Important Things You Should Know About Mount Kilimanjaro Climb

Author: Amidah Joseph

If you dream of hiking on the highest peak or mountain, then Kilimanjaro is the one to go for. Africa's tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, soars spectacularly out of the Great Rift Valley to a height of more than 19,300 feet above sea level. It is understandable why the Masai inhabitants revere the mountain: for millions of years, the valley below has been fed by the snowmelt from the top of this dormant volcano. Adventure-seekers have started to frequent Kili, partly due to how easily accessible it is.

Mount Kilimanjaro hike is quite a promising one for adventure seekers. If you are looking forward to the same, we have important things for you which you should know.

Important Things to know before Mount Kilimanjaro Climb

1. Kilimanjaro is not a climb. It's a hike.

When people plan to climb a mountain, they often picture a brave person holding onto a vertical rock face with only their hands, fearing the terrifying prospect of falling below. They even choose daring alpinists roping themselves to their comrades while trudging through deep snow while fully clothed in a down suit. Mount Kilimanjaro's climb does not fit either of these criteria, despite its impressive height.

There are no technical requirements for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Since you can walk up it, this mountain is referred to as a "walk-up" mountain. Using mountaineering tools like ropes, ice axes, or harnesses is unnecessary because there is no fear of falling from a cliff or going into a valley.

2. Choose Dry Season

Although Kilimanjaro is a hiking mountain throughout the year, the two wet seasons in Tanzania—March through May and November to early December—are muddy and stormy. As a result, most climbers choose to attempt the summit between January and February or June and October. Go for a hike when the seasons change from wet to dry, or vice versa, for good weather and fewer visitors, but be aware that you are taking a chance on the weather.

3. Best to Book Local Tour Company

The Tanzanian government mandates that you use a local guide outfitter to climb Kilimanjaro for various economic and ecological reasons. Most climbers choose an all-inclusive tour company that offers complete services like accommodation, transportation, food, and porter services for the duration of their trip.

4. Choosing the Right Route

Although there are seven recognized ways to peak, most people choose one of three. The quickest and most affordable is the Marangu Route, which takes five to six days. The challenging Machame Route climbs the peak's southern flank in six to seven days. The Lemonsho Route is a picturesque ascent of the mountain's long western ridge that takes six to nine days to complete.

Conclusion

It is best to connect with the right tour service to enjoy the best moments of the Mount Kilimanjaro climb. The professional service will take care of everything, ensuring you have a safe climb.