From our collective experience of climbing Kilimanjaro hundreds of times we have learned a lot about why people are not making the summit. Although there are a number of reasons, two come out on top.
- Choosing the right route & itinerary
- Preparation and training
Choosing the right route & itinerary
The main reason people do not make the summit of Kilimanjaro is they are not spending the time to acclimatize resulting in altitude sickness. Although there are 6 official routes to climb Kilimanjaro, we urge our climbers to opt for one of the following which allows for an extra day on the mountain for acclimatisation.
The optimal way to climb Kilimanjaro is to spend 8 days climbing, acclimatizing, learning how to walk and breath properly. After all, your goal is to climb Kilimanjaro, stand on the roof of Africa and enjoy the whole experience – which is why our first choice is an 8 Day trek via the Lemosho Route.
If time schedules and budget don’t tally with an 8 Day trek then we strongly suggest you look at going for the 7 Day Machame Route or 7 Day Rongai Route options.
Standing on the summit of Kilimanjaro is a once in a lifetime experience, so why compromise on acclimatization and safety. We will help you prepare for your Kilimanjaro adventure. The more days on the mountain the better! – You are giving yourself the best chance at success of making the summit of Kilimanjaro.
Preparation and training
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a physical challenge which is well within the reach of most people, but the correct training is essential. We strongly advised you to seek medical advice before deciding to arrange your climb and starting a training program. Tackling Kilimanjaro and the bid for the summit should not be underestimated. The summit day is 14+ hours consisting of a 4,000ft ascent into extreme altitude and then a 9,000ft descent which is where all your hours of prep and training will play a huge role in your success.
It is important to start training as early as possible before your scheduled climb. Building strength, fitness and stamina. The best physical preparation is activity which simulates, as far as possible, the demands on your body which will be happening during your ascent and descent of Kilimanjaro. The best way to building endurance is getting out there in the mountains with a back pack. If you do not have access to hills you need to develop a training program which will prepare you for the challenge ahead.