Where is Kilimanjaro?

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The mountain is in Tanzania, East Africa, about 350 km from the equator. The nearest towns are Moshi and Arusha.

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How much will it cost?

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Getting to Tanzania and hiking up Kili is not cheap. But the once in a lifetime experience is worth it. The cost is normally quoted in USD and is available on application. There is a option for the climb to be sponsored or discounted.

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How high is it?

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Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest freestanding mountain in the world and the highest mountain in Africa. Its highest point is Uhuru Peak on the Kibo crater at 5895m above sea level.

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What kind of experience do I need?

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None, but previous hiking or climbing experience will help. You need to be fit and healthy and have a good pair of worn-in hiking boots. The fitter you are the more you are likely to enjoy it.

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What gear do I need?

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You don’t need mountain climbing gear. You can rent most of the clothing and equipment you need in Tanzania, but bringing your own clothes, well worn-in boots and a good sleeping bag is best. You will need a small day pack with enough space for wind and rain clothes, some first aid, 3 litres of water and snacks.

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Warm clothes (fleece, wind and waterproof layers), good polarised sunglasses, sunscreen and a head lamp should be included in your packing list. You might prefer to use walking sticks and gaiters, but these can be rented from your trekking operator.

 

Even thermal underwear and down jackets can be rented from us. If think you do not have the correct clothing and gear, please contact Kilimanjaro-Experience for advice.

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Can I shower?

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There are no bathrooms on Kili. Warm water will be supplied in a bowl and you will be able to wash your face and hands. For the rest you will use wipes. Toilets are simple, hole-in-the-ground types. Portable showers and toilets can be rented at some cost.

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How long is the hike?

There are at least six routes to the Uhuru peak. Our route choice for 2019 is Mt Marangu which we will over 7 days.

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What will I eat - I am a vegetarian?

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You will eat normal food: potatoes, rice, pasta, vegetables, eggs, sandwiches, cheese and fruit. When you book we will need to know about food allergies or medical conditions that require special diets. Non-vegetarians will be served sausages, chicken and meat. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate will be available as well.

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Where does the water come from?

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From the mountain. Porters collect water from the streams and it is boiled before use. This water will be used to fill your water canisters. You don’t need to use purification tablets, but it is recommended. Some operators offer bottled water – at extra cost as porters have to carry this up the mountain.

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Where do we sleep?

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. You will most sleep in tent.Tents and sleeping mats are carried and set up by the porters. You do need to bring a very warm sleeping bag or rent it from us.

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What dangers are there on the mountain?

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You might experience symptoms of altitude sickness – headaches, nausea, loss of appetite and dizziness. Apart from obvious injuries that can occur when walking in uneven terrain and in very cold conditions, you will not be in danger of mugging, attack by animals or malarial mosquitoes.

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Do we tip the hiking crew?

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Yes, it is expected and much appreciated. Tips will be collected before the climb and are in USD.

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How old should I be to make it to the top?

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 For the event climbers need to be 14 years and older when they attempt the summit. Climbers older than 70 years are required to show a medical certificate.The oldest person on the mountain was Richard Byerley (84) of Washington State. 

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Will I make it to the top of Uhuru peak?

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A good level of fitness and a positive, determined attitude will ensure success. Also, you will need good support and the right gear.

You have a 50% chance – to make it or not. Of the 40 000 visitors Kili attracts each year, between 50 and 75% turn back before reaching the summit according a report by the International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation. The main reason for this is cold, dehydration and altitude sickness. You will increase your chances by choosing the right route, allow an extra day for acclimatising to the height, good protection against cold and good guides to help you acclimatise and pace yourself.

 

Do we carry our own luggage on the trip? If not, what is the weight the porters carry?

You will not be responsible to carry your luggage up Kilimanjaro. The porters can carry approximately 30lbs (15kg) of your luggage; the rest can be stored safely at the hotel. You will only be responsible to carry your day pack with the essential and personal items you need to have with you at all times

 

If the trek becomes too difficult for me can I turn around?

Yes you can. If you are in any physical danger or suffer from altitude sickness the porters will be able to assist you down the mountain.

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What is the coldest it is expected to be at the summit of Kilimanjaro?

Temperatures vary considerably with altitude and time of day. On the plains surrounding Kilimanjaro the average temperature is about 30°C. At 3000m frosts can be encountered at night while daytime temperatures range from 5 to 15°C. Nighttime temperatures on the summit can be well below freezing especially with the strong winds at times.

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What is altitude sickness and what are the symptoms?

During the trek it is likely that all climbers will experience at least some form of mild altitude sickness.  It is caused by the failure of the body to adapt quickly enough to the reduced level of oxygen in the air at an increased altitude.  There are many different symptoms but the most common are headaches, light-headedness, nausea, loss of appetite, tingling in the toes and fingers, and a mild swell of ankles and fingers.  These mild forms are not serious and will normally disappear within 48 hours.  Please visit your physician for any preventative medications.

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How can I prevent altitude sickness?

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• Stay hydrated. Try to drink at least 4-6 liters per day.

• Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and other depressant drugs including barbiturates, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills.

• Don’t go up until symptoms go down”. People acclimatize at different rates, so make sure that you properly acclimatized before going higher.

• Before your trip, maintain a good work/rest cycle, avoid excessive work hours, and last minute packing.

• Listen to your body. Do not over-do things the first day or two. Avoid heavy exercise.

• Take your time. Pace is a critical factor on all routes. "Po'le po'le" (go slowly) is the phrase of the day.

• Walk high sleep low: If you have enough energy, take an afternoon stroll further up the mountain before descending to sleep. (not if you have any symptoms of altitude sickness!)

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Six factors that affect the incidence and severity of altitude illness:

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• Rate of ascent

• Altitude attained

• Length of exposure

• Level of exertion

• Hydration and diet

• Inherent physiological susceptibility

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Will the effects of the sun be stronger on the mountain?

Absolutely, so precautions are required. About 55% of the earth's protective atmosphere is below an altitude of 5000m. Far less ultraviolet light is being filtered out, making the sun's rays much more powerful, which could result in severe sun burning of the skin

 

It is strongly recommended to use a 20+ sun protection cream at lower altitudes, and a total block cream above an altitude of 3000m. It is also important to wear dark sun glasses preferably with side panels above 4000m in daytime and essential when walking through snow or ice. Snow blindness can be very painful, and will require your eyes to be bandaged for at least 24 hours.