There’s something inspiring, intriguing and educative about Mt. Kilimanjaro that makes it a staple bucket list option. Each year, over 35,000 climbers take a break from the routine, brave their fears and inhibitions to indulge in the joys and challenges of the journey. It’s time for you to opt for Kilimanjaro climbing packages and embark on a life-enriching experience.

Mt. Kilimanjaro: An Introduction

Mt. Kilimanjaro stands majestically in northeast Tanzania just 330 kilometres from the equator, as Africa’s tallest and world’s 7th tallest peak. The summit, known as Uhuru Point, is 4,900 meters high from the base and measures 5,895 meters from the sea level. Formed by volcanic activity, Mt. Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain peak in the world. Simply put, it is not a part of any mountain range as opposed to other high peaks, including Mt. Everest.

Previously, Mt. Kilimanjaro was home to three volcanic cones, namely KIBO, MAWENZI and SHIRA. KIBO is the most majestic of the three, accommodating the summit, while SHIRA cone seizes to exist now, as it collapsed to form a plateau. Although KIBO is a dormant volcano, it has no history of eruption for 3.6 million years. The rest two are extinct volcanoes. Additionally, the mountain is prone to erosion, which is taking a significant toll on its height.

In lack of supporting evidence, there’s simply no consensus on how the peak got its name. Some believe it originates from KILIMA, a Swahili word for mountain, while others consider it as a derivative of NJARO, the CHAGGA word for white. Though the etymology is shrouded in mystery, the climbing history is well recorded. Hans Meyer led several expeditions to the top but succeeded only in 1889 when joined by Ludwig Purtscheller and Yohani Kinyala Lauwo.

Why exactly is Mt. Kilimanjaro tour special?

Mt. Kilimanjaro is more than just a mountain – it’s rather the rooftop of Africa frequented by men and women undeterred by challenges and guided by passion. Need more reasons to come out of your comfort zone and explore the effervescent charm of mountains? Here’re they.

  • The mountain resides in the middle of Kilimanjaro National Park, which is home to blue monkeys, red duiker, bushbuck, cape buffaloes, elephants and other fauna and flora. So, just help yourself to Kilimanjaro climb and safari packages and double up the climb with an exotic safari. An unforgettable experience is on the cards!
  • Despite being one of the tallest mountains on the planet, Mt. Kilimanjaro is a hiking peak suitable for all age groups, genders and fitness levels. No Mountaineering skills needed, Equipments required is a right Mountain boots,proper warm clothes, walking poles which is optional, please check our packing list for Kilimanjaro climb for more informations. However, be wary of mountain sickness, which is the major cause of people leaving the hike midway.
  • Kilimanjaro climbing trips take you through an array of ecological zones on the way to the top. You hike your way through tropical rainforest area to a layer of the cloud forest, followed by Alpine heath zone. Eventually, you land up in an arid zone marked by snow and ice. The climatic conditions and landscape vary vastly as the tour progresses, ensuring a lively experience that etches into your memory for a lifetime.
  • You are spoilt for options when choosing the Kilimanjaro routes – there are simply so many of them. Approach the summit from Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, Umbwe, or Rongai the choice is yours. No matter what route you choose, a life-enriching experience can always be expected.
  • If the cost of the climb is weighing your mind, there’s good news. Any reliable tour company offers an array of tours for all needs and budgets. Whether you need a luxury trek or a budget option, they keep you covered. However, it’s better to ask your tour operator how much it cost to climb Kilimanjaro upfront to avoid unpleasant surprises.

A Typical Kilimanjaro Trek:

SHIRA Route is probably the most frequented route to Mt. Kilimanjaro, approaching the summit from the west. Here’s a brief description of typical luxury Kilimanjaro treks via SHIRA route.

  • Day 1: The tour gets underway at MOSHI and proceeds towards SHIRA One Campsite, situated at a height of 3500 meters. You’ll be hiking for 18 kilometres in 3 hours.
  • Day 2: From SHIRA One campsite, you will hike to the SHIRA Two campsite in 5 to 6 hours. The total distance covered is about 7 kilometres.
  • Day 3: The next destination is BARRANCO campsite, 13kms away and at an elevation of 3950 meters.
  • Day 4: You’ll be covering 6 km to reach KARANGA campsite, located at an elevation of 3900 meters.
  • Day 5: The trek proceeds towards BARAFU campsite, which is 8 km away and at a height of 4620 meters. The time involved is 3 to 4 hours.
  • Day 6: Uhuru peak is your next destination situated about 5895m above the sea level. The distance covered is 15km while time involved is 10 to 12 hours.
  • Day 7: On the final day, the trek moves to Mweka gate.

Price depends on the number of people in a group, The route and number of days, click book below and let us know the number of people in your group, the route you want and number of days, We will get back to you instantly with the exact price.

Conquer it with the top Kilimanjaro climbing company

As one of the most respected tour companies, Kilimanjaro Vikings arranges fun, challenging, and rewarding excursions. Our seasoned guides have been leading climbs up for years and know how to conquer the mountain. They will take you on an epic journey to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro, where you’ll experience some of the most out-of-this-world views on the planet.

We will take care of all the logistics during your Kilimanjaro climbing tour, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure and reaching the summit. Your safety and comfort are always our top priorities.

Highlights of the climb on Kilimanjaro trips

The Kilimanjaro hike tour is not for the faint of heart. It will push you to your physical and mental limits. But with the proper preparation and our support, it can be an unbelievably enriching experience.

Some of the highlights of this climb include:

  • Opportunity to challenge and reinvent yourself
  • Incredible sense of accomplishment and gratification when you make it to the top 
  • Spectacular sceneries that are best discovered from the roof of Africa

What to pack for your climbing Mount Kilimanjaro tour?

You will be hiking for about three to seven hours daily, so you must pack accordingly. Take layered clothing, walking gear, and hats to protect yourself from the sun. Remember to pack hiking boots and a bandana to shield your eyes from the dust. You will also need plenty of water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and fueled during the hike. 

Are you afraid you may miss out on the best views while resisting the challenge of climbing? Take or rent a camera. 

Defy your habitual routine and book a climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro tour to put your abilities to the test when making it to the world’s highest standalone mountain!

Mount Kilimanjaro climb is your thrill of a lifetime

As you start your ascent to the ‘Roof of Africa,’ our expert guides will lead you through 5 different climate zones, each with stunning views and unique wildlife spotting opportunities. Once at the camps, hold your breath to behold the inky night sky filled with more stars than you have ever seen. Listen to the sounds of exotic birds and watch Colobus monkeys swing through the treetops. With every step during your Kilimanjaro safari, you will feel your heart swell with pride, accomplishment, and gratitude.

By the time you reach Uhuru Peak, you will have formed friendships and memories to last forever. As the sun rises over the savanna, tears of joy will fill your eyes at this ultimate achievement. You just pulled off your Mount Kilimanjaro climb

As you begin your descent, take a deep breath of the fresh, crisp air and smile – you are on top of the world.