Our complete beginner’s guide to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro includes everything you need to know for a fun, safe, and well-prepared adventure on Africa’s tallest peak.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can be a truly life-changing experience.
It’s about so much more than just getting a great photo at Uhuru Peak. You’ll make incredible memories and friends along the way, witness breathtaking scenery, and gain a new appreciation for your body. Not to mention experiencing the unique African vibe that you just don’t get on the other Seven Summits.
And if there’s one of the Seven Summits that we’d recommend regular hikers try, it’s Kilimanjaro.
Yes, it’s expensive and yes it’s often hard to reach. But, it’s a much more accessible climb, and every step you take to the summit offers new rewards.
To help you plan for your Kilimanjaro adventure, here’s everything you need to know.
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro is found in the northeast of Tanzania, close to the border with Kenya and near the Great Rift Valley. It’s approximately 140 kilometers south of Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.
If you’re coming from Tanzania, it’s about 500 kilometers northeast of Dodoma, the capital city. The mountain is a part of Kilimanjaro National Park.
How Do I Get to Mount Kilimanjaro?
The most popular way to reach Mount Kilimanjaro is by flying to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) in Tanzania.
There are direct flights from Europe (such as Amsterdam and Zurich) and the Middle East (including Doha and Turkey).
However, most likely, you’ll need to connect through another African destination, with Dar es Salaam, Addis Ababa, and Nairobi being your best options.
When starting your Mount Kilimanjaro hike, you’ll usually depart from one of two towns: Arusha, located southwest of the mountain, or Moshi, directly south.
It takes about an hour to reach Moshi and 80 minutes to get to Arusha. The most common transport methods are by taxi or pre-booked shuttle, although in many cases, your tour operator will meet you at the airport.
Image source: Climbing Kilimanjaro
When is the Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
To understand the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll need to understand Tanzania’s climate – which is typically tropical, featuring wet and dry seasons over a hot and humid climate.
Tanzania has two rainy seasons: a short one from November to mid-December and a long rainy season from March to May. During these times, the routes on Mount Kilimanjaro can be wet and muddy. If you’re seeking solitude, these seasons are less crowded for hiking but be prepared for damp conditions.
The ideal time on the mountain is from July to October, coinciding with the European summer holidays. This period offers dry and cooler weather, though nights can be cold. For a similar climate with fewer climbers, consider climbing from mid-May to June, just before the peak season.
December to February are warmer months with good visibility. However, the short rainy season can extend into December, so there might still be wet conditions. This period also coincides with the Christmas holidays, so it can be busy.
So, when is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? Well, you can climb it throughout the year. But, your experience can be totally different depending on the season you choose.
How Long Does it Take to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
There are seven routes up Kilimanjaro, each taking between five and nine days. We break these routes down in more detail below.
Climbers typically conquer the mountain in around six days. While you can try to skip acclimatization days and make very quick ascents on Kilimanjaro, this is definitely not recommended. Altitude sickness is no joke on the mountain. Taking the time to properly acclimate to the altitude is essential for a safe and successful climb.
So, rule number one in climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not to rush the ascent – doing so could actually slow down your trip to the summit.
A slow, steady ascent gives your body time to adjust to high altitudes where there is less oxygen in the air. If you race to the summit, you’re at risk of getting altitude sickness and having to leave the mountain.
Remember, it’s not a race to the top; it’s about enjoying the journey and ensuring your safety. So, take your time, enjoy the journey, and give your body the chance to acclimatize properly.
This is why we recommend adding an extra day or two to your trip estimation, just to leave room for emergency acclimatization.
Is Climbing Kilimanjaro Difficult?
Being the highest mountain in Africa, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not going to be easy.
Although it may be considered one of the easier of the Seven Summits, it’s still a 5,895m mountain. This means you need to have solid fitness levels, and you need to have experience climbing mountains.
Porters will be available to carry some of your equipment, but you’ll still be wearing a daypack containing all the food, water, and clothing you need for the day.
