Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, A Guide For First Time Trekkers

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, standing tall above the roof of Africa, is the highest freestanding mountain and one of the closest points to the sun. The dormant volcano is a global attraction that approximately 12,000 people worldwide attempt to reach its mighty summit each year. Kili is also home to various unique species found only along its slopes. This page is your ultimate guide to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, especially if it is your first time planning a trekking trip in Tanzania.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Mt. Kilimanjaro, a dormant volcano in Tanzania, is an African icon, rising to an incredible height of 5,895 meters (19,336 feet) above sea level. She towers over the Amboseli plains and covers an area of about 750 square km (290 square miles). One can see Kili’s majestic snow peak from 150 kilometres (93 miles) away on a clear day. Uhuru Peak, Kili’s highest peak, is a magnet to thousands of climbers yearly. Still, only 64% officially make it to the summit. The lower summits of Stella Point at 5,745 meters (18,848 feet) and Gilmans’ Point at 5,681 meters (18,638 feet) apologetically get the other 36% for trying. Nevertheless, all trekkers earn a certificate from the Kilimanjaro Parks Authority for having a go on the African giant.

When to Go

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is best during the warm, clear days between mid-December through February or September to October. June to August is also superb for trekking, but evening temperatures tend to be colder. The wettest months are November, early December, and March to the beginning of June, which brings some snow. Daytime temperatures on Kilimanjaro range between 28˚C (85˚F) to 38˚C (100˚F) in the lower forest but drop to sub-zero between −2˚C (28˚F) to −16˚C (3˚F) at the summit. Almost always, with every 200 meters ascended, the temperature drops one degree.

Getting to Kilimanjaro

KLM, Turkish Airlines, and Qatar Airlines have direct flights to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO); Kenya, Ethiopian, British, SAA, and other airlines have several daily flights to Nairobi, where you can easily connect to Kili by road. Local airlines have daily flights between Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro Airport. You can also fly direct between Zanzibar and Kili. Kilimanjaro Airport is about 50 km (31 miles) from Arusha and 45 km (28 miles) from Moshi. Arusha is a standard connection with many travelers bound for safaris in northern Tanzania. It may be a cheaper option. There’s an overland shuttle from Nairobi, which takes a five to six-hour drive, and the one from Dar es Salaam to Arusha or Moshi is seven to eight hours.

Trekking Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is one of the few high peaks you can climb without technical gear. Many climbers trek up its inviting slopes with a pair of trekking poles, while others prefer their photography gear. However, altitude sickness and oxygen deprivation may hit you before fatigue stops you in your tracks. Oxygen levels at the summit can drop to very uncomfortable levels that even rolling up a sleeping bag can wear you out. You must walk and ascend slowly to help your body adapt to diminished oxygen levels. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park has quite the crowd; about 12,000 adventurers arrive in Tanzania to take on the climbing challenge each year. Each climber is usually accompanied by an entourage of four to six people, including guides, porters, and a cook. Park fees will cost around $70 per person, with an additional $20 rescue fee, excluding VAT. Make sure the trekking company includes these fees in your trekking fees.

Quick Kilimanjaro Climbing Tips

Before embarking on your Kilimanjaro climbing adventure, it’s essential to be prepared and knowledgeable about the challenges that lie ahead. Here are some quick tips to keep in mind:

1. Plan with a licensed operator: Choosing a reputable and licensed tour operator is crucial to ensure a safe and successful climb. Look for operators that have registered local guides, are empathetic to porters, and have a sustainable travel policy. A good operator will provide you with experienced guides, proper equipment, and a well-planned itinerary.
2. Understand your health: It’s essential to be honest about your health and any medical conditions you may have. Make sure your operator understands your health problems and can work with them to keep you safe before you go. This includes disclosing any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or physical limitations.
3. Choose your route wisely: Kilimanjaro has several trekking routes, each with its unique characteristics. Select a route that suits your needs, whether it’s challenge, scenery, type of accommodation, or group size. Consider factors such as altitude gain, terrain difficulty, and the number of days required to complete the climb.
4. Train beforehand: Climbing Kilimanjaro is a physically demanding activity that requires a good level of fitness. Engage in physical training a couple of weeks before the trip to prepare your muscles and mind for the challenge. Focus on cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
5. Prepare for altitude sickness: Altitude sickness is a common problem for climbers, especially those who are not accustomed to high elevations. Understand the symptoms of altitude sickness, which include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Take necessary precautions, such as getting the right advice, carrying medication, and ascending gradually.
6. Acclimatize: Acclimatization is the process of allowing your body to adapt to high elevations. Spend a day or two at the foothills of Kilimanjaro to get acclimatized or consider climbing the nearby Mt. Meru first. This will help your body adjust to the higher elevation and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
7. Stay hydrated: Dehydration is a common problem for climbers, especially in high-altitude environments. Drink plenty of water, aiming for 3-5 liters per day, and follow the general rule of drinking 1 liter per 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) ascent.
8. Leave nothing behind: Kilimanjaro is a fragile and protected environment. Take only photos and leave only footprints to minimize your impact on the environment. Avoid littering, respect local wildlife, and follow all park rules and regulations.

