Preparing to Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro

If you have been reading up on Mt. Kilimanjaro facts and are one of the many people who have decided to reach the peek of Africa’s tallest mountain, at over nineteen thousand feet, you need to prepare to climb the mountain in advance. You need to understand that reaching the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro is a very demanding undertaking. It is easier than some other mountains to climb, but there are still risks. Properly preparing to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro can help minimize some of these risks. Reaching the top of the mountain is sure to be a rewarding experience, one that you will never forget.

Choose Your Mt. Kilimanjaro Route

Several different routes exist to get you to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. It is necessary to do your research on the routes and decide which one you wish to take well in advance of your trip. Because you are required to use a licensed tour operator for your climb, deciding on the best rout for you in advance will help to assure you can find a tour operator for your trip. The four most popular routes for Mount Kilimanjaro are Machame, Marangu, Mweka, and Rongai. Approximately eight routes are available for climbers with differing degrees of difficulty and views. Do your research and pick the one that is right for you.

Equipment for the Mt. Kilimanjaro Climb

A guide and porters will accompany you on your climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. The porters will carry most of your gear. You are responsible for carrying your own daypack with things like rain gear, water, and other small personal items. It is important to double check with your tour operator, but generally, they will provide the common items, like tents, food, water, cooking supplies, etc. You will want a good daypack for the climb. It must fit well and be comfortable; you will be wearing it a lot. To keep you warm at night a sleeping bag rated for at least 10 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended. Another major piece of equipment you will need is a good set of trekking poles. You will also need to bring along various types of clothing for the different weather you will experience, and good footwear for hiking and walking around camp. Try to keep your supplies around the 35-pound area. Going over this weight might mean you will need to pay for a second porter to help carry your things. It is good to check with your Mount Kilimanjaro tour operator on their specific policies.

Physical condition for Your Mt. Kilimanjaro Climb

Although it is not necessary to be an Olympic athlete, you do need to be in good health. Preparing to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro should be accompanied by a physical exam from your family doctor. To prepare yourself for the climb, it is a good idea to start an exercise program, especially if you have never done something like this before. Do aerobic exercises to increase your body’s ability to use oxygen, and remove some of the spare weight you may be carrying around. Another great way to get in shape for your climb is to hike smaller trails. While doing this, you should wear the daypack, slowly adding weight to it until you get to about 20 pounds. Another recommendation is to wear the hiking boots on your short hikes that you will wear on your climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro. This assists in breaking in the boots.