required when arriving the country. The PCR test needs to be taken within 72 hours of travelling to Tanzania. You will also be tested on arrival at a cost of $25), and need to complete this Traveller Survey 24 hours before you arrive at the airport in Tanzania.

You might also be required to have a negative Covid-19 test certificate when you depart Tanzania to return home. Here are updates on this requirement from the UK and USA.

Read more about COVID-19 and PCR tests in Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania, East Africa. Mount Kilimanjaro, which is located in the northern section of the nation near the Kenyan border, is frequently mistakenly ascribed to Kenya. The whole Mount Kilimanjaro area is a protected natural reserve, known as the Kilimanjaro National Park, which extends from its base to its top and includes remnants of the surrounding rainforest. The park as a whole spans 100 kilometers in length and 65 kilometers in width.

Learn more on how to get there.

The Marangu Huts are the only places where you can buy soft drinks that is why the Marangu Route is called the Coca-Cola route. Because porters would have to carry the bottles up the mountain, tour companies seldom provide it on other routes. However, on special request, additional porters can be hired to carry your soft drinks. However, this is not suggested. Fruit drinks may or may not be provided, depending on your tour organizer.

The Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) is a Tanzanian non-profit organization devoted to ensuring that Kilimanjaro porters are treated fairly and ethically. KPAP assists porters by giving them free clothes, offering educational opportunities, and overseeing the Partner for Responsible Travel Program’s monitoring operations. They urge all companies to join the Partner Program, and they educate climbers about the significance of choosing an ethical climbing firm.

The porter treatment monitoring program at KPAP examines business payment and tipping procedures on a regular basis and collects surveys from porters. KPAP also conducts audits and gives feedback to its partners.

Only the Marangu Huts on the Marangu Route sell bottled water. It isn’t usually available on other routes since it would require porters to carry it, and plastic bottles aren’t permitted in the park.

If you’re climbing with a higher-end operator, you don’t have to filter your own water. All programs marketed on Tranquil Kilimanjaro fall into this category. Your mountain crew will properly treat your water on your Mount Kilimanjaro climb, regardless of the technique, to ensure that it is safe to drink.

Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano in northern Tanzania, close to the Kenyan border. Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest peak and the world’s highest free-standing mountain, rising 5,895 meters (19,340 ft) above sea level. It’s also a popular location for climbers and hikers from all over the world.

A runny nose is most likely caused by the chilly, thin air at such a high altitude. To clean your nose, we recommend using cotton tissue. This is kinder to your skin than paper, and you may use it for a longer period of time. Because it may become rather chilly – especially on Kilimanjaro’s summit night – we recommend attaching a cotton napkin to your glove so you can clean your nose without removing your gloves.

One of the drawbacks of taking a Kilimanjaro group trip is that you may have to modify your walking speed to keep up with the others. If you’re a quicker climber, you may need to slow down to match the slowest climber’s pace. The slowest individual, on the other hand, may feel compelled to move quicker. This will be handled differently by tour providers. Some guides keep the group together at all times, while others let quicker climbers go ahead with one guide while slower hikers wait behind with another. Another downside is that pre-arranged group trips follow a set itinerary, which may or may not be convenient for you.

Altitude sickness is the leading cause of climbers death on Kilimanjaro. Heart attacks, falling, and being struck by falling boulders are also major causes of death. However, rock fall is just a threat on the Western Breach, and it may be easily avoided by selecting one of the numerous other options. Porters and guides are also in danger. Freezing is the leading cause of mortality among porters. When porters suffer an accident or become ill, their guide may leave them behind instead of assisting them down the mountain. To prevent such dangers, Tranquil Kilimanjaro only recommends reputable tour companies that have fair porter treatment procedures that have been validated.

Kilimanjaro may be climbed at any time of year. The two dry seasons, from June to October and January to mid-March, are the best periods to climb Kilimanjaro. The short dry season, which runs from January to mid-March, provides a brighter sky and warmer temperatures. It comes to an end in mid-March, when the rains get stronger and the lengthy wet season begins, lasting until May. The lengthy dry season, which lasts from June to October, is also an excellent time to climb Kilimanjaro. There is less rain at this time of year, but there are more people. In November/December, it gradually gives place to the brief rainy season.

While climbing any mountain can be dangerous, Kilimanjaro is far less dangerous than most because the risk of rockfall or death is almost entirely avoidable. However, because to the risk of altitude sickness, which is the leading cause of tourist deaths on the mountain, climbing Kilimanjaro may be extremely risky. While altitude sickness can be reduced to a considerable extent, it cannot be completely prevented. You are unlikely to incur injury or death on your climb if you are in excellent health, ascend gently on a safe trail under the direction of one of our experienced and well-trained mountain guides, are honest about your physical state with your guide, and follow his safety recommendations. However, you must recognize that climbing Kilimanjaro is always a danger.

From little over 20,000 in 2001 to more than 55,000 in 2012, the number of individuals attempting to climb Kilimanjaro has grown dramatically. The most recent official figures are from 2016, when the Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA) reported 47,232 climbers. The Ebola outbreak in Western Africa in 2014-16, as well as a perceived safety concern for travel to Africa, contributed to the decline in 2016. Between 2017 and 2019, the number of climbers is anticipated to have rebounded to more than 50,000 each year. Once transit has resumed, the impact of COVID-19 on the number of Kilimanjaro climbers remains to be seen.

While climbing Kilimanjaro, we recommend using dry shampoo to keep your hair and scalp clean. This may also be done with baby powder. During your ascent, however, we do not advocate washing your hair with soap and water while on Mount Kilimanjaro. This is due to the fact that it becomes considerably colder as you progress to higher heights. Because rain, wind, and cold weather are prevalent, shampooing your hair the usual method might make you sick.

Mount Kilimanjaro’s top is known as Uhuru Peak. With a height of 5,895 meters (19,341 ft), Uhuru Peak is also Africa’s highest peak, making Mount Kilimanjaro the world’s tallest free-standing mountain.

Because the air becomes so thin and dry at such a high altitude, it is a good idea to pack vaseline when climbing Kilimanjaro. Furthermore, it has the potential to turn quite chilly. As a result, your skin will get very dry very fast. Vaseline, a thick nourishing lotion, will keep your skin and lips moisturized. When your skin hurts from cleaning your running nose, you may use it to soothe it in and around your nasal area.

Mount Kilimanjaro stands at a height of 5,895 meters (19,341 ft). As a result, Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain. It is also the world’s highest free-standing mountain. Kilimanjaro is a free-standing mountain that is not part of a mountain range. Mount Kilimanjaro, in comparison to Mount Everest in the Himalayas or Mont Blanc in the Alps, stands like a landmark amid the surrounding plains.

Due to the lack of a native training or certification program particular to Kilimanjaro, the greatest qualification a Kilimanjaro guide may have is Wilderness First Responder (WFR), which is based on international best practice training and certification requirements for mountain guides worldwide. At least one WFR qualified mountain guide who has been trained by and earned his certificate from a recognized WFR training and certification school is included in most curated Kilimanjaro packages on Tranquil Kilimanjaro.

The mountain becomes quite quiet at night, allowing you to hear all kinds of noises much better. Furthermore, you are likely unfamiliar with a variety of noises that are not similar to those heard at home. This might make sleeping difficult, especially if you are a light sleeper. Travelers who keep you up by snoring if they go to bed early or exchanging stories if they remain up late might make a lot of noise. Earplugs are especially useful if you’re sharing dormitories on the Marangu route because of the snoring. Between the tents, unusual and loud sounds might be made not only by humans but also by the wind.

