Mount Kilimajaro National Park

Kilimanjaro - The name itself is a mystery wreathed in clouds. It might mean Mountain of Light, Mountain of Greatness or Mountain of Caravans. Or it might not. The local people, the Wachagga, don't even have a name for the whole massif, only Kipoo (now known as Kibo) for the familiar snowy peak that stands imperious, overseer of the continent, and the summit of Africa.

Kilimanjaro, by any name, is a metaphor for the compelling beauty of East Africa. When you see it, you understand why. Not only is this the highest peak on the African continent; it is also the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, rising in breathtaking isolation from the surrounding coastal scrubland – elevation around 900 metres – to an imperious 5,895 metres (19,336 feet).

Kilimanjaro is one of the world's most accessible high summits, a beacon for visitors from around the world. Most climbers reach the crater rim with little more than a walking stick, proper clothing and determination. And those who reach Uhuru Point, the actual summit, or Gillman's Point on the lip of the crater, will have earned their climbing certificates, and their memories.

But there is so much more to Kilimanjaro than her summit. The ascent of the slopes is a virtual climatic world tour, from the tropics to the Arctic. Even before you cross the national park boundary (at the 2,700m contour), the cultivated foot slopes give way to lush montane forest, inhabited by elusive elephant, leopard, buffalo, the endangered Abbot’s duiker, and other small antelope and primates. Higher still lies the moorland zone, where a cover of giant heather is studded with otherworldly giant lobelias. Above 4,000m, a surreal alpine desert supports little life other than a few hardy mosses and lichen. Then, finally, the last vestigial vegetation gives way to a winter wonderland of ice and snow – and the magnificent beauty of the roof of the continent.

Which Route Should I Use to Climb Kilimanjaro ?

There are seven established routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro - Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, Northern Circuit and Umbwe. The Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe routes all approach from the south of the mountain (Mweka is used only for descent). The Lemosho, Shira and Northern Circuit routes approach from the west. The Rongai route approaches from the north. The illustrations below depict a three-dimensional view of Kilimanjaro's climbing routes and a close up of the approaches to the summit.

Selecting a route is a tough choice for most. To find the best Kilimanjaro route for you, considerations should be taken for the route's scenery, difficulty, foot traffic and its altitude acclimatization characteristics, as depicted in the table below. Kim'zebra Adventures & Safaris Ltd has assigned overall ratings to each route.

It is estimated that tourists climb Kilimanjaro using the routes in the following percentages: Machame (45%), Marangu (40%), Lemosho (8%), Rongai (5%), Shira (1%), Northern Circuit (0%), Umbwe (0%). In contrast, Kim'zebra Adventures & Safaris Ltd clients use Lemosho (67%), Machame (15%), Marangu (10%), Northern (6%) and Rongai (2%). The reason for the difference in route popularity is that we favor the best Kilimanjaro routes - those with the most favorable combination of high success rates, excellent scenery, and low foot traffic.

Marangu ("Coca Cola") Route ** (GOOD)

Known as the "Coca-Cola" route, the Marangu route is a classic trek on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the oldest, most well established route. Many favor the Marangu route because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope. It is also the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style accommodations.

The minimum days required for this route is five, although the probability of successfully reaching the top in that time period is quite low. Spending an extra acclimatization day on the mountain is highly recommended when climbing Kilimanjaro using the Marangu route.

However, despite its immense popularity, we avoid leading climbs on the Marangu route. The route has the least scenic variety of all the routes because the ascent and descent are done on the same path and it is the most crowded route for that reason. Marangu is favored only during the rainy season, where the hut accommodations are preferred over wet ground, or for those who only have five days to climb Kilimanjaro (which we do not recommend anyhow). Otherwise, the Marangu route is a poor choice.

Machame ("Whiskey") Route *** (GOOD)

Known as the "Whiskey" route, the Machame route is now the most popular route on the mountain. Compared with Marangu, the days on Machame are longer and the walks are steeper. The Machame route is considered a difficult route, and is better suited for more adventurous folks and those with some hiking or backpacking experience.

The route begins from the south, then heads east, traversing underneath Kilimanjaro's southern ice field before summiting. The minimum number of days required for this route is six days, although seven days is recommended.

The Machame route is scenically beautiful and varied. However, due to the heavy crowds, it loses some of its spendor.

