If mountain climbing is your passion, then the Kilimanjaro challenge is sure to take your breath away. Rising to an impressive height of 19,340 ft., Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. The Kilimanjaro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covers most of the mountain's area.
Unlike the mountains in the Himalayas, scaling Kilimanjaro does not require expensive mountaineering equipment or prior mountaineering experience. However, being in excellent physical shape is a must. Don't underestimate the climb. Summit day, in particular, is the most challenging part of the climb and typically involves 8 hours for the ascent and 6-7 hours for the descent. You will need strength and endurance to conquer the mountain. Being in top physical condition is the most crucial factor for climbers to maximize their climbing potential. The better your physical condition, the more likely you are to perform well and have an enjoyable experience. If you plan to climb this mountain, start training early. Altitude sickness is a common problem, and no one is immune to it.
Mt. Kilimanjaro comprises three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo at 19,340 feet (5,895 meters), Mawenzi at 16,896 feet (5,149 meters), and Shira at 13,000 feet (3,962 meters). There are five common routes used to climb Kilimanjaro: Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, Rongai, and Umbwe. The highest summit of Kilimanjaro is Uhuru Peak. The highest peak on Mawenzi is Hans Meyer Point, which only mountaineers can reach. Kilimanjaro boasts a wide range of ecosystems on earth, including glaciers, snowfields, deserts, alpine moorland, savannah, and tropical jungle. The town of Moshi, which is not too far from the summit, is the most popular base for climbers.
When to go
For the best weather conditions, plan your Kilimanjaro climb between December and February when the skies are clearest and temperatures are warmer. The months of July through September also offer dry weather, although it can be colder during this period.
To tackle the mountain, allow yourself at least six days (five nights) following the Kilimanjaro Park Guide. This will help ensure your safety and give you time to acclimatize to the altitude. It's worth noting that the number (-1) mentioned indicates the minimum days required for the climb, but it's not recommended to shorten your trip to avoid altitude sickness and other risks. Your safety should always be a top priority.
THE ROUTES:
Route |
Description |
Days |
Length |
Lemosho |
Characterized by a long access drive, remote trails, and fewer climbers, making it a more secluded and peaceful option. The climb features beautiful forests and a scenic traverse to Barafu, providing ample opportunities for acclimatization. Camping is the accommodation option for this route, which is considered excellent for acclimatization due to the slower ascent. |
8 (-1) |
56 km |
Machame |
Second most popular path up Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking views of beautiful forests and providing very good opportunities for acclimatization. Climbers can enjoy a scenic traverse to Barafu, where they can set up camp and rest before continuing their ascent. The Machame route is a fantastic option for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the mountain while also acclimatizing gradually to the high altitude. |
7 (-1) |
49 km |
Marangu |
Features gentle gradients and long sections up to 4700m, making it ideal for climbers who prefer a less challenging climb. The Marangu route also boasts beautiful forests and moorlands and offers comfortable but basic huts for overnight stays. The 6-day variant of the route provides ample time for acclimatization, making it a great choice for climbers who want to take things at a slower pace. |
6 (-1) |
64 km |
Rongai |
Involves a long access drive and is a more remote and less frequented path up Kilimanjaro. Climbers who choose this route will be treated to some fine, wild, high-altitude mountain scenery as they make their way to the summit. Camping is the norm on this route, which is a great option for those looking for a more rugged, adventurous climb. The Rongai route is also good for acclimatization, as climbers have more time to adjust to the high altitude. |
6 |
65 km |
Umbwe |
Shortest and steepest option for climbers tackling Kilimanjaro. This route is not for the faint of heart, as it is a challenging climb that requires a high level of fitness and stamina. However, climbers who choose the Umbwe route will be rewarded with beautiful forest scenery and a spectacular ridge. The route is also good for acclimatization and features a scenic traverse to Barafu, where climbers can camp before making their way to the summit. |
6 |
37 km |
Marangu Route Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to Moshi town. Check in to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and driven to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate at Marangu. The first section of the climb takes you through the montane forest to Mandara Hut at 9000ft/2750m. The hike takes 3 to 4 hours. Overnight stay at Mandara hut.
Day 3: Leaving the forest, you'll trek along a good path through open grassy moorland to reach Horombo Hut at 12000ft/3700m. The hike takes 5 to 7 hours. Overnight stay at Horombo hut.
Day 4: You'll continue ascending past the last water point, traversing the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi to Kibo Hut at 15000ft/4700m. The hike takes 5 to 7 hours. Overnight stay at Kibo hut.
Day 5: An early start for the summit day, with a steep and heavy screed up to Gilman's Point at 18640ft/5681m. From there, you'll trek on the crater rim to arrive in time for sunrise at Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 19340ft/5896m. You'll then descend to Horombo Hut for an overnight stay. The ascent takes 7 to 8 hours, and the descent takes 4 to 7 hours.
Day 6: Descend the mountain to the Park Gate, which takes 5 to 7 hours. You'll then be met and transferred to the lodge for an overnight stay. Dinner and breakfast are provided.
Day 7:After breakfast, you'll check out from the lodge and be transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport for your onward flight home.