Keep in mind that porters and guides, among other things, wake up earlier than you do to make your meal. When climbing Kilimanjaro, it is suggested that you pack earplugs to ensure that you get as much sleep as possible throughout the night.

When it is possible to die while climbing Kilimanjaro, it is quite uncommon. The majority of the mountain’s routes are non-technical and well-traveled. This implies that you don’t need to be a professional mountaineer or athlete to climb them. However, just as you may take a bad step when walking up a high flight of stairs, you can do the same on Kilimanjaro. There are a few spots on the mountain where a bad fall is conceivable, but the danger is quite restricted and considerably lower than on other mountains if you follow your guide’s advice. Bad weather, like with any mountain, increases the chances of falling.

Rainy seasons are best avoided since slick pathways may make the mountain exceedingly perilous for both you and your porters. The weather may also be unpredictably variable. In June 2018, for example, it is said that unusually heavy snowfall at the peak resulted in numerous fatal falls when guides persuaded their customers to continue the climb despite the evident dangers. Except for the general risk of altitude sickness and the risk of rockfall on the Western Breach, such risks are mostly avoidable with responsible companies and guides, and most paths on Kilimanjaro are very low-risk – except for the general risk of altitude sickness and the risk of rockfall on the Western Breach.

Most people choose the nearby town of Moshi as a base for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, which is less than an hour’s drive from both the airport and the summit. Alternatively, Arusha, the safari hub, is only two hours away from the park gates. It offers more up-to-date lodging and facilities than Moshi. Many Kilimanjaro climbers will travel through Arusha on their way to or from worldwide destinations like the Ngorongoro Conservation Area or Serengeti National Park.

The sun becomes more strong the higher you go. If you’ve ever participated in winter sports, you know how brutal the sun and wind can be on your skin. That implies you’ll need sun protection with at least an SPF of 30. It’s also a good idea to apply a lip lotion with a similar SPF. Because you are highly active, we recommend that you use sweat-resistant sun cream for maximum protection.

The Grand Traverse is one of the most straightforward and easy routes, with a high likelihood of summit success. To begin, this path has the least amount of climb. It’s also a lengthier route that ascends gradually over several days, giving you plenty of time to acclimate.

There is no upper age restriction for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, however each hiker must be in excellent health. Climbers should have a comprehensive medical examination prior to attempting to climb Kilimanjaro as their age increases, especially if they are above the age of 60. Mount Kilimanjaro requires a minimum age of ten years to climb.

Tsetse flies and sleeping sickness are rarely a problem for Kilimanjaro climbers. Tsetse flies do not exist on Mount Kilimanjaro, and you are unlikely to encounter them throughout your travels in the Kilimanjaro area, which includes the Kilimanjaro airport, the cities of Moshi and Arusha, which are frequently used as climbing bases, and the area in between. Tsetse flies and sleeping sickness are thus not a concern when climbing Kilimanjaro.

Yes, but women make up a lesser percentage of porters. They suffer the same difficulties as males, but they also have to deal with sexual harassment. Unfortunately, for female porters, this is still the case. Climbing Kilimanjaro would be a pipe dream for many if not for the devotion and strength of these crew members. Kilimanjaro porters are hardworking men and women whose duty it is to assist visitors in carrying their luggage to the top. The majority of the porters are local males aged 18 to 40. They are employed as part of a team of highly skilled experts. Tourists can navigate their way up the mountain thanks to these.

Depending on your tour operator, group size, and quantity of equipment included in your package, a typical ethical Kilimanjaro climb will include 3 to 5 porters per climber. When climbing in groups of 20 or more, the porter-to-climber ratio can drop to 2.5 porters per climber. If you’re traveling alone, though, don’t be shocked if you have all six porters to yourself. You may have up to 8 porters per climber in extremely high-end packages that include a lot of luxury equipment. Even for similar products, routes, and group sizes, it’s conceivable that the number of porters differs between firms.

This is because some Kilimanjaro climbing companies provide all of the necessary supplies from the start, while others use “re-supply porters” to deliver new meals and cut down on porterage costs.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is a costly endeavor. This is due to park fees and taxes in the area. The Kilimanjaro National Park fees alone cost over $800 per person for a 6-day climb. When all of a tour operator’s expenses are factored in (including the salaries of your mountain crew, equipment, food, transfers, and so on), the tour operator only has a small profit margin. As a result, they are unable to offer you significantly lower prices than those found on Tranquil Kilimanjaro. Companies that offer significantly lower prices are either breaking the law or mistreating your porters.

To keep charged, a portable charger has to be connected to a power source, such as an electrical outlet. Because there are no power outlets on Kilimanjaro, you will need to pack a portable charger. As a result, if it runs out of energy, it won’t be possible to refuel it until the end of the journey. This includes all of your other gadgets. If your portable charger can carry enough energy to power all of your gadgets for the length of your journey to Kilimanjaro, it’s worth taking. However, keep in mind that in cold weather, batteries drain much more quickly than usual. As a result, a solar charger could be the finest and most dependable option.

There are a few firms that provide emergency helicopter evacuation services, although they may not be accessible at all times. Kilimanjaro SAR (Search And Rescue) has been the finest business since it is based in Moshi and can respond quickly; however, they have been temporally unavailable since 2020. AMREF is another well-known helicopter evacuation service. However, because AMREF is located in Nairobi, its helicopters might take a long time to reach Kilimanjaro. As a result, AMREF collaborated with SAR to provide quicker service.

While helicopter evacuation services have shown to be extremely essential and potentially life-saving, you should be aware that helicopters are not always available. Helicopters may be too busy with other emergencies or too far away to arrive on time; they can only land at designated helipads, so you’ll need to get to those landing points first; and helicopter evacuation service is not available at night or during inclement weather because it’s too dangerous for helicopters to fly and land. Finally, when arranging your climb and travel insurance, double-check that you’ll be insured for helicopter emergency evacuation.

Sometimes checked luggage is lost and does not arrive with you at the airport. Luggage that is delayed on its trip to Kilimanjaro is usually reunited with its owners within 24 hours, however, delays of 3 to 4 days do occur sometimes.

Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro region, and it is only accessible from Tanzania. It is exclusively seen in Kenya. Mount Kilimanjaro is entirely in Tanzania, yet it is close to the Kenyan border. In actuality, the Tanzanian side of the border is 21 kilometers away.

It can be seen from Kenya (Amboseli National Park) or Tanzania, but only accessible from Tanzania. It’s located in Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro Region, in Moshi.

Mount Everest is the world’s tallest mountain. Kilimanjaro, however, is taller than Mount Everest when measured from base to summit.
Kilimanjaro stands at a height of 5,895 meters. Mount Everest stands at a height of 8,848 meters. Mt. Everest’s base camp is located at 5,365 meters. So, technically, Mount Kilimanjaro’s peak is just a few meters higher than Mount Everest’s base camp.

Because alcohol is prohibited within the limits of the Kilimanjaro National Park, it is not available there. Tranquil Kilimanjaro providers will not allow porters to carry alcoholic beverages for you. Drinking alcohol at a high altitude isn’t a good idea anyhow. At the park’s exterior descending gates, you’ll find individuals selling beer once you’ve completed your climb. Because they are frequently offered warm, you will most likely not enjoy your drink, unless otherwise if you do not prefer a cold beer. On special request, we may incorporate a champagne celebration at the park gate in our premium packages. If you’d want it included in your package, please let us know when you make your reservation.

We recommend having a celebratory beer after climbing the mountain, at the lower slopes, in the camps located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro like Horombo Hut if you are using the Marangu Route where you can buy beer or at Mweka Hut if you are using the Mweka Route for descending or near the exit gates.

