For those of you who are interested in Kilimanjaro hiking but don’t know where to start, this guide is for you. In it, we will discuss the different options available for hiking to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and give tips on what equipment to bring and how to prepare for the climb. So if you’re ready to take on this awesome challenge, read on!
Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour- Introduction
A Kilimanjaro hiking tour is a great way to see the mountain and its surroundings. Tours vary in duration, but most last around 10 days and start from either Moshi or Arusha. The route up the mountain can be challenging, but with careful planning and preparation, the trip can be rewarding.
The best Kilimanjaro hiking tours can vary depending on your activity level, time availability, and budget.
Hiking the Kilimanjaro is an experience that is truly unique and offers a great sense of accomplishment. The following are three different types of climbing tours: Masai Camp to Machame Route, Lemosho Route, and Rongai Route.
The Masai Camp to Machame Route is the most popular option for climbers because it’s shorter (5 days) but more difficult than the other routes. This route starts with a hike up to the Masai Mara National Reserve before starting the climb to Mount Kenya. From here, you’ll cross peaks and pass through forests until reaching the Kenyan border at 5,880 meters elevation.
The Lemosho Route is longer (10 days) but easier than the Masai Camp to Machame Route. After leaving Masai Mara National Reserve, you’ll follow a well-maintained path as you make your way up to Mount Kenya via peaks such as Makalala and Shira Plateau. You’ll also have opportunities to see wildlife such as elephants, lions, and leopards along the way.
Rongai Route is considered by many climbers as the “hardest route” to Kilimanjaro because it requires more strength and endurance than either of the other two options.
How Much Does a Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour Cost?
Kilimanjaro hiking tours vary greatly in price and duration. The most expensive option, with a five-day hike, costs around $5,000 per person. The least expensive option costs approximately $330 for a two-day hike.
The best way to calculate how much a Kilimanjaro hiking tour will cost is to consult with a reputable tour operator or travel agent. They can provide accurate information on the range of prices and lengths of hikes available, as well as which services are included (such as transport from your home country).
If you’re self-sufficient and willing to rough it, then a solo trek to the top of Kilimanjaro is possible for around $2,000 – but expect to spend more time on the trail than on the summit itself!
Whatever route you choose, be sure to budget plenty of money for food and drinks, souvenirs, accommodation en route (including camping if desired), medical emergencies, laundry services, and guides.
What to Wear on a Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour?
For those of you who are thinking about doing a Kilimanjaro hiking tour, here is what you should wear.
The best time to do the hike is from October to April when the weather is cooler and there isn’t as much rainfall.
You will need good shoes that support your feet, appropriate clothing for the weather conditions (appropriate for both daytime and nighttime), sunblock and sunglasses, insect repellent, a hat or sunscreen cap, a water filter, or iodine tablets if you plan to drink any water from streams or lakes on the hike (due to high levels of bacteria).
In addition to these basic items, here are some other things you may want to bring: a first-aid kit including bandages, antiseptic cream, and antibiotics, safety pins in case of an emergency crotch strap/bindings for your pants in case of an accident while descending down the mountain (these can be rented at various places along the trail), snacks and drinks (including purified water), medication for altitude sickness including rehydration salts and ibuprofen if needed. You will also want comfortable hiking boots or sneakers.
Tips for Making the Most Out of Your Kilimanjaro Hiking Adventure
The Kilimanjaro Hiking Adventure is a rite of passage for many people, and for good reason. The mountain is not only incredibly beautiful and majestic, but it’s also one of the most challenging hikes in the world.
Here are some tips for making the most out of your Kilimanjaro Hiking Adventure:
1. Make sure to get plenty of rest and exercise before your trip. This will help you avoid any potential injuries while hiking, and will also improve your overall stamina and endurance.
2. Bring plenty of water with you on the hike – even during summer months when there is plenty of rain available to drink! Even a small amount can really help you stay hydrated during such an intense hike.
3. Make sure to dress appropriately for the climate – even on hot days, it can be chilly up at high altitudes, so make sure to bring enough layers with you. And remember sunscreen! It can be difficult to find shade on the mountain, especially during the afternoon hours.
4. Be prepared to deal with altitude sickness – this is definitely a risk factor when hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, as even short doses of oxygen can cause severe symptoms in those not used to high altitudes. If you start feeling sick or experience other concerning symptoms, please speak to your doctor immediately!
5. Have realistic expectations about what completing the hike will entail – it’s definitely more challenging than it
FAQs About Kilimanjaro Hiking
1. What is the best time of year to hike the mountain?
The best time to hike Kilimanjaro is between mid-March and early May when the weather is cool but not cold, and there are no intense rain or snow storms. However, any time of year can be great if you are prepared for a variety of conditions. The busiest season is July and August when it’s hot and crowded. January through February can also be busy because of the holiday season in North America. April and May are typically quieter months.
2. How long does it take to hike to the top of Kilimanjaro?
It takes about 10 days to summit Kilimanjaro from base camp, but this includes acclimatization days in advance of your climb. There is no one “right” way to do the climb; you can make your own pace and route according to your abilities and interests. Many people do the entire climb in about five or six days, but there’s plenty of opportunity for variation depending on your individual hiking style. It’s always a good idea to consult with a guide service if you have any doubts about your fitness or experience level before starting the climb. The average speed is around 3 miles per hour on the trail, so even a slow hiker should get to base camp in about ten days total (not including rest days).
Conclusion
Hiking Kilimanjaro is an incredible experience that everyone should try at least once in their life. With so many different options and trails to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about hiking Kilimanjaro including where to go, what gear to bring, and the best tips for making your hike as safe and comfortable as possible. Hopefully, by reading this guide you will have a better understanding of what awaits you on your hike up Africa’s tallest mountain.