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Machame Route Itinerary
Day 1: Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Moshi town, after which you will proceed to the Machame Gate at Kilimanjaro National Park. The first section of your climb takes you through the lush montane forest, leading up to the Machame Campsite, situated at an altitude of 10,000ft/3000m. You will spend the night at the camp, which will take approximately 5 to 7 hours.
Day 2: After a good night's rest, you will continue your journey, following a steep ridge across heath and moorland to reach "picnic rock" and the Shira plateau. The Shira Campsite, situated at an altitude of 12,500ft/3800m, will be your resting place for the night. The journey to the camp will take approximately 5 to 7 hours.
Day 3: You will be heading towards Kibo, crossing a broad valley and climbing to a ridge crest. You will then cross scree slopes and a river valley before reaching the Barranco Campsite, located at an altitude of 13,000ft/3900m. You will spend the night at the camp, which will take approximately 5 to 7 hours.
Day 4: Day four takes you across the floor of the Great Barranco Valley and up the Barranco Wall to the Karanga River - the last water point on this route. A steep climb over rocky slabs will lead you to the Barafu Campsite, situated at an altitude of 15,500ft/4600m. You will spend the night at the camp, which will take approximately 8 to 9 hours.
Day 5: An early start on day five will see you making your way towards the summit - Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at an altitude of 19,340ft/5896m. The climb to the summit will take approximately 6 to 7 hours. After reaching the summit, you will descend via Barafu Campsite through the forest to the Mweka Campsite, located at an altitude of 10,000ft/3000m. The descent will take approximately 5 to 7 hours, and you will spend the night at the camp.
Day 6: On the final day of your journey, you will descend through the forest to the park gate at Mweka Wildlife College. The descent will take approximately 3 to 4 hours, after which you will be met and transferred to Arusha town for an overnight stay.
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Rongai Route
The Kilimanjaro Rongai Route is a popular trekking trail that can be accessed from Tanzania or Kenya. However, it's important to note that all park fees and arrangements must be made at the Marangu Gate, which serves as the starting point for the trek.The Rongai Route is a one-way ascent only, and trekkers must use the Marangu Route for their descent. Along the way, you'll encounter several large caves that are used by porters for overnight stays during the first two nights of the trek.
This unique route offers a less crowded and more remote option to the summit, making it a great choice for adventurous hikers looking for a different perspective on the mountain. So why not take the path less travelled and experience the beauty of Kilimanjaro through the Rongai Route?
Rongai Route Itinerary
Day 1: Your trekking adventure begins with a transfer from Arusha to Moshi Town. You will spend the night at a hotel in 2 double rooms on a bed and breakfast basis. Your lead guide will come to the hotel to check your mountaineering equipment and provide you with important briefings to prepare you for the climb ahead.
Day 2: The Rongai route starts at the village of Nale Moru. You will take a long walk through cultivated land before entering the lush pine forest. Keep your eyes peeled for Kilimanjaro Colobus monkeys in the tree tops with their white fringed 'capes' and tails. It will take 3 to 4 hours to reach the first camp, First Cave, which is located on the edge of the moorland zone where the forest begins to thin out. The campsite sits at an altitude of 8500ft/2600m, where you will spend the night at 1st Cave Camp.
Day 3:The morning walk is a steady ascent up to Second Cave at 11300ft/3450m with breathtaking views of Kibo and the eastern ice fields on the crater rim. After enjoying the views, you will push on to reach Third Cave taking 3 to 4 hours at 12800ft/3800m for overnight camp. Overnight 3rd Cave Camp.
Day 4: Your ascent continues on the east side of Kibo crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. It will take 4 to 5 hours to reach Kibo Hut at 15000ft/4700m. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent, which begins around midnight. You will spend the night at Kibo Camp.
Day 5: This is the day you have been preparing for, the day you will summit Mount Kilimanjaro. You will start early in the morning for the steep climb on heavy screen to arrive at Gilman's Point at 18640ft/5681m in time to see the sun rise. For those who want to reach the highest point in Africa, you can take the approximately three-hour excursion to Uhuru Peak 19340/5896m, passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Kibo is surprisingly fast, and after some refreshments, you will continue the descent to reach the final campsite at Horombo at 12000ft/3700m taking 11 to 15 hours. Overnight Horombo Camp.
Day 6: This is your last day on the mountain, and you will start with a steady descent down through the moorland to Mandara Hut. From there, you will head downward through the lush forest on a good path to the National Park gate at Marangu (1830m). The descent will take 5 to 7 hours, and you will be met and transferred to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay. You will be accommodated in 2 double rooms on a half-board basis.
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The Lemosho route is a relatively new and increasingly popular option for those seeking to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is renowned for its balance of low traffic, stunning scenery, and high summit success rate, making it an excellent choice for a memorable climb.
This route approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, with a long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. From there, the first two days are spent trekking through the lush rainforest to reach Shira Ridge. Unlike the Machame route, which simply intersects the Shira Plateau, the Lemosho route crosses the entirety of the plain from west to east, providing a relatively flat and scenic hike. Another advantage of the Lemosho route is that it encounters low traffic until it joins with the Machame route. After this point, Lemosho follows the same southern circuit route through Lava Tower, Barranco, and Barafu before descending via the Mweka route.