Lemosho Route **** (RECOMMENDED)

The Lemosho route is one of the newer routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. The route begins in the west and rather than simply intersecting Shira Plateau (like Machame), Lemosho crosses it from Shira Ridge to Shira Camp. Climbers encounter low traffic until the route joins the Machame route. Afterwards, Lemosho follows the same route through Lava Tower, Barranco and Barafu, known as the southern circuit.

The minimum number of days required for this route is six days, although eight days is ideal.

Lemosho is considered the most beautiful route on Kilimanjaro and grants panoramic vistas on various sides of the mountain. It is our favorite route because it offers a great balance of low traffic, scenic views and a high summit success rate. Thus, Lemosho comes highly recommended. Most of our clients use Lemosho.

Shira Route ** (Not Recommended)

The Shira route is another path that approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, and it is nearly identical to the Lemosho route. In fact, Shira was the original route and Lemosho is the improved variation. While Lemosho starts at Londorossi Gate and treks through the rain forest to Shira 1 Camp, the Shira route bypasses this walk by using a vehicle to transport climbers to Shira Gate, located near the Shira Ridge.

On the first day on the mountain, climbers begin their hike from 11,800 feet (3,600 m) and spend their first night at the same elevation at Simba Camp. Then, the route merges with Lemosho and follows the southern circuit route.

Although Shira is a varied and beautiful route, Lemosho is recommended over Shira due to the relatively high altitude of Shira's starting point, which is accessed quickly by vehicle. It is possible that climbers will experience some altitude related symptoms on the first day while camping at 11,800 feet.

Northern Circuit Route **** (RECOMMENDED)

The Northern Circuit route is the newest, most exciting route on Kilimanjaro. The trek follows the Lemosho trail in the beginning, approaching Kilimanjaro from the west. However, instead of following the southern traverse like all the other west approaching routes, the Northern Circuit traverses the mountain around the quiet, rarely visited northern slopes.

The Northern Circuit route is a nine day climb, which is the longest route in terms of time and distance traveled. The days spent at around 13,000 feet are great for acclimatization, resulting in the highest success rates for all routes on Mount Kilimanjaro.

With a high success rate, incredible varied scenery and a very low number of visitors, the Northern Circuit route is certainly one of the best routes on Kilimanjaro.

Rongai Route *** (GOOD)

The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, Rongai has low traffic. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the crowded Marangu route, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation).

The minimum number of days required for this route is six days, and seven days are recommended.

Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes up for this by passing through true wilderness areas for days before joining the Marangu route at Kibo camp. This route descends down the Marangu route. Rongai is a moderately difficult route, and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.

Umbwe Route ** (Not Recommended)

The Umbwe route is a short, steep and direct route. It is considered to be very difficult and is the most challenging way up Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to the quick ascent, Umbwe does not provide the necessary stages for altitude acclimatization. Although the traffic on this route is very low, the chances of success are also low.

The route is offered at a minimum of six days, though seven days is recommended when attempting this route.

The Umbwe route should only be attempted by those who are very strong hikers and are confident in their ability to acclimatize. However, overall, the Umbwe route is not recommended and we discourage its usage for our clients.

Crater Camp

Just shy of the summit, there is a little used campsite known as Crater Camp (18,800 feet/5,750 m). It is called Crater Camp because it is a short distance from the source of Kilimanjaro herself, Reusch Crater (19,140 ft/5,800 m). Additionally, the campsite is next to one of Kilimanjaro's last remaining glaciers, Furtwangler Glacier. Staying at Crater Camp gives climbers an opportunity to climb to the crater rim, and to get up close to the glaciers.

Crater Camp can be used the night before or preferably after a summit attempt. Kim'zebra Adventures & Safaris Ltd  operates private climbs using Crater Camp on the 9 day Lemosho route and 10 day Northern Circuit route.

Western Breach

An alternative route to the summit approaches Uhuru Peak from the west, called the Western Breach. The strenuous Western Breach ascends 2,800 ft (850 m) in about 1.25 miles (2 km), and requires some scrambling (climbing on hands and feet) at certain points. This path is very beautiful but also very challenging due to its rocky, steep slope. The Western Breach was gaining popularity by climbers using the Umbwe, Lemosho, Shira and Machame routes until rock fall claimed the lives of three climbers in January 2006. In response, Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA) closed the Western Breach.

