Kilimanjaro rises to 5,895 m (19,341 ft) above sea level, making it the highest free-standing mountain in the world and the “Roof of Africa.”
As one of the most iconic travel destinations on the continent, Mount Kilimanjaro attracts over 40,000 visitors annually. Its breathtaking trek requires no technical climbing skills—just a moderate level of fitness to reach the summit.
This guide is designed to help travelers prepare for their unforgettable Kilimanjaro journey. Every recommendation below is based on our 11 years of experience organizing Kilimanjaro climbs, during which we have successfully guided over 20,000 climbers.
19,341 ft/5,895 m
Kibo, Mawenzi, Shira
42 miles (70km) | Lemosho Route
Rainforest, Heather, Moorland, Alpine, Arctic
1889, Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller
Natural UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987
Kilimanjaro Hike Lengths
Average Climb Cost
Kilimanjaro Success Rate
Vic Consult Tours & Safaris recommends Global Rescue, known for reliable reimbursements. Your coverage should include three important things. These are high-altitude hiking up to 6000 meters, helicopter evacuation, and medical services.
In order to acclimate and summit successfully, we recommend following these simple rules:
Hike slowly. Your body needs time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels. Keeping a moderate pace when climbing Kilimanjaro will help to produce more red cells. Those are used to transport more oxygen to the vitals and to increase the breathing rate. Our mountain team will be monitoring your pace and will help you to adjust it if needed.
Drink 3-4 liters of water a day. Staying properly hydrated is essential. Water will be provided by our crew along the trek.
Join our acclimatization hikes. Each day, our guiding crew will lead short hikes from the camp to higher ground and then back again. These hikes usually last no more than 2 hours. They help a lot with getting used to the altitude. We suggest everyone takes part.
If you have time, consider climbing Mount Meru before your Kilimanjaro trip. Those close to South America will have many options for similar hikes. For example, on the Inca Trail. Hiking other lower mountains around the world can also be fantastic preparation for this climb. It will help you get used to higher altitudes, preparing you for the Kilimanjaro journey.
Lastly, if you choose routes that are seven days or longer, your body will have more time to adjust. This will improve your chances of reaching the summit.
Among the best routes for acclimatization profile are Lemosho, Machame, and Rongai. Consider them, or other itineraries with seven days and more.
Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb, meaning no ropes or climbing gear are needed, but the altitude and long trekking days make it challenging. A good fitness level and proper acclimatization are essential for success.
The trek takes between 5 to 9 days, depending on the chosen route. Longer routes (7+ days) increase the chances of success by allowing better acclimatization.
The best months to climb are January to March and June to October, when the weather is drier, offering clearer skies and better trekking conditions.
Yes, you need layered clothing for varying temperatures, sturdy hiking boots, a warm sleeping bag, trekking poles, a headlamp, and other essential gear for high-altitude trekking.
Yes, altitude sickness is a common challenge. Choosing a longer route, staying hydrated, and ascending gradually helps with acclimatization. In severe cases, climbers must descend for safety.
