Mount Kilimanjaro Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year to climb Kilimanjaro?
It is possible to climb Mount Kilimanjaro all year round; however the months outside of the rainy season are better. The best months are from December to March and July to October. The finest weather is usually at the beginning of the year from January to March which are typically the warmest and driest months of the year.
Will I need to purchase travel insurance?
Yes. It is essential that you are adequately insured for the activities that you wish to do. Your insurance policy should specifically cover cancellations, interruption, delays, unforeseeable expenses and specifially cover high altitude mountain trekking.
How fit will I need to be?
Anyone of reasonable fitness is capable of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro. You just need determination and courage. The Kilimanjaro National Park authority allows climbers aged between 12 years and 80 years old.
Which route should I choose?
There are seven routes used to climb Kilimanjaro. Each has its own characteristics. The most popular route is the Marangu route and is the only route where accomodation is in huts rather than tents. The Machame or whisky route as it is known is also a very popular route. Routes are typically completed in 6 days on the mountain. The Umbwe route is the shortest but toughest of all the routes to the top.
Three other routes: Shira, Lemosho and Rongai are less used routes and also have beautiful scenery. These three routes are completed over more days giving you longer to acclimatize to the altitude. The Western Breach route takes you onto the glacier and enables you to explore famous features of the summit such as the Ash Pit, Reusch Crater and the Furtwangler Glacier.
How many people will be in a group?
Maximum of 12 people per group. We have found that small, intimate groups ensure customers have an amazing experience on Kilimanjaro. We can arrange trips for larger groups if required.
What clothing & equipment should I take?
You do not require any technical, climbing equipment on Mount Kilimanjaro; however you will experience changing weather conditions and be exposed to temperatures ranging from +30 degrees to -25 degrees, so you should be prepared for this. You should take thin layers that can be added, or taken away depending on the weather conditions.
No more than 15 Kg is carried by each porter and a minimum of two porters are needed for each customer. Check our kit list on this website. Please remember there is a limit to the weight that the porters can carry and your kit bag must not excede 15Kg. On deluxe climbs you may bring more equipment with you as we have a larger team of porters. You will also need a waterproof day- rucksack for your basic kit for a days walking and a camel pack to hold your drinking water.
How far will I trek each day?
You will walk between 3 and 6 miles per day, apart from the summit night when you will walk up to 15 miles. You will usually start your days trekking around 8 a.m and walk for between 4 and 8 hours per day (longer on summit night).
What food will be provided on the mountain?
Please see our detailed information on meals under the Kilimanjaro tab and then select ‘food’. We provide fresh, nutritious meals. Those customers who select deluxe style trips can expect greater variety and more indulgent meals. If you need a special diet or if you are a vegetarian please inform us in advance so we can ensure we serve you the correct food.
What do I need for my preparation travel to Africa – Tanzania?
Please see the important information (including how to get Visa, Vaccination, safety etc) on Tanzania Travel Facts under the Information tab.
Is the water safe to drink?
No, you should not drink tap water in Tanzania. Apart from the first day when you will bring bottled water from the hotel for your first days walking, the porters will collect your drinking water daily from streams located near the camps and boil it. If you wish, you can also add purification tablets if you have a particularly sensitive stomach.
Do you have a question that you still need answered?
Email us at info@kili-bomaadventures.com