Mount Kilimanjaro Guide: Information On How To Plan A Trip To Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro: Africa's Premier Climbing Destination – Guided by Local Guides
Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak and the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, is a premier destination for climbers and trekkers. Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano located in Tanzania, and it holds the title of the highest mountain in Africa, reaching an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. It is also recognized as the highest free-standing mountain in the world, located in Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mountain comprises three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira, with Kibo being the tallest and the only one currently dormant, while Mawenzi and Shira are extinct.The mountain lies just 205 miles from the equator, making it a unique environment with glaciers and snow-capped peaks near the equator.
The geological history of Kilimanjaro dates back to around 750,000 years ago, when the first volcanic activity began. The oldest rocks on the mountain date back to around 2.5 million years, acclimatized, indicating that the area has been subject to intense volcanic activity for a long time. Kilimanjaro was formed by repeated volcanic eruptions over hundreds of thousands of years. The most recent activity occurred about 200 years ago, and it was a small steam eruption from the Ash Pit, located on the southern flank of Kibo. The last major eruption occurred about 360,000 years ago and resulted in the formation of the caldera at the summit of Kibo.
Kilimanjaro’s geology is characterized by layers of volcanic rock, including basalt and andesite lava flows, volcanic ash, and tephra. The mountain is also home to several glaciers, which are thought to have formed during the Little Ice Age between 1400 and 1900 AD. Sadly, as is often reported, these glaciers are melting away each year.
The first recorded ascent of Kilimanjaro was made in 1889 by Hans Meyer, a German geographer, and Ludwig Purtscheller, an Austrian mountaineer. Since then, the mountain has become a popular destination for climbers and trekkers from around the world, with around 50,000 people attempting to climb it each year.
Planning Your Trip Mount Kilimanjaro
Planning is crucial to ensuring a safe and successful climb on Mount Kilimanjaro and Climbing Kilimanjaro requires a guide service, as the mountain is a popular trekking destination, and safety regulations are in place.
Before embarking on your Kilimanjaro adventure, do thorough research and consider important factors such as your fitness level, choosing the right tour operator, weather conditions, gear requirements, and what to pack for your adventure.
It is also recommended to book your climb well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and allow time for your physical and mental preparations.
Climbing Kilimanjaro is considered a trek rather than a technical climb, typically requiring no special equipment like ropes or crampons, making it accessible to aspiring climbers.
Mount Kilimanjaro is considered a hiking or “walk-up” peak, requiring no technical skills or equipment. The easiest route to the summit is via the hiking trail, which takes most climbers 5-9 days to complete. Climbers typically start from the base of the mountain at an altitude of 700-1,000 meters (2,300-3,300 ft) above sea level.
Climbers must be aware of the risks associated with altitude sickness, which can manifest as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). It is essential to acclimatize properly and monitor health conditions closely.
Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro:
The best time to climb Mt Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons, which are typically from June to October and from December to February.
These periods offer the most comfortable temperatures and the least amount of precipitation. During the dry seasons, the weather on Mount Kilimanjaro is generally cool and dry, making for better climbing conditions. However, it’s important to note that temperatures can still drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes.
The average temperature at the base of Mt Kilimanjaro is between 21ºC – 27ºC (70 to 80 Fahrenheit). As you climb up, the temperatures go down, and it can get as cold as -7ºC to -29ºC (-20ºF) during the night. It’s crucial to be prepared for a wide range of temperatures and to pack accordingly.
Mount Kilimanjaro Weather Patterns Overview
- January: It is relatively dry, with occasional showers.
- February: Similar to January, it is relatively dry, with occasional showers.
- March: It is the beginning of the rainy season, so rainfall increases.
- April: It is the peak of the rainy season, with increased rainfall.
- May: It is still the rainy season with occasional showers.
- June: It is the start of the dry season, with decreasing rainfall.
- July: It is the dry season with minimal rainfall.
- August: Dry season continues with minimal rainfall.
- September: Dry season continues, with the weather starting to warm up.
- October: It is towards the end of the dry season, with warmer temperatures.
- November: It is the start of the short rainy season.
- December: It is the beginning of the short dry season, with decreasing rainfall.
Main Mount Kilimanjaro Routes to Uhuru Peak:
There are 6 main approach routes leading up the slopes of Mt Kilimanjaro to Uhuru Peak. They are named after the places from where they begin:
- Lemosho and Shira-West.
- Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe—South
- Rongai- North
The 7th Kilimanjaro route, Mweka, is used for descending only. Whichever route is chosen, the climb can all be divided into 3 parts:
- The approach trek to the last campsite before the summit attempt.
- The first ascent to the rim on the summit attempt.
- The traverse around the rim to Uhuru Peak.
