Some things are a sign from the universe. You are here because Kilimanjaro beacons you. And we are here to help you conquer this peak. This is because scaling mountains is not just a matter of physical fitness but the harmonisation of mind and body for a very distinct challenge.
Before we get into the ideal preparation for climbing Kilimanjaro, let’s get familiar with Africa’s tallest mountain located in Tanzania.
Uhuru, Kilimanjaro’s highest peak is 19.340 ft (5,895m) above sea level, located on a volcanic cone – Kibo. With the great distance it covers skywards, comes a rich diversity in its climatic range. From the base to the peak, you walk through green rainforests, muted moorlands, volcanic formations and finally, the stunning arctic summit. It also houses Africa’s tallest indigenous tree, Entandrophragma excelsum. Kilimanjaro is sacred for the local Chagga people, their relationship with the mountain is a testament to the spiritual connection between humans and nature.
Now let’s delve deeper into your pressing questions, the answers for which you were hoping to find here.
Can beginners hike Kilimanjaro?
Absolutely. Kilimanjaro is not a technical climb, the most difficult part of the trek is the altitude. All routes to the summit are walking routes only. This is a multi-day trek ranging from 5-9 days depending on you and your group’s pace. You do not need to be a professional mountaineer for this trek. But do note, children below the age of 10 are restricted from this climb.
What matters the most, beginner or not, is training. The preparation to climb Kilimanjaro can be categorised into 4 parts – Fortify, Equip, Acclimatize and Trust the Process. Let’s understand them.
How to train for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?
- Fortify
First, we look into how to physically prepare for Mount Kilimanjaro. The first step that should not be overlooked at all is to ensure you are in optimum health by taking medical tests.
Training should begin three to four months prior to the climb. Building endurance is key – cardio exercises like running, swimming, cycling and even uphill or upstairs climbing are essentials of your workout routine, which should follow 4-5 sessions a week cycle. Simply put, focus on strengthening your core with exercises that target your lower body to help you climb better and build stamina for the strenuous last 2-3 days. Since there will be porters to carry your main backpack, focus on upper body workouts to manage carrying a small backpack with essentials required during the climb. Frequent practice hikes with packed bags are a must to stay well prepared. Finally, optimize your diet, and keep it rich in carbs, healthy fats and protein.
Along with your body, training your mind to ascend Kilimanjaro is equally important. While your body carries you, the mind is what pushes you. Your
mental strength will transcend your physical capabilities. The trick is to always focus on the goal and trust that your body will listen to you. Mentally preparing to sustain through any kind of discomfort that occurs during the trek is good practice.
- Equip
Before you get onto your flight to Tanzania:
- Ensure your visa is obtained prior to your arrival and your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
- Book trekking permits with a well-known guide company. Choose your trekking company carefully to make your experience smoother and comfortable.
- Book your travel and accommodation in advance to have more and better choices, aligned with your preferred travel dates. Note that, except for the Marangu route, you’ll be camping the entire trek.
- Being insured is critical when you go for treks, especially to higher altitudes like Kilimanjaro. Make sure to carry important documents like medical insurance and travel insurance.
What to pack for a trek to Mount Kilimanjaro?
Picking the right gear for your trek determines your comfort level.
- The temperatures vary throughout the extent of the trek so pack layers ranging from light t-shirts to warm and weather-proof clothing. Base layers should include quick dry t-shirts, and thermals – both top and bottom.
- Mid-layers will consist of fleece jackets – we recommend a zipper jacket for ease of change in varying climates. Outer layers should consist of hardshell jackets and trekking pants in case of fluctuating weather patterns. Invest in waterproof trekking shoes with ankle support and make sure to ease into them before the trek. Don’t forget to pack plenty of socks, as you’ll need frequent changes to keep dry while trekking on the glacier.
- But in any case, for trekking-specific equipment, including trekking gears, rentals are available, so you need not necessarily buy everything.
- A rucksack, down jackets, scarves, gloves, trekking poles, water bottles, hats, headlamps, heavy-duty, warm sleeping bags, power banks, a high SPF sunscreen, essential toiletries and other such creature comforts are a must-carry.
- If you love to document your experience, don’t forget a journal, a pen and a camera to take those breathtaking vistas home with you.
Which medicines should I carry?
- A fully stocked first aid kit is important. This should include antiseptic wipes or sprays, bandages of various sizes for different types of wounds, and mosquito repellents.