The Western Breach re-opened in December 2007. However, the route is still considered by prominent Kilimanjaro operators to be unsafe and to carry an unreasonable degree of risk. Kim'zebra Adventures & Safaris Ltd no longer utilizes the Western Breach approach due to safety concerns for clients and staff.

HOW TO AVOID THE CROWDS ON KILIMANJARO

Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most popular adventure travel destinations in the world. In fact, approximately 35,000 people per year try to summit the highest free-standing mountain in the world. With these numbers, there’s a high chance you’ll encounter crowded pathways, which can decrease your time to enjoy the beautiful, rare scenes of the mountain. So, to have a satisfying Kilimanjaro experience, avoiding the crowd is an excellent choice. Every year, thousands of people flock to the mountain to see its majestic snow-capped peak. However, with such a high volume of visitors, it can often be quite crowded. We have compiled a blog of tips on how to avoid the crowds when embarking on your journey to Mount Kilimanjaro.

1.0 Book a private climb to Mount Kilimanjaro

One way to guarantee that your trekking experience on Kilimanjaro won’t be crowded is to book a private climb. It’s the simplest way to avoid the crowd.

Based on your own preferences and with the help of our Kilimanjaro professionals, Kim Tours can help you craft your dream Kilimanjaro tour. Each of our climbers has two to three porters along with a team of cooks and guides.

Thus, as the number of people joins the tour, the total number of people on the trail is easily multiplied. Booking a private climb gives you the freedom to choose how many people you want to be included or if you desire to go solo.

You’ll also have control over when you’d like to set out for the day and how fast to hike. Furthermore, you’ll also have the flexibility to take breaks when you want to, with the approval of the lead guide.

Note: Starting your daily hikes before the usual hike time of a group tour schedule time which is 8 AM, will let you be on the trail before 90% of the climbers who are sticking to their schedule.

2.0 Book your Mount Kilimanjaro climb during the short rainy season

The dry seasons on Kilimanjaro are from July to October and December to February. However, if you’re a person who’s up for an adventure and is willing to gamble, schedule your trek during the short rainy season.

The short rainy season is the transitional period between the dry season and the wet season. You’ll still have the chance of having good to fair weather while hiking the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

The shoulder seasons on Kilimanjaro happen between March and June and the short rainy season transpires every November. For those who don’t know, the shoulder seasons are the travel periods between peak and off-season.

Most operators in Tanzania don’t operate group climbs during those times, except for Easy Travel and few others. In addition, during the short rainy season, mornings are typically clear and rains usually come every afternoon and evening.

Those who hike fast can reach the camp even before the afternoon rains start. So, if you don’t mind these conditions, this is a good time to visit to avoid the crowd and have the mountain almost by yourself.

Note: The Rongai Route is a good route option during the rainy season since it receives less rainfall than other trails.

3.0 Pick the least travelled route on Mount Kilimanjaro

There are over 35,000 people who climb Kilimanjaro each year. Although this number won’t be a problem due to the vastness of the mountain, most of these numbers are only centered on two routes—the Machame and Marangu Route.

Thus, picking the least traveled route can essentially help you avoid the huge crowd during your climb until all the routes meet on higher elevations. Along with Machame and Marangu routes, the following are your best alternative, well-established routes for a Kili climb: Lemosho, Rongai, Umbwe, Shira, and Northern Circuit.

Picking any of these routes will dramatically reduce the crowds—not only on the trails but to campsites as well. However, for a much better experience, make sure to pick a route that’s fitting of your experience and ability to acclimatize with the high altitudes.

Note: Some of the well-established routes with lesser people are the Lemosho, Northern Circuit and Rongai.

4.0 Choose alternative campsites on Mount Kilimanjaro

When you choose an alternative route, it’s also best to choose an alternative campsite since some campsites are densely populated. For example, you can opt for:

The Moir Hut instead of Shira 2

Kosovo Camp rather than the Barafu Hut

Millenium Camp rather than the Mweka Camp or spend the night at the Crater camp after the summit.

Note: Choosing sites like the Kosovo and Crater Camp requires a special permit, so additional fees are added for these arrangements. In addition, it must also be arranged in advance to get the permit before staying at the said camps.

5.0 Refrain from summiting during full moon

Summiting during the full moon appeals to many trekkers. This is because it gives trekkers substantial light to see the mountain while hiking during the middle of the night at the final ascent.

