Climbing Kilimanjaro is no walk in the park! It demands some serious preparation and a strong mindset to take on the challenge. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! In our safari blog article today, we’ve put together a list of our top 8 Tips For Climbing and Summiting Kilimanjaro Africa’s highest mountain successfully.

From physical training to pacing yourself during the trek, we’ve got some amazing strategies to keep you on track. And hey, don’t forget the fun part! We’ve also got 8 tips to make your Kilimanjaro climb an unforgettable experience! So, let’s get started on this epic adventure!

Suppose you are planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. In that case, it is important to find the best and most experienced mountain guides and Kili climb operators with a proven track record of safely and successfully guiding numerous climbers to the top of Kilimanjaro of varying experience levels.

To help you prepare for your upcoming trek, we’ve compiled 8 best tips to help you climb and summit Mount Kilimanjaro.

No. 1: Physical Preparation Tips for Climbing Kilimanjaro

If you are planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, it is essential to prepare yourself physically. Focusing on stamina and leg strength is crucial to succeed in this challenging task. While it is not necessary to be an expert in physical fitness, it is essential to train yourself before the climb.

Many climbers often ignore this aspect and find themselves struggling during the climb. Investing time and effort in training before the climb can make the experience much more enjoyable and achievable. It is recommended to start training at least two months before the climb.

Even if you are already physically fit, it is advisable to prepare your body for the specific form of exercise required for the climb. Since the climb is not a marathon, it is not necessary to run for several hours to reach the summit.

Instead, it is recommended to practice hiking for long hours and even days, taking breaks in between. This will help your body to get accustomed to walking long distances. Good health, positive attitude, and stamina are the most critical prerequisites to reaching the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Stamina is much more important than strength and can be built up quickly by hiking in areas closer to your home.

You can use the months leading up to your climb to determine your comfort level with hiking and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your hikes until you are satisfied with how you feel on treks lasting two days or more.

No. 2: Route To Choose on Your Kilimanjaro Hiking

When planning to hike Mt Kilimanjaro, you will be pleased to know that there are seven different routes to choose from. Each route offers a unique experience and features different landscapes, flora, and fauna.

To find the best match for your plans, you can explore the various routes offered by most Tanzania tour operators. You can compare the distance, duration, difficulty level, and scenery of each route to make an informed decision.

Whether you prefer a challenging climb or a scenic trek, there is a route that suits your preferences. With careful planning and preparation, you can embark on a memorable adventure to the top of Africa’s highest peak.

No. 3: Your Kilimanjaro Packing List

What you pack is the most important while preparing for Kilimanjaro climbing. The ascent involves passing through a wide range of landscapes, each with its own distinct temperature.

It’s crucial to have the right clothing and equipment to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.

To give you an idea of what you’ll need, we’ve put together a short packing list with some essential items. However, once you book with the Tanzania tour operator of your choice, they’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of everything you’ll require for the trek.

Clothes

• Tshirts & Long sleeves
• Windbreaker/Softshell jacket
• Trekking trousers with detachable legs
• Rain jacket
• Down jacket
• Fleece jacket
• Hardshell jacket
• Gloves, hat, and a tube scarf
• Ankle-high hiking boots

Equipment

• Sleeping bag up to -2°C or down sleeping bag
• Sleeping mat
• Energy bars – you will get three meals a day; a snack never hurts, though 
• Water bottle or bladder – you should drink around three to four liters of water a day on your Mount Kilimanjaro trek, and you can fill up your water during your hike.
• Light hiking backpack.

No. 4: Altitude Symptom & sickness

When trekking through the moorland zone on Kilimanjaro, altitude sickness can strike at altitudes of up to 3,000 meters, typically occurring on day two or three of the journey.

The ultimate goal of the trek is to reach the summit of Uhuru Peak, which stands at an elevation of 5,895 meters above sea level.

Due to the significant increase in altitude, it is highly probable that you may suffer from mild altitude sickness at some point during the trek.

Medication for altitude sickness

Altitude sickness can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms like sleeplessness, nausea, dizziness, headaches, and more. While there is no guaranteed way to avoid altitude sickness, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms.

For instance, taking medication like Diamox (acetazolamide) can help. However, you should always consult with your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you are planning to climb Kilimanjaro or travel to a high-altitude destination.

Your doctor can offer advice on the appropriate precautions and medications to take to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Additionally, maintaining good nutrition and hydration can also help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness.

The mountain crew is there to look after you

As mentioned earlier, when climbing high-altitude mountains, it’s important to understand that experiencing mild altitude sickness symptoms is common and expected.

It’s normal to feel a headache, nausea, or have trouble sleeping.

However, you need not worry as your mountain team is always there to take care of you. Climbing with a reputable operator means that they are well-experienced and knowledgeable about the symptoms of severe altitude sickness.

They will be able to provide you with proper care and guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable climb.

No. 5: You are what you eat

It is wise to maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular physical training in order to build up your energy levels.

This will not only fuel your ascent but also keep your body and muscles in shape, which can help prevent muscle soreness and discomfort. It is important to consume nutritious foods regularly that are rich in energy, vitamins, and nutrients.

