Helpful hints for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Thinking of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro soon? You’re in for a strenuous trip that will test your stamina, patience, and willpower. But, when you take that last step to reach the summit, with the African plains and volcanic glaciers slowly entering your eyesight, you’ll know it was worth every sweat.

It’s a challenging, rewarding, and unforgettable adventure that will last you a lifetime of memories. However, you won’t conquer this mountain with sheer courage. It takes quite a bit of planning beforehand for successful mountaineering, and that’s where these handy Mount Kilimanjaro tips come in for all the details on what to pack, the best routes, FAQs, and more. Let’s not waste another breath, we’ve got a mountain to climb (excuse the pun)!

Top tips for climbing Kilimanjaro

Roughly 30,000 people attempt to climb Mount Kilimanjaro each year, and unfortunately, not all of them reach the summit. This is due to various factors such as poor preparation, altitude sickness, or simply not choosing the right route. With these tips in mind, you can get the most out of your climb.

Without further ado, here are the best tips for a successful Kilimanjaro summit during your Tanzania vacation.

How to get to Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania, specifically in the northeastern part of the country. Your flight will land at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), the country’s main airport. From there, it’s best to travel to either Moshi or Arusha, which are the closest major cities to Mount Kilimanjaro.

Moshi is the most popular base for climbing Mt Kilimanjaro, located about 25 miles from the mountain. You can take a 45–60 minute taxi or shuttle from the Kilimanjaro International Airport to this base city. Meanwhile, Arusha is a larger city located 37 miles west of Mt Kilimanjaro, about 1.5 hours by car or shared shuttle.

If you’re visiting Zanzibar first, direct flights are available to Kilimanjaro International Airport. No matter where you find yourself in Tanzania, the goal is always to travel to Moshi or Arusha before trekking to Kilimanjaro. Thankfully, our local experts can help sort out airport transfers and transport during your trip, so you don’t have to worry about travel logistics.

The best time to climb Mt Kilimanjaro

The very best time to hike up this mighty mountain is during its dry seasons. This is when the weather conditions are most comfortable for trekking. Here’s a closer look:

January to early March: Expect the weather to be pleasantly warm and dry with occasional bursts of rain. You’ll have clear skies, especially in the mornings, for excellent visibility and photography of the mountainscapes. In terms of the crowds, it’s typically the off-season, allowing you to explore freely without too much foot traffic.

Late June to October: These couple of months offer the most stable and driest weather. You’ll enjoy spectacular views from the summit thanks to squeaky clean skies. The only downside? It’s peak season, so the crowds will be much thicker, especially in August and September. You’ll 100% want to avoid planning your trek around mid-March to May (long rainy season) and November (short rainy season). The heavy rains will make it too slippery and dangerous to truly enjoy the climb.

Best routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro has seven main routes for ascent. Each has unique characteristics such as scenery, difficulty, and success rates. While no one route is the best, there should be one that appeals to you the most. Look for a path that suits your fitness level, fits your schedule, and matches what you’d like to see.

Marangu (Coca-Cola route)

Length: 45 miles
Duration: 5-6 days
Difficulty: Moderate with less acclimatization time
Elevation: 19,341ft
Starting point: Marangu Gate

The Marangu route is the only one that offers accommodation in the form of mountain huts. The rest provide only camping. The terrain is relatively easy, but the quick ascent means there’s a higher risk of altitude sickness, which puts it in the moderate category.

Machame (Whisky route)

Length: 37 miles
Duration: 6-7 days
Difficulty: Hard with good acclimatization
Elevation: 14,051ft
Starting point: Machame Gate

The Machame route is more popular with busy campsites along the way. The climb is steeper and has a high summit success rate thanks to decent acclimatization. It’s a very scenic route where you can admire the Shira Plateau and Barranco Wall.

Lemosho route

Length: 43 miles
Duration: 7-8 days
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Elevation: 16,000-17,000ft
Starting point: Lemosho Gate

The Lemosho route offers a more remote and serene trek with excellent acclimatization and success rates. This option is a bit longer and more expensive, but it has many camping sites to rest in, including Barafu Camp.