Furthermore, the view is simply stunning and magical as the bright moonlight reflects the glaciers, making them sparkle. This is why most full moon tours on Kilimanjaro are fully-booked. This is why you should book your summit far from the full moon to avoid the crowds.

Note: By starting your climb in the middle of the week instead of the usual group departures which are on weekends or Monday, you’ll encounter a much lesser crowd.

LEARN MORE ABOUT WHEN TO GO

• How many people climb per year on Mount Kilimanjaro?

There are over 35,000 people who climb Kilimanjaro per year.

• How busy does Mount Kilimanjaro get?

Mount Kilimanjaro gets particularly busy during the full moons, every January to early March and June to October. These months offer clear skies, fantastic views, and sunshine - which are great hiking conditions.

Nonetheless, it’s best to note that the weather may change drastically, irrespective of the season. Thus, it’s best to come prepared with the right gears.

• When is the busiest time of year on Kilimanjaro?

The busiest time of the year in Kilimanjaro is during June, July, August, September and October. This is because these months have great weather conditions and offer the best views of the mountain.

• Conclusion: Which Season Is Best To Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

In general, the best season to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is throughout the driest and warmest months - December to mid-March and mid-June to October. However, it’s best to note that these months are also the busiest time of the year. So, if you want to have lesser crowds during your Kili climb, these months aren’t an ideal option. But, there are other options that you can take to avoid the crowd in the mountain even during these months. Refer to the tips above to find the ideal option for you or contact Kim Tours for more options. Our team of Kilimanjaro Specialists will assist you with planning your adventure from start to finish!

ULTIMATE PACKING LIST FOR KILIMANJARO

CONTENTS:

1. Ultimate packing list for Kilimanjaro: Clothing
2. Footwear
3. Head-wear
4. Equipment
5. Nutrition
6. Hygiene
7. Safety | first aid & travel documents
8. Other essentials
9. How cold does Mount Kilimanjaro get?
10. Conclusion: Get ready for your Kilimanjaro adventure!

Climbing Mount Kili is a rigorous adventure and knowing the ultimate packing list for Kilimanjaro climb will be a great help. That’s why we at Kim Tours made this guide so that you will pack the right things for a successful Kili climb.

The coldness, the elevation, and the mountain’s changing weather conditions are only some of the challenges you’ll face. Nonetheless, these challenges are bearable as long as you have packed the right gear along with other climbing essentials.

So, what are the ultimate packing list for Kilimanjaro climb? Among the ultimate packing list for Kilimanjaro climb, are warm clothing, footwear, headgear, and other essential equipment that will be discussed further below. To dive more into what you should pack, see our extensive list below.

BROWSE OUR KILIMANJARO TOURS

1.0 Ultimate packing list for Kilimanjaro: Clothing

Due to the altitude of Kilimanjaro, the mountain can create its own micro-climate, making the weather changeable above cloud level. This means that you’re exposed to a variety of elements, and your body will undergo an immense temperature change from 18°C in the rainforest and -5°C on the summit.

However, the -5°C can drop quickly with the wind. But, this is tolerable as long as you have the right clothing and other climbing essentials. The trick here is to wear layers of clothing that can easily be removed or added, depending on the changing weather condition. So, without much further ado, here are the pieces of clothing that you need to pack:

a) Wind and waterproof jacket and trousers

Make sure to opt for a breathable outer layer to prevent moisture from seeping and keep you dry inward. It’s also best that your jacket has a hood and can fit other fleece layers, as well as lightweight. Worried about the weather? We have you covered.

b) Thick fleece

A thick fleece or a down jacket is vital for summit night or evenings on the mountain. This is because the temperature can drop significantly during the nighttime. Apart from the fleece jacket and the lightweight down jacket, you may also need an outer shell over the top to keep you warm during the biting cold temperature at night.

c) Insulated gloves and mitts

Having insulated gloves are a must in keeping your hands warm during the cold weather on the mountain. It would be preferable to have both fleece gloves with waterproof outer and thin inner gloves. These two will be vital on your Kilimanjaro climb, but a pair of mitts would be best in keeping your hands warm during the summit day. Our training guide will help you plan.

d) Midlayer fleeces

Midlayer fleeces are good for insulation. It’ll provide you extra warmth, particularly during summit night.

e) Base layers or thermals

Base layer clothing or thermals are essential items that add a necessary warmth during cold evenings and summit nights. If you’re a woman, it would be best to bring some leggings for the first few days of trekking.

