Climbing Kilimanjaro Mountain is one the most thrilling Tanzania adventure activities that you can embark on, any time of the year. Mount Kilimanjaro is 5,805m above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Africa. Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the 7 Summits, and is recorded to be the easiest trek of the 7, making it a popular option for adventurous travelers after summiting the 7 Summits of the world. Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania, East Africa, and is the largest freestanding mountain in the world.
Mount Kilimanjaro is snow-capped throughout the year, is surrounded by savannah making part of Kilimanjaro National Park that is a home to a variety of diverse and unique flora and fauna that travelers can explore while on a Tanzania safari tour. Kilimanjaro Mountain is a dormant volcano.
Who Can Climb Kilimanjaro?
Anyone and everyone is welcome to climb Kilimanjaro Mountain. Officially, however, persons that are 10 years and above can climb Kilimanjaro. What is needed to climb Kilimanjaro purely determination and will to summit Kilimanjaro Mountain, and overcoming the challenge of altitude and ascent rate. Having a competent and knowledgeable Kilimanjaro Mountain expert tour operator is very important.
Kilimanjaro Routes
There are seven main Mount Kilimanjaro routes leading to the summit or peak of the mountain. Kilimanjaro routes include the Northern route, Lemosho Route, Shira Route, Machame Route, Umbwe Route, Rongai Route and Marangu Route. Machame Route is also known as the “Whiskey Route, and Marangu Route is also known as the ‘Coca-Cola” Route.
Most travelers wonder and even ask what the best route is for that Kilimanjaro Climb; well it depends on what you prefer and how long you have. Below are some pointers for your use, to help you choose your fitting Kilimanjaro Climb route.
Highest Success Rate: If you are looking for a Kilimanjaro route that shall give you higher success rates then Lemosho route and Machame route, for 7 or days, are great considerations. This is because you have more days which allows acclimatization, and they offer easier summit. Lemosho route and Machame route are popular among travelers, and we do highlight recommend them.
Most Scenic Route: If enjoying the views and having the most scenic climb is what you are after for your Kilimanjaro Summit hike, then Lemosho route, approaching from the West is your best choice.
Quiet/Less Crowded: Climbers after encountering fewer people have the Rongai route as the best choice. Important to note is that the Rongai route success rate is very low.
Most Challenging Route: Travelers after a challenge and adventure have Umbwe route to choose. The Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to the Southern Glaciers and western breach, with a rapid ascent despite the steepness, making acclimatization quite difficult. Umbwe route is seldom used.
How Many Days Do I Need To Climb Kilimanjaro?
Climbing Kilimanjaro takes from 5 days minimum to 9 days, to summit Kilimanjaro Mountain and descent as well. The more days spent on your Kilimanjaro hike the more chances you have to successfully summit the mountain, for you have a day or more acclimatize to the altitude. Tips for a successful summit is to take your time by taking longer hiking routes, walk slowly to curb altitude sickness, and prepare adequately for your Kilimanjaro climb.
Travelers not after summiting Kilimanjaro Mountain can also hike for 1-3 days, getting to experience and live out their adventurous spirit.
When Is The Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro is available for hiking throughout the year. The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is, however in the dry season, which falls in the months of June through October and December to March, for it is expected to be sunny and dry then, making hikes more bearable. It is not recommended to climb Kilimanjaro Mountain during the rainy season for safety reasons.
What To Pack For Your Kilimanjaro Climb
Packing right for your Kilimanjaro climb is very important, for that alone can ruin your summit experience if not fail to achieve it. Items to pack for your Kilimanjaro climb include top base layer, bottom base layer, 4-5 pairs of underwear, 3-4 short sleeve, 1 insulated trekking pants, 1-2 long sleeve hiking shirt,1-2 pairs of hiking trousers, 1 insulated winter jacket. 1 hard shell jacket, warm beanie, sun hat, headlamp, sunglasses (choose a pair with high UV protection), warm gloves or mittens, lightweight gloves, mid-weight trekking boots, training shoes, 3-4 pairs of outer socks and 2-3 pairs of liner socks, gaiters, should not be forgotten. Be sure to ask for a Kilimanjaro gear list that you plan accordingly for your Kilimanjaro hike.
Kilimanjaro Mountain is an adventurous peak in Tanzania that attracts many to hike and summit it, every single year. Reach out to us to help you plan your ultimate Kilimanjaro Climb.
