Kilimanjaro climb packages are a challenge, and if you’re new to trekking packages, camping, living outdoors, or high altitude, then you may find it tough; however, the specific challenges are mainly due to the altitude, your attitude, and your fitness, but with the correct preparation and a good guide team, then the vast majority of people will successfully summit.
Most hill walkers and trekkers are fit enough to climb Kilimanjaro, but it must be approached in the correct manner, with a good guide and support team to ensure that you have the correct equipment and are well rested, fed and guided so that by the time you reach the high camp, from where you’ll launch your summit bid, you’ll be in good health, well acclimatised to the lower levels of oxygen in the air, hydrated and full of energy.
In general, if you can easily walk 6–7 hours a day over undulating ground for several days in a row at home, then you should be in good stead to tackle Kilimanjaro.
There are no technical skills or equipment needed to climb Kilimanjaro, unless you’re going for the Western Breach, which requires using helmets due to loose rocks. For the normal routes you won’t need any specialist skills or kit, it is merely a trek, one foot after the other. On the Mount Kilimanjaro Machame route and the Climbing Kilimanjaro Lemosho route, some people find the Barranco Wall a bit ‘lofty’ as you meander up a defined path that on occasion requires three points of contact and a bit of scrambling, but it’s not dangerous and the guides are there to ensure that. Otherwise you can avoid it by choosing the Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route .
In order to make the climb a bit easier for yourself, you should become comfortable and be prepared and experienced with everything before you arrive, which refers to everything from your kit to camping, from living outdoors to walking, and this can be done in a number of ways – check out our preparation tips below:
Preparation for Kilimanjaro
Kit For Kilimanjaro
Make sure you’re fully familiar with your gear before you land in Tanzania. Test everything in real conditions—put on your waterproof jacket and trousers and go for a walk in wet, windy weather. Every item, from jackets to gaiters, has its own zips, vents, straps, and adjustments, and knowing how to use them properly can turn a cold, rainy hike into a comfortable and enjoyable one. It’s much better to figure this out at home than on the mountain.
The same rule applies to your daypack—pack only what you truly need, make sure it fits well, and confirm everything inside stays dry. And don’t forget your boots! They should be broken in, waterproof, and comfortable for long hours of trekking. Spend time walking in them on different terrains so there are no surprises on the trail.
CAMPING ON KILIMANJARO:
Many people have never slept in a tent before, or perhaps not for many years, so it’s well worth it, if you can borrow one, to give it a try before you arrive. On the mountain our staff will pitch your tent for you and pop your bags inside, plus a comfortable mattress. You do need to bring a sleeping bag, or you can rent one from us. You need to be organised in a tent, and although we use 3/4-person tents, we only put 2 people in them, so you have plenty of room, and they’re really good quality tents (we use the same tents on Mt Everest). You can keep your kitbag in the tent or outside in the porch, and it’s best to only take out what you need for the night. Keeping your kit together saves things from getting lost or wet. If you haven’t slept in a sleeping bag before, then initially, they will feel a bit restrictive; however, on a cold evening, after a day’s walking, it’s bliss to climb into one and enjoy a few pages of a good book. Again, do use your sleeping bag before you arrive, as they also have different ways to vent and wrap up warm – get to know it well before you come. Check out our sleeping bag for the Kilimanjaro guide.
Walking:
Take your day bag and do as much walking as possible before you arrive. This is easily the best form of training, and not just for your muscles but also for your mind and your ability to use and be comfortable with your kit. If you can’t get out walking, then combine gym, park and time in the pool – have a look at our training for Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania!
Altitude:
There is nothing you can do to acclimatise without going to altitude; however, if you have the budget, then most cities have altitude centres which can create the effects and will certainly assist. The centres aren’t cheap, and by no means are they required as a prerequisite to your climb, but some people do use them. Otherwise detox, stay hydrated pre-climb and especially on the flight, and follow the advice of your guide. Also check out our acclimatisation info pages here.
If you prepare well and follow these suggestions then climbing Kilimanjaro will be a challenge, but one that you will be able to comfortably tackle!
Ready to Climb Kilimanjaro?
If you’re considering the adventure of a lifetime, our Kilimanjaro trek packages, including the famous Machame Route, are designed to give you the best chance of success while ensuring comfort, safety, and unforgettable views.Start planning your journey with Amrix Adventures Ltd today—your Kilimanjaro dream is closer than you think.
