A guidebook to climbing 5895m Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, the highest mountain in Africa and the world’s highest free-standing mountain. Unlike many other peaks of its height, it is possible to reach the summit without any technical climbing, making it an achievable goal for many.

The guidebook covers the six ascent routes (Marangu, Machame, Rongai, Lemosho, Shira and Umbwe), three summit ascents, two descent routes and the circuit path. A full expedition can be completed in 4–7 days, although more generous itineraries are recommended to allow for acclimatisation. Also included in the guidebook is an ascent of neighbouring Mount Meru, which could be used as an acclimatisation trek.

• Route description illustrated with clear sketch mapping
• All the information you need to prepare for a trek, including budgeting, transport, permits and visas, and equipment
• Guidance on choosing a route and an outfitter, plus a list of reputable outfitters
• Health and safety considerations, including recommended inoculations and altitude sickness
• Fascinating insights into the area’s geology, history, culture, plants and wildlife

Map key
East Africa overview map
Overview map
Routes on Kilimanjaro
Routes comparison table

Introduction
Preparations and practicalities
Choosing a route
Costs and budgeting