Mt Kilimanjaro is not only the highest mountain in Africa, but also the highest freestanding mountain in the world and the highest summit that can be climbed without technical equipment or technical skills. This makes the mountain especially appealing to the average person who wants an adventure challenge. The mountain has three volcanic cones. Shira (4145m) & Mawenzi (5149m) are extinct while Kibo (5895m) is classified as dormant although there has been no volcanic activity for the past 200 years.
There are several routes used to climb the mountain. While the mountains north side borders Kenya, all routes are in Tanzania. National park regulations require all climbers going through a registered tour company and to be accompanies by a certified mountain guide and porters. Along the Marangu Route, climbers spend overnights in simple but comfortable dormitory style huts that are solar powered. Along this route, it is possible to buy soda and beer at the huts. All other routes are camping routes. Depending on the route, a climb may take from 5 - 8 days. A five day climb (Marangu Route), while possible allows the body insufficient time for altitude acclimatization and the success rate is lower than average. Adding an acclimatization day greatly increases the chance of a successful summit. Refer to our route itineraries page for details.
During the course of your climb, you will have porters carrying your gear that is not needed during your days climb along with the food, cooking equipment and tents. They will climb much faster than the group and have everything set up upon your arrival at the nights campsite with dinner being prepared. You will need only to hike with what items are needed during your days trek. There will be a group guide and assistant guide. Both will be well able to handle the group alone in case some of the group needs to return back early.
The biggest challenge in climbing the mountain is the decrease in oxygen at the higher altitudes. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can affect some people more than others. Even some of the most fit athletes have failed in their climb attempt due to AMS. Lava Peaks Adventures guides have all undergone extensive and continual training in recognising the symptoms and taking precautions to minimize the issue.
During the course of a few days, you will pass through an array of environmental zones, from tropical rain-forest to near arctic conditions. This makes packing efficiently a necessity. Please refer to our Packing List page for a detailed packing list. Most items on the list can be rented in Moshi if you prefer. When you arrive for a climb, it is advisable to arrive at least one full day early for your body to recover from the flight. This extra day is also important in case your luggage is delayed along the way.
A Mt Kilimanjaro climb required a great deal of energy, that means that having the right food during the climb is especially important. At higher altitudes, climbers often experience nausea and loss of appetite. Our cooks are well experienced in preparing nutritious, appealing meals which are easily digested during your trek. With advance notice we can cater to special diets.
The time has come to reach for the summit of Roof of Africa! Mt Kilimanjaro climbing can bring this huge chance for you. If you are an adventure seeker, then Kilimanjaro climbing is something that you must not miss while in Tanzania, Africa. Lava Peaks, the best safari tour operator is going to craft the Kilimanjaro climbing tour for you.
If you have any questions or need advice whether you should attempt a Mt Kilimanjaro climb, feel free to contact us.
Lava Peaks Adventures is a local company owned by two Tanzanians with broad experience in the tourism industry and related fields. One of the owners, Ramson Swai is an established mountain ..
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