Mount Kilimanjaro, The Beginner’s Guide to Adventure

How Much Does It Cost to Climb Kilimanjaro?

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can indeed be quite costly. In addition to the national park fees, you will also need to cover the expenses of hiring a guide. Many tour companies employ porters to assist with carrying heavy camping gear, along with other support staff.

The cost of a Kilimanjaro trek typically ranges from £1500 to £4500, depending on the chosen route and the tour company selected. It is advisable not to opt for the cheapest option available when selecting a trekking guide. Quality comes at a price, and it is essential to ensure that things are done correctly. Reputable guides will provide appropriate equipment, expertise in weather and trekking conditions, quality meals, and a suitable itinerary that allows for rest and acclimatization.

How to Prepare for Climbing Kilimanjaro

We highly recommend that you adequately prepare for your upcoming expedition. Develop and implement a training regimen aimed at enhancing your fitness, strength, and endurance. Prior to the expedition, consider climbing several smaller mountains to build up your experience take a look at our selection of the finest hikes in the UK for some motivation! If you reside in an urban area, you can utilize the local gym facilities the Stairmaster is excellent for boosting endurance and strength. Alternatively, you can utilize the stairs in your own home – we once calculated that Kilimanjaro is approximately 24,915 stairs high!

If you anticipate carrying the majority of your equipment, then it is advisable to practice hiking while carrying a weighted backpack this will significantly increase the challenge!

What Clothing and Equipment Do You Need?

While Kilimanjaro may be labeled as a ‘walk-up mountain’, it should not be underestimated as an easy feat. Adequate preparation is crucial, particularly if you are working within a tight schedule or tackling a more challenging route. Porters are available to transport food, cooking tools, and sleeping arrangements. Many trekking companies offer extra gear, if necessary, but reliable personal equipment is invaluable. Pack accordingly for an extended trek at high altitudes, including the following items:

Ensure you have reliable waterproof and breathable hiking boots along with thick socks that have been tested prior to the hike to avoid discomfort during the journey. It is crucial to have a spacious waterproof backpack and hydration sack to carry essential items such as a camera, head torch, clothing, and food for the day. Don’t forget to pack thermals for cold nights, waterproof/windproof pants and shell, quick-dry hiking clothes, and fleece/down jackets for sudden drops in temperature. Remember to bring a beanie, gloves, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect you from the elements. Additionally, pack a change of warm clothes for the nights, basic toiletries, a head torch, hiking snacks, and a small medical kit to be prepared for any situation that may arise during the trek.

What’s The Best Kilimanjaro Route?

There are seven primary paths to select from. Your choice of route will mainly be determined by your experience, physical condition, financial resources, and schedule – in addition to your individual preferences. It is highly recommended to carefully consider each one in order to select the most suitable approach for ascending Kilimanjaro. 

1. Marangu Route (70km / 5-6 Days)

Regarded as the most straightforward path to ascend Kilimanjaro, it is also the most crowded. This is the sole path to the top of Kilimanjaro that offers dormitory-style lodging in simple huts. However, it has a lower success rate due to the challenges of acclimatizing to the high altitude along this route.

2. Machame Route (61km / 6-7 Days)

Machame is renowned for its picturesque scenery and offers a more challenging ascent than Marangu. Descending on a different path than the ascent provides a diverse range of landscapes. This route also provides good acclimatization options, with higher altitude days and lower altitude camps, making it one of our recommended routes.

3. Lemosho Route (67km / 7-8 Days)

Lemosho was developed as an alternative to the Shira Route on Mount Kilimanjaro, boasting a significantly higher success rate. Providing a more scenic experience, this route begins at a lower altitude. While less crowded than Machame and Marangu, it does require a longer drive to reach the starting point.

4. Rongai Route (74km / 6-7 Days)

The sole route from the northern direction results in decreased precipitation. It involves a gradual incline, situated in a more secluded region. This enhances the likelihood of encountering wildlife, albeit requiring a lengthier journey to reach the initial destination.

5. Shira Route (58km / 6-8 Days)

Beginning at an elevation of 3,600 meters, Shira presents a higher risk of altitude sickness. It converges with the Machame route on the third day. It is pricier than both Machame and Marangu, mainly because of its more remote starting point, and has largely been supplanted by the Lemosho Route.

6. Northern Circuit (88km / 8-9 Days)

The Northern Circuit commences at the Lemosho Route, traverses the Shira plateau, and then loops around the northern slopes instead of taking the more crowded eastern route. It offers stunning views, but it is also the priciest option due to its length.

7. Umbwe Route (48km / 6-7 Days)

Umbwe is widely regarded as the briefest, most challenging, and steepest route by numerous individuals. This climb up Mount Kilimanjaro is a strenuous endeavor. The initial day consists of navigating through extremely steep terrain. It boasts one of the least favorable success rates.