Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an incredible adventure, however, it is not an easy feat. Standing at 19,340 feet (5,895 meters), Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and is considered the world’s highest freestanding mountain. Kilimanjaro is also the world’s fourth most prominent peak and one of the Seven Summits. In total, climbing Kilimanjaro is a five to nine-day trek depending on the selected route. Many people ask whether it is easy to climb Kilimanjaro, and the answer is it depends.
For those with reasonable physical fitness, the ascent up Kilimanjaro can be considered as moderately easy with the right preparation, knowledge, and experience. It is not a technical climb that requires any specialised equipment or technical skills, like a lot of the other Seven Summits, however, it has some of its own unique challenges.
As Kilimanjaro is a volcano with three distinct summits, reaching the true summit of Uhuru can be difficult. The lack of experience and the fear of altitude sickness are factors to be considered. For most travelers, the trek can take at least five days up to 10 days and is commonly split into six sections. As the elevation increases, the effects of altitude sickness can be debilitating and can cause serious health problems.
Altitude sickness can affect your ability to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and therefore proper acclimatisation is central for a successful summit attempt. Many companies will acclimatise climbers for a few days before the attempt. The extra days spent on the mountain will help your body acclimatise and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. If you are physically fit and acclimatise correctly, the trek itself can be considered as moderately easy.
Although Kilimanjaro itself is not a technical climb, it is still a strenuous task that takes several days. The terrain is demanding and the elevation is tough on the body. It is also important to be aware of the weather conditions and the temperatures that can drop to below freezing. Cold weather and precipitation can make the trek tougher than expected and the right equipment is very important.
From a technical perspective it is an easy climb, however, the challenge taken on is not to be underestimated. Sensible preparation and knowledge can help mitigate the risks and help make your summit a success. With preparation, advice from experts and a positive attitude, the climb of Mount Kilimanjaro can be achieved.
Trekking Equipment
One of the most important parts of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is ensuring you have the correct equipment. Temperature change from hot to cold can happen within the same day, and therefore a good range of clothes and weatherproof gear is needed.
Quality hiking boots are essential for a successful climb. They should be waterproof and insulated and be broken in prior to the start of the climb. Gaiters, hats and gloves will also help protect against the cold. A good sleeping bag and appropriate sleeping mat are also necessary as the night temperatures on the mountain can reach below freezing.
Trekking poles or sticks are also recommended so that hands can remain free while walking. Sun protection is also essential, and hats and sunscreen are needed during the hotter hours of the day.
Lightweight and durable trekking backpacks are needed to carry all the necessary technical items, food and water. The backpack should not exceed a weight of 15 to 20 pounds (7-9 kgs) and a rain cover for the backpack is essential.
Professional Guides and Advice
Trying to climb Mount Kilimanjaro without the help of a professional guide is not recommended. Professional trekking companies and tour operators know the routes and the risks, and will assess and manage the safety of the team. Local guides also have local knowledge, making them valuable asset on the climb.
Professional guides know the dos and don’ts and will provide advice on what to expect and what to pack. They also have an intimate knowledge of the mountain, and are adept at managing illness and dealing with emergency situations.
Having a professional guide is beneficial, as they will provide exceptional organizational skills, help to mitigate risks and help to plan acclimatisation days. They will also take care of cumbersome tasks such as arranging permits and allocating supplies.
Kilimanjaro Conservation and Best Practices
Kilimanjaro is a protected mountain with certain regulations in place, such as to limit the number of daily visitors and to promote conservation practices. It is important to respect the mountain and all its wilderness areas, and to conform to the regulations put in place, not only to protect the mountain but also to preserve its natural beauty for the future.
Following basic rules such as no smoking, no littering and respecting the local culture, as well as leaving no trace of your presence, will help to ensure the conservation of the mountain. It is also important to wear appropriate clothing and wear appropriate shoes to respect the mountain’s sanctity.
Humans, wildlife and the mountain all play important roles in the mountain and, as a potential climber, it is important to be tolerant and aware of the environment around you.
Climbing Kilimanjaro for Charity
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an incredible adventure, and it can also be an opportunity to make a difference. Many people opt to take on the challenge and climb Kilimanjaro to raise money for a charitable cause. If a charity mountain climb is of interest, then there are many ways to plan the adventure.
By choosing a reputable company to partner with and organising the trip in the best and most responsible manner, the climb can become something special and significant.
Reputable tour operators can also help to ensure that the funds donated are used in an effective manner and make a real difference to the lives of those living around the mountain. The climb itself can become a journey of discovery, exploring the mountain and its culture, while also helping to make a difference in the local community.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is a very common issue on Kilimanjaro and it’s important to be aware of the risks and signs of acute mountain sickness. Anybody can be affected by altitude sickness, regardless of age and physical fitness.
The mountain is the highest in Africa and reaching the summit requires a combination of physical and mental preparedness. It is important to be realistic about the hike, its potential dangers and the personal goals.
A recommended body of research should be completed prior to starting the climb, such as researching the signs and symptoms of altitude sickness, to properly understand what to expect. Knowledge and understanding of the risks of altitude sickness and the methods to prevent or manage illness is essential.
It is also important to note that while acclimatisation is important to prevent altitude sickness, it cannot completely eliminate the risk of it. Therefore, the possibility of altitude sickness should always be taken into account while making the decision whether or not to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Additional Tips
Climbing Kilimanjaro can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it takes a lot of preparation and dedication. As with any challenging endeavor, it is important to prepare for the climb mentally, physically and mentally. Preparation for the trip should include researching the route, measuring abilities and training.
It is also important to consult with a doctor prior to the climb, to assess health risks and precautions. It is also important to remember that challenging goals need to be set with realistic expectations, and it is necessary to be prepared to adjust plans if needed.
Although the climb to the summit is relatively easy, other factors need to be taken into consideration. Things such as weather changes, terrain complexity, altitude sickness and fatigue can affect the summit attempt.
What is important to remember when climbing Kilimanjaro is that the mountain should never be taken lightly, even though the climb itself can be considered easy. By understanding the risks, consulting with an expert, and knowing ones personal limits, the summit of Kilimanjaro is achievable.
