Mount Kilimanjaro, located in northern Tanzania, is one of the most prominent outdoor destinations in the world. Home to the highest peak in Africa, vast glaciers, and gorgeous forests, Kilimanjaro is a breathtaking marvel that can be seen from miles away. Every year, countless adventurers challenge the mountain in order to reach the summit. However, the question remains: How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?
It turns out, climbing Kilimanjaro is not a task or an achievement that can be completed in the blink of an eye; it really does take time to reach the summit. According to experts, the average time required to climb Kilimanjaro is 7–9 days. The precise period, however, can vary depending on the specific route taken.
There are various routes that can be employed to reach Kilimanjaro summit, of which the most popular include Rongai, Lemosho, Machame, Marangu, and Shira. While the Machame route takes 7 days, some routes such as the Marangu may require around 6 days because they start at a lower elevation. The longer routes have the advantage of giving climbers more time to acclimate to the thinner atmosphere before they ascend to the highest peak.
Another factor that affects the amount of time taken to climb Kilimanjaro is whether it is accompanied by a guide or not. Climbing a mountain of this caliber without a certified guide carries a huge risk, so it is highly advisable to hire a reputable tour operator in order to ensure the safety of the climb — and the length of the mountaineering experience.
No matter the particular route, climbing Kilimanjaro is no easy undertaking. The combination of rugged terrain, high altitude, variable weather, and low temperatures make it particularly difficult. That is why a professional extension such as Right Path Tanzania allows climbers to reach the peak in 8 days, rather than the traditional 7.
Resultantly, the time that it takes to climb Kilimanjaro is ultimately dependent on the individual preferences of the mountaineer or mountaineers, the route that they choose to take, and the presence or absence of a reliable guide. While the average time to reach the summit is 7–9 days, some climbers may choose to cut the duration similar to that of the Marangu route. On the other hand, some may decide to add extra days to their itinerary in order to adjust to the atmosphere or simply enjoy the surrounding nature.
Safety
When it comes to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, safety is a top concern that must be taken seriously. It is important for climbers to be aware of their own physical limitations and take them into account when attempting to climb the mountain. Climbers should always plan to ascend and descend teams of three or more people as well as ensure that an experienced tour guide is part of the team. Additionally, climbers should always check the local weather before beginning a climb and plan ahead for any potential problems or delays.
Moreover, climbers should always bring the necessary supplies, including food, water, medications, and warm clothing, to ensure that they can stay safe when spending long nights in exposed conditions. Additionally, it is important to choose a reliable tour operator that properly plans and manages the route, as well as makes sure to provide the necessary safety, physical, and psychological support.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude-related illnesses, such as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), are common conditions that occur due to changes in the atmospheric pressure and oxygen levels. This is why they are generally most dangerous at high altitudes, such as those found on Mount Kilimanjaro. As such, it is important for climbers to understand the signs and symptoms of altitude-related illnesses so that they can prevent or treat them properly.
For instance, AMS can manifest itself as mild headache and nausea, while more severe cases can include difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, and abnormal fluid retention in the lungs. Furthermore, it is important to note that altitude-related illnesses can quickly become life-threatening, so if any of the symptoms were to occur, the climber would need to be provided with medical assistance immediately.
The best way to reduce the risk of high-altitude related illnesses is to use the right acclimatization strategies, meaning that the ascent should be gradual and climbers should pay close attention to their body’s reactions. Another factor to consider is the type of accommodation provided during the ascent; options include camping in the mountain and spending nights in mountain huts, operated by tour companies.
Training and Preparation
Although Kilimanjaro is located at lower altitudes than other peaks, due to its height and the severity of the terrain, it requires just as much — if not more — preparation and training for successful ascension. This is why it is essential for climbers to ensure that they are in good physical shape before attempting to tackle the mountain.
To prepare for a climb of Mount Kilimanjaro, potential mountaineers should get into a regular exercise routine and make sure to stretch daily. As the body gets used to physical activity and increases its fitness, it is also important to consider the effects of altitude on the body and to train accordingly. Additionally, it is always best to consult a physician before making the ascent to make sure that the body is in good condition for the task at hand.
Costs
The costs associated with climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can vary greatly depending on the specific tour that the climber is partaking in. Commonly, expenses include tour company fees, flight costs, entry fees, camping gear, and specifically-chosen food and clothing to keep the climber warm and well-fed during the trek.
In general, the cost for a Kilimanjaro climb with a guide and a full service tour will average between $1,500-$3,000. It is important to note, however, that the prices can vary depending on the agency or tour that is selected. Furthermore, climbers should always look for reputable agencies and make sure to read through their contracts in order to find the best deals.
Tips
As any seasoned climber will tell you, Mount Kilimanjaro should not be underestimated, regardless of the route taken to reach the summit. Although seemingly straightforward, the mountain will present various physical and environmental challenges, so it is important to be knowledgeable and prepared.
As such, potential climbers should always allot themselves the appropriate amount of time to complete the climb, stay informed about the potential weather conditions, and heed the advice of local guides and experts. Moreover, it is essential for climbers to ensure that their whole team is on the same page in terms of the route to be taken, the camping and accommodation arrangements, as well as any additional services that may be required.