Mount Kilimanjaro is located in northeastern Tanzania, near the border with Kenya in East Africa. It lies within Kilimanjaro National Park, about 300 kilometers (186 miles) south of the equator and approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles) from the Indian Ocean.
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.
The best times are during the dry seasons:
January to March (warmer, fewer climbers)
June to October (clear skies, most popular season)
It’s challenging due to high altitude, not technical climbing. Proper acclimatization, slow pacing, and hydration are key to success.
Yes. By Tanzanian law, all climbers must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Porters and cooks usually assist as well.
No person younger than 10 years is allowed according to Kilimanjaro National Park authorities’ rules. If 10 or older, they may only proceed as high as Horombo Huts (3700m) or Shira Camp (3900m) if they are accompanied by one of their parents. Kilimanjaro-Experience prefers its climbers to be 14 years and older when they attempt the summit. Climbers older than 70 years are required to show a medical certificate.
The oldest person on the mountain was Richard Byerley (84) of Washington State. He trained by climbing mountains, running and cycling. His tip? ‘Just go.’ Kilimanjaro Experience’s oldest guest was 79 years and 9 months and was from the Czech Republic.
Yes. By Tanzanian law, all climbers must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Porters and cooks usually assist as well.
The main routes are:
Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route)
Machame Route (Whiskey Route)
Lemosho Route
Rongai Route
Northern Circuit Route
Umbwe Route
You will eat normal food: potatoes, rice, pasta, vegetables, eggs, sandwiches, cheese and fruit. When you book a trek, let your tour operator know about food allergies or medical conditions that require special diets. Non-vegetarians will be served sausages, chicken and meat. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate will be available as well.
It requires no technical climbing experience, and any moderately fit person can summit the mountain. However, for most people, it is the most difficult thing they have ever done.
Climbing Kilimanjaro takes at least 5 days, but most expeditions last between 6 and 8 days, as a longer itinerary significantly improves acclimatization and increases the chances of reaching the summit. Extended routes, including options with an overnight stay in the crater, can last 10 days or more. Choosing a route with a well-designed acclimatization program helps achieve a 98.5% Kilimanjaro summit success rate.
