In Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s most infamous mountainscapes. Mixing a challenging ascent with incredible beauty makes it a once-in-a-lifetime exploration for travelers ready to experience something totally unique. Every year, the peak already attracts millions of visitors from around the globe. It’s the highest mountain on the African continent and finds a home in Kilimanjaro National Park, which also houses a plethora of natural phenomena.
The dormant stratovolcano is here to be explored and appreciated. Here is a guide to everything you need to know before departure.
The trek up the mountain is enough to entice millions of hikers every year, and these include treks across the calendar year. However, for maximum chances of reaching the summit, it’s good to go at a time that tends to have the best climatic conditions for you and your needs. January to mid-March tends to be the dry season for the climb to bring the most stable weather of warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Most days are sunny, and the skies are clear for the all-important capture when you reach the peak.
If it’s more vital for you that temperatures are more comfortable, June to October tends to see lower temperatures in the dry season, but still with low levels of rainfall and clear skies. As it’s slightly cooler too. Wildlife is in its best condition at neighboring parks like Serengeti, as greenery is at its most lush, serene. It’s worth noting that this time of year is typically the busiest for hikers, so book campsites in advance at this time of year. If a stay in solitude is most appealing and you’re brave enough to trek through a storm, March to May can be serene and more affordable, despite the rainfall. The difficult terrain can make for an extreme adventure for pro hikers and adrenaline-seekers!
Getting to Kilimanjaro should be carefully thought through prior to travel. Tanzania is home to two airports, with the closest being Kilimanjaro International Airport, just twenty miles from the base town of Moshi. There is a vast range of connecting operations for African travelers who don’t have as far to locate as those on other continents. Both Moshi and Arusha are ideal starting points for ascending journeys. Both offer a range of trekking gear rentals and other essential shopping options for travelers soon to climb. Both have a range of accommodations on offer, from budget-friendly to luxury log cabin stays. All important documents are necessary to ensure the journey runs seamlessly. This includes all necessary visas and vaccinations.
Known as the ‘roof of Africa’ at the highest peak of Uhuru, the climb up is guaranteed to give every traveler a sense of achievement, unlike any other travel experience. The climb is not technical, so it doesn’t require specialized climbing equipment, and the diversity of routes can suit a range of different trekkers, from novices to experts. Comfortable accommodation scatters the landscapes, and there are a range of unique ecological zones to see, including the cultivation zones of coffee plantations.
The very top of the summit is even home to an arctic zone, so expect blankets of snow on the top that are sure to make the views even more marvel-worthy. Early risers can even head up at dawn for an inspiring orange hue to illuminate the African plains below. Kilimanjaro hiking is a worthy exploration for the ultimate memory-making with loved ones, new-found friendships or as a solo endeavor.
While the summit will undoubtedly be the highlight of your trip, there is also a wealth of things to do around the peak. Heading to Kilimanjaro is most likely to be a multi-day trip so having an itinerary of things to do around the mountain is the best way to make the most of a trip. Here are some other worthy experiences to have while you’re in Tanzania:
Exploration trips require meticulous planning and preparation to ensure the perfect blend of memorable magic and comfort. From as many clothing layers as the suitcase can take to sun protection in masses and suitable shoes for the uphill climb, it’s good to make a checklist of all the key things you want to take. Research what previous travelers suggest you should and shouldn’t buy. Packing for an adventure like this is one of the times when more is actually more!
For a guaranteed, unforgettable adventure, Mount Kilimanjaro awaits. Explore, learn, and grow physically and mentally. A once-in-a-lifetime experience.