Why you should not drink alcohol on Mount Kilimanjaro treks

No, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while climbing Kilimanjaro. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a physically demanding activity that requires proper acclimatization and optimal physical condition. Alcohol can have adverse effects on your body and can be dangerous at high altitudes. Here are some reasons why alcohol should be avoided while climbing Kilimanjaro:

1. Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration. Dehydration is already a risk at high altitudes due to the dry air and increased fluid loss through respiration. Drinking alcohol can exacerbate dehydration and potentially lead to altitude sickness.
2. Impaired Judgment: Alcohol can impair judgment and decision-making abilities, which are crucial for a safe and successful climb. Climbing Kilimanjaro requires careful planning, following the guide’s instructions, and making quick decisions in challenging situations. Consuming alcohol can compromise your ability to react appropriately to changing conditions.
3. Negative Impact on Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is essential when climbing at high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness. Alcohol can interfere with the body’s natural acclimatization process and may increase the risk of altitude-related illnesses.
4. Increased Fatigue: Climbing Kilimanjaro is physically demanding, and alcohol can add to the fatigue experienced during the ascent. It can negatively impact your energy levels and make the climb more challenging.
5. Potential Health Risks: Alcohol can have different effects on individuals, and its impact at high altitudes can vary. Some people may experience adverse effects on blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels, which can be dangerous during the climb.
6. Safety Concerns: Alcohol impairs coordination and balance, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries during the climb. Safety is paramount in Kilimanjaro, and consuming alcohol can compromise your ability to navigate challenging terrains.

For these reasons, it is strongly advised to avoid alcohol consumption while climbing Kilimanjaro. Instead, focus on staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough rest, and preparing your body for the physical challenges of the climb. Prioritizing your health and safety will increase your chances of having a successful and enjoyable experience on Mount Kilimanjaro.

NB: There is no Alcohol sold on top of Mount Kilimanjaro at Uhuru Peak.

You may not drink alcohol while climbing Kilimanjaro but you can drink a few days or a day before or after your climb. Check out the best beers to drink after your Kilimanjaro trek here.

No, Mount Kilimanjaro is not part of a mountain range. In reality, it is the world’s highest free-standing mountain. It is also the tallest mountain on the African continent, making it a member of the Seven Summits, a collection of the world’s highest peaks on each of the seven continents.

Yes, there is now, ice and glaciers at the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. As you make the last walk to the summit cone, you can see a spectacular glacier, and the trail itself is snow-covered.

It all depends on how you want to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, which route you have chosen because that determines which gate you will use to gain entry to Mount Kilimanjaro.
The distance from Kili Airport to Mt. Kilimanjaro through Marangu gate is 79 kilometers, 46 kilometers to Machame gate, and 74 kilometers to Lemosho’s Londorossi gate.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is commonly referred to as a climb. This may give the impression that it’s technically difficult and out of reach for most people, which it isn’t. Because most excursions last 6-9 days, it’s more appropriately defined as a trek, which necessitates carrying a considerable number of provisions. However, because your porters are responsible for carrying your belongings, the majority of visitors find it to be more of a climb. However, calling it a trek may understate the effort and risks of climbing at high altitudes.

We feel that tour operators who follow the rules and treat their workers properly are more likely to be concerned about your safety and well-being. This is why paying a reasonable amount to climb Kilimanjaro is critical. Please be aware that there have been several cases of tourist frauds, such as visitors not receiving the services for which they paid or being requested to pay more halfway up their climb. Furthermore, when climbing, you will be reliant on your guides and porters. Experienced and well-trained mountain guides are more likely to obtain work with reputable tour companies. Porters who aren’t treated well have a lower motivation to look after you.

Kilimanjaro International Airport is the only international airport in the Kilimanjaro area. It is located southwest of Mount Kilimanjaro, less than an hour’s drive from the Kilimanjaro National Park. The Kilimanjaro International Airport is where the majority of climbers arrive. The Kilimanjaro area is about a 4- to 6-hour drive from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Transfers from Nairobi are provided free of charge by several tour providers. Bus service is also available on a regular basis. Finally, connecting flights throughout Tanzania, including Dar-es-Salaam and Zanzibar, are available from Arusha airport.

The public toilet facilities on Kilimanjaro vary depending on your location and altitude, and range from flush toilets at lower campgrounds to very primitive wooden squat ladrines. Climbers have expressed their displeasure with the level of hygiene, which varies significantly. At bigger campgrounds, public restrooms may be a short walk from your tent, which is inconvenient, especially when temps drop below freezing overnight. As a result, on the mountain, private toilet tents have grown popular.

A Kilimanjaro open group trip allows anybody to participate in the climb. This means you will be joining other climbers who have booked the same trip, and the group will not be confined to those who know each other. When compared to private excursions, group tours are less expensive and have a defined timetable. Before a booking can be confirmed, some operators need a minimum of two persons to join the tour. All climbs have a maximum number of participants, so make sure to reserve your spot ahead of time.

The amount of time it takes to plan your Kilimanjaro climb is mostly determined by how long it takes you to prepare everything and obtain the necessary equipment. It also depends on how much study you do before your trip and how much climbing experience you have. Tour companies are frequently quick to react to requests, and depending on the availability of guides, they may be able to plan your climb in as little as a few days. Some climbers prefer to plan their journey and conduct the necessary study over a period of six months or more. Others are more impulsive, requiring only a few days to plan their trip.

Yes. You certainly can. One thing to keep in mind is that if you feel you can do something, you will. If you don’t, you won’t be able to. In today’s world, morale is a factor that counts a lot in a battle or conflict, even if we have superior weaponry. Why? Beacause you have to be mentally prepared for anything, even climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Because your muscles will perform whatever your mind tells them to do. Aside from that, please receive enough instruction. Without training, you have no chance.

Mount Kilimanjaro has a large prominence because it is in the middle of the vast African Savanna. From afar, Kilimanjaro looks almost table-like at the top with gradual slopes from either side. The summit of Kilimanjaro is always ice-capped.

Kilimanjaro is 19.340 feet high or 5,895 m above sea level.

It’s the highest freestanding mountain in the world measured from the base and up.

In two categories, the dry season is the greatest time to visit Mount Kilimanjaro… June to October and December to March are the best months to visit. Note, however, that the optimum months for summiting Kilimanjaro are those with dry, warm weather and a bright, cloudless sky. February, as well as August and September, are the months in question.

Booking your flights and tours ahead of time will help you save money on your trip to Kilimanjaro. Your flights will be less expensive, and finding the greatest prices will be easy. You may also save money by renting rather than buying some of the equipment you’ll need from friends or a tour operator. Pre-acclimatizing at home by climbing mountains in your region is another method to save money. This implies that once you arrive, your body may be able to cope better with the high altitude, allowing you to undertake shorter climbs at a lower cost. Climbers might save money by joining a group trip or traveling with friends.

When climbing Kilimanjaro, the most frequent symptom of altitude sickness is shortness of breath. It occurs when your body is unable to absorb as much oxygen as it once did. Some climbers may notice it on their first day, similar to how they would feel short of breath when ascending stairs. Others may just notice that breathing becomes more difficult over 4,000 meters (13,000 ft). Everyone, though, will feel shortness of breath on the ascent at some point — while ascending, that is. It is rare that you will suffer shortness of breath when resting if you are in excellent health.

Some climbers insist on bringing a pee bottle with them on their hike. Others find it repulsive and refuse to use it. Even though it may appear weird at first, there are a number of circumstances in which a pee bottle will be quite useful. You don’t have to leave your tent in the middle of the night to use the restroom, for example. It may just be cold on certain nights, but there may be occasions when the weather on Kilimanjaro makes it impossible to leave your tent. If things grow tense, it may even be hazardous. It’s possible that the problem isn’t with the weather, but with your bladder.

