Kilimanjaro, also known as the "white mountain" or "shining mountain", is the highest peak on the African continent. Located in the heart of Kilimanjaro National Park, in north-east Tanzania, it reaches 5,895 m. Every year, thousands of trekking enthusiasts attempt to climb it. Yet its ascent is not something to be taken lightly — thorough preparation is essential. Check out all our tips for a successful Kilimanjaro trek.
Training for a Kilimanjaro trek
Climbing Kilimanjaro is open to everyone. Indeed, no technical mountaineering skills are required. You don't need crampons, ropes or ice axes, and walking on snow is minimal. That said, tackling a trek on Africa's highest peak is not a spur-of-the-moment decision and requires careful thought.
To cope with the physical demands, good fitness is essential. Whether the trek spans 40 to 70 km depending on the route chosen, your body must be ready. You need to be able to walk 5 to 6 hours a day, covering around 1,000 m of positive elevation gain, for 6 to 7 consecutive days.
Before setting off on a Kilimanjaro trek, you need to be physically prepared. To do so, we recommend building your endurance by going on hikes regularly. Ideally, gradually increase the difficulty of your outings by extending both duration and elevation gain. You can also practise other sports such as cycling, swimming or running.
Also remember to incorporate strength training to build the muscle power needed to carry your kit, and count on strong mental resilience to face the sometimes tough conditions of the trek.
Ultimately, the greatest danger on Kilimanjaro is the fact that it is a high-altitude hiking experience. The summit, Uhuru Peak, reaches nearly 6,000 m above sea level and the lack of oxygen is very much felt. In addition to the main symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), you risk cerebral or pulmonary oedema. To avoid this, proper acclimatisation is essential, even if it means choosing a longer and more expensive itinerary.
What is the best season for a Kilimanjaro trek?
One of the advantages of Kilimanjaro is that it can be climbed at any time of year. As the mountain is close to the equator, there is no real summer or winter — rather dry and wet seasons.
The best period for the ascent falls during the dry seasons. From January to early March, the weather is generally dry, skies are clear and temperatures are pleasant. From June to October, the climate is even more stable and offers excellent visibility. This period is the most popular, but also the most crowded. Nights are also less cold than at the start of the year.
The least favourable period is the rainy season. Between April and May, rainfall is heavy, trails are muddy and visibility is reduced. In November, conditions are also unstable with light rain.
Depending on altitude, you will pass through several climatic zones. First the cultivated zone, with a hot and humid tropical climate. Then the tropical rainforest with high humidity and lush vegetation. Next the moorland zone with a drier climate, and the arid alpine desert zone. Finally, the arctic zone with glacial conditions.
These different climatic zones create sometimes significant temperature swings. You may be walking in temperatures above 25 °C during the day, then spending the night at below -10 °C above 4,000 m. Good equipment is therefore essential to cope with these temperature variations.
Essential kit for trekking
Kit for a Kilimanjaro trek must be comprehensive and adapt to all weather conditions. We recommend adopting the three-layer system.
Choose breathable technical base layers as your first layer. Then opt for fleeces or insulating down jackets as your mid layer. Finally, add waterproof jackets and windproofs as your outer layer. To protect yourself from the rain, don't forget a waterproof cover for your backpack or a full poncho.
In addition to warm clothing, equip yourself with certain accessories to tackle the cold. You can complete your outfit with gloves and liner gloves, hiking socks, a beanie, a neck gaiter and a balaclava.
The sun is also a hazard on Kilimanjaro. To deal with it, pack a cap or hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, category 3 or 4 sunglasses and UV-filter lip balm.
When crossing tropical zones, you may be bothered by mosquitoes. To avoid this, opt for long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts and lightweight trousers. Cimalp also offers anti-mosquito clothing, featuring the insect-stopper treatment based on permethrin.
For footwear, go for trekking shoes that are high-cut, waterproof and sturdy. For the evenings, you can also pack lightweight shoes or sandals.
All your hiking gear must fit into your trekking backpacks. Pack a sleeping bag with a comfort temperature rating of at least -10 °C, trekking poles, a head torch with spare batteries, water bottles or a hydration bladder of at least three litres, water purification tablets, a first aid kit and plastic bags to carry your waste out.
What are the best routes to climb Kilimanjaro?
Kilimanjaro can be climbed via seven different routes. Each offers a different itinerary with its own characteristics, challenges and varied landscapes — but above all, distinct success rates.
The Marangu route is the oldest and most popular. Nicknamed the "Coca Cola Road", it is the only one with hut accommodation. It therefore offers a certain level of comfort and has the advantage of being one of the least expensive. The starting point is on the south-east side of the mountain and the trek generally takes between five and six days. The itinerary moves quickly and acclimatisation can be more challenging.
The Machame route is one of the most spectacular on the massif. Also known as the "Whisky Road", it is often considered slightly more difficult than the Marangu route. This difficulty is partly due to its starting point on the south-west side of the mountain, with very steep climbs and a wilder environment. The trek takes six to seven days with a high success rate.
The Lemosho route is longer than the other routes. It is usually completed over seven to eight days, allowing for easier acclimatisation. While it is more expensive, it is less crowded, offers one of the highest success rates and provides an off-the-beaten-track experience. It is also one of the few itineraries that begins on the western side of the mountain.
The Umbwe route is probably the most demanding. This trek, which joins the Machame route mid-way, is reserved for experienced climbers. Its trail is shorter and less frequented, but its abrupt start does not favour acclimatisation. You therefore need to be in good physical condition and, above all, able to adapt quickly to altitude.
What does a Kilimanjaro trek cost?
While a Kilimanjaro trek is the dream of every hiking enthusiast, its high cost must be taken into account. It varies, however, depending on the route, duration, level of comfort, season and the operator chosen.
With a local company, the minimum price is around €1,100. However, tips for guides and porters must be added on top, amounting to 10–20% of the total price. This rate generally includes return transfers from the airport, the climbing permit, guides and porters, meals, collective safety equipment (supplemental oxygen, hyperbaric chamber, etc.), accommodation in tents or huts during the ascent, and lodge accommodation before and after the trek.
For a higher-quality service — better guiding, quality food or a safari after the trek — prices can quickly rise to as much as €6,000.
In addition to the company's fees, you need to factor in other expenses during your trip. First, the cost of the flight from France, often starting at around €700 minimum. Then, the Tanzania visa at approximately €40. Next, the Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees, estimated between €900 and €1,000. Finally, cancellation insurance and personal expenses.
With all these elements combined, the cost of a Kilimanjaro trek quickly adds up to over €3,000. This budget does, however, allow the ascent to be completed in good conditions.
As you will have gathered, Kilimanjaro is more than just a summit to conquer. It is first and foremost a human adventure and an immersion in exceptional landscapes. With solid physical preparation, the right equipment and experienced guides by your side, you will have every chance of reaching Uhuru Peak and living an unforgettable experience.