f) Hiking tops

When it comes to upper wear, its best not to go for cotton. Instead, opt for quick-to-dry trekking tops and bring with you two to three pieces to prevent over packing.

g) Several pairs of underwear

One of the most necessary items you need to bring is your underwear. It’ll keep you hygienic during your journey up the mountain. Bring some pairs of clean underwear with you and opt for synthetic or merino wool material—a softer and thinner wool version. The merino wool has a natural odor resistance, wet insulation, moisture-wicking, and most importantly, fast drying.

h) Trekking shorts or trousers

Quick-dry, quality shorts or trousers are preferable on your Kilimanjaro adventure. Trekking trousers have several compartments and can be converted into shorts for a more comfortable hike. Take at least two pairs of these trousers with you for a more comfy trek.

2.0 Footwear

Nothing is more important than a safe and comfortable trek, and footwear is one of the great contributors to your comfort and safety. Comfortable and fitting footwear will prevent you from foot pain and blisters along your climb up the mountain. Moreover, make sure to cut your nails short before setting off on your African adventure. It would also be helpful to take blister pads with you just in case and change your socks daily for your hygiene.

a) Walking boots

When you go trekking, leather boots are the best. Just ensure they’re well-covered in dubbin to lock out water. Opting for fabric boots will get you in trouble once you’re drenched in the rain. Make sure the boots you choose have proper ankle support and possess a stiff midsole to prevent getting bent too much.

b) Camp footwear

Due to the varied condition and terrains of the mountain, you may need to switch shoes in between. Bring camp footwear with you and change your boots when you reach the camp, letting them air out. You may bring camp shoes, such as lightweight shoes or sandals, as you’ll use them during your toilet visits.

c) Spare footbed and laces

Some terrains in Kilimanjaro can be pretty ruthless, so a spare footbed and pair of laces can be a great comfort. It’ll save you if your current footbed gets damp.

d) Trekking socks

Another must-have item on your climb is trekking socks. Bring at least five pairs for five consecutive days and special woolen-mix socks as they’re the warmest. However, check first if they fit snugly in your boots.

3.0 Headwear

Protecting your head from the heat of the sun is a must while you trek to prevent sunburn and sunstroke. Thus, bringing hats and other headgears with you is a must.

a) Brimmed hat

A brimmed hat can help lessen your exposure to the harsh heat of the sun. It must be worn during sunny days to protect yourself from potential heatstroke or sunburn.

b) Sunglasses

UV rays are particularly strong in the mountain as you ascend. Thus, you’ll need UV glasses for eye protection.

4.0 Equipment

For your equipment, you may need to pack the following things:

a) Sleeping bag

The sleeping bag is one of the most essential things to pack for your night’s rest. It’s best to go for a four-season sleeping bag right away instead of three seasons to better prepare for the cold.

b) Collapsible trekking poles

Trekking poles are essential tools that help greatly during your descent. It’ll support your knees when you go down the mountain, provide balance and improve endurance. Concerned about your safety whilst trekking? Our Health and Safety Guide will be of some use.

c) Inflatable camp pillow (optional)

An inflatable camp pillow is a great comfort boost, but not a necessity. However, if you want to get comfier during your sleep, you may bring this one.

d) Headlamp with few extra batteries

A headlight is essential when you go to the loo at night and head out for the summit at around midnight. As you might already know, there are no charging facilities in Kilimanjaro, so bringing a few extra batteries for your headlight is a must.

e) 70L to 90L duffel bag

Your duffel bag will be used for your equipment. This will be carried by the porters that will be with you.

f) 30-35L day backpack

This will be used to carry your gear.

5.0 Nutrition

When you’re on Mount Kilimanjaro, there’s nothing to worry about regarding your nutrition. We’ll assign a cook for you and ensure to offer nutritious foods for a successful climb. The food in the expedition includes easy-to-digest food yet is good in furnishing you with energy and appetite. Expect a combination of protein, carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables, and of course, water. For more on the food available, check our Food and Water guide.

a) Breakfast on Mount Kilimanjaro may include the following:

Bread, Chapati, Eggs, Pancakes, Porridge, Plantains, Sausage, Hot chocolate, Tea, Coffee, Fruits.

b) Meanwhile, lunch and dinner may consist of the following:

Rice, Vegetable, Meat, Peanuts, Soup pasta, Plantains, Fruits.

