Climbing any mountain can be a daunting task, and climbing expeditions add more pieces to the puzzle. While there are many ways to get up the mountain, here are some tips on how to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Before we get into the “how”, let’s talk about the “why” you want to climb Kilimanjaro. The beauty of any mountain is pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone, both physically and mentally. Kilimanjaro is a beautiful mountain, the highest mountain in Africa, with an altitude of 19,341 feet (5,895 meters), and the highest freestanding mountain in the world. This is a mountaineering expedition where you will live in the mountains for up to a week while growing as a mountaineer and learning more skills for your mountaineering goals. Best of all, you are in Africa! Climbing with a local Tanzanian guide is a unique cultural experience – get to know them, their culture and dance with them as they sing on the mountain.
The breakout route approaches the summit from the west. We were the only climbers on this side of the mountain that morning.
The first thing you need to decide is how you want to climb Kilimanjaro. There are seven routes on the mountain, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. All routes pass through five different climate zones, where you can experience everything from rainforests to Arctic peaks. There are stunning views and amazing camaraderie among climbers on every route. Here are my thoughts on two routes I’ve climbed:
In addition to the route, you also need to decide who will make up your team. You must climb with a local Tanzanian guide company, and while there are many to choose from, I recommend choosing one that belongs to the Porters Alliance. This ensures that all team members helping you up the mountain are working in good conditions with the appropriate equipment, and that they are paid appropriately. Although not mandatory, you can also have a Western guide in your group. The guide will receive additional medical training, including medication, as well as technical skills to help you get up and down the mountain. Many of these skills are also transferred to other high altitude mountainous areas. They've been to the mountains before and are with you every step of the way.
Once you choose a route, how do you prepare? Although Kilimanjaro is not a technical mountain, its high altitude can be challenging for anyone. I recommend all climbers to be well prepared so they can truly enjoy the experience. It’s much better to thrive than just survive, remember, the summit is only half way there. Luckily, training on Kilimanjaro is a lot of fun. The best way to prepare is to spend time hiking, running, and exploring the outdoors as much as possible. We call it “walking time.” Standing for long periods of time can help you succeed because adventure is a marathon, not a sprint. I also recommend gaining experience with loose, steep terrain. Knowing how to move efficiently in this terrain can help you conserve energy when you need it most.
Woke up at Shira 1 Camp at sunrise. This is the first camp with a panoramic view of Kilimanjaro.
Mountain climbing is also a mental sport. Be prepared for days when you feel like a superhero and days when you don't even want to leave your sleeping bag. In addition to what to do when you collapse, you also need experience to push yourself. Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone and learn how to enjoy the process, as most people don't intentionally put themselves in their comfort zone. So get ready to climb some fun mountains and find the snacks, drinks, gear, and motivation that work for you.
Speaking of gear, what exactly do you need? While we have an extensive list websitefinding the perfect gear is always a challenge. The best gear on the market is the gear that works for you. So, get out there and try different layering systems, shoes, and backpacks. Use and experience your gear before heading to the mountains. Since there are weight restrictions on gear, make sure you only have what you need.
There are so many nuances to climbing Kilimanjaro and there's no real wrong way, just ways to make it more fun. If you are interested or curious, please give us a call. We can help you prepare and get on the mountain with you. Learn more or book your trip here!