Having to urinate many times during the night might be inconvenient for you, but it can also be disruptive to your spouse. You can conveniently dispose of your urine in the comfort of your tent with a pee bottle. Also, once you’ve filled your bottle, you may use it to keep your hands or feet toasty on cold evenings.

Please note that renting a sleeping bag or mattress for this tour is possible. For your Kilimanjaro climb, you’ll need to carry your own sleeping bag and mattress but if you lose one or cannot get one from your home country, you can just rent one here in Moshi or Arusha.

Read more about renting Mount Kilimanjaro gear here.

On Kilimanjaro, there are no power outlets to charge your gadgets. Spare batteries or a portable power station/battery bank may be useful. However, batteries drain rapidly in the cold, and after a few nights on the mountain, you may discover them empty. Another alternative is to utilize a solar charger, which generates electricity using daylight energy. One hour of sunlight may be enough to fully charge your phone or camera on Kilimanjaro with contemporary gadgets.

Mount Kilimanjaro is a predator-free park, unlike other Tanzanian national parks. Kilimanjaro is also an unsuitable habitat for lions because of its elevation. Lions love wide savannah terrains or shrubs to hide in. As a result, you’re unlikely to see a lion on your Kilimanjaro trek. Read more about the animals you can see at Kilimanjaro National Park.

An estimate of about 2 million have climbed Kilimanjaro because 35–50 thousand people try every year and only 60–70 percent succeed, so if I’m conservative, 21 thousand people try every year and only 12,600 succeed, and since there are about 150 years of climbing experience there, that means 1,890,000 people have climbed Kilimanjaro.

The highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro is called Uhuru Peak (5,895m above MSL). Uhuru Peak is on Kibo Peak, one of Kilimanjaro’s 3 volcanic cones and summits. The other summits are Shira and Mawenzi.

When compared to Kilimanjaro, Machu Picchu is a piece of cake. You don’t even have to hike all the way to the summit; you can take a train all the way up.

Comparing Huayna Picchu, the peak visible behind Machu Picchu’s sanctuary. There is no comparison because it is 2,700 meters high (300 meters from Machu Picchu), whereas Kilimanjaro is 5,900 meters. However, it is a challenging ascent that takes around 45 minutes in good physical condition and rewards you with a breathtaking vista.

On Mount Kilimanjaro, there are no permanent showers or bathing facilities. All of our tour operator partners, on the other hand, will offer you with a hot bowl of washing water every day. Some even include a hand washing facility for campers to use. It is possible to enhance your climb with a portable hot mountain shower and tent, which is included in all of our VIP packages by default. Simply let us know whether you’d like to take a mountain shower when making your reservation, and we’ll adjust your Kilimanjaro trip appropriately.

Taxis are typically available to transport passengers from Kilimanjaro Airport to Moshi or Arusha. Rates are flexible, but to be fair to both you and the driver, we recommend US $40 to Moshi and US $50 to Arusha. Ensure that the pricing is always agreed upon in advance. Taxis are typically safe, but for your convenience, you may want to pre-arrange a transfer through your hotel or tour operator, which will be somewhat more expensive. Many tour companies include airport transfers in their packages, so ask whether this is something you can take advantage of. To save money on the transfer, there is presently no public transportation accessible.

Diamox is a medication that helps people with altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness (AMS). As a result, it has gained popularity among Kilimanjaro climbers and has been the topic of much heated discussion. Diamox was created to prevent AMS from occurring during a fast forced climb. This is not the case while climbing Kilimanjaro, where you may take your time and acclimatize organically by ascending slowly over several days. Medical practitioners and travelers from countries with a higher tendency to use prescription medicines, such as the United States, are more likely to utilize them.

They also prefer to recommend Diamox for Kilimanjaro climbs, but individuals from nations that promote natural prevention and drug avoidance, such as Switzerland, have a negative opinion of Diamox. Frequent urination and tingling feelings in your fingers and toes are two of Diamox’s most prevalent adverse effects. While this isn’t an issue in and of itself, it will have a major influence on the quality of your sleep. Sleep deprivation for many days prior to trying your last summit push may reduce your chances of summit achievement and pleasure of the summit experience.

There are presently no objective statistics available to support clear advice for or against Diamox, both in terms of safety and summit success. We urge that you accept the advice of your experienced medical practitioner in the absence of such proof.

There are presently no objective statistics available to support clear advice for or against Diamox, both in terms of safety and summit success. We urge that you accept the advice of your experienced medical practitioner in the absence of such proof.

Because there are no power outlets on Mount Kilimanjaro, a solar charger is your best bet if you want to keep your gadgets charged during your journey. As long as the sun is shining, a solar charger can give an infinite supply of power. The weather on Kilimanjaro, on the other hand, maybe fickle. As a result, combining a solar charger with a battery pack might be intriguing. Keep in mind that the panels will only charge your gadgets if they are exposed to direct sunlight.

Walking causes the charging process to be disrupted and slowed since you are moving and perhaps changing direction. When selecting a solar charger for your Kilimanjaro treks, don’t only look at the number of voltage it provides. You should also consider their height and weight. Because you can only carry a certain amount of weight on your ascent, these are critical considerations.

Not possible.  The spherical cloud alignment makes it difficult to view both summits on either mountain, however at an altitude of 800 meters in Machakos County, at a region called Emali, it is possible to see both peaks at the same time during a brief period between 0615 and 0745 hours.

Of course, there are many individuals that live near Mt. Kilimanjaro.

The people who live along the mountain’s edge are known as the Chagga people. This is Tanzania’s most developed area.

Learn more about the Chagga tribe of the Kilimanjaro Region

Coaltan Tanner, a six-year-old child from Albuquerque, New Mexico, became the youngest person to climb Kilimanjaro in October 2018. He was born on September 18th, 2012, thus when he reached Uhuru Peak, he was just six years, one month, and a few days old.

No one can predict how much weight you will lose when climbing Kilimanjaro; it is based on your physical and mental strength, as well as your height and weight, not only your birth height. Climbing Kilimanjaro causes people to lose anything from 100 grams to 3 kg.

All luxury and higher-end Mount Kilimanjaro packages come with a private bathroom tent by default. It may be readily added to Budget and Economy packages for an additional cost of about US$150. This includes the cost of renting your tent and toilet unit, as well as cleaning supplies and the services of a completely dedicated toilet porter. When shared among a group of three to four individuals, the cost per climber per day is under US$5 — a very reasonable and highly recommended investment! Throughout your climb, your toilet porter will carry, set up, and clean the toilet for you, ensuring that you always have one at camp.

While it may seem strange to hire someone to carry and clean your toilet, do so. Your toilet porter will be grateful for the job chance as well as the gratuity. Simply mention it when scheduling your climb if you’d like it included in your package.

Whether or not you should bring a portable mountain shower on your Kilimanjaro climb is a personal decision. Most climbers don’t require it, but those that do wouldn’t want to be without it. If you’ve never gone camping for many nights in a row, the prospect of going a week without showering may be terrifying. Most climbers, on the other hand, will discover that it isn’t quite as unpleasant as they think. Overcoming this apprehension is all part of the unique personal growth experience that makes climbing Kilimanjaro so rewarding. In retrospect, you’ll probably be proud of yourself for going a week without showering.

