Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging but achievable high-altitude trek, not a technical climb, requiring good fitness and stamina, with success depending heavily on acclimatization to altitude over 5-9 days on routes like Machame or Lemosho. Best during dry seasons (Jan-Mar, Jun-Oct), it involves diverse climates, intense cold on summit night, and a significant physical test, with longer, slower routes offering better success rates.
Key Aspects of Climbing Kilimanjaro
- Difficulty: It’s a strenuous trek, not mountaineering. The main challenge is altitude, with summit night being the hardest part (cold, wind, steep ascent/descent).
- Duration: Typically 5 to 9 days, with longer trips (7+ days) significantly improving acclimatization and success rates.
- Fitness: Requires stamina for long, consecutive days of hiking. Focus on hiking with elevation gain and cardio; consult a doctor.
- Acclimatization: Crucial for success. “Pole, pole” (slowly, slowly) pace and “climb high, sleep low” strategies are vital.
Routes & Logistics
- Routes: Seven main routes for mount kilimanjaro climbing (Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, Northern Circuit, Umbwe).
- Popular Choices: Machame (popular, scenic) and Lemosho (longer, good acclimatization) are common.
- Best Time: Dry seasons: January–March and June–October offer the best weather.
- Operator Choice: Choose reputable operators; low prices often mean mistreated porters and safety risks. Fees (park, rescue) are significant.
What to Expect
- Terrain: From rainforest to alpine desert to glacial zones.
- Conditions: Warm at base, freezing at summit; variable weather.
- Logistics: Usually involves guides, porters, and camping; often starts from Arusha or Moshi.
Why People Say It’s Hard
- Extreme altitude effects (altitude sickness affects ~77% of climbers).
- Long, exhausting summit night (12-14 hours).
- Physical toll of multiple days in tents at altitude.