The Things I Wish I Knew Before Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro was one of my maiden adventures. It has remained to be the most memorable and rewarding experience I have ever had. If you have plans to undertake the same challenge, this guide explains things you must know before you start the trek.

Before I delve into details, it’s worth knowing that Mount Kilimanjaro is the African continent’s highest peak, stunning 5,895 meters (19,340 feet) above sea level. It is located in Tanzania, a country in East Africa, close to the border with Kenya, a neighboring country.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is a breathtaking experience. Being part of the Kilimanjaro National Park, you get the privilege to witness glaciers, rainforests, and various ecosystems. It is home to various wildlife including birds, baboons, civets, mongooses, leopards, and servals.

What I wish I knew before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Summiting Kilimanjaro is not just a physical challenge but also a mental one. To enjoy the trek, you need to prepare for various conditions. Many factors can determine how long it takes to climb Kilimanjaro and whether you will make it to the summit.

Here is what I wish I knew before embarking on this lifetime challenge.

1. You need physical fitness

Physical preparation is important for any mountaineering. Unlike hiking or strolling in your local park, you need strength and stamina. So, create a training schedule at least 10 weeks before the challenge. Spend about 10 to 15 minutes daily on a cross trainer to increase strength in your legs.

Remember to include some cardio in your training plan. You can trek, run, or swim to strengthen your heart. Exercises such as squats, calf raises, pushups, deadlifts, and lunges are also important when preparing yourself for climbing a mountain.

2. The right route helps reduce altitude sickness

Altitude sickness can occur when you move to a higher altitude quickly. As you go higher, the atmosphere gets thinner. That means you get less oxygen by breathing in the same amount of air as you are used to at the lower altitudes. This can trouble your body resulting in various symptoms.

If you haven’t acclimatized, you may experience headaches, severe fatigue, trouble sleeping, or lightheadedness. Almost everyone who ascends quickly may develop these symptoms of altitude sickness. So, the trick is choosing the best route that will allow you to climb slowly by slowly.

The overall best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Lemosho route or the Machame route which takes 8 to 9 days respectively. These routes allow “walk high, sleep low” for better acclimatization. You’ll also get a scenery view on these routes as you climb through diverse climate zones.

3. Have the right gear and clothing

On your climb to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll go through a wide range of terrain and climatic conditions. You might start the hike when the weather is hot but get to glaciers and frigid temperatures as you hit higher elevations.

To stay comfortable in your climbing, you need to dress in layers. This can give you the leverage to remove and put on items as conditions change. Your hiking boots including socks should be comfortable for long walks, lightweight, and properly fitting. You may also need to have trekking poles for balancing.

The nights on Kilimanjaro are pretty cold. You need a warm sleeping bag to enjoy your sleep. A strong beamhead torch is also important. You’ll need it when making movements around the camp including visiting the toilet. Remember to carry sunscreen, a lip balm, and a hydrating lotion.

4. Drink enough water to avoid dehydration

Drinking water is essential when ascending to a higher altitude. According to the Wilderness Medical Society, high altitudes cause your body to lose water twice as fast as at sea level. This is occasioned by low oxygen supply in your blood as well as physical strain as you climb the mountain.

Drinking enough water to hydrate can help relieve symptoms of altitude sickness. Take about 3 liters per day. The best way to know if you are taking the right amount of water is through the color of your urine. You are on the right track if you are urinating more and the pee is pale, odorless, and plentiful.

5. Get a permit and meet the regulations

Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro is not free, undeniably the adventure can be expensive. There are national park fees that apply and you also have to go through a tour operator who will assign you a guide, porters, and cooks. It is illegal to climb Kilimanjaro without the help of a licensed guide.

So, as you plan to hike the mountain, seek a permit from the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities. This can be arranged through a tour operator. The price for the whole package can range from US$ 1500 to US$5000 depending on the services provided by your preferred agency.

6. Choose the right season of the year

The Kilimanjaro region lies close to the equator. This means climbers can trek mount the mountain year-round. While weather conditions on the mountain can change unpredictably based on the climate zones, there are specific months when conditions are perfect for hiking. 

The months of January through early March and June through October are considered the best time to climb Kilimanjaro. The clear skies and sunshine provide epic visibility and comfort. March through May and November, Kilimanjaro receives rainfall thus not recommended for mountaineering.

Rains when climbing to higher altitudes can make you sick. The trails can also get muddy and slippery. This is a serious safety threat to both experienced and inexperienced climbers. To avoid such problems, make sure to follow updates from the regional weather forecast.

What to expect from climbing Kilimanjaro?

Climbing Kilimanjaro doesn’t need any special training or requirements. So, there is no need to worry if you are new to mountaineering. Age is the only restriction to hiking Africa’s highest peak, only those over 10 years can undertake the challenge.

If you want a successful climb to Kilimanjaro, it’s worth booking with a local tour operator. As said, the agency will assign you a guide who understands the terrain well. Porters and cooks will also be included to help you with carrying and setting up your camping equipment.

Traveling to Mount Kilimanjaro

If you are not a local, you need to fly into Tanzania, Africa. There are different airports you can use but I recommend you choose an airport close to your destination. This is none other than the Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Assuming you don’t have any other activities in the region, you will likely need a place to relax before and after your Kilimanjaro trek. Fortunately, there are some great lodges and accommodation facilities within the locality to choose from. Your tour agency can also take on that.

The trekking day

There are several departure groups to the mountain scheduled by various tour operators. Before you start the trek, it’s worth knowing that on the mountain there are no hotels, paved paths, or running water. So arm yourself with a bottle of water and some snacks.

As you climb the mountain, expect severe variations in temperatures. You might experience hot and humid conditions in the forests and frosty windy conditions at the summit. This shouldn’t be a problem if you have the right clothing and camping gear.

As you climb the mountain, your body might feel strange due to changes in altitude. First-time climbers may experience severe altitude sickness. But using the right route and drinking plenty of water can keep you strong. The rule of thumb is to climb high, and sleep low to help your body acclimate to the new altitude.

Eating and sleeping

Potters and cooks will always arrange how you can get nicely cooked food and warm drinks. Remember to drink at least 3 litres of water each day to stay hydrated. High-energy snacks such as chocolate bars, peanuts, and biscuits are also recommended.

Since there are no hotels on the Kilimanjaro, as a climber you need to have a sleeping bag and a sturdy camping tent. You can carry your own or arrange to have one from your tour operator. Porters will always help in setting up the campsite. The nights can be extremely cold, so bring a liner for extra warmth.

Abolition and refreshing

Public toilets are usually available at each camp stop. However, don’t expect too much. They are commonly long drop toilets that utilize a large pit 10-12 feet deep. You won’t find luxurious porcelain loos, sinks, or hot water. You need to endure these makeshift abolition facilities.

Various high-end tour operators may arrange for private toilets, equipped with a seat to make you comfortable. The facilities can be exclusive to you or your group’s use. Private tents can also be arranged where you can take a warm bath.

Final mile

Kilimanjaro offers stunning panoramic views, especially at sunrise from the summit. You’ll witness a breathtaking view of unique surrounding plains, unique glaciers, and different weather conditions. Stay positive, be prepared for various conditions, and you’ll enjoy the hike.