To assist you in this endeavor, here is a list of some foods that can provide a significant amount of energy while also being locally available:

• Bananas
• Nuts
• Lemons, grapefruit, and oranges
• Avocados
• Ginger
• Pumpkin seeds
• Eggs
• Berries
• Dark chocolate

No. 6: Learn Some Swahili Phrases

Swahili is a language that has been in use for centuries, having developed along the East African coast between 500 and 1,000 AD. It emerged from the fusion of Arabic, which was spoken by traders, and the Bantu languages that were prevalent in the region.

In modern times, Swahili has incorporated words from English, German, and Portuguese. If you’re planning to climb Kilimanjaro, it’s a great idea to learn a few Swahili phrases beforehand.

Even if it’s just a few greetings and pleasantries, making an effort to speak the local language is always appreciated. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and enhance your overall experience.

Basic Swahili phrases

So here are a few Swahili words and phrases you can learn now:

• Jambo – Hello, Hi
• Jina langu ni … – My name is …
• Nafurahi kukuona – Happy to see you or simply nice to meet you
• Habari yako? – How are you?
• Niko vizuri – I’m well
• Tafadhali – Please
• Msaada – Help
• Asante, Shukurani – Thank you
• Choo, Uani – Toilet (Uani is used when you don’t need to elaborate if you need to pee or poo)
• Nimechoka – I’m tired
• Kitamu! – Delicious!
• Lala salama – Goodnight
• Kwa heri – Goodbye (to one person) 
• Mzuri – Good
• Mbaya – Bad

NO. 7: The right mountain guide

It is essential to understand that this adventure requires professional guidance and expertise. Before you book your trip with a Tanzania travel company, make sure to conduct thorough research and choose a company that prioritizes safety and comfort.

Even experienced hikers can benefit immensely from the local knowledge of a Kilimanjaro mountain guide. They are equipped with the best routes and keep an eye on your well-being throughout your journey.

They are trained to identify signs of altitude sickness, monitor your heart rate, and oxygen levels, and provide essential guidance to keep you healthy.

Bonus Tip: Wearing your backpack and hiking gear when training at home is one of the finest ideas to follow. This practice will assist you in becoming accustomed to the weight and determining what clothing is appropriate for the climb without becoming too chilly or hot. It also helps you to fine-tune your equipment and ensure that you have all of the necessary accessories. Because the weather on the mountain is unpredictable, it is best to exercise in all conditions, including rainy days. This will allow you to become accustomed to diverse situations and strengthen your immune system, boosting your chances of reaching the top, which is, of course, the ultimate goal.

No. 8: The mountain crew & cash for tips

It’s important to know that you won’t be doing it alone when climbing Kili. The mountain crew, consisting of guides, porters, and a cook, plays a vital role in ensuring your success and safety.

The lead guide will not only show you the way up the mountain but will also provide guidance, encouragement, and advice throughout the journey.

The other guides also contribute to your well-being by sharing their knowledge and anecdotes about the mountain.

Meanwhile, the cook will prepare delicious, warm meals to keep your body fueled and your spirits high.

Finally, the porters are the unsung heroes who carry all the team’s equipment, including water, tents, food, and personal belongings, up and down the mountain.

They demonstrate incredible strength and endurance, making it look effortless as they navigate the rugged terrain with a smile and good humor.

All in all, the mountain crew is an integral part of the Kilimanjaro climbing experience, and their assistance and support are essential to its success.

Just to let you know about tipping in Tanzania

The tipping ceremony

It’s customary to conclude every Kilimanjaro climb with a tipping ceremony. This is a special tradition that involves singing and dancing, signifying the end of the experience before everyone goes their separate ways.

During the ceremony, trekkers show appreciation for the various crew members by tipping them. Although tipping is not mandatory, it’s a common practice among trekkers who want to express their gratitude and admiration for the crew.

The crew plays a crucial role in supporting trekkers throughout the challenging adventure, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Why Tipping?

It’s worth noting that tipping the mountain crew might be a really beneficial method of showing your appreciation.

Although most reputable tour operators offer their mountain crew fair and competitive wages, tips can serve as an essential source of additional income for them.

It is also worth noting that foreign currencies can go a long way in Tanzania, making them a valuable contribution to the mountain crew’s income. This is especially important for trekkers who want to help the local community.

FAQ: How much should you tip?

It’s completely up to you to decide the amount you want to tip. We understand that some of you might be looking for an estimate to help you plan your budget for the trip. As per the regulations set by the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), we suggest carrying between $250 and $300 to cover tips for the whole mountain crew.

FAQ: Should you bring money with you to Tanzania

When embarking on a trip to Tanzania, it is important to remember to bring cash with you. This is especially crucial just before the tipping ceremony, as there may not be any opportunities to withdraw cash at that time.

It is recommended that you carry the cash with you throughout the climb, in US dollars. While it is possible to withdraw cash from ATMs in Arusha or Moshi, it may not be feasible if you are not visiting these towns.

To avoid any inconvenience, it is best to bring your cash with you and store it in a plastic bag for safekeeping. You can then place the bag at the bottom of your backpack and forget about it until the tipping ceremony.

Showing appreciation to the crew for their hard work and support during the climb is essential, and being well-organized with your tipping money will make the experience much smoother.

N/B: Ensure you have the correct currency

When it comes to tipping your mountain crew, you have the option to do so in either US dollars or Tanzanian shillings. However, it’s important to note that any US dollar notes you plan on using must be in good condition – meaning they cannot be torn, marked, or printed prior to 2006 – as Tanzanian banks will not accept them. To avoid any issues, be sure to thoroughly inspect your US dollar notes before embarking on your trip.

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