Hiking Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in the African continent - 19,341 feet and it draws an international crowd of trekkers + adventurers who are hoping to return home with a successful ascent + bragging rights in their pocket. There are multiple routes up the mountain + the rate of ascent depend on the route chosen. Some allow for additional time for adequate acclimatization. Kilimanjaro can be climbed throughout the year. However, do keep in mind that March + April are known to be the wettest months on record.
Choosing a Kilimanjaro route is an important decision when taking into consideration your health, your enjoyment of the experience + your success at summiting. Distances + costs vary depending on which route you take. Additional days will add cost to trip but will allow any hikers to acclimatize to the altitude over a longer period of time which is to be presumed safer. We also recommend booking with a reputable guide company in the area to ensure all details are well thought out + considered prior to departure.
THE ROUTES
The Marangu Route
This is one of the most popular routes leading to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Many hikers believe it is the easiest route to Uhuru peak + the only route which can be hiked in 5 days . This makes it the cheapest option and also allows for hikers to stay in A frame accommodations with toilets + running water along the route. This route also has one of the lowest success rates of summiting and experts believe that extending the hike to 6 days will increase the likelihood of reaching the summit. Climbers descend the same way that they go up the mountain.
The Machame Route
The Machame route is a scenic + beautiful route and one of the most popular. Sleeping accommodation in tents that are carried up the mountain by porters. It can be completed in 6 days but it is highly recommended to extend to 7 days to allow for additional acclimatization. There are a couple portions of this route that are physically demanding and could affect people with fear of heights. As this is a common route there are also more hikers to be found on this route. Hikers return via Mweka route.
The Umbwe Route
This route is known for caves + being very scenic + on of the least technical routes. It is also known to be one of the shortest routes. There are a few areas that can put your safety at risk because of falling rocks and path instability.
The Shira Route
The Shira Plateau is known to be extreme beautiful + under good weather conditions you can drive to within a 1/2 hours walk of Shira Hut (3850m). The drive offers views of Mt Meru and the Great Rift Valley. Ascending quickly by vehicle to about 4000m requires additional acclimatization. This route is best for hikers who are already acclimatized from hiking either Mt Meru or Mt Kenya several days before.
The Lemosho Route
This route is one of the quieter routes up Kilimanjaro but becomes busy when the route combines with the Machame route on day 3. This is not an ideal route during the rainy season. The necessary time to reach the start point is quite long. This route descends along the Mweka Route.
The Rongai Route
The Rongai route ascends the Northeastern side of Kilimanjaro along the border between Tanzania and Kenya. It is one of the quietest routes on the mountain, however there is a long travel time to the starting point of the route. The route will become busier when it connects with the Marangu route and keep in mind that the summit path route is also longer, more strenuous and challenging than the summit path used by the Machame, Lemosho and Umbwe routes.
The Mweka Route
This route may only be use as a descending route.
The Northern Circuit
The Northern circuit is the area that connects the northern side of Kilimanjaro with the western side. The area is filled with amazing views and very few hikers. 8-9 days are needed to include this area.
Western Breach / Arrow Glacier
This alternative final route of ascending can be taken from all of the western routes, sleeping at magnificent Arrow Glacier on your summit night. This is technically difficult and there are higher risks associated and will require use of an ice axe.
In order to have the best Kilimanjaro experience it is imperative that one arrives prepared and in shape. Many fitness programs can be followed that are geared towards this hike. It is important to bring proper equipment and come prepared to push yourself + maintain a positive attitude. Appropriate travel insurance is a requirement in case of need for evacuation. Many insurance providers consider this an adventure activity and you must ensure that a Kilimanjaro summit is included in your policy.
TIPS FOR HIKERS
Climbers can enhance their experience by taking adequate amount of time to acclimatize
Drink lots of water + use water purification tablets
Walk at higher altitude + sleep at lower altitudes
Climb + pack light
Have proper attire for all weather conditions
Dress in layers which will allow for removal as needed
Thermal underwear needs quick dry properties
Tanzania has a plastic ban. you can utilize zip lock bags but must take home with you.
Hiking boots need to be waterproof
Walking stick or pole to decrease impact on knees.
Headlamp with new batteries for night summit
Malaria prophylaxis needed. Read more about Malaria here.
Acute Mountain Sickness affects 70% of Kilimanjaro hikers
Keep your camera dry + utilize a new battery at summit
Hand + foot warmers helpful
There is mobile reception but you will not be able to recharge your phone
ALTITUDE SICKNESS / ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS
This is a pathological disease known to occur above 10,00 feet. It can result in high altitude pulmonary edema and high altitude cerebral edema. The only definitive treatment for AMS is descent. When traveling, you need to be aware of the potential for drug interactions between medications used for altitude illness and antimalarial and antidiarrheal agents used by travelers. Individuals taking Acetazolamide are less likely to develop AMS but can still experience some symptoms of altitude sickness. This drug is known to accelerate acclimatization + must be started the day before ascent. Children may also safely take this medication. Dexamethasone is a well known alternative for people who have allergies or intolerance to Acetazolamide. People with underlying medical conditions like pregnancy, lung, cardiac disease ocular + and neurologic conditions should consult with travel health provider.
Get yourself ready in every single way to best prepare + to pump yourself up for an experience of a lifetime!
Remember to review the PASEO HEALTH GUIDE for your chosen destination prior to your departure for more detailed information.
You may also schedule a BESPOKE TRAVEL HEALTH CONSULTATION for a thorough travel health assessment prior to your trip.
Safe Travels!