Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain and the highest single freestanding mountain in the world, rising to an elevation of 5,895 meters above sea level. Kilimanjaro is composed of three distinctive volcanic cones, namely Kibo peak, Shira, and Mawenzi peaks. The mountain is situated in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania, near the Kenyan border, close to Moshi and Arusha towns.
How hard is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?
There are several routes established for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, and all of them provide amazing experiences for tourists. The routes include Machame route, Marangu route, Lemosho route, Northern circuit route, Rongai route, and Umbwe route.
In most cases, the routes are not very difficult to use for climbing. You won’t need any technical skills or experience to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, but people may experience altitude sickness during the climb, and the most challenging part for all routes is the climb to the summit. The western breach might require helmets due to loose rocks.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is somewhat difficult but very manageable. Tourists might need some preparation before attempting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and this can be done by acclimatizing with Mount Meru, located 70 kilometers from Mount Kilimanjaro. Tourists can also train on any other mountains or hills near them.
The biggest challenge most climbers face while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is acclimatizing to thinner air as they ascend to the summit. This can be a challenge for anyone, no matter how fit or trained you are; anyone can easily succumb to mountain sickness.
There is about 49% less oxygen at Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit compared to the usual oxygen your body is used to. Always watch out for some symptoms of altitude sickness like elevated blood pressure, heavy and fast breathing even while resting, constant headache, fatigue, higher pulse rate, and having difficulty sleeping.
The best thing tourists can do to somehow deal with expected mountain sickness is to do some acclimatization hikes or climbs before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Some people use altitude stimulators to prepare for the climb. It’s also advisable for people intending to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to consult with their healthcare professionals before doing so to ensure they are in good physical shape and proper health for the climb.
Tourists intending to climb Mount Kilimanjaro need to arrive in Tanzania a day or two before the actual climb. Others interested in starting with Mount Meru can come some days earlier. You should get enough rest, adjust to the environment and time before the actual climb.
Sometimes, unpredictable weather changes can make climbing Mount Kilimanjaro difficult. You need to come prepared to adapt to weather changes. If you’re not used to sleeping in tents, then the climb might also be a little difficult because you will have to sleep in tents, except if you choose some routes where you can sleep in huts.
Considering an electrolyte additive during the climb can be of great advantage, and don’t forget to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. No matter how fit or experienced you are, take your time during the climb. Eating a lot of carbohydrates during the climb also helps with blood oxygenation.
Having a flexible, knowledgeable, and experienced guide will make your climb much easier. Tourists can also hire porters at an affordable price to help carry luggage, which makes your climb easier.
The climb to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit and descent takes between 5 to 9 days, depending on the route or phase of the hikers. In conclusion, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is easier and more worthwhile compared to most mountains in the world. The more time you spend on the mountain, the more likely you will have a successful climb.
What to Bring
You need to pay attention to your packing list before you leave home just to make sure everything is in order. Some of the essential things you will need for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing include waterproof hiking boots, a headlamp, raincoats, sunglasses, long-sleeved clothing, insect repellents, sunscreen, hats, plenty of drinking water, energy-giving snacks, socks, gloves, and much more.
Best Time to Visit
Mount Kilimanjaro can be accessed all year round; however, the best time for mountain climbing is during the drier months of June to September and December to February when the trekking trails are in good condition and the weather is favorable for some outstanding panoramic views. You can also easily spot wildlife during these times.
The best time for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing also coincides with the best time for visiting other wildlife national parks in Tanzania, allowing you to combine your mountain climbing with wildlife viewing.
Getting There
Tourists can reach Kilimanjaro by flying directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport, located close to the park. Alternatively, you can fly to Nyerere International Airport, then fly to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International, or drive from Nyerere International Airport to the park.