Despite the fact that mountain shower operators generally supply warm water, you may find it too chilly to remove your clothing and shower. Climbers who reserve a portable mountain shower and wash tent, on the other hand, are more likely to make use of it. They like the convenience and flexibility of being able to shower on days when it isn’t too cold, and are glad they chose a trip that includes a warm mountain shower.

A pee bottle for Kilimanjaro is not required for your climb, but it can make disposing of your urine easier and more effective in certain scenarios. It is mostly determined by your own tastes and the way your body functions. Keep in mind that a pee bottle will add to the size and weight of your luggage. You may ask yourself questions like how often you need to pee or if you dread leaving your tent when it’s chilly and wet at night to help you determine if a pee bottle is a must-have for you.

To reach Mount Kilimanjaro from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s business hub and former capital city, you have two options: fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport or take a bus.
Buses depart Dar es Salaam early in the morning and arrive in Moshi late in the afternoon or early evening — it’s a full day’s travel! Unfortunately, no mechanism for pre-booking tickets exists at this time, not even for local tour companies. This implies you should provide enough time to purchase your ticket in Dar es Salaam at least one day before your trip. To do so, our local partners propose the Kilimanjaro Express, a coach/bus service that runs from Dar es Salaam to Moshi.

Kilimanjaro SAR, a local helicopter evacuation service in Moshi, is available. SAR is a private firm that helps all climbers in need. Responsible operators will form cooperation with SAR so that emergency evacuations may be arranged swiftly if necessary. However, whether or not your guide is able to do so is dependent on the strength of the cell signal in your unique area. The top climbers also have radio or satellite phones with them to ensure continual and immediate connection.

While SAR will assist you if necessary, you are still liable for the costs of your evacuation, which can easily exceed $5,000. To avoid having to pay for these expenses, ensure sure your Kilimanjaro insurance covers emergency evacuations and high-altitude treks up to 6,000 meters. Even if you are insured, some insurance companies may need you to pay these fees out of pocket before receiving reimbursement, so verify with your insurance provider about the payment method.

The other mountains near the equator with snow are Mount Kenya and Mount Meru both about the same latitude as Mount Kilimanjaro. Ruwenzori Mountains in Uganda also have snow at the summit and are located near the equator.

When climbing Kilimanjaro, trekkers will often feel shortness of breath and moderate altitude sickness due to the high altitude, even if they are going at a relatively modest pace. Headaches, nausea, and dizziness are other frequent altitude sickness symptoms while climbing Kilimanjaro. Insomnia and loss of appetite are also frequent. Blurred vision, confusion, and the inability to move are among the more severe symptoms. If such symptoms appear, you must descend immediately with the assistance of your guide to avoid more serious and long-term effects.

The amount of weight you may bring for your porter to carry varies by package, however, it can range from 8kg to 20kg. Most businesses allow you to transport up to 15 kg. Please be aware that, despite the maximum weight limit of 20kg per porter, the total weight carried by your porters for your party will drop over the course of your ascent as your food supplies dwindle. However, the weight of your own bag is unlikely to decrease. Even if you are permitted to transport 20kg, this is insufficient for your porter, especially at higher heights. If you want additional equipment, we may tailor your  Kilimanjaro package to include the services of a private porter.

The average summit success rate on Kilimanjaro has risen from about 50% to around 60% or higher. It varies depending on the route and length of the journey. The more time you spend on the mountain, the more likely you are to reach the peak. The average success rate has grown as the necessity of acclimatization has been more widely recognized. Climbers are increasingly opting for longer 7 or 8-day itineraries, which were once the most popular 5 or 6 day climbs. Assuming a decent level of fitness and average altitude tolerance, your summit success rate approaches 100% if you follow a route that is optimal for altitude acclimatization.

Travelers flying from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro Airport, known locally as KIA but officially as JRO, can take a connecting aircraft from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro Airport. Tanzanian Precision Air operates five shuttle flights each day from Nairobi. AirKenya offers daily flights from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro. Those wanting to go to Kilimanjaro by bus can board one of the shuttle buses that depart Nairobi for Arusha, with some continuing on to Moshi. It takes around 4 to 5 hours to go to Arusha, and another two hours to get to Moshi. It’s best to arrange a shuttle at least a day ahead of time.

Please keep in mind that if you join an open group to climb Kilimanjaro, you will have to modify your walking speed to that of the others, which is usually the slowest person in the group. It’s fairly unusual for group members to become frustrated as a result of this. Climbers who are quicker might want to move ahead and take fewer rests, but those who are slower may feel forced to walk faster. When scheduling a group trek, keep in mind that you’ll have to accommodate to the group’s pace and demands. Furthermore, you will not be allowed to make spontaneous changes to your schedule (unless absolutely necessary), such as shortening your ascent by a day if you believe you can go quicker.

Hikers can pre-acclimate for Kilimanjaro by hiking in the Kilimanjaro region’s other local mountains. They will be exposed to altitude fluctuations comparable to those found on Kilimanjaro. Mount Kenya and Mount Meru are two mountains that provide an excellent start to climbing at high elevations for first-time climbers. There are various altitude training methods available. Although they are not required, they can considerably assist tourists in preparing for trekking at high elevations with less oxygen.

Sp far, there are no travel restrictions or prohibitions in place in Tanzania. There are numerous business visits to and from the East African country.

We update the information in this blog entry on a regular basis to reflect the most recent Covid-related news and advancements linked to the trip to Tanzania. Many visit administrators (including us at Kilimanjaro Destinations) are back in the flow of things and running Kilimanjaro climbs now that worldwide tourism has resumed. Our mountain crew is in great shape and eager to travel, having successfully led several groups of climbers to the summit of Africa since August 2020.

Mount Everest is harder to climb from the base camp to the summit but climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is more challenging than reaching Everest Base Camp. Both are huge challenges, but imagine the thought that while staring at the Everest summits from 5,500 meters base camp in the Himalayas, you’re still looking at 3,000 meters or more.

Read also: How hard is it to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

No, they aren’t. Tanzania, in East Africa, is home to Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s far simpler and faster to climb than K2, and it doesn’t require any specific mountaineering equipment except from decent boots, a bag, and maybe trekking poles. A climb may be arranged from Tanzania. It will take you a couple of days to climb, an overnight stay in a hut, and a lengthy day to descend. Some businesses are now dividing it across many days.

K2 is the world’s second tallest peak and is known as the Killer Mountain, as it is more perilous to climb than Everest. Expeditions are performed from Pakistan through Skardu, which is located in the Karakoram range.

Here are some of the reasons why Mount Kilimanjaro is a popular hike for mountain climbers.

1. Mt. Kilimanjaro is the highest point on the African continent.
   It does not have a large snowcap due to its closeness to the Equator. The trail(s) to the peak are, in fact, all hiking paths. To climb Kilimanjaro, you don’t need to master skilled ice climbing. This is most likely the most important reason for its appeal. Mont Blanc, in Europe, is significantly shorter than Kilimanjaro, yet it is always covered in snow, and climbing it needs advanced alpine ice climbing expertise.
2. There are a slew of tourist guides, porters, lodges, and other services in the vicinity, making the hike’s logistics a breeze.
3. It’s possible to combine it with an African safari in the Serengeti, making a trip to Tanzania for the walk more appealing.

Kilimanjaro is a nice walk that takes around a week +/- two days and takes place at a moderate altitude. Summit day is a pleasant climb that leaves you feeling refreshed.

Elbrus is comparable to Kili, except it may have harsher weather and greater snowfall. However, if the weather is fine, the trek will be a little more strenuous (due to the snow).

