Climb Kilimanjaro
Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant stratovolcano with an impressive height of 5,895 metres (19,341 feet). The majestic peak attracts thousands of climbers every year. We offer all options for classic and less-trekked Kilimanjaro summit routes, including Lemosho, Machame, Rongai, and Marangu.
What You Need to Know to Climb Kilimanjaro
Reaching the top of the highest peak in Africa is a significant physical and mental challenge. Many climbers are drawn to Kilimanjaro to test their limits, push themselves outside of their comfort zones, and achieve a remarkable feat.
Fitness and Mountaineering Experience Required
Although you do need good fitness and preparation, Kilimanjaro is still an achievable goal for amateur mountaineers. This makes it an attractive prospect for those who are just getting started in mountain climbing.
It is also a good choice for people who want a challenge but are not ready for a technical ascent.
Our beginner training program for Kilimanjaro should give you a better idea of how to prepare physically. Having the right level of fitness makes the trek that much more enjoyable.
Flora and Fauna
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an opportunity to discover the diverse biomes in this part of East Africa. As climbers ascend the mountain, they encounter different ecosystems, each characterized by unique flora and fauna.
The region around Mount Kilimanjaro is teeming with wildlife and also has a rich cultural heritage. This makes it the perfect destination to combine trekking with a safari trip.
Best Time to Go
Before you plan your trip, carefully consider the best season to climb Kilimanjaro. Rainfall and temperature vary throughout the year and should impact your route choice. Each trail has its own advantages and challenges. Which you select will depend on your fitness levels as well as the time of year.
Kilimanjaro Routes
Below is a quick comparison of the different Kilimanjaro routes that Skyhook offers:
Machame Route
The Machame route on Kilimanjaro, also known as the Whiskey route, is challenging but also very rewarding, with diverse landscapes and scenery.
The trek takes you through diverse ecosystems, offering a unique blend of challenge and beauty.
Known for its formidable obstacles, including the Barranco Wall and Lava Tower, the route also provides great opportunities for optimal acclimatisation.
Skyhook offers two treks on the Machame route:
Lemosho Route
The Kilimanjaro Lemosho route is known for its low traffic. It is a longer route with good opportunities for acclimatisation.
Lemosho is renowned for its pristine wilderness, stunning vistas, and excellent acclimatisation profile. Often considered the most scenic approach to the summit, it offers a longer, more gradual ascent that traverses diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine moorlands and rugged terrain.
With lower traffic compared to some other routes, you typically get a quieter and more immersive experience with nature.
Skyhook offers two hikes on the Lemosho route:
Rongai Route
The Rongai route offers a more remote experience with good wildlife sightings. Unlike the other routes, it approaches Kilimanjaro from the northeastern side of the mountain, near Kenya.
Rongai is also the best choice for trekking Kilimanjaro during the rainy season (March-May).
It has a more gradual ascent profile, providing good opportunities for altitude acclimatisation.
Skyhook offers one trip on the Rongai route:
Marangu Route
The Marangu route (also known as the Coca-Cola route) is often considered the easiest trail on the mountain. It is the only route where you sleep in huts along the way instead of camping.
Being the oldest route on Kilimanjaro, Marangu holds a rich history dating back to the early days of mountaineering and exploration of Tanzania's iconic Mount Kilimanjaro.
Despite the emergence of alternative routes over the years, the Marangu route has remained popular. It's favoured by trekkers who seek a slightly less demanding ascent, comfortable huts for accommodation, and a relatively well-maintained path
Skyhook offers one trek on the Marangu route:
Kilimanjaro FAQs
The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons, which are generally between January to March and June to October.
These months offer the most stable weather conditions and clearer views.
However, Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round on the right route. Each route has varying weather patterns dependent on the seasons.
Climbing Kilimanjaro is considered a challenging endeavour. The difficulty level can vary depending on several factors, including your route choice and trekking experience.
While prior climbing experience is not necessary, it is recommended that you have a good level of fitness and undertake some physical training before attempting the climb.
Regular cardio and endurance training can greatly enhance your trekking experience. It's also important to acclimatize to the altitude, so slow and steady pacing is key when you're on the mountain.
Yes, it is mandatory to climb Kilimanjaro with a registered guide or tour operator. This is monitored and enforced by park authorities.
Skyhook Kilimanjaro tours start from $1,950pp (6-Day Machame Trek). This is comparable to what you'd pay directly to the operator.
You can trek most routes on Kilimanjaro without technical climbing skills. However, as you approach the summit, some sections might require basic scrambling. Proper trekking gear, warm clothing, and a well-fitted backpack are essential. Your guide provides equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, and mats.
They also rent out a lot of extra equipment if you don't have your own or need to travel light.
Temperatures on Kilimanjaro can vary significantly depending on the altitude and time of year. At the summit, temperatures can drop well below freezing, often reaching -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F).
We recommend checking out the packing lists for the individual trips to see what kit you will need. Alternatively, reach out to Skyhook or the head guide with your questions.
As Kilimanjaro stands above 5,000m, altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a concern for climbers. While it is not possible to predict who will be affected, with proper preparation and precautions, the risk can be minimised. Our tour operator and their guides are experienced in managing altitude-related issues. Climbers are advised to take their time, stay hydrated, and listen to their bodies. If symptoms worsen, descending to lower altitudes is often the best approach.
The most important items to bring are good trekking boots, non-cotton trekking shirts and pants, layers for warmth (including a waterproof jacket), thick socks, and a hat. For a detailed packing list, refer to the FAQs under your chosen route.
Yes! If you would like to have a safari experience before or after your trek, contact us after booking to help you make the arrangements. There is also the option to include a visit to Zanzibar.
The Marangu route is the only option for sleeping in huts. On all the other routes, you will be camping at designated sites on the way up the mountain. Meals are basic yet hearty and prepared by your camp chef. Specific dietary needs can be catered to.
Our tour operator generally only accepts teens aged from 16 years upwards (with a parent). We sometimes accept younger teenagers, but you would likely need to arrange a private group. Please contact us if this is the case.
While Kilimanjaro itself is not known for extensive wildlife, the surrounding areas are home to diverse flora and fauna. Some routes, like the Lemosho and Machame, pass through rainforests where you might spot monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.