6.0 Hygiene

On Kilimanjaro, there are no bathing facilities or showers. However, there’s some hot water available at camps for washing your hands and face to at least keep you clean somehow. 

For your hygiene kit, you may opt to bring the following: Toothbrush, Travel-sized toothpaste, Dry shampoo, Hairbrush (small), Face towel, Sunscreen.

7.0 Safety | first aid & travel documents

For your safety, it’s a must to have the following essential items with you:

7.1 For first aid

a) Altitude drugs

Since altitude drugs have side effects, make sure to consult a doctor before using them. One of the popular altitude drugs is Diamox. This is used to prevent and reduce altitude sickness symptoms like tiredness, headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

b) Personal medication

Bring along with you Imodium or Lomotil in case of diarrhea, antibiotics for infection, headache painkillers, such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol.

c) Oral rehydration sachets

These items will help you restore the salt that you’ve lost while hiking, keeping you rehydrated.

d) Eye drops

This can help you combat eye irritation due to dust.

e) Sunscreen

Getting sunburned is pretty serious at high altitudes. So, having something to protect your skin is a must. Bring along sunscreen with you, preferably with high SFP and a waterproof one to prevent frequent reapplication.

f) Bandages, plasters, and zinc oxide tape

These are some of the essentials when you get some cracked skin or small cuts. Be sure to check our Health and Safety guide for more information.

7.2 Travel documents & others

a) Travel insurance

This is a must-have while traveling. Travel insurance gets you covered just in case the unthinkable happens, like losing your passport, baggage, and other essential things such as medical emergencies. Make sure to keep a paper copy just in case you can’t use your phone. For more information check out our Travel Insurance guide. 

b) Flight details

The airport security will ask for your flight details, so it’s best to keep a paper copy of it to have a smooth travel experience

c) Money

Money will surely save you while traveling. Thus, bring some cash with you, along with credit cards, to ensure you won’t lack anything while being in a foreign land. Our planning FAQ may be of use whilst planning your successful climb.

d) Photocopy of your passport

Snap some pictures of your passport and get a photocopy of it before heading out to your Tanzanian adventure. This is to ensure you’ll have something to show to the authorities in case of loss or theft. For more on Passports and Visas, we have prepared a guide just for you.

8.0 Other essentials

a) Water bottle

Bring a water bottle with you during your trek to keep you hydrated. Opt for an insulated water bottle to keep it from freezing on summit day. You will get a penalty from the mountain rangers if you bring a plastic water bottle to the mountain as its use is now considered illegal. Planning your Food and Drink is key. Learn more about what is on offer here.

b) Hand warmers

If you easily get cold, bringing hand warmers and putting them within your mitts can be beneficial in giving you extra warmth.

c) Plug adaptor

You’ll use this during your stay in the hotel in Tanzania to charge your phones and cameras before heading out for the climb. Choose a G plug adaptor as this is the type of adaptor that works in the country.

d) Pee bottle

A Pee bottle is essential to prevent you from getting out of your tent when you want to pee at night.

9.0 How cold does Mount Kilimanjaro get?

Mount Kilimanjaro’s weather can alter from very hot to extremely cold within the same day. The temperatures on the mountain depend more on the altitude and the time of the day. It doesn’t undergo temperature changes every season due to its closeness to the equator. Furthermore, the base of Kilimanjaro has an average temperature of 70°F to 80°F or 21 to 27°C. Meanwhile, the summit—Uhuru Point can vary between 20°F and -20°F (-7°C to -29°C). Expect the temperature to fluctuate as you ascend to the five ecological zones. Learn more about the weather on Kilimanjaro

10.0 Conclusion: Get Ready For Your Kilimanjaro Adventure!

Now that you know what to pack for your Kilimanjaro climb, make sure that you’re healthy enough for this endeavor. It would be best to let a doctor check if you’re capable physically to do this challenge.

You may also get a prescription for altitude drugs to help you with your climb once the doctor finds you healthy enough for the trek to Kilimanjaro. However, this doesn’t stop here.

Make sure that you’ll undergo at least two to three months of training and cardio exercises to ensure success in climbing the highest peak in Africa!

Now that you’re reading for your Kilimanjaro adventure, contact Kim Tours today to start planning your life-changing climb up the tallest freestanding mountain in the world! Start planning which route to climb here today.