Climbing Kilimanjaro | Everything You Need to Know

A good preparation is essential.

packing list for Kilimanjaro:
* Daypack, 30-35 liters capacity, in which you can carry your personal     belongings. A dry bag that fits in your daypack is a great tool to keep     your camera and other essentials dry

*Backpack 70L-90L capacity, for porters to carry your equipment
 Make sure your main bag, carried by the porters, is waterproof. Use   separate plastic bags to compartmentalize your belongings and   ensure extra waterproofing.

*Sleeping bag and liner, 4 seasons. A sleeping bag for all seasons is      essential, and a fleece sleeping bag liner provides extra comfort     and warmth.

*We recommend bringing walking sticks. Very useful for Kilimanjaro, especially for the summit day and generally for the descent.

*Camping pillow, inflatable, since the campsites are not on a completely flat surface, a camping pillow is a useful tool.

*Waterproof jacket, breathable with hood
Essential, as the weather can be unpredictable in any season. Make sure this outerwear is large enough to wear over multiple layers of clothing.

*Gloves, warm

*headgear

*first aid kit

*Soft jacket, fleece or softshell To keep you dry in light and moderate rain. It is best if this garment has a durable, water-repellent outer layer.

Furthermore, think in layers, taking into account all types of weather with lightweight clothing

Shoes are very important. Get yourself informed by a good outdoor store.

After your booking, you will receive a detailed packing list from us.

The name of the insurance company, their contact details, and your policy number are needed.

Passport, with a separate photocopy

This is essential to register you at the Kilimanjaro Park Gate. We also need it in case we have to contact your insurance company.

Don't forget: required visas or vaccination certificates, with photocopies. You'll need both at immigration when entering Tanzania.

The best months to climb Kilimanjaro are:

January through March
June through October

During these periods, the weather is generally stable and you have the best chance of clear views.

Depending on the chosen route, a climb usually takes 5 to 9 days.

We recommend a route of at least 6 or 7 days so that your body has enough time to get used to the altitude. This increases the chance of successfully reaching the summit.

There are several routes to the top of Kilimanjaro, each with its own character.

Marangu Route

The Marangu Route is known as the only route where you stay in mountain huts overnight. This route is popular with hikers who prefer not to camp.

Machame Route

The Machame Route is one of the most popular routes. Thanks to its gradual ascent, this route is good for acclimatization and offers beautiful views.

Lemosho Route

The Lemosho Route starts on the west side of the mountain and goes through peaceful, untouched nature. This route is known for its high success rate and spectacular landscapes.

Rongai Route

The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the border with Kenya. This route is often quieter and drier than the southern routes.

INCLUDED:

*Two nights accommodation in Moshi double or triple occupancy (before and after the climb)

*Includes dinner & breakfast

*Qualified guides with mountain crew

*Pulse oximeters 

*National park fees

*Boiled water on the mountain

*Hut/camping fees and tents

*Tents foam sleeping pads, cooking equipment, and (Cutlery / Crockery) eating utensils.

*Rescue fees (required by the National Park)

*First aid kit

*Meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner

*Airport transfers (JRO – Kilimanjaro International Airports)

*Guides, porters, waiter, cook accommodation and entry fees on the  mountain

NOT INCLUDED:

*Extra activities (waterfall tour, cultural village visit).

*Visa fees

*Travel insurance

*All types of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages

*Medical insurance

*Tips

*Flights tickets

*Personal items: Technical equipment, technical clothing, shoes, gloves, accessories, laundry, toiletries

Yes, altitude sickness is a risk for anyone climbing Kilimanjaro, regardless of age, fitness, or mountaineering experience. As you ascend, the air contains less oxygen, and your body needs time to adjust.

Common mild symptoms include headache, fatigue, nausea, or dizziness. That's why it's important to climb slowly, drink plenty of water, and listen carefully to your body.

At Summa African Adventure, safety always comes first. Our experienced mountain guides follow the 'Pole Pole' principle – Swahili for take it easy. By walking at a steady pace, your body has time to acclimate, which increases your chances of a successful climb.