Aconcagua, on the other side, is about 7000 meters tall, significantly higher than Kilimanjaro and Elbrus. Windy weather is also a possibility. The biggest issue will be the altitude, which will make the summit day much more difficult than a nice trip on Kili or a quick snow climb on Elbrus.

All common routes are non-technical.

You can read more about Mount Aconcagua vs Kilimanjaro here.

Well, that depends on your taste in adventure.

You can climb Machu Picchu over many days or drive up to a place where you may conduct a one-day walk. Altitude sickness is not a problem when visiting Machu Picchu.

Kilimanjaro offers a variety of pathways to select from, including a day of mountain running or a gradual adventure and acclimatization route that takes 6 to 11 days to lessen the risk of altitude sickness.

You trek up to Macchu Pichu rather than climbing it. It is a moderately challenging trek that is enjoyed by people of all ages. While Kilimanjaro isn’t really a “climb” in the usual sense (depending on the route), its high elevation makes it a more serious endeavor. On Kilimanjaro, the extremes of weather and altitude are more hazardous.

The only way you’ll die trekking to Machu Pichu is if you go off the route in a few perilous places. Kilimanjaro will undoubtedly rank higher on most people’s list of locations to climb in terms of objective hazard and challenge.

See: Which is harder to climb, Machu Picchu or Kilimanjaro?

Apart from being in reasonably good physical shape, Kilimanjaro requires minimal preparation. Because you’ll be accompanied by porters and a cook, you won’t even have to do any actual physical labor. You must show up, pay, and go up and down the stairs. Almost the entire way up, it is usually snow-free and above freezing.

Would you like to know about Mount Aconcagua vs Mount Kilimanjaro?

Aconcagua is much colder and higher (below -20 C at night at final camp), and it necessitates the use of crampons, but it’s still a reasonably quick trip (20 hours one way, not including time spent acclimating) with porters.

Denali, which is somewhat higher than Kilimanjaro and slightly lower than Aconcagua but requires pushing a 50-pound sled up a glacier while carrying a 50-pound backpack every day for 10+ days, is far more challenging.

If you wanted to transport your own water, you could. However, because porters must carry water on climbs, hydration is significantly more crucial than hairwashing.

If you wish, you could also use dry shampoo. However, during a 7- to 10-day walk, it’s just one more thing to lug about.
If you’re willing to pay for it, you can!

If the daily morning bowl of water isn’t enough for you to wash your hair with, you’ll need more porters to arrange for more washing water.
Even portable shower rooms are available from certain trip organizers.

Is it also possible to buy dry shampoo? (powder to clean your hair without the use of water)

Apart from a licensed guide and a group of porters, you will be accompanied by a cook/chef that will be preparing your meals while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. The cook prepares breakfast, lunch, and dinner for you each day.

Read more about the type of meals on Mount Kilimanjaro.

A typical breakfast is

• Local porridge
• Omelet
• Toasts
• Veggies

Lunch

Either a lunch box on the trail or hot lunch at camps

Dinner

• Soup (different names and colors, but often similar taste)
• Hot meal
• Dessert

Bring your own snacks and follow a PDS system on the trail
P = Pee
D= Drink
S = Snack

At the summit of the mountain it could get to sub zero temperatures ranging from -7°up to -29°c

But if you mean Kilimanjaro as an area, it may reach temperatures of 21°C to 33°C on any given weekday…

On chilly days, temperatures in regions like Tarakea, Kibosho Machame, and Marangu can reach 15°c -21°c…

The area around Moshi town and Uru, Old Moshi, Kibosho road area, and Hai town (Bomangombe) is a little warmer during the day and comparably not that chilly at night… Temperatures range from 21°C to 33°C.

On the Leeward side of the mountain, it’s the same… It doesn’t get much rain, and the land is a little dry…with temperatures ranging from 15°C at night to 33°C on a perfect day…

You may still rely on Tanzania’s Metreological Service local forecast for accuracy.

We would suggest that you first consult with your doctor and seek his or her professional advice.

With that considered, and having led tours on 21 climbs with a total of +400 customers, some of whom had minor health difficulties, We’d say yes – maybe.

We’ve successfully led mild asthmatic clients all the way to the top, even though they were fatigued (everyone gets tired), and they were well within acceptable limits.

The important thing was that We were notified ahead of time, that the customers were completely transparent about their medical issues, and that I had a more stringent monitoring strategy in place.
(We took vital signs every morning and evening, as well as random O2 saturation measurements throughout the day.)

Also, given that your doctor has given you the go light, We highly advise you to take one of the longer excursions for greater acclimatization, rather than relying on your budget.

PS: We’ve also had people with moderate asthmatic issues, as well as others, compelled to turn around (strong healthy clients)

There is no such thing as a guarantee for summiting anything, including Kilimanjaro; one must be willing to face the mountain within themselves.

You will lose time looking for a Tour Operator and dealing with booking complications if you wait until you arrive to schedule a Kilimanjaro tour.

If you book ahead of time, you will be more comfortable and will be able to arrive and begin climbing the next day.
I would also recommend arriving at least two days ahead of time, rather than one, in case you and your luggage arrive at separate times. It has happened in the past.

Mt. Kilimanjaro is a breathtaking and stunning mountain. It may be climbed in five days or more, with seven days being optimum for acclimatization to altitude. The guides’ watchword is “slowly, slowly.” On both the ascent and descent, there are breathtaking views of the mountain (you take different routes going up and down). The only other peak visible from Kilimanjaro is Mt Mehru.

It’s a strain to go from the final camp (Barafu, at around 4,800 meters) to the summit on the final day. It’ll be chilly, windy, and dark for the majority of the time.

You may find it difficult to breathe when the air becomes thinner. The final ascent to the summit ridge will take roughly 6 to 7 hours. The slope on the ridge is pretty gradual, and it is daylight and getting warm.

It’s a challenging trek, and you’ll need to be reasonably fit to walk up mountains. It is not possible to climb in a technical manner.

Yes but if you realize that it will be difficult, give yourself plenty of time, listen to your guides, follow the acclimatization advice, and pace yourself carefully. Oh, and don’t forget to bring the proper gear.

The most important thing is to understand how to walk at a high altitude. Inexperienced hikers frequently start out rapidly, run out of breath after 5 minutes, and then stop to rest.

Instead, choose a speed that you can sustain indefinitely and walk for approximately half an hour at a time before stopping. Read more about if an overweight person can climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

Yes, you will need permits to climb both Kilimanjaro and Aconcagua. You must also hire a guide and at least one porter to climb Kilimanjaro (or at least it still did when I was there). A climbing permit is also required for Aconcagua. I haven’t gone to Kili in too long to remark on permit rates, but I have been to Aconcagua numerous times recently and can speak to prices. The low season (November 15 to November 30 and February 21 to March 15) costs $582. The fee is $800 if you climb during peak season (December 15 to January 31). Trying to go around the permission system is not a good idea. There used to be tales on Kili that anyone caught climbing without a permit was discovered dead or disappeared.

Read more about a comparison of Kilimanjaro vs Aconcagua

You’ll need at least two days to acclimatize at a good hotel at the mountain’s base. This is quite useful when climbing. Normally, it is determined by your preferred path. There are five different ways to get to the summit.

• Lemosho Route – 7-8 Days
• Machame Route – 6-7 days
• Northern Circuit -9 days
• Rongai route – 8 days
• Marangu Route: 5-6 days
• Umbwe route. – 6 days

The Marangu path is the most straightforward and the only one with cottages/huts accommodation. It takes 6 days for trekkers to hike and descend the mountain. The Machame route is recommended for the more athletic and daring. Because of the difficult terrain, it takes 6 to 8 days. Tents are provided for sleeping.

