In this article, we’ll examine how to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro, the crown gem of the Seven Summits in Africa. Being the tallest free-standing peak in the world and the highest mountain in Africa, at 5,895 meters, is undoubtedly the main reason why so many people want to climb Kilimanjaro.
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Many people’s memories of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro stem from Hans Meyer, the first European to do it in 1889. Though her story—which is likely even more inspirational—is less well known, Sheila McDonald was the first woman to summit Kilimanjaro and sip champagne at the top of the mountain. You could choose to climb a mountain with a range of weather patterns and habitats, such as an Arctic peak, an alpine dry zone, or a rainforest. Or perhaps it’s just the attraction of an African adventure, similar to those described in the diaries of John Henry Patterson.
However, it’s the nuances that truly capture the splendor of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. They start as soon as you enter Tanzania’s rural areas, even before you reach the foot of the mountain. Here, you get to know the Swahili people, whose upbeat demeanor and easygoing pace will further enhance your next adventure. In Swahili, the word “safari” refers to a trip, and Kilimanjaro offers both a real and figurative voyage.
To climb a mountain, one must ascend more than just Mount Kilimanjaro. You ascend it for the people and the experience. From the heartwarming campfire tunes and belly-laughing to the soft nighttime goodbyes of “lala salama” (sleep soundly) as you tuck yourself into your sleeping bag. Even before you start your ascent, Tanzania will win your heart under the mountain’s watchful gaze.
Putting up a hike might be intimidating for people who have never ascended Mount Kilimanjaro. With the aid of our beginner’s guide to climbing Kilimanjaro, you can streamline the procedure, get the answers to some of the most often asked questions, and receive assistance in organizing an unforgettable trekking trip.
What location is Kilimanjaro?
Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro is situated close to the Kenyan border in the northeast. It is located around 500 kilometers northeast of Dodoma, the capital of Tanzania, and 140 kilometers south of Nairobi, the city of Kenya.
How Can I Travel Up Kilimanjaro?
You must fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) in order to reach Mount Kilimanjaro. There are several direct flights from the Middle East (Doha and Turkey) to Europe (Zurich and Amsterdam). However, it’s likely that you’ll have to take a flight via another African location; your best options are Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Nairobi.
Usually, a trek up Mount Kilimanjaro begins in one of two towns: Moshi, which is immediately south of the peak, or Arusha, which is to the mountain’s southwest. Moshi can be reached in about an hour, while Arusha can be reached in about 80 minutes. The most popular modes of transportation are taxis and scheduled shuttles; however, your tour operator will frequently meet you at the airport.
When Is Kilimanjaro’s Best Time to Climb?
Situated within Kilimanjaro National Park is Mount Kilimanjaro. Tanzania, which lies 300 kilometers south of the equator, is known for its tropical climate, which is characterized by hot, humid weather and alternating rainy and dry seasons. When is the ideal season to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro, then? Let’s examine the seasons and the climbing season on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Tanzania has two distinct rainy seasons: a brief one that lasts from November to mid-December and a longer one that lasts from March to May. During certain seasons, the trails on Mount Kilimanjaro may be muddy and damp underfoot. These are probably the best times to climb if you don’t mind the monsoonal weather as much as you would want alone. There aren’t as many people around. But be prepared to get quite wet.