 

Where to Start the Adventure

Most Mount Kilimanjaro National Park trekking parties begin from Moshi, a bustling small town at the mountain’s base. Here, you’ll find registered guides and licensed trekking companies that will lead your climb. Consider trying Kiliworrior Expeditions, which offers excellent personal service and is involved in the big Kilimanjaro Cleanup project.

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Trekking Routes

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park has eight common routes to the summit, each with its unique characteristics. Here’s a brief overview of each route:

1. Marangu Route: The shortest and most popular route, taking about five days to the summit. This route has accommodations in huts equipped with bunk beds, public dining areas, and flush toilets.
2. Rongai Route: The quietest route, running close to the Kenyan border. This route is classified as an easier route and takes about six days to the summit.
3. Shira Route: A steep and demanding route, but more scenic, passing through distinct geographical zones. This route takes about seven days to the summit.
4. Lemosho Route: A steep and demanding route, but more scenic, passing through distinct geographical zones. This route takes about seven days to the summit.
5. Machame Route: A steep and demanding route, but more scenic, passing through distinct geographical zones. This route takes about seven days to the summit.
6. Umbwe Route: The steepest and most direct ascent to the summit, taking about six days to complete.
7. Mweka Route: Can only be used as a descending route from the western side.
8. Northern Circuit: Takes eight or nine days through the park’s wilderness, with little foot traffic, and is the only route to cross the northern face.

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park’s Geology and Terrain: A Diverse and Breathtaking Landscape

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, the highest freestanding mountain in the world, boasts a diverse and breathtaking landscape that is divided into five distinct types of terrain. As you ascend to the summit, you’ll encounter a range of ecosystems, each with its unique characteristics and features.

1. Cultivated Farmlands: The Foothills of Kilimanjaro

The journey to the summit begins in the cultivated farmlands that surround the town of Moshi. These fertile plains are home to endless subsistence plantations of maize and bananas, as well as small villages and communities. As you make your way through the farmlands, you’ll see small children playing in the fields and locals tending to their crops.

2. Forests: The Lush and Vibrant Forest Zone

The forest zone, which starts at an altitude of 1,798 meters (5,900 feet), is a lush and vibrant ecosystem that is home to many small creatures and primates, including the black-and-white colobus monkey. The forest is characterized by tall trees, mosses, and brightly colored flowers, and is a great place to spot a range of bird species. One of the highlights of the forest zone is the rare and exotic impatiens Kilimanjaro flower, which is unique to this mountain.

3. Shrubland or Heath Zone: A Sea of Flowers and Shrubs

As you leave the forest zone behind, you’ll enter the shrubland or heath zone, which is characterized by a sea of flowers and shrubs. This zone, which extends to an altitude of 3,800 meters (12,467 feet), is home to a range of unique plant species, including the 6-meter-high (20-feet-high) Erica arborea and daisy bushes that grow as big as pompoms.

4. Alpine Desert: A Harsh and Barren Landscape

The alpine desert, which begins at an altitude of 3,800 meters (12,467 feet), is a harsh and barren landscape that is characterized by gnarled volcanic lava rock and sand. This zone is home to a range of hardy and adapted plant species, as well as small animals such as the hyrax and field mice. Keep an eye out for large white-naped ravens, which scavenge among the sand and stone.

5. Glaciers and Summit: The Roof of Africa

The final stage of the journey takes you to the glaciers and summit of Kilimanjaro, which is characterized by massive age-old glaciers and towering blocks of ice. Uhuru Peak, the summit of Kilimanjaro, is located at an altitude of 5,895 meters (19,340 feet) and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As you stand at the roof of Africa, you’ll be rewarded with a sense of achievement and wonder at the natural beauty of this incredible mountain.

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