Rongai route

Length: 45 miles
Duration: 6-7 days
Difficulty: Moderate with
Elevation: 12,943ft
Starting point: Rongai Gate

The Rongai route takes a bit longer to complete, and seven days are recommended to acclimatize to the altitude gradually. It’s the least crowded path with drier climate and a gradual ascent.

Shira route

Length: 36 miles
Duration: 6-7 days
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Elevation: 8,231ft
Starting point: Shira Gate

The Shira route is one of the lesser-known paths and joins the Lemosho Route after the first day. It’s quiet and insanely scenic with expansive views of the Shira Plateau. Prepare for fair to poor acclimatization.

Northern Circuit route

Length: 61 miles
Duration: 8-9 days
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation: 18,087ft
Starting point: Lemosho Gate

The Northern Circuit route takes the longest to complete, but it’s best for acclimatization, with the highest summit success rate. It’s also the most scenic route with the fewest crowds. Since it lasts so long, you can expect it to be expensive.

Umbwe route

Length: 33 miles
Duration: 6-7 days
Difficulty: Very hard with poor acclimatization
Elevation: 15,026ft
Starting point: Umbwe Gate

While the Umbwe route is shorter and lower in elevation, it’s definitely the most strenuous one out of them all. Its rocky terrain and rapid elevation gain skyrocket the risk of altitude sickness, making many turn around. The success rate is lower than other routes as well.

Preparation tips for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Even though climbing Kilimanjaro is a non-technical hike with no ropes or climbing equipment, it still requires physical and mental readiness. Training beforehand allows you to take on this high-altitude trek with more endurance, strength, and mental resilience.

Here’s why training is vital for this climb:

• Extremely high altitude: Kilimanjaro’s summit peaks at 19,341ft above sea level. Not everyone can deal with the altitude sickness that accompanies this trek, and it’s a significant reason why many don’t make it to the top.
• Lots of hiking: You’ll be hiking for five to eight hours daily, for five to nine days in a row. This is something you have to prepare for, even as an experienced hiker. Otherwise, you risk straining and injuring your muscles.
• Steep and varied terrain: Mastering this terrain is not a walk in the park. You’ll come across rocky parts, steep climbs, snowfields, scree slopes, and rainforests.

Here’s an idea of how to train for Kilimanjaro:

• Start your training at least eight weeks before your trek.
• Do cardio training three to four times per week to improve your endurance. Hiking, running, swimming, cycling, and stair climbing are all great activities to start.
• Do strength training three to four times per week, focusing on your legs, core, back, and shoulders (since you’ll be carrying a backpack).
• Exercises like lunges, squats, planks, crunches, and step-ups will help a ton.
• Practice hiking with a backpack that weighs 13–22lb.
• Practice on trails with varied terrains and elevations.
• Travel to higher elevations if possible to help your body adapt.
• Do some stretching or yoga once or twice per week to prevent injury and aid recovery.
• Train your mentality as well. A positive attitude and mindset are just as essential and will keep you motivated during this testy hike.

Of course, these are just general tips. You can always consult with a trainer or fitness coach to customize a plan that’ll help get you ready.

Health and safety tips while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

So many people do not make it to the summit because they weren’t well-prepared to deal with all the health and safety risks one could face on Kilimanjaro. Here’s what you should know:

How to treat altitude sickness

Also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), this illness can affect people who ascend to high elevations too quickly. Some symptoms include headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. The best way to fight off the effects of extreme altitude is through treatments and preventive measures, such as:

• Medication: Visit your doctor for prescribed medication, like acetazolamide, that could treat the symptoms of AMS or speed up acclimatization.
• Natural remedies: There isn’t too much evidence to back up natural remedies, but many locals swear by them. In Tanzania, people often use ginger (tangawizi) or garlic, eaten raw or infused with tea, to reduce nausea and improve blood circulation.

Keep in mind that while natural remedies can offer mild support, they should not be substituted for proven medical interventions. Another way to prevent altitude sickness is to stay hydrated (avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine), rest, and acclimatize. If all else fails, going to lower altitudes is the most foolproof treatment for moderate to severe AMS.