However, Kilimanjaro is a walking mountain, so you don’t need to have any technical mountain climbing skills. You don’t even need any particularly specialized mountaineering gear when climbing.
As long as you’re fit and mentally prepared for the challenge, anyone can make it to the summit. But, you need to have a realistic idea of what this climb involves and be mentally and physically prepared for the challenge.
Can You Climb Kilimanjaro Without a Guide?
No, you need a guide to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
In 1991, the Tanzanian government and Kilimanjaro National Park passed a regulation requiring all trekkers to be accompanied by a registered and licensed guide.
Before setting out, trekkers need to register with the Parks Authority and sign in at each camp. Wild camping or using caves for shelter is not permitted, and park rangers strictly enforce these rules.
How Much Does it Cost to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
To climb Kilimanjaro, you’ll also need to pay park entrance fees. These fees may seem significant, but they include a conservation fee to help cover maintenance costs, campsite fees, and even a rescue fee (just in case). Payment is made in advance through your tour operator, not independently.
At the time of writing this guide, Kilimanjaro Park fees for non-East African citizens are:
- Entrance fee: $70 USD
- Public campsites (during safaris): $50 USD
- Rescue fee (necessary for hiking): $20 USD
- Cycling in the park: $50 USD
In addition to the national park fees, you’ll also need to pay for a guide. Many tour operators use porters to help carry heavy camping equipment and other support staff.
Then there’s also the costs of flights and additional transportation and accommodation to factor in.
The overall cost of climbing Kilimanjaro typically ranges between $2000 to $6000 USD, depending on the length of your route and the tour operator you choose.
We don’t recommend opting for the cheapest option you find when searching for trekking guides. Remember, you pay for experience, and that means doing things properly.
A reputable guide will ensure proper equipment, more experience in different weather and trekking conditions, good food, and a safe timeframe to allow for rest and adjustment. Invest in your safety and enjoyment.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: How to Prepare
Even though Kilimanjaro is considered a ‘walk-up mountain’, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s easy. Proper preparation is crucial, especially if you are on a shorter time frame or a harder route. Here’s how you can get ready:
- Fitness Training: Plan and execute a training program to improve your fitness, strength, and endurance. Consider climbing a few smaller mountains before the expedition. You can check out our list of the best hikes in the UK for some inspiration!
- Gym Workouts: If you live in a city, hit up the local gym. The stairmaster will help build endurance and strength. Don’t forget that Kilimanjaro is approximately 24,915 stairs high!
- Practice Hiking with a Weighted Backpack: If you’re going to be carrying most of your own gear, practice hiking while carrying a weighted backpack. It really does make it much more difficult.
What Equipment Do You Need for Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?
The gear you use for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro will have a massive impact on your overall experience. If you’re comfortable, you’ll have so much more fun trekking up the mountain. So, make sure you take the time to pack properly.
Here’s a list of essential clothing and equipment you’ll need:
- Good waterproof and breathable hiking boots: By far the most important piece of equipment is your pair of hiking boots. They need to be thick and comfortable, and you need to break them in before your trip. We also recommend you bring plenty of thick socks to avoid blisters. Top tip: try walking in double pairs of socks for added comfort.
- Waterproof backpack and hydration sack: Choose one big enough to hold your personal items, including a camera, head torch, clothes, and the food you are given for the day.
- Thermals: Make sure you’re prepared for the cold. A good set of thermals is essential for the cold nights and some days of hiking.
- Waterproof/windproof pants and shell: Even in the dryer seasons, the weather can become cold very quickly, and you need to be prepared for all conditions. Luckily these items are lightweight and can pack away easily.
- Quick-dry hiking clothes and trousers: Zip-off trousers are great for the first and last days of the trek when you want to change between long and short pants.
- Fleece/down jackets: These are needed when the temperature drops. Remember, the summit can be as cold as -30 degrees Celsius.
- Beanie and gloves: Essential for keeping warm.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: Often forgotten, but crucial. You can be very exposed some days, and you don’t want to be burnt for your time on the mountain.
- Warm change of clothes: Great for the nights to help you stay cozy, and to keep you feeling fresh when spirits get low.