- Medicines according to personal requirements.
- General medication like painkillers, anti-diarrheal medicine, throat lozenges, altitude medication and anti-histamines for allergies should be kept handy.
- Diamox is a prescription medicine for altitude sickness.
- Other common hygiene essentials would include tissues, hand sanitisers, moisturisers and chapsticks. A pair of tweezers to remove splinters or thorns could be a lifesaver.
- Acclimatise
Kilimanjaro’s altitude is not to be taken lightly. Gradually acclimatising to the height can be done by replicating the ascent during training hikes. Perform small acclimatisation hikes during the trek. The best strategy to acclimatise well is to climb higher during the daytime and sleep at a lower altitude at night. Keep yourself well hydrated, adding electrolytes to the fluids you consume is recommended. Sipping water at frequent intervals rather than chugging a lot at once is more effective.
Be well versed with the symptoms of altitude sickness. Some common ones are nausea, headache, shortness of breath, dizziness and sickness. If you experience any of these symptoms, descend to a lower altitude, and continue once you feel better. While choosing your trekking company, speak to them about the route they take and make sure it’s a longer route that allows acclimatisation. Taking a shorter route can be more hazardous than it sounds. Shorter routes reduce the number of days and also the probability of a successful reach to the summit.
- Trust the process
Willpower is an essential tool in this Kilimanjaro climbing kit. Your mind can do wonders just when your body thinks you can’t go any further. Rushing to the top is never a part of trekking. You are a tiny person scaling a sky-high giant, moving at your pace and resting when needed is very important. While climbing can be a solitary activity for some, finding your companion can be helpful. It has to be someone who matches your pace. Both of you can be a source of motivation to each other. And lastly believe in yourself. Look at your thresholds as not your limits but margins you can push and bend the way you want.
How to reach Mount Kilimanjaro?
Fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). From there, you can take a taxi, shuttle or transport arranged by your guide company to Moshi or Arusha. Your trek package will mostly include accommodation at Moshi or Arusha and your guides will lead your trek from there.
What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
January to early March or June to August are the best months to climb Kilimanjaro. During these months, skies are clear and hiking conditions are optimum.
The DOs and DON’Ts!
DOs:
- Train optimally. Stick to your schedules and focus on building strength.
- Choose a reputed trekking company for a seamless climbing experience.
- Pack only the essentials. Asking yourself the ‘Do I really need this?’ question for every object will help you reduce a lot of clutter and climb lighter.
- Dispose of waste responsibly. Respecting the mountain is an important aspect of the trek. Leave only your footprints behind.
- Don’t overlook the importance of health insurance when planning your trek to Mount Kilimanjaro. Consider purchasing coverage that specifically includes trekking up to 6,000 meters. World Nomads is a reputable provider offering such coverage. Their plans typically include gear protection, emergency medical and evacuation coverage, which is crucial for remote treks like Kilimanjaro. Remember to review the policy details carefully to ensure it covers the activities you plan to undertake during your trek.
DON’Ts:
- While maintaining a positive mindset is crucial, it’s equally essential not to underestimate the challenges of the trek.
- Pay close attention to your body and don’t ignore any signs of medical discomfort during your journey.
- Don’t rush the ascent. Take your time and pace yourself accordingly to prevent altitude sickness and exhaustion.
- Don’t stray from designated paths. Listen to your guides and stick to established trails to avoid getting into hazardous terrains.
- Don’t forget to stay hydrated and don’t skip meals. Drink plenty of water, especially at higher altitudes where the air is drier.
And there you will be, atop Africa’s highest summit of its tallest free-standing mountain, connecting with something much larger than life. The trek begins with a burst of green in the lush rainforest with specks of vibrant colours of flowers and insects. The soothing birdsong welcomes you as you embark on an adventure of your lifetime. Then you reach the moorlands, peppered with afro-alpine vegetation, which melts into rocky, barren land. And after every ‘one more step’ that you push yourself to take, you reach the majestic snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru. On your way up, you have conquered your fears and endured physical and mental challenges, you’ve built inner strength you never imagined you could have.
In the nights, you’ve slept under a sea of stars, you have met new parts of yourself, some are new, and some are better versions of pre-existing ones. The rite of passage to this summit will alter something very essential inside you, transforming you into a better person than the one who began the trek.
If that’s what you seek, then Kilimanjaro awaits you. Circle the dates and start your training. The extraordinary is knocking at your door.
