Kilimanjaro, the majestic giant of Africa, beckons thrill-seekers worldwide. As the highest free-standing mountain in the world, it is a natural wonder that attracts thousands of climbers each year. With its three volcanic cones, Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira, Mount Kilimanjaro offers a range of routes to suit all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned climbers.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is a life-changing adventure, taking six days, that challenges your body and mind. The lush rainforest that begins the climb is home to exotic monkeys, birds, and flowers, providing a feast for the senses. As the climb progresses, the vegetation changes, and the landscape transforms into a heath, moorland, alpine desert, and an arctic summit. The temperature drops drastically, becoming freezing at the top, making it a challenge that will demand your utmost physical fitness and mental stamina.

The summit day is the most thrilling part. With your expert guide, you climb in the dark, following your headlamp and the stars, aiming to reach the peak by sunrise. The view from the top is breathtaking, with clouds, glaciers, and African plains below. You see the sign, “Congratulations, you are now at Uhuru Peak, 5895m – Africa’s highest point.”

About Kilimanjaro
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime journey, challenging your physical and mental strength and rewarding you with breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. You will walk through five different climate zones, from lush rainforest to barren desert, and witness the beauty and diversity of nature. You will see the giant groundsel plants in the Barranco Valley, the shimmering glaciers at the Crater Camp, and the sunrise over Mawenzi Peak at Barafu Camp. You will meet new friends and share the camaraderie of a common goal. Climbing Kilimanjaro is an adventure that will inspire you for years. After you conquer the summit, you can treat yourself to a well-earned luxury Asilia Africa safari at Namiri Plans and Sayari Camp in the nearby Serengeti.

Kilimanjaro Routes

We’ve handpicked what we believe to be the two most enjoyable routes with the best success rates for summiting Kilimanjaro, the Rongai and Lemosho Routes. The Rongai Route is the only one that approaches the mountain from the north, offering a remote and quiet passage with the chance to see wildlife such as antelope, elephant, buffalo, colobus monkey and many bird species.  The Lemosho Route is newer and more extended, starting from the mountain’s west side. It’s a beautiful, diverse route that takes you through different climatic zones. With a high success rate and good acclimatisation profile, it’s an excellent option for those looking to summit Kilimanjaro. Consider your preferences, physical fitness, budget, and time when choosing a route. Generally, choosing a route that allows you enough time to acclimatise, avoiding crowds, and offering scenic views is best.

Guides and Porters

When climbing Kilimanjaro, it is essential to do so as part of a group with the support of guides and porters. All activities on the mountain are regulated by Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA), which oversees the conduct of tour operators and their management of porters. By KINAPA regulations, two trekkers must be accompanied by one guide and an assistant guide, six porters (three for each trekker), and one cook. Porters carry your gear, cooking supplies, tents, and water. It is customary to provide a tip for the guides and porters, with the amount typically based on the number of days you have spent on the mountain and the number of climbers in your group.

Altitude Sickness

When climbing Kilimanjaro, altitude sickness can be a significant obstacle. This condition occurs due to decreased oxygen levels at higher elevations. It causes about one-third of climbers to give up their summit attempt. Although Kilimanjaro is not a technically challenging climb, it is still tricky. The extreme altitude, low temperatures, and occasional strong winds demand that you are in good physical condition, well-equipped, and well-acclimatised. The most crucial factor for success during your Kilimanjaro experience is giving yourself enough time to adjust to the altitude. Fortunately, all routes have rangers and emergency services to assist should you experience altitude sickness, and some routes even provide oxygen cylinders for emergencies.

What’s Included?

Kilimanjaro experience includes the following:

Ascents via Kilimanjaro’s Rongai or Lemosho Route with certified local guides, cooks, and porters.
All permits and fees.
All transport between destinations and to/from the included activities.
Accommodation: Full-service alpine camping (five nights).
Meals: Five breakfasts, six lunches, and five dinners. Allow US$ 70-95 for meals not included.

Planning Tips

Although Kilimanjaro spans Tanzania and Kenya’s border, climbing is only possible from the Tanzanian side. Our excursions start in Arusha where there are a variety of quality accommodation options. We recommend spending two nights in Arusha before climbing to adjust to the altitude.

Supposing you’re interested in combining your Kilimanjaro experience with other local adventures, we suggest starting with Kilimanjaro, following this up with an exciting safari or a relaxing and romantic beach stay in Zanzibar. We offer active safari options, including walking and hiking, if you crave adventure. Our collection of unique and immersive experiences, entirely off the beaten path, is captivating.

Our team of experts can advise you on creating the best itinerary for a successful summit, followed by a relaxing and unforgettable wildlife safari. We look forward to helping you plan the trip of a lifetime.