Yes, in a nutshell, however it all depends on the type of helicopter and the crew’s ability. The performance of the Airbus AS350 B3/B3e has been shown by flying to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The performance of the airplane on top of the mountain is also determined by factors such as weather and passenger/crew weight. While the AS350 has been tested to land on the peak of Mount Everest by Capt. Didier Delsalle, no helicopter has landed at the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. There are many helicopters stationed at various camps on Mt. Kilimanjaro for emergency evacuation but none at the summit. You may do a fly-by for a magnificent tour of Kilimanjaro from the summit and enjoy an incredible sight-seeing experience.

More about Kilimanjaro Helicopter scenic tours

Mount Kilimanjaro is expensive to climb due to the high fees that the government of Tanzania charges to enter the park. Mount Kilimanjaro is located inside the Kilimanjaro national park, to get to the Mountain you have to pay for the park’s entry fees. Other than the park fees there are other fees and taxes that will be included in your trip cost. Contact us to find out how much it costs to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and get a free quote.

Yes, the Kilimanjaro climbing cost is inclusive of all the park entry fees as required by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA). The Kilimanjaro prices also include conservation fees for Kilimanjaro national park Authority (KINAPA). Below is the Kilimanjaro entry fees breakdown: Conservation fees at Kilimanjaro National Park cost US$70 per person per day and US$50 per person per night for camping. Crew entry fees and Tanzanian Forest Services Agency (TFS) fees (applicable for Rongai, Shira and Lemosho routes) are also included in Mount Kilimanjaro climbing package.

More about park fees for Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro climbing is not cheap. Many factors determine the cost of your Kilimanjaro climb. Factors like how many days you will spend on the mountain, which route you choose and other extra luxuries like choosing extra options like private toilets, extra porters and upgrading your hotel, before and after you climb will increase the price for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Contact us here to get a free quote.

No. The Kilimanjaro National Park Authority charges climbers park admission fees. In addition, you must be accompanied by a certified mountain guide. He or she is usually an employee of an outfitting firm that offers cooks, porters, and other equipment that you will need to rent for your climb. Foreigners pay an average of $1,500 for climbs, while Tanzanians pay less. Read about how much it costs to climb Mount Kilimanjaro here.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro costs $90 to $120 per person per day in the park. This is included in the cost of your Kilimanjaro Climb itinerary. For the protection of the ecology, the Kilimanjaro Park authorities levy conservation and maintenance fees.

Kilimanjaro Climb Prices are mostly determined by Kilimanjaro Park Expenses, which include camping, conservation, rescue, and crew fees (inclusive of taxes).

Learn more about Kilimanjaro Park Fees and regulations.

Park fees must be paid by each climber on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Listed are the Kilimanjaro Park Fees for different routes and route variations. This figure does not include guide and porter entrance fees.

Since the high altitudes cannot support plant or animal life, insects such as spiders, ants and leeches can be found in the rainforest zone. The zone also plays host to rats, snakes, birds and other small animals.

Read more about the wildlife and animals that live around Mount Kilimanjaro

At the top of Kilimanjaro, temperatures can fall to subzero. Expect to find towering glaciers and ice. The summit point, Uhuru peak is located in arctic zone where temperatures can range between 20 and -20 degrees Fahrenheit (-7 to -29 degrees Celsius).

More about Kilimanjaro weather

The weather on Mount Kilimanjaro varies widely from the cultivated zone at the base, the rainforest at the foot slopes of the mountain, to the arctic zone at the summit. The temperatures can range from 25⁰C at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro to subzero by the time you reach the summit. As you traverse different vegetation zones on your route, expect some rainfall too in the process of trekking. Due to the high altitudes of Mount Kilimanjaro, the mountain creates its own weather.

More about the weather around Mount Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro has various climatic zones from the foot slopes to the summit. You can read more about the climatic zones of Kilimanjaro here.

Cultivation Zone on the Lower Slopes – This area receives tropical conditions between the elevations of 2,600 and 5,900 feet. Every year, the area receives 45 inches of rain on average. Coffee and banana plantations have become commonplace in the lowlands.

Rain Forest – The zone between 5,900 and 9,200 feet receives the most rainfall, with up to 78 inches falling each year. The moisture creates a lush rain forest and mist belt. Here you’ll find brightly colorful butterflies, toucans, and colobus monkeys.

Mooreland – Located between 9,200 and 13,100 feet above sea level, the moorland zone is covered with heather and vivid flowers. A black moorland grows above the heath, with flora including lobelias and groundsels. Elephants, antelopes, and vultures are some of the Kilimanjaro animals found here.

Alpine Desert – Between 13,100 and 16,400 feet, harsh conditions occur in the alpine desert. Each year, the semi-arid area receives fewer than 10 inches of rain. The temperature ranges from the mid-eighties to minus zero at night. Some plants, such as moss and lichens, may thrive in this environment.

Arctic Zone/Summit – Above 16,400 feet, the summit zone is an ice wasteland, scorched by the sun during the day and frozen at night. At this altitude, the thin air holds half as much oxygen as it does at sea level. This is where you’ll find the glaciers. The melting of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers has been well documented as a result of rising temperatures.

There is no electricity up the mountain, carrying a power bank would be your best bet. A for cameras, bring more spare batteries and charge your gadgets (camera and mobile phone) before climbing.

More about what to pack for Kilimanjaro

Always choose the longer route variation for a higher summit success rate. Longer routes give you ample time for acclimatization which helps in avoiding/reducing altitude sickness and its symptoms.

• Lemosho Route – 95%
• Marangu Route – 90%
• Rongai Route – 96%
• Machame 8-day -92%
• Machame 9-day – 95%

Most routes use camping and tents as a major way of accommodation apart from the Marangu route which uses huts and dormitory-like bunk beds for sleeping. Machame, Rongai, Lemosho, Northern Circuit, Shira, and Umbwe rely on camping. Sleeping is in the tents and you will be provided with tables, chairs and a mess tent for having your meals on the mountain. Read more about Mount Kilimanjaro accommodation and campsites on the mountain.

Find out more about Mount Kilimanjaro Accommodation here

The Rongai route takes 7 days to climb, while the Machame route has two variations, a 6-day climb which has a lower summit success rate and a 7-day climb that has an extra acclimatization day offering a higher summit success rate.

The Lemosho route, on the other hand, takes 8 days to complete. It is one of the routes that we strongly recommend.

The Marangu Route is the shortest route by comparison as it takes 5 days to complete climbing the mountain. The five-day Marangu route is not recommended as it does not give you enough time to acclimatize.

Compare all the Mount Kilimanjaro Routes here.

Mount Kilimanjaro routes differ in so many ways. They offer so much variety in terms of days spent, cost, length of the route, traffic even scenery and sometimes style of accommodation used on the mountain.

• The shorter routes have low summit success rates, for example, the Marangu route and Umbwe route which take about 5 days to complete.
• The popular Machame and Rongai routes take about 6-7 days for each route, the offer longer variations too and the report a better summit success rate.
• The longer routes which also happen to be more scenic are the Lemosho route and newly introduced Northern Circuit routes which take a considerably long duration of 8 or 9 days respectively.

Where the route begins from is also not the same for each route, Marangu and Umbwe Routes begin from the south heading directly to the summit Rongai begins form the north proceeding to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro to the summit. The rest of the routes have their starting point setting from the western side of the mountain, this side offers amazing vistas and stunning scenery.

For more information and comparison of all the Mount Kilimanjaro routes, read more.

