Conquering the Roof of Africa: A Comprehensive Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

A Comprehensive Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro stands tall and magnificent, rising above the Tanzanian landscape as the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. It's not just a mountain; it's a symbol of Africa's grandeur, an adventurer's dream, and a once-in-a-lifetime journey for many. If you've ever dreamed of standing upon its snowy peak, read on for a comprehensive guide to climbing this iconic mountain.

Location of Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Africa, in the northeastern part of Tanzania, near its border with Kenya. Standing at a staggering 5,895 meters above sea level, it is the highest peak on the African continent.

Getting There

The most popular way to get to Kilimanjaro is to fly into the Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Numerous international airlines operate flights connecting JRO with major cities around the world.

Other less popular ways include crossing the land border from Kenya, taking a train from Dar es Salaam or overlanding from other countries in Africa.

Best Time to Go

While Kilimanjaro is climbable all year-round, there are two primary seasons considered best for the trek:

1. June to October: This is the main dry season. It's a popular time, so expect more crowds, but the weather conditions are generally favourable.
2. January to March: This is a quieter season, offering a more solitary experience. The weather is a bit colder, but the skies are clearer, offering breathtaking views.

Mount Kilimanjaro (cc: Sergey Pesterev)

Routes up Kilimanjaro

While there are several routes to reach the summit, the most popular ones are Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho.

1. Marangu Route: Often dubbed the 'Coca-Cola route', Marangu is the oldest and one of the most well-trodden paths. It offers hut accommodation, making it unique among Kilimanjaro trekking routes. Typically done in 5-6 days, this is considered the easiest route, but don't be fooled; the success rate isn't the highest because of its shorter acclimatization period.
2. Machame Route: Known as the 'Whiskey route', Machame is more challenging but also more scenic than Marangu. It offers trekkers a chance to traverse through diverse landscapes – from rainforests to alpine deserts to glaciers. Taking about 6-7 days, the Machame route offers better acclimatization opportunities, leading to a higher success rate.
3. Lemosho Route: Beginning on the western side of Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho route is probably the most beautiful and unspoiled. It merges with the Machame route on day 3, but offers a longer journey, usually around 7-8 days, allowing for even better acclimatization and a very good chance of reaching the summit.

Cost of the Expedition

Climbing Kilimanjaro is an investment, both in terms of time and money. On average, a Kilimanjaro trek will cost approximately $2,000 to $2,300, depending on the route, duration, and the amenities offered by the tour operator. This usually includes park fees, guide and porter fees, food, accommodation, and other essentials. Keep in mind, you often get what you pay for. Opting for a cheaper tour might mean compromising on safety, equipment quality, or other important factors.

Booking Your Expedition

This brings us to one of the most crucial decisions: choosing the right tour operator. Remember, while Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb, it's still a challenging feat therefore safety, experience, and quality should be your top priorities.

While numerous companies provide Mount Kilimanjaro expedition services, Altezza Travel is one of the premier tour operators in Tanzania, holding the No. 1 spot on TripAdvisor for outdoor activities in Moshi, the heart of the Kilimanjaro region. They specialize in safari adventures and Kilimanjaro expeditions, prioritizing safety, quality, and comfort, and have group tours setting out every 2-3 days. Positioned directly at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, their sole office benefits from local insights, ensuring travellers receive the most current and reliable travel guidance.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a transformative experience, blending physical challenge with unparalleled natural beauty. So, prepare well, choose the right partner for your journey, and set forth on an adventure that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Sara Essop

Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.