Falls and injuries

While most trails are generally non-technical, some sections, like the Barranco Wall and summit approaches, involve scrambling or slippery scree. This is where you can risk facing sprained ankles, slips, or more serious injuries. Using trekking poles and wearing sturdy boots can help prevent falls. Follow your guide closely and watch your step!

Fatigue and exhaustion

Beware, the summit day can be a 12- to 16-hour push in extreme cold and altitude conditions. This is why training well in advance is so crucial. Also, pace yourself and eat enough calories.

Dehydration, sunburn, and snow blindness

Firstly, being so high up means the dry mountain air can cause rapid fluid loss. Staying hydrated is key, as dehydration can worsen the effects of altitude sickness. Drink three to four liters of water daily, and add electrolytes when possible.

The sun’s UV Rays are also much more potent the higher you climb, and reflect off snow and glaciers, making it hard to see. Wear a high-SPF sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and cover exposed skin.

What to pack for a Kilimanjaro trip

A successful climb of Kilimanjaro starts with your backpack. What you take with you can make a huge difference, simply because the trek is isolated and lasts multiple days. Also, depending on the route you’re taking, you’ll likely need to camp along the way.

Must-have clothing essentials for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

• Sun hat and sunglasses with UV protection
• Down jacket
• Warm hat, buff, or balaclava
• Trekking boots
• Thermal gloves and waterproof outer gloves
• Insulated vest
• 1-2 fleece jackets
• Hard-shell waterproof jacket
• Waterproof pants
• 2–3 thermal tops and bottoms (synthetic or merino wool)
• 4–5 moisture-wicking t-shirts
• Wool or synthetic hiking socks

Camping gear

• Sleeping bag
• Pillow or inflatable travel pillow
• Power bank (solar charger optional)
• Headlamp with extra batteries (essential for summiting at night)
• Trekking poles (very helpful on steep descents)
• Small first-aid kit (blister care, painkillers, altitude meds)
• Ziplock bags or dry bags (for electronics and organization)

Toiletries and hygiene

• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes for no-shower days
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Biodegradable soap
• Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
• Quick-drying towel
• Toilet paper

Extras

• Daypack for water, snacks, layers, camera, etc
• Duffel bag (carried by porters)
• Water purifying tablets
• Electrolyte tablets or hydration powders
• Energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, and gummies
• Extra batteries for your camera
• Cash tips for guides and porters

Don’t bring too many items in your daypack, as packing light is key for a comfortable hike!

FAQs: tips f0r climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Still curious about a few more things? Check out these frequently asked questions about Mount Kilimanjaro.

Can a beginner climb Kilimanjaro?

Yes. Mount Kilimanjaro is beginner-friendly since it’s a “walk-up” mountain that doesn’t require technical climbing skills or equipment. In this case, “beginner-friendly” means the hike is doable for most with the correct prep. That said, it’s still tough on the body and not an easy climb by any stretch of the imagination.

What is the best Kilimanjaro route for beginners?

The Marangu Route, nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route”, is by far the best for newbies. It has a gradual slope and offers dormitory-style huts for accommodation, rather than camping, which could overwhelm first-timers.

How difficult is it to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro is no easy feat. You’ll face challenges due to the high altitude and the physical demands of the trek. The success rate of climbers reaching the summit is only 65% due to altitude sickness or other factors.

At what age can you climb Kilimanjaro?

The minimum age to climb Kilimanjaro is 10 years old, and there’s no maximum age limit. Then, climbers under 18 or over 65 may also require a doctor’s clearance.

Can you climb Mount Kilimanjaro in a day?

No, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in a single day is generally not possible for the average person. It’s also not recommended, and most routes take between five and nine days to complete due to the need for acclimatization to the high altitude.

Make it happen

Climbing to the top of Africa’s highest peak is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you can always look back on with a sense of pride. But, as you can see, a whole lot of preparation and things to consider are required before you ascend. You must train like an athlete, pack all the right gear, and deal with altitude sickness.

That said, a successful Kilimanjaro climb awaits with the above tips and tricks in your pocket. So, get those training shoes ready and reach out to our local experts in Tanzania to start planning your epic trek of Mt Kilimanjaro.