- Basic toiletries: Bring essentials like a toothbrush and toothpaste, but keep it lightweight.
- Head torch: Essential for the evenings and summit night. Don;t forget to bring spare batteries.
- Hiking snacks: Bring lots of energy bars, as they are a lightweight, high-calorie option.
- Small medical kit: Include essentials like plasters and second skin for blisters.
Take a look at our more detailed backpacking checklist for a handy resource to help you pack for any multi-day hike.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: What’s the Best Route?
One of the biggest considerations you need to make when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is choosing the right route. This will probably be decided by your climb operator, but you can pick which guide you use based on the routes they offer.
Here are the different routes up to the summit.
Marangu Route (70km / 5-6 Days)
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is considered the easiest and most popular route to climb Kilimanjaro. It’s often chosen by those who prefer a shorter, less strenuous trek.
The route is approximately 70 kilometers long and typically takes about 5 to 6 days to complete. One of the key features of the Marangu Route is that it’s the only route on Kilimanjaro that offers accommodation in rustic huts rather than tents.
However, due to the route’s popularity, it’s often crowded, and the huts can get quite congested.
The Marangu Route offers a gentle and gradual climb, making it suitable for beginners. However, being a shorter route, it does have a higher rate of ascent. This could lead to difficulties in acclimatization.
Machame Route (61km / 6-7 Days)
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey” route, is one of the most popular routes to climb Kilimanjaro. It’s well-loved for its breathtaking scenery and varied landscapes.
The route covers approximately 61 kilometers and typically takes about 6 to 7 days to complete. The Machame Route is slightly more challenging than the Marangu Route, but it offers better acclimatization opportunities due to its “climb high, sleep low” approach.
One of the unique features of the Machame Route is that it’s a “staircase” climb, with many steep ascents and descents. Trekkers ascend through the rainforest, then enter the heath and moorland, and finally reach the alpine desert zone.
The Machame Route is considered one of the most scenic routes on Kilimanjaro, offering some of the best panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Lemosho Route (67km / 7-8 Days)
The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded routes on Kilimanjaro. It’s known for its stunning panoramic views, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife.
The route covers approximately 67 kilometers and typically takes about 7 to 8 days to complete. The route starts from the west, allowing for a more gradual ascent and better acclimatization.
The Lemosho Route is recommended for trekkers who want a more remote and less crowded experience. The trail passes through lush rainforests, heath, and moorland, before reaching the alpine desert and ultimately, the summit.
The Lemosho Route offers trekkers the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and antelope. Due to its longer duration and lower traffic, the Lemosho Route has a higher success rate compared to other routes.
Rongai Route (74km / 6-7 Days)
The Rongai Route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north. It’s known for its remote wilderness experience and some great opportunities to spot wildlife.
The route covers approximately 74 kilometers and typically takes about 6 to 7 days to complete. The Rongai Route starts near the Kenyan border and offers trekkers a gentler ascent with fewer crowds.
One of the main advantages of the Rongai Route is that it experiences less rainfall, providing drier and more stable conditions. The trail passes through a range of landscapes, offering trekkers the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife – including monkeys, antelope, and even elephants.
The Rongai Route joins with the Marangu Route at Kibo Hut before making the final ascent to the summit.
Shira Route (58km / 6-8 Days)
The Shira Route is known for its amazing panoramic views and diverse landscapes. It’s one of the most challenging routes on Kilimanjaro, starting at a higher altitude. The route covers approximately 58 kilometers and typically takes about 6 to 8 days to complete.
The Shira Route starts at a high elevation of 3,600 meters, which increases the risk of altitude sickness. Trekkers must be well-prepared and acclimatized before attempting this route.
It’s one of the less crowded routes on Kilimanjaro, providing a more remote and isolated experience. On the third day, the Shira Route joins the Machame Route, allowing trekkers to enjoy the best of both routes.
Northern Circuit (88km / 8-9 Days)
The Northern Circuit is the newest and longest route on Kilimanjaro. It’s known for its stunning scenery and the opportunity to circumnavigate the entire mountain.