The standard routes via Shira, Lemosho, Machame, and Umbwe reach the rim at Stella Point (5685 m) from the last campsite at Barafu Camp (4680m), whilst Marangu, Rongai and the traverse approach via the Northern Circuit reach the rim at Gilman’s Point (5681m) from the last campsite at Kibo Camp (4730m) or School Hut (4750m).
The least popular routes are Marangu, Shira, and Umbwe. The Marangu route is the only route with sleeping huts but the least scenic. All the rest are camping routes with designated campsites. Shira is rarely used by trekkers because of the dirt motorway used by rescue vehicles. Umbwe route has a reputation for being the most challenging and having a low summit success rate. It is the shortest and steepest and has a poor acclimatization, profile.
The more popular and scenic routes are Lemosho and Machame. Because of overcrowding, particularly during the peak season, some trekkers now choose to approach the summit from Rongai or traverse the Northern Circuit via Lemosho to avoid the crowd.
There are 6, 7 and 8-day climbing itineraries for Mt Kilimanjaro. Unless you are well acclimatised to high altitude ahead of the climb or have extensive experience climbing mountains above 5000m.
So just how hard is Kilimanjaro?
- It is a 3-mile vertical climb.
- There are 5 different climatic zones from Bushland to the Arctic.
- The ascent to the summit: 6 – 7 hrs, a 1300m – 1400m ascent, it’s dark, it’s cold, and it will be below zero on the summit.
- Summit day is over 12 hrs long, including the descent from the summit to the next night’s stop.
- Altitude sickness is a real threat on summit day.
Pole-Pole
“Pole-pole” is the motto on Kilimanjaro – it means “slowly, slowly” in Kiswahili – and throughout the trek, your guides will keep saying “pole-pole” to you. They will ensure that you walk at a slow and steady pace, and constantly remind you of the importance of adequate hydration. Regardless of your fitness levels and how slowly you ascend, it is likely that you will still feel some of the effects of altitude. Most people experience mild altitude sickness and recover quickly. However, if you’re affected by a serious altitude problem, you will need to descend to a lower altitude with a member of our local team, and it may be necessary to abandon the trek in the interest of your safety.
We can operate our private treks for any given departure date and any group size, making this option ideal for family and friendship groups that wish to trek together.
We are happy to edit the itinerary to suit your preferences, and please let us know if you wish to extend the trip in any way. We also offer the fabulous Tanzania Safari in Arusha National Park or Serengeti National Park, and this can easily be included to extend the itinerary.
Do You Need a Guide to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
Yes. If you are planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, which requires a licensed guide as mandated by Kilimanjaro National Park, it is highly recommended to hire local guides from Kilimanjaro to ensure a safe and successful trek.
STEPS TO FOLLOW
Booking a Kilimanjaro Guide
1. Choose the Right Time to Visit: Consider the best time of year for your Kilimanjaro climb. The dry seasons (January to March and June to October) are generally recommended.
2. Select Your Climb Duration: Kilimanjaro treks vary in duration, typically 5 to 9 days. Choose a duration that suits your fitness level and preferences.
3. Pick a Kilimanjaro Route: There are several routes to the summit, each with its characteristics. Research and select a route that aligns with your goals and preferences.
4. Group Climb or Private Climb?: Decide whether you want to join a group trek or a private climb. Group treks can be more social, while private climbs offer flexibility.
5. How much does the guide charge for their services?: The cost of hiring a Kilimanjaro guide can vary depending on several factors, including the route, duration of the trek, and the level of service provided
6. Pay the Deposit and Confirm Your Booking: Once you’ve decided,pay the required 30% deposit to secure your spot.
Private Kilimanjaro trek
All our packages offer flexible hike starting dates. We can schedule a new private Kilimanjaro trek to start on any day you want. On a private hike will your group have your own private team of guides, porters and cook. Your meals will be served in a private dining tent. Please note however that the trails and campsites will still be shared. You will meet hikers from other groups along the way.
