The view of the mountain Kilimanjaro is already a beautiful experience. The majestic dormant volcano that is located in Tanzania is the highest mountain in all of Africa. When you are on vacation in Tanzania, it's definitely worth taking a look at the mountain. But for many avid trekkers, Kilimanjaro is a dream destination. The journey to conquer this iconic mountain is not for the faint-hearted, but with proper preparation and knowledge, it can be an unforgettable experience. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about the Kilimanjaro trekking, from the best time to go, the different routes available, and essential tips to make your journey a success.
Where is Kilimanjaro located?
The mountain Kilimanjaro is located in North Tanzania next to some of the top safari parks in Africa. Can you imagine already, walking on a mountain and spotting some wild animals? It’s situated on the Tanzania/Kenya border to the East of Arusha.
How high is Kilimanjaro?
The top of the Kilimanjaro is called the Uhuru Peak. This peak is at 5,895 meters above sea level. It’s not only the highest peak in Africa, but also the fourth in the world with Mount Everest at number 1. It is also known as the roof of Africa, as it towers over the whole continent. This can cause altitude sickness. Altitude sickness can occur for people who ascend rapidly to high altitudes without sufficient acclimatization. The body doesn't have enough time to adjust to the altitude. You should not undertake this journey alone, and of course, you need proper preparation. It requires a lot of endurance, but it's certainly not impossible. In fact, 75,000 people climb Mount Kilimanjaro every year. It's not the most difficult mountain, nor the most strenuous. So, for anyone with an interest and experience in trekking, it’s highly recommended.
When is the best time?
March to the end of May are known as the rainy season. This is not a good time for trekking. The rest of the year, however, is good. It's recommended to go between July and October. It's, of course, best if you have a beautiful clear day when you reach the top to fully enjoy the view. However, these months can be more crowded.
Choosing a route
There are different routes to reach Uhuru Peak. The duration of the trek depends on the route. The fastest route takes about 4 nights, but on average, it takes everyone 6 to 8 nights.
The Lemosho Route is known as the more relaxed route. This route has a success rate of 88% to reach Uhuru Peak. It allows 8 days for acclimatization and features well-balanced campsite elevations. The scenery is truly beautiful, with passages through forests and traverses. You stop at various camps along the way: lemosho Big Tree Camp, Shira Hut and Barafu camp.
The Machame Route is the most popular route due to the spectacular views on the west side of the mountain. Due to this popularity, this route is often crowded. The first stop is the Machame Hut and you go all the way to the Great Barranco valley and Barafu campsite to reach the top.
The Marangu Route used to be the most popular route because it’s a bit less difficult. You start this journey through the unspoiled forest all the way to Mandara Hut, where you can witness volcanic remains. You walk from Horombo to Kibo Hut on your way to the peak.
The Northern Circuit is a 9-day trek. It's a peaceful journey where you can truly enjoy the trekking. Shira Hut, Moir Hut, Buffalo Camp, among others, are the stops.
Rongai Route is also a very popular route. It begins the ascent up the northern side of the mountain, and is unparalleled in terms of scenery and summit success. From Kikelewa campsite to Horombo Camp, in around 7 days you can reach the top. The success rate for the 7-day route is 74% to Uhuru and 88% to Gilman's Point.
Another route that we definitely need to mention is the Shira Route. This 8 day route takes you through the unspoilt wilderness of Shira Plateau and around the hilly and beautiful Moir Hut and the Lent Hills, before traversing underneath the Kibo icefields to summit via the Barafu Camp. The summit success is 86% to Uhuru Peak, and 93% to Stella Point.
Physical Fitness and Acclimatization
Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro requires a good level of physical fitness. Regular exercise, including cardio and strength training, is recommended to prepare your body for the challenges ahead. Additionally, acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. Slowly ascending the mountain allows your body to adjust to the decreasing oxygen levels. Plan your itinerary with the recommended number of acclimatization days to increase your chances of reaching the summit successfully.
Packing Essentials
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful Kilimanjaro trekking experience. Some essential items include proper hiking boots, moisture-wicking clothing, a warm sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket, trekking poles, a headlamp, and a comfortable backpack. It is advisable to pack in layers to adapt to the changing weather conditions throughout the climb. Be sure to also carry essential medications, sun protection, and a refillable water bottle.
Mental preparation
Climbing Kilimanjaro is not only physically demanding but also mentally challenging. The long hours of trekking, high altitude, and unpredictable weather can test your mental resilience. It is crucial to prepare yourself mentally, visualizing success and maintaining a positive mindset during the journey. Surrounding yourself with supportive fellow trekkers and experienced guides can also boost your morale and motivation.