The route covers approximately 88 kilometers and typically takes about 8 to 9 days to complete. The Northern Circuit starts along the Lemosho Route, then crosses the Shira Plateau before circumnavigating the northern slopes.
The Northern Circuit is the most scenic and least crowded route on Kilimanjaro, offering trekkers a truly wilderness experience. The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, including lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and glaciers.
The longer duration of the Northern Circuit allows for better acclimatization and a higher success rate. It’s ideal for trekkers seeking a remote and less-traveled route.
Umbwe Route (48km / 6-7 Days)
The Umbwe Route is the shortest, steepest, and most difficult route on Kilimanjaro. It’s known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views.
The route covers approximately 48 kilometers and typically takes about 6 to 7 days to complete. The Umbwe Route is recommended for experienced trekkers who are looking for a challenging and adventurous climb.
The Umbwe Route starts at a high elevation, making it essential for trekkers to be well-prepared and acclimatized. The trail ascends quickly through dense rainforests before reaching the Barranco Wall, a challenging rock scramble.
Despite its difficulty, the Umbwe Route offers incredible panoramic views and a true sense of adventure. It has one of the lowest success rates due to its steep and strenuous terrain.
What You’ll Wish You Knew Before Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is about so much more than just getting a great photo at the summit. It’s a complete experience, that lets you soak up the incredible natural beauty of Tanzania over the course of a week (or more).
To help you enjoy the adventure and appreciate your time on the mountain, here are some of the most important tips to keep in mind before you go.
Take Your Time
Before embarking on your Kilimanjaro adventure, it’s essential to understand the importance of going slow.
Altitude sickness can be a serious risk, and it should be on your mind at all times. However, the best way to avoid it is to simply go slow.
While trekking, take it easy and pace yourself. Your body is working harder at higher altitudes due to thinner air and less oxygen.
The porters will often remind you to go “pole, pole,” which means “slowly, slowly” in Swahili. Be the tortoise. Walk slower than you normally would, and your body will thank you.
Hiking Kilimanjaro is not a race. Everyone wants everyone to succeed. So, don’t feel ashamed to be at the back of the group. You’ll have a better chance of avoiding altitude sickness. Plus, you’ll have more time to enjoy the scenery.
Invest in the Right Gear
Having the right gear can make or break your Kilimanjaro experience. If you’re going to do a hike of this magnitude, we’d seriously recommend splashing out a bit on quality gear.
Even if you go to the mountain with all the physical training and mental preparation possible, without great walking boots or warm clothes, you’ll have a hard time enjoying yourself. Therefore, it’s crucial to get quality thermal gear, enough layers, a down jacket, a four-season sleeping bag, and hand warmers.
Don’t forget a sun hat and sun cream. When cold winds blow against burnt skin, it’s not fun.
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is essential for warding off altitude sickness. We’d recommend getting a hydration pack instead of a bottle, as this makes it a lot easier to stay hydrated throughout your hike.
Water should be readily accessible as you walk up Kilimanjaro, so don’t worry about conserving your water. It’s recommended to drink three liters a day. This way, you don’t have to stop every time you need a sip.
Also, take hydration salts to help you stay hydrated. Diarrhea is common at altitude, and hydration salts can be incredibly helpful.
Make Sure You’re Mentally Prepared
Your body might be ready physically, but getting to the summit is also a big mental challenge.
Summit night can be really tough, and you need the mental strength to keep pushing you. This is also what makes it the most amazing and rewarding thing you’ll ever do.
The further you hike, it becomes way more about your mindset than your physical strength. So, be prepared with motivational thoughts, or possibly even a hiking playlist. Just take it step by step.
When you get to the top and take in that sunrise, every step will be worth it.
Conclusion
If there’s one thing we can say about climbing Kilimanjaro, it’s that preparation is everything. The more prepared you are, both in fitness and in gear, the more enjoyable and safe your trip will be.
And remember, take it slow and enjoy the views. It’s really not about the summit as much as it’s about the entire adventure up.