Climbing Kilimanjaro is an unparalleled adventure. The mighty peak of Kilimanjaro stands above the vast plains of Tanzania at an incredible 5,895 metres. Few summits in the world offer the promise of such beauty and the thrill of the grand challenge. It is perhaps no surprise then that the answer to the question ‘How long do you need to climb Kilimanjaro?’ depends on your individual level of fitness and experience.
No matter how long it takes to reach the summit, the reward is far from the same. Some climbers reach the peak after just a few days, others require a full week to make it to the top. The more time you can spend acclimating to the altitude and preparing for the climb, the better chance you have of success.
The most popular route to take is the traditional Marangu Route as it gives climbers the most chances to acclimatise and become accustomed to the environment. It often takes between 5 and 10 days, is a relatively easy route, but it should not be taken lightly. Despite its easy difficulty, the climb is still physically and mentally demanding.
The Marangu Route is popular and usually the cheapest, but it can be overcrowded and has few opportunities to view the mountain. An alternative is the Machame Route, which is 8 to 10 days long and far more challenging, but rewards climbers with some of the best views of Kilimanjaro.
As for physical preparation, it cannot be overstated. Before attempting Kilimanjaro, you need to make sure your fitness level is good enough to cope with days and days of climbing, even at a relatively low altitude. You should be able to comfortably walk for hours of low intensity, carrying a light rucksack.
If you are thinking about taking a Kilimanjaro climb, professional guides can help you to determine the best route and get you prepared. There are also lots of training tips available online that can help with both physical and mental preparation.
Most experienced climbers will tell you that the key to a successful Kilimanjaro climb is proper acclimatization. The lack of oxygen in the thin mountain air is a serious challenge, so it is essential to take time to become used to the altitude. It is also important to be mindful of your hydration and nutrition levels as altitude can have a serious impact on your health.
Finally, a key factor to consider when climbing Kilimanjaro is the weather. It can be unpredictable, so it is important to be aware of the risks that the mountain can present. You should be prepared to change your plans if the conditions suddenly become too dangerous.
Planning a Route
When planning a Kilimanjaro climb, route selection is an important step. The traditional Marangu Route is one of the most popular for its ease and cheapness. However, this route can be overcrowded and does not offer the best views. The Machame Route, on the other hand, is far more challenging but rewarded with spectacular views throughout. Selecting the right route for you and your group’s fitness level is essential to setting yourself up for success.
Physical Preparation
Defeating Kilimanjaro requires actual physical fitness, not just the desire to summit. Before attempting the climb, be sure to increase your endurance with daily exercises such as running, swimming, and hiking. Doing so will both mentally and physically prepare you for the days of strenuous walking ahead. Additionally, professional guides can provide tailored training advice for your Kilimanjaro ascent that you may not know otherwise.
Acclimatisation
Kilimanjaro’s altitude makes adaption and acclimatisation to the mountain’s conditions an essential part of the climbing process. This can be done through ensuring you are drinking plenty of water, eating nutritious meals, and taking regular breaks while hiking. It is important to monitor your own health, but there will be professional medics at camp to ensure your safety throughout the climb.
Managing Expectations
As with any challenge, managing expectations is essential when it comes to climbing Kilimanjaro. The climb should be taken seriously – although there are easier routes, it will still be physically and mentally demanding. Having realistic goals and expectations of yourself is important, as pushing yourself too hard can lead to exhaustion and other physical issues that could jeopardise your climb.
Managing the Weather
The weather on Kilimanjaro can be unpredictable and can be a risk factor to consider when planning your climb. It is important to be prepared and to be flexible with your plans as the weather can dramatically change without warning. Experienced guides can provide advice on how to protect yourself from the weather, but ultimately, it is up to you to be aware of the risks and know how to handle them.