It is important to note that the minimum number of days required for this route is six, although it is highly recommended to take eight days to fully enjoy the scenery and acclimate properly. Lemosho is considered the most picturesque route on Kilimanjaro, offering panoramic vistas on different sides of the mountain.
In summary, the Lemosho route is an excellent choice for those seeking a scenic, low-traffic, and successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. With its balanced itinerary and breathtaking views, Lemosho is highly recommended for those looking to make their Kilimanjaro climb experience unforgettable.
FINAL CHECKLIST FOR KILIMANJARO
Be properly equipped
One of the important prerequisites of a successful summit attempt is being properly equipped. Ensure that you are well equipped - print the Checklist below and mark it off, it will be an essential part of your preparation for the climb. Please remember to limit the weight of your duffel bag and its content, to be carried by the porters on the climb to 15 kg (30 lbs.) or less. Extra luggage, including clean clothes to wear after your climb, can be left at the hotel in Moshi. Please feel free to contact us should you have any further questions regarding the checklist. We also provide a complete and quality rental service on all the equipment required on the mountain, as a sensible alternative to purchasing.
Travel Documents
- Valid passport and visa
- Airline ticket
- International health card with immunizations (Yellow fever)
- Travel insurance
- Medical insurance
- US$ cash / Travelers Checks / Credit Card
Essential Items
- Duffel bag - large enough for all climbing gear and clothing. To be carried by the porters. An extra bag to be left at the hotel with extra gear
- Small luggage lock - to lock zippers.
- Day backpack - between 20 - 35 litres. Large enough to carry your water, camera, raincoat, lunch pack, snacks and warm clothing
- Sleeping bag (good quality which can be use below -20 degrees).
- Ski-pole / walking stick.
- Water bottle / containers.
- Kilimanjaro map (Can be bought at Park gate)
High Altitude Gear
- Waterproof, breathable & windproof jacket (outer wear e.g. like Ventex, Gore-Tex or Jeantex)
- Waterproof, breathable & windproof pants (outer wear)
- Polar fleece (middle layer)
- Thermal underwear (under layers)
- Mittens or warm gloves (hand warmers)
- Glove liners (if necessary)
- One pair thermal (polertex) socks.
- Balaclava
- Gaiters
- Thermal water flask
Hiking Gear
- Shorts
- Hiking pants.
- Regular underwear
- T-shirts
- Raincoat or Poncho
Footwear
- Water resistant semi-stiff hiking boots - mid weight boots work great
- Shoes for overnight camps - i.e. sneakers, running shoes, etc.
- Socks - several pairs for the climb.
- Liner socks - to keep your feet dry and limit the risk of blisters
Equipment
- Sun hat or similar (with a brim)
- Collapsible ski stick (optional but highly recommended)
- Water bottles - two or three (total capacity at least 6 litres)
- Head lamp, good strong one with spare batteries and an extra light bulb
- Water purification tablets
- Sunglasses, good quality dark lenses for the climb, with a securing strap
- Flashlight (torch) with spare batteries
Personal Items
- Toilet kit (soap, tooth brush, toilet articles, wet wipes, etc.).
- Towel
- Sun screen and lip protection, SPF 30+
- Ziploc bags, to protect camera, binoculars, etc. from dust
- Toilet paper
- Money belt for passport and valuables
Medical and First Aid Supplies
(Please check with your doctor before taking below medicine with you)
- Headaches--Syndols
- Altitude sickness-Diamox (if not allergic to sulpha)
- Diarrhoea - Imodium
- Nausea - Valiod
- Malaria - Prophylaxis
- Water purification tablets
- Painkillers
- Muscular sprains
- Abrasions blisters and cuts - Plaster, bandages
- Antiseptic cream - Betadine
- Flu and colds
- Eyes - drops
- Insect repellent
Optional Items
- Camera, extra lenses and film (ASA 200 film recommended)
- Binoculars
- Powdered sports drinks for the climb (ex. Game or Isotonic drinks)
- Pocket knife
- Notebook & pencil
- Plastic bags to keep clothing dry (masking tape)
- Energy snacks and sweets
- Video camera, tapes, battery packs and tri-pod
For trekkers who are not fully kitted out, the following used equipment is available for hire from the Mountain Inn Hotel.
Please inquire.
Equipment |
Anorak |
Balaclava |
Battery |
Duffel bag |
Gaiters |
Gloves |
Mountain Boots Bag |
Pouch |
Rain Coat |
Rain Trousers |
RuckSack |
Sleeping Bag (not four season) |
Socks |
Walking Stick |
Sunglasses |
Torch |
Thick Sweater |
Underwear Trousers |
Water bottle |
Tent |
Mattress |
Kindly note that the Huts on the Marangu routes are very basic and you have to share it with other climbers; the toilets are not en-suite and are of a very basic quality. The rescue at mountain is manually by one wheeled gurney, the rescue vehicle can only come up to the first hut.
Contacts: sales@rickshawtravels.com
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