5 Day Marangu Route
5 day / 4 night hike + 2 nights hotel
1 Hiker single
$ 2 008 p/p
2 Hikers sharing
$ 1 783 p/p
3 to 4 hikers sharing
$ 1 678 p/p
6 Day Marangu Route
5 day / 4 night hike + 2 nights hotel
1 Hiker single
$ 2 308 p/p
2 Hikers sharing
$ 2 058 p/p
3 to 4 hikers sharing
$ 1 928 p/p
6 Day Machame Or Umbwe Route
6 day / 5 night hike + 2 nights hotel
1 Hiker single
$ 2 328 p/p
2 Hikers sharing
$ 2 078 p/p
3 to 4 hikers sharing
$ 1 948 p/p
7 Day Machame Or Umbwe Route
7 day / 6 night hike + 2 nights hotel
1 Hiker single
$ 2 608 p/p
2 Hikers sharing
$ 2 348 p/p
3 to 4 hikers sharing
$ 2 203 p/p
6 Day Shira, Lemosho Or Rongai Route
6 day / 5 nights hike + 2 nights hotel
1 Hiker single
$ 2 648 p/p
2 Hikers sharing
$ 2 243 p/p
3 to 4 hikers sharing
$ 2 063 p/p
7 Day Shira, Lemosho Or Rongai Route
7 day / 6 night hike + 2 nights hotel
1 Hiker single
$ 2 938 p/p
2 Hikers sharing
$ 2 513 p/p
3 to 4 hikers sharing
$ 2 313 p/p
8 Day Shira, Lemosho Or Rongai Route
8 day / 7 night hike + 2 nights hotel
1 Hiker single
$ 3 228 p/p
2 Hikers sharing
$ 2 773 p/p
3 to 4 hikers sharing
$ 2 568 p/p
8 Day Northern Circuit Include Toilet Rental
8 day / 7 night hike + 2 nights hotel
1 Hiker single
$ 3 588 p/p
2 Hikers sharing
$ 2 938 p/p
3 to 4 hikers sharing
$ 2 668 p/p
9 Day Northern Circuit Route Include Toilet Rental
9 day / 8 night hike + 2 nights hotel
1 Hiker single
$ 3 918 p/p
2 Hikers sharing
$ 3 228 p/p
3 to 4 hikers sharing
$ 2683p/p
The cost of Private Kilimanjaro trek include the following:
Before the Trek:
- 2 nights shared hotel accommodation in Moshi town (or Marangu) on bed and breakfast basis.
- Hotel / Lodge include safe storage facilities for excess luggage during hikes.
- Return transfer between the hotel to the start / finish point of a climb.
- Our exclusive, printable 15 page altitude sickness survival guide
- A comprehensive Travel Information pack
- Transfers between JRO airport and the hotel.
During the Trek:
- All Park fees, camping / hut fees and climbing permits
- Kilimanjaro National Park rescue team fees
- Trained and certified English speaking mountain guides.
- Chief guide carries a pulse Oximeter and do health check twice a daily while on the mountain.
- 1 Emergency oxygen set per group send on all hikes (for use in emergencies only – not as summiting aid).
- 1 Medical First Aid kit per group send on all hikes (for use in emergencies only)
- Salaries for guides, cooks, waiters and porters paid as per KPAP recommendations.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as hot drinks on the mountain.
- 3 litres of mineral water supplied to all hikers on day 1 of the hike.
- Boiled drinking water from night 1 onwards while on the mountain.
- Quality camping equipment (four season tents, sleeping mats, camp chairs, camp table, mess tent & cutlery for meals) – not applicable on the Marangu route as A-frame huts are fitted with sleeping mats and meals are served in communal dining halls.
- Porter to carry your duffel bag, with maximum weight of 15kg / 32 lbs, from one camp to the next camp.
- Water for washing up, supplied every morning and evening while on the mountain.
- Certificate for your successful summit attempt
- Private hike at no additional charge, irrespective of the group size!
What’s Excluded in the Cost:
- Flights and airport taxes
- Items of a personal nature
- Compulsory tips for guides, porters and cook (average tip from US$200 to US$ 350 per hiker)
- Entry visa for Tanzania
- Vaccination requirements (Yellow Fever – only compulsory if you travel via a Yellow Fever infected country)
- Compulsory travel and medical insurance.
- Personal gear – it is possible to rent some of the gear
- Optional, but highly recommended portable toilet (not allowed on the Marangu route) (All Northern circuit route hikes include the portable toilet rental).
- Snacks, personal medicine and sports drink
- Meals and drinks not specified
Mount Kilimanjaro Equipment and Clothing
Without the correct equipment a mountain tour can quickly become an ordeal, this is especially true on Kilimanjaro. At the park entrance, the weather is tropical and at the summit it is a chilly -10°C and below. The onion system is the way to go, by wearing many layers you can add or remove items depending upon personal preference and is ideal for the changing climatic conditions.
A warm sleeping bag is essential, especially on camping tours. If you are thinking about using the one that you had as a child on summer camp, please think again. You will be sleeping in temperatures in the region of -12°C and you will need a sleeping bag that will keep you warm in such conditions
For yourself, you will only need a day pack; your porter will carry any further luggage. All your equipment must go in a travel bag, trekking rucksack or a kit bag and not exceed 12 kg (27lbs). The porters cannot carry suitcases and cases with roll systems. We recommend packing the items in plastic bags to protect them from the damp and rain. Please also check the baggage terms of your respective airline.
