What is Kilimanjaro?
Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and one of the most famous climbs in the world. It is a dormant volcano surrounded by one of the most breathtaking views ever seen. With a summit of 5,895m above sea level, it is one of the Seven Summits of the world. Climbing it can be seen as either an amazing achievement or a life-threatening challenge that only a few bold adventurers attempt. The terrain on the mountain is very unpredictable, so what do you need to make the climb successful?
Kilimanjaro is situated in Tanzania, east Africa. It is a free-standing mountain, surrounded by the plains of Tanzania and Kenya with expansive views of the crater and its famous glaciers. The most popular route to the summit is the Machame Route, which starts on the western side of the mountain and follows a winding path up the southern slopes. This is where experienced climbers may need to consider weather conditions, terrain and equipment and one of the most important pieces of equipment is a pair of crampons/.
When Do You Need Crampons for Kilimanjaro?
Climbing Kilimanjaro requires you to prepare for all kinds of weather and terrain. Take for example the summit night when temperatures can drop to -20 degrees Celsius. To be safe and make sure you do not slip along the way, you will need crampons. Crampons are usually required on the higher sections of the mountain, especially Marangu route and Lemosho route, which have more and steeper sections than the other routes.
Crampons are not necessary on the lower sections or in the forest, but they can be very useful as an extra precaution if your footing is uncertain or you need some extra stability when crossing frozen rivers or snow bridges. Crampons are also important if you choose to take the more difficult and icy Kibo Summit Trail. On this route, crampons will give you better grip on the ice and help reduce the chance of you slipping and falling.
What Kind of Crampons Should You Use for Kilimanjaro?
The type of crampons you choose for your Kilimanjaro climb is important, as the type of terrain you will be encountering on the mountain can change drastically from one stage to the next. The most common type of crampons used for mountaineering are steel crampons, which provide a secure grip on rock, ice and snow. You can use 10- or 12-point crampons, which have different spikes depending on your needs. They should fit your boots snugly and be designed for mountaineering, rather than ice-climbing.
Technical crampons are designed specifically for ice and mixed climbing, and are commonly used on Kilimanjaro’s icy Kibo Trail. They typically have two or three front-point spikes that allow climbers to make vertical or steeper ice or mixed climbs, or traverse icy surfaces.If you choose to use technical crampons,make sure that they are the right size for your boot size.
Where Can You Buy Crampons for Kilimanjaro?
Crampons for Kilimanjaro can be purchased from most outdoor gear stores. You can look online to find the right type of crampons that fit your needs best. If you are renting crampons, make sure they are the right size for your boots and take your time when putting them on. Make sure you know how to attach the crampons correctly and securely to your boots, and practice wearing them before your climb.
When buying crampons for Kilimanjaro, you should look for ones that are lightweight and easy to use, with a good grip on varied terrain. It is best to avoid the cheaper and heavier aluminum models when buying crampons.
How to Fit Crampons for Kilimanjaro?
Assuming you have the right crampons for the terrain on your upcoming Kilimanjaro climb, the next step is to fit them to your boots. It is important to get this right, as an incorrectly fitted crampon could cause injury whilst climbing. The first step is to place the crampon bindings over the tongues of your boots. Make sure to adjust the bindings so they fit over the eyes of the lacing system. Try to avoid stretching them too far, as this can damage the integrity of the bindings.
Once you have secured the bindings, gently pull on the strap on the back of the boot and the three straps on the side. If you have the correct size crampon, they should fit securely around your boots.You do not want the crampons to be too tight as this can restrict movement, but you do want them to be snug enough to provide good grip and stability.
Tips for Safe Use of Crampons on Kilimanjaro
Once you have fitted your crampons correctly, you need to make sure you use them correctly in order to stay safe. Firstly, when walking on rocky terrain where you are likely to come across slippery surfaces, make sure to move slowly and carefully. Test each footing before you put your entire weight on it, and make sure to employ the technique of ‘catching the crampon’ with any loose heels. This involves pressing the ball of the foot firmly against the inside of the heel lever of the crampon. Also, avoid using crampons when climbing unsecured sections of the mountain and place your steps carefully.
Closing Remarks
Crampons are essential for a safe and successful ascent of Kilimanjaro, so make sure you get the right ones and fit them correctly. Do not be tempted to use lightweight aluminum crampons on the icy sections of the mountain, as they will not provide you with the same grip or stability. Buy the right crampons, fit them correctly and use them correctly and you will make the most of your Kilimanjaro climb.
