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-eastern Tanzania, it reaches 5,895 m. Every year, thousands of trekking enthusiasts attempt to climb it. Yet the ascent is not something to be improvised — thorough preparation is essential. Here are all our tips for a successful Kilimanjaro trek.
Training for a Kilimanjaro trek
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 decision to be made on a whim — it demands careful planning.
Good physical fitness is essential to handle the demands of the effort. While the trek covers between 40 and 70 km depending on the chosen route, your body needs to be ready. You must 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 heading off on a Kilimanjaro trek, you need to be physically prepared. To get there, we recommend building your endurance through regular hiking. Ideally, you should gradually increase the difficulty of your outings, extending both the duration and the elevation gain. You can also practise other sports such as cycling, swimming, or running.
Also think about strength training to build the power needed to carry your kit, and count on solid mental resilience to face the sometimes demanding conditions of the trek.
Ultimately, the greatest danger on Kilimanjaro is undertaking a high-altitude hiking trip. The summit, Uhuru Peak, reaches nearly 6,000 m above sea level and the lack of oxygen is very real. Beyond 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, more expensive itinerary.
What is the best season for a Kilimanjaro trek?
One of the great advantages of Kilimanjaro is that it can be climbed year-round. As the mountain sits 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 with excellent visibility. This period is the most popular — and also the busiest. Nights are also less cold than at the start of the year.
The less 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 showers.
Depending on altitude, you will pass through several climate zones. First, the cultivated zone with its hot, humid tropical climate. Then the rainforest with high humidity and lush vegetation. Next, the moorland zone with a drier climate, followed by the alpine desert zone — arid and barren. Finally, the arctic zone with glacial conditions.
These different climate zones create significant temperature swings. You may be hiking in temperatures above 25 °C during the day and then spending the night below -10 °C above 4,000 m. Good equipment is therefore essential to handle these temperature variations.
Essential trek kit
Kit for a Kilimanjaro trek must be comprehensive and suited 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 second layer. Finally, add waterproof jackets and windbreakers as your third layer. To stay protected from rain, don't forget a waterproof cover for your backpack or a full poncho.
As well as warm clothing, equip yourself with certain accessories to keep out the cold. You can complete your outfit with gloves and liner gloves, hiking socks, a beanie, a neck gaiter, and a balaclava.
Sun exposure is also a real 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, mosquitoes can be a real nuisance. To avoid this, opt for long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts and lightweight trousers. Cimalp also offers mosquito-repellent clothing, treated with an 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 needs to fit into your trek backpacks. Pack a sleeping bag with a comfort 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 out your waste.
What are the best routes to climb Kilimanjaro?
Kilimanjaro can be climbed via seven different routes. Each offers a distinct itinerary with its own characteristics, challenges, and landscapes — but above all, varying success rates.
The Marangu route is the oldest and most popular. Nicknamed the "Coca-Cola Road", it is the only route with hut accommodation. It therefore offers a degree of comfort and has the advantage of being one of the least expensive. The route starts in the south-east of the mountain and the trek typically lasts five to six days. The itinerary moves quickly, which can make acclimatisation 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 challenging than the Marangu route. This is partly due to its start in the south-west of the mountain, with very steep ascents and wilder terrain. The trek takes six to seven days, with a high success rate.
The Lemosho route is longer than the others. It usually takes 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 delivers a truly off-the-beaten-track experience. It is also one of the few routes that starts on the western side of the mountain.
The Umbwe route is probably the most demanding. This trek, which joins the Machame route partway through, is reserved for experienced climbers. Its trail is shorter and less frequented, but its abrupt start does not favour acclimatisation. You need to be in excellent physical condition and, above all, capable of adapting quickly to altitude.
What does a Kilimanjaro trek cost?
While a Kilimanjaro trek is a dream for every hiking enthusiast, its high cost must be taken into account. It varies, however, depending on the route, duration, comfort level, season, and the operator you choose.
With a local operator, the minimum price is around €1,100. On top of this, tips for guides and porters must be added — typically 10 to 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.), tent or hut accommodation during the ascent, and lodge accommodation before and after the trek.
For a higher-quality service — better guiding, quality food, or a post-trek safari — costs can quickly rise to €6,000.
On top of the price quoted by the tour operator, you need to factor in additional expenses during your trip. First, the cost of your flight from France, typically around a minimum of €700. Then, the Tanzania visa at roughly €40. Next, the Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees, estimated between €900 and €1,000. Finally, cancellation insurance and personal expenses.
With all these factors, the cost of a Kilimanjaro trek quickly climbs to over €3,000. This price does, however, allow you to complete the ascent in good conditions.
As you can see, Kilimanjaro is more than just a summit to conquer. Above all, it is a human adventure and an immersion in exceptional landscapes. Well prepared physically, properly equipped, and accompanied by experienced guides, you will have every chance of reaching Uhuru Peak and living an unforgettable experience.