Stella Point, along with Gilman’s Point and Uhuru Peak, is one of Mount Kilimanjaro’s three summit points. Climbers who reach Stella Point, located on the crater rim at an elevation of 5,756 meters (18,885 feet), will obtain an official Kilimanjaro climbing certificate and may proudly declare that they have reached the summit of Africa’s greatest mountain.

Altitude sickness (AMS) is brought about by climbing to high altitudes where there is little air pressure than required. There is a great calculator here https://baillielab.net/critical_care/air_pressure/ that calculates atmospheric pressure in reference to altitude.

When you reach the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro air pressure decreases to a mere 49%. This means that every air that you inhale, contains about half amount of oxygen. Due to the respiratory strain that this brings to your respiratory system, it is advised to take it slow on the mountain. As you do not want fluid to build up in your lung cavities causing pneumonia and the gap between the brain and the skull causing severe headaches and migraines. The result can be fatal at times.

With great emergency precautions and great acclimatization practices, we will help minimize or avoid altitude sickness (AMS). Read more here about altitude sickness and acclimatization rules.

Then best training for Kilimanjaro is doing walking exercise on the hills to familiarize with high altitudes and build stamina. We recommend at least 7-8 hours of walking each day to prepare you for Mount Kilimanjaro.

Below are a few areas concerning training for mountaineering that you need to work on.

• First is pure cardio. The higher you climb the mountain the thinner the air becomes meaning oxygen levels decrease. This makes your respiratory system strain. You will need to do a lot more cardio exercise to make it easier for your cardio system not to overwork.
• Make an effort of working very hard for a brief period of time then rest in between the intervals.
• Second is leg strength. Do not skip leg day. Your legs will be responsible for carrying your body and day pack. Leg workouts and squats will help relieve the strain that comes with mountain climbing.
• Build your stamina. Try some exercises that will take longer and push you to the edge to build your stamina. This will prove to be helpful during summit night when you will need endurance for that last push to the peak. Some of stamina building exercise may include long walks on the hills or long cycling tours.
• Stretch your body. Stretching will help you recover more quickly after your treks on the mountain. It also makes you flexible enough to avoid some injuries. Read more about training and download our recommended training plan.

More training for Kilimanjaro information

Yes, to get to Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro, you will need a negative Covid-19 PCR test certificate is required when arriving the country. The PCR test needs to be taken within 72 hours of travelling to Tanzania. You will also be tested on arrival at a cost of $25), and need to complete this Traveller Survey 24 hours before you arrive at the airport in Tanzania.

You might also be required to have a negative Covid-19 test certificate when you depart Tanzania to return home. Here are updates on this requirement from the UK and USA.

Read more about COVID-19 and PCR tests in Tanzania

You’ll need to apply online here for a Tanzanian visa (Tourist). This is simple to accomplish at any port of entry. You do not need a visa if you are an East African or a member of the SADC. Most other nations charge $50 for a visa on arrival. However, if you are from one of the countries listed below, you must get a visa from a Tanzanian diplomatic mission prior to your arrival or have a special referral visa that your local sponsor can apply for. Click here to learn more about the Tanzania Visa application.

Because Kilimanjaro is a marathon, not a sprint, you won’t need to trek as frequently as you may think. It’s a long and arduous road. However, if you are able, go for 2–3 hour treks. There’s a tremendous difference between walking for a long period on a level surface and trekking.

The major aspect of climbing Kilimanjaro that might be deemed “hard” or “tough” is altitude sickness. The thing with Kilimanjaro is that if you go slowly but steadily, you should be able to reach the summit without too much difficulty. Sometimes all it takes to avoid altitude sickness is a gradual ascent. You’re probably in for it if you’re attempting to get up there as quickly as possible.

You don’t have to be in great shape to climb it, but you must be healthy enough to perform the treks described.

Learn more about training for Mount Kilimanjaro climbs.

The safest option is to go with a reputable firm that has well-trained guides and a proven track record of success. Use the internet to conduct your study. A skilled guide will be able to moderate the rate of climb, do daily medical checks, and respond to any signs of altitude sickness. A well-equipped medical kit should be carried by the guides.

When you increase altitude too rapidly for your body, you get altitude sickness. Slow is always preferable to quick, whether in terms of walking speed or daily elevation gain.

Read more about Altitude sickness, symptoms and how to avoid.

You will get drinking water during your climb. Water is tapped from streams, boiled and treated with purifying tablets along the routes of climbing Kilimanjaro. Water is really important for acclimatization purposes, to minimize and avoid altitude sickness. Make sure you bring enough water on the first day, the rest of the days water will be provided especially at your camp.

More about Mount Kilimanjaro Meals and Water

This is really a matter of personal preferences. On a full moon, there is lots more light and the route and path to the summit are much clearer. Some people prefer this, some prefer to get their head down and just keep plodding. Of course, when there is a full moon there are almost no stars visible so if you want a great night sky gives the full moon dates a miss.

Read more about fullmoon Kilimanjaro climbs

The public toilets on Mount Kilimanjaro are pretty basic. Private toilets for Kilimanjaro climbs are the best solution and alternative as they are more hygienic and offer better comfort and privacy than long drop toilets or pit latrines that are meant for public use on the mountain.

More information about the toilets on Mount Kilimanjaro here.

Because of the higher altitude, Kilimanjaro is the most difficult.

The Inca Trail is 4200 meters above sea level, whereas Kilimanjaro is 5,895m, and both walks are classified as moderate (Inca Trail) and difficult (Kilimanjaro) by tour providers.

Not just Kilimanjaro, but all of the peaks and summits in the area are climbed beginning at midnight. Winds are less common in the evenings and mornings. Mountain locations are frequently struck by strong winds and storms, especially after midday when the sun is at its strongest. These freezing gusts are so strong that they can drive climbers off the trail, leading them to tumble off the cliffs and die. As a result, climbers set up camp in locations where they may begin their ascent to the peak and return to their camp starting at midnight and concluding before noon.

Warmth. As previously stated, the nights on Kilimanjaro, or any high-altitude hiking adventure, maybe quite chilly. As a result, your sleeping bag must be able to withstand extremely cold temperatures. We recommend sleeping bags with a minimum temperature rating of -10 degrees Celsius (14 Fahrenheit).

Since the final attempt to get to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro begins in the dark hours of midnight, you will need these items to assist you in summiting Kilimanjaro. Lightweight duvet, thermal underwear, lightweight sleeping bag, stove, water purifiers, food, head torch, compass, gloves, hat, etc

Honestly speaking, you do not need any special tools for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. When the peak is covered with snow, crampons may be required.

These, as well as hiking poles, quality sleeping bags, and down coats for hire, will be provided by reputable operators. Here is a link to our Kilimanjaro packing list!

The tents that you will use are mountain-style, double-walled, mosquito-netted, and waterproof material-floored. Although they are classified as three-person tents, they can easily accommodate two people. The portering team sets up and packs up the tents.

Within the tent, there is ample area for tall people to stretch out and for your gear. The huts on the Marangu Route are barely big enough for four bunks erected against the A-frame cubicles’ walls. Tall hikers may feel claustrophobic. The gear is strewn on the floor. The washrooms and toilets are communal and located outside the cottages.

More about the mountain tents that we use.

Two porters and one guide are allowed for each climber. He can eliminate one porter if you can carry 20 kg.

A water bottle, raincoat, some candy, and peanuts will be most of the weight you’ll be carrying. Tents, food, stoves, and clothes are carried by porters.

It will be simpler to climb Kilimanjaro this way. In mountains like Elbrus, for example. You must carry at least 20 kg in your luggage, which includes rope, crampons, an ice pick, and clothing. Other than a guide, there is virtually little assistance. More about Kilimanjaro porters