Is Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro Difficult?

If you are planning a trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, there are a few things you should know before you go! First, hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is tough. Even though you don’t need mountaineering experience or special equipment to make it to the top, you do need to be prepared and in shape.

Second, you will need to join a Kilimanjaro guided tour. It is illegal to hike this mountain without a guide, plus you will need porters to carry some of your gear on this multi-day adventure. That means you'll need to join a guided Kilimanjaro group tour. Just make sure to choose a reputable company with experienced guides who prioritize safety and environmental conservation during the trek!

What To Expect When Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro With A Tour Group

Mount Kilimanjaro is a fairly difficult mountain to climb. Some statistics suggest that over 50 percent of the people who attempt the climb suffer from motion sickness and that 65 percent of them are unable to make it to the summit. If you plan to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, you must be prepared for three to eight hours of hiking a day for five to 11 days straight (depending on which tour you book). On summit day, you will be on your feet for much longer and the elevation gain will be the greatest you will experience during the entirety of the trip.

That being said, one of the most important things you can do when asking how to plan a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro is to ask how to acclimate to the region’s altitude. Kilimanjaro is not a technical summit, but the climb involves 19,340 feet of elevation gain. Hikers need to be able to trek long distances and be used to the low oxygen in the air if they want to be successful. Altitude training is one of the best ways to maximize your chance of handling the altitude, but many people still struggle with this variable even when well-trained. However, because you will be part of a Kilimanjaro guided tour, your guide will be able to help you if you experience difficulties during the trek.

Finding The Right Guide Service For Your Adventure

You can’t hike Kilimanjaro without a guide. In Tanzania, it is illegal to do so, but there are many other good reasons to hike Mt. Kilimanjaro with a tour. You can pick between a group tour, which is a more affordable option, or book a private trip with a guide service.

Most guide services offer longer trips with built-in acclimatization days for novice and intermediate climbers, while experienced climbers can opt for a quick ascent. Kilimanjaro guided tours generally include porters, meals, group gear (like tents, cooking gear, and treated water), and the entry fee to Kilimanjaro National Park.

A knowledgeable guide can make your trek more pleasant. Here are some examples of insider information that an experienced guide will be able to share with you:

• Terrain – the terrain and trail conditions on Mount Kilimanjaro can vary from day to day. Having a guide who knows how to approach each evolving landscape means that you will be ready for anything. In addition, an experienced guide can also provide valuable insights into the unique flora and fauna found along the different routes of the mountain, enriching your overall trekking experience.
• Weather – the weather on Mt. Kilimanjaro can change rapidly from sun to rain, and will get colder the higher up you climb. Having a guide who knows how to approach these variable weather conditions can make or break your summit attempt. A seasoned guide will not only help you navigate the unpredictable weather on Mt. Kilimanjaro but also provide valuable insights on acclimatization strategies to increase your chances of reaching the summit safely.
• Safety checks – a professional, experienced guide knows the value of routine safety checks throughout an expedition. This helps monitor any health risks you may be experiencing, such as altitude sickness or fatigue and makes sure you are following all mountaineering protocols. By conducting these routine safety checks, the guide can effectively mitigate potential dangers and ensure a safe and successful trek to the summit.

There are many tour agencies available to help you on a Kilimanjaro guided tour. If this is your first attempt at summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, it may be a good idea to book with a local guide service. They can provide valuable insights into the best routes, safety measures, and acclimatization strategies to enhance your overall experience and increase your chances of reaching the summit successfully.

Climbing to an altitude of more than 19,000 feet is a challenge, but can be accomplished by most hikers with the assistance of a guide who knows the terrain and is an expert in the local environment. Reaching such high altitudes requires proper acclimatization and physical fitness to ensure hikers stay safe and enjoy the breathtaking views along the way.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Mt. Kilimanjaro?

If you are struggling with the details of how to plan a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro, don’t worry! Once you book with a guide service, they will handle all the details for you and provide information about what to pack and when is the best time to visit. No need to stress about the logistics, as experienced guides will ensure a smooth and unforgettable journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

The good news is that Kilimanjaro’s temperate and equatorial climate means you can book your climb almost any time of year! However, there are a few rainy times of year to avoid – mainly from March to May and November to December. Even if you book your trip during the rainy season, trail conditions are difficult – but still very doable. However,  traveling during the drier months of June to October not only offers clearer skies and better visibility for admiring the stunning landscapes as you ascend Kilimanjaro but also increases your chances of a smoother and more enjoyable hiking experience overall.

An Adventure Of A Lifetime!

When you decide to hike Mount Kilimanjaro with a tour group, you can be sure that you’re going to have an adventure of a lifetime. Just be sure to prepare for the experience by getting in shape – Mount Kilimanjaro may not be difficult but, it is strenuous. And most importantly, get ready to enjoy this epic getaway. The amazing views of the African savanna and the stunning glaciers at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro will make all your efforts along the way truly worthwhile.