Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: Everything you Need to Know

Not only do we spend time exploring three of Tanzania's spectacular National Parks, but we also stay in the area's most renowned and luxurious accommodations. Our safari begins with an early morning flight from Arusha to the Manyara Airstrip, home to strikingly diverse Lake Manyara National Park. The expedition guides on our Kilimanjaro ascents are local Tanzanian guides who originate from the regions surrounding  the mountain. They are very experienced guides with multiple ascents of Kilimanjaro (ie 100+ times) and are specifically trained in guiding techniques. Each guide holds guiding certifications, are KINAPA certified and hold wilderness medical qualifications.
Estimated number of revolutions that Chris Waddell's wheels made on the way to the top in 2011. Waddell, a Paralympic athlete who's paralyzed from the waist down, took just six days to reach the summit on his custom-built hand-cycle. Children between 5-15 years old are charged $20 per day for the conservation fee (i.e. a $50 a day discount) Tanzania Kilimanjaro Safari and $10 per night camping fee (i.e. a $40 per day discount). There are unfortunately no discounts on hut fees, rescue fees or crater camp fees. As the park fees account for 50-70% of the total climbing cost, I thought it worthwhile explaining how they work, what components make up the park fees, and what discounts are available.

Myself and my partner were due to climb Kilimanjaro Jan however this doesn’t look likely with Covid and its put a huge dent in our training/ fundraising. Tanzania has pretty stable ground temperatures all year round as it is so close to the equator, but it is on average cooler during the Winter months (June-August). This however inverts slightly as you increase in altitude. Meaning that as you get higher the temperatures in the Summer months (November-March) are actually cooler at the summit, hence there is more snow during this period. This has to do with the trade winds, and higher convective forces during the Summer.
Summit day is the most demanding portion of the climb, typically involving eight hours for the ascent, and six to seven hours for the descent. Being in sound physical condition is the single most important aspect for climbers to maximize their climbing potential. The better your physical condition, the more likely you are to perform well and have an enjoyable experience. The most frequent comment we have received over the years is that climbers have underestimated the fitness level needed to fully enjoy their trip. Additionally, inadequate fitness will affect the atmosphere, pace, and overall enjoyment of the climb for all participants.

I am planning a climb in July, since its very cold I opted for the North face Dark star (-29C). However its a big sleeping bag that doesn’t compress well. I didn’t care much until I read your comment that it should be inserted in the Duffle bag. I was planning to buy the 90L North face base camp you recommended, But now I am thing the XL would be needed, is that a problem with the porters?
The weather of Kilimanjaro can be dependable and can be changed from time-to-time Mt. Kilimanjaro is big enough to have its own weather pattern. We start the day before lunch in a steady uphill ascent towards the Lava Tower. Today, we will focus on a similar pattern/pace that will happen on the summit night. Once we reach the Lava Tower at 4,640m/15,223ft, we will stop for a hot lunch and rest before we slowly descend to Baranco, our most spectacular campsite, situated at the foot of the Kibo Peak. As we descend to Baranco, the southern ice-fields will come more clearly into view. Sleeping at a similar height as we did the night before, gives excellent acclimatization after reaching a new height record for the trip at the Lava Tower.

Climbing Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, is a bucket list activity for most keen hikers. The highest peak in Africa is also the largest freestanding mountain on earth, which makes climbing to the top a truly unique experience. This makes the hike to the top one of the most varied and rewarding treks you’ll ever do. Hi Candice, I generally don’t use insulated tubes as I find them cumbersome. If you can find a way to insulate the tube in your jacket hoodie or underneath a neck gaiter then you should be fine.
Northern Circuit Route has the highest Kilimanjaro Success Rate which is 98% and approaches from south of Kilimanjaro. It is the newest and longest route which offers the most spectacular view of overall 360 degree scenery of Mount Kilimanjaro. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on this route takes 8 to 9 days for the summit. Climbing the Seven Summits’ primary aim is to help you attain your personal climbing and trekking goals while experiencing the best of our planet, its unique cultures and environments. Mike Hamill, lead guide and owner of CTSS, is universally regarded as one of the most experienced and respected high altitude mountaineers and expedition leaders in the world.

Has a steep ascent therefore it is categorized under one of the difficult routes. Also known as the “whiskey route”, it is great for experienced mountaineers because of its steep and challenging slope. This route is one of the ancient routes, it has existed on Mount Kilimanjaro for years, making it the oldest route on the mountain.
The more time you give yourself to acclimatize, the easier your attempt at the summit will be. After popular demand we've launched our standard Lemosho 7 day climb now with an add on of a 2.5 day safari after your climb. Rest & relax in the company of the world's most beautiful and majestic creatures - explore Lake Manyara National Park & Ngoro Crater with your fellow climbers. Check out this feature article about a 68-year-old Colorado woman who does all the training and planning for an eight-day group tour of 11 guests with three guides and 33 porters.
They are there to take care of you and are educated to distinguish between altitude sickness symptoms and high altitude symptoms. Each person experiences the effects of altitude at a different moment, and symptoms might, of course, vary. Generally speaking, about 3,000 meters above sea level, you can start to feel the effects of altitude. Trekkers up Mount Kilimanjaro should consume three liters or more of water each day. This will keep you well hydrated and help you avoid altitude sickness. Before taking any medicine to combat altitude sickness when climbing Kilimanjaro, make sure to check with your doctor.

It is likely that you will experience some form of altitude sickness at some point while climbing Kilimanjaro. Marangu Route Commonly called the Coca-Cola Route, because it is considered the easiest route and vendors sell Coca-Cola at some of the huts. Marangu is by far the most popular route to the summit of Kilimanjaro. Typical duration is either 5 or 6 days depending upon whether you elect to spend an extra day for acclimatization to the altitude. The cost of equipment, visas, vaccinations and medications are often forgotten by prospective climbers. In general you will spend anywhere between $500-$1,500 on equipment as most climbers need to buy an extreme weather sleeping bag, a duffle bag, suitable clothing and other climbing accessories.
He has trekked toEverest Base Camp & Island peakand also has dreams of climbing Mount Everest in 2024.DONATE HERE. Join Ian Taylor Trekking on the journey to the Roof of Africa! We have full-time and professional staff on the ground in Tanzania and are ready to help you reach your goals on Mount Kilimanjaro. Another popular climbing operator on Kilimanjaro is Ultimate Kilimanjaro. They have a good track record, high ratings and plenty of experience. Ultimate Kilimanjaro has been in operation for 15 years, and they lead an estimated 150 climbs up Kili every year.

Each one varies in terms of difficulty, traffic, and scenic beauty; and choosing the right one for you is a key part of the planning process. Timings depend on which route you choose, with hikes taking anywhere from five to 10 days. The routes with the highest success rate are those that take longer and ascend at a gradual rate, allowing climbers to acclimatize to the change in altitude.