In addition, our guides check in daily on how you're feeling and closely monitor your health. If needed, we adjust the pace or take extra rest. Safety always comes before reaching the summit.

To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, we recommend a route of at least six or seven days. These longer routes give your body more time to adjust to the altitude, increasing your chances of safely reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters).

Good preparation, experienced guidance, and listening to your body's signals are the key ingredients for a safe and unforgettable climb of Kilimanjaro.

Good preparation not only increases your chances of reaching the top of Kilimanjaro, but also ensures you can enjoy the climb more. You don't need to be an experienced mountaineer or top athlete, but having a reasonable level of fitness is important. We recommend starting training about 2 to 3 months before departure. Focus mainly on improving your endurance and strengthening your legs and core. Good preparation can include: Regular walking, preferably on hilly terrain. Going on long walks with a backpack to get used to walking with a load. Cycling, running, or swimming to improve your fitness. Climbing stairs or walking on inclines to strengthen your leg muscles. Strength training for your legs, back, and abdominal muscles for extra stability.

During the climb, it's not about speed, but about maintaining a calm and steady pace. That's why our guides follow the Swahili principle "Pole Pole," which means "slowly slowly." By walking slowly, your body gets time to adjust to the altitude, increasing your chances of a successful climb.

Besides training, a healthy lifestyle is also important. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and drink plenty of water in the weeks leading up to your trip. Arriving at the start well-rested gives your adventure a strong foundation.

After your booking, Summa African Adventure will send you a detailed packing list and practical preparation tips. We’re happy to help you, so you can start your Kilimanjaro climb with confidence.

With good preparation, the right guidance, and a positive attitude, reaching the top of Africa is an achievable dream for many hikers.

A good preparation starts well before departure. With the step-by-step plan below, you can work step by step towards a safe and successful climb of Kilimanjaro.

6 months before departure:

Preparation starts with good planning.

*Book your Kilimanjaro climb and choose the route that suits you best.
*Check if your passport is still valid for long enough.
*Request information about travel insurance that covers mountain climbing up to 5,895 meters.
*Start gently with walking, cycling, or swimming to build up your fitness.
*Get good hiking boots and make sure to break them in properly.

Tip: New hiking boots need time to mold to your feet, so don’t wait until just before departure.

3 months before departure

Now it’s time to start training more seriously.

*Go for one long walk each week, between 10 and 20 kilometers.
*Walk regularly on hilly terrain or practice climbing stairs.
*Train your leg muscles, back, and abdominal muscles.
*Practice walking while carrying a light backpack.
*Check which vaccinations or health advice apply to your trip.

Try to be active at least three times a week. Consistency is more important than intensity.

1 month before departure

The trip is getting closer

*Check your gear.
*Adjust your backpack and go for a test hike.
*If needed, buy warm clothes, gloves, and a good rain jacket.
*Test your hiking clothes on longer walks.
*Start putting together your packing list.
*Make sure you’re well rested.

Avoid last-minute purchases. Well-fitting clothes and shoes make a big difference during the climb.

1 week before departure

Now it's time to start winding down.

*Take a few short walks.
*Avoid intense workouts to prevent injuries.
*Drink plenty of water.
*Get enough sleep.
*Check that your travel documents, insurance papers, and flight details are all complete.
*Pack your luggage according to the packing list.

Try to start your trip relaxed. A well-rested body performs better at high altitude.

During the climb

A successful climb doesn't start with speed, but with patience.

Our guides follow the well-known Swahili principle "Pole Pole," which literally means "slowly slowly." By walking slowly, your body gets time to adjust to the altitude. This increases your chances of safely reaching the top of Kilimanjaro.

Listen carefully to your guide, drink enough water, eat regularly, and above all, enjoy the unique surroundings. The climb is not just a challenge, but also a unique journey through five different climate zones.

Heading to Uhuru Peak Together

At Summa African Adventure, we guide you not only during the climb but also in the preparation. From the moment you book, we're ready with practical tips, a detailed packing list, and personal advice.

With proper preparation, experienced guidance, and a positive mindset, you increase your chances of a safe and unforgettable climb of Kilimanjaro.