Due to a new regulation from KINAPA (Kilimanjaro National Park Authority), thin walled plastic water bottles have been banned on Kilimanjaro. Therefore, clients have to bring their own water bottles. We would also like to advise clients wanting to make use of a drinking system (camel bag or similar) to bring separate water containers for the summit night as the tubes of these drinking systems tend to freeze during the night of the summit. We recommend water bottles with a capacity of minimum 3 litres (i.e. 2 x 1.5 litre bottles). Please take note that the bottles can only be filled in the mornings and evenings! Clients not wanting to bring bottles along, are able to purchase 1 litre metal containers for 15 USD a piece on site (pre-booking recommended)
Suggested Clothing List And Useful Items For The Kilimanjaro Trek
Remember that you will be on the mountain for at least 5-6 days. You need to take enough clothing, especially socks to last this period. Due to frequent rainfalls as well as numerous streams on the routes, it is advisable to pack items individually in your bag. These items should be wrapped in plastic to prevent them from getting wet in case of the rain.
You will require thermal hiking socks, gloves, warm head protection, raincoat, sunglasses, and sun protection cream. Do not forget your hiking boots/running shoes, and very importantly a walking stick pole. One of the most essential items of clothing is an outer jacket, it should be able to keep you warm, protect you at temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees, and keep the wind out. Try to avoid tight-fitting clothes as this will hamper circulation. Due to low altitude and physical exertion, cold is a very serious obstacle when attempting to climb Kilimanjaro.
Kilimanjaro Packing List – What to take
- Quality 3/4 season sleeping bag
- Walking boots plus training shoes for around camp (it is advised that your walking boots are broken in before undertaking any sort of trek)
- A walking stick/pole (this can be hired)
- Head torch and spare batteries – important for your summit climb
- A pair of warm trousers
- Light cotton trousers and shorts
- Summer shirts; long sleeves are
necessary as well as short sleeves, in case you get sunburnt and have to cover up your arms - A fleece and Gore-Tex jacket
- Skiing underwear or thermal ‘long johns’ and top
- A good waterproof anorak
- Gloves and scarf
- Plenty of socks, cotton, thick and thin
- Sunhat and beanie (warm hat)
- Sun goggles or glasses
- Lip sun cream
- A good high factor sun block for protection against the sun
- Camera and plenty of film
- Binoculars
- A good quality torch and batteries
- Basic first aid kit (plasters; lint; cotton wool; elastic bandage; antiseptic liquid or cream; blister kit; throat lozenges)
- Personal medicines, clearly labelled
- Gel activated hand warmers
- High energy bars
- Salt tablets
- Plastic bags
- A towel and wash bag
- Toilet paper
- Large water bottle, for drinking on the
- trek (two x 2 litres)
- Large rucksacks are not necessary but a small shoulder bag or backpack for carrying your camera, water bottle etc, is essential
What to pack in your day pack
- Waterproofs
- Camera/video
- Water bottles (bottled water can be provided at the trail head, but if you want to you can always fill up at the lodge)
- Poncho/umbrella (dependant on season)
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Extra snacks if you have them
- First aid kit
NOTE: on all days try to keep your day sack as light as possible. Your porters have been hired to carry most of your gear and carrying extra gear will only make you more tired and stress your body out more, making it harder for your body to deal with the altitude.
Availability
Kilimanjaro Hike starting dates
All of our climb Kilimanjaro packages are very flexible! We will gladly schedule a new hike to suit your calendar preference. Opting for a private hike ensures the privacy of your climb.
Can You Climb Mount Kilimanjaro Without a Guide
No, you cannot climb Mount Kilimanjaro without a guide. The Tanzanian government requires all climbers to be accompanied by a Fully Licensed Kilimanjaro Guides. This rule is enforced to ensure the safety of climbers, as well as to protect the environment and maintain the integrity of the mountain. The climb can be challenging and potentially dangerous without proper guidance and support.
This means that anyone attempting to climb Kilimanjaro must hire a Kilimanjaro Local Guides to accompany them on their trek. The Mount Kilimanjaro guide will not only ensure the safety of the climbers but also provide valuable information about the mountain, its history, and its ecology. Thus, it is mandatory to have a Kilimanjaro Local Guides when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
Climbing Mt.Kilimanjaro Without Porters
Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro without porters is a challenging endeavor that requires a high level of physical fitness, preparation, and self-sufficiency. Porters typically assist climbers by carrying heavy gear, setting up camps, and preparing meals, so without them, climbers must manage these tasks themselves. This means carrying all necessary equipment, food, and water, navigating the mountain’s various routes, and dealing with the altitude and weather changes. It’s a demanding task that requires careful planning and a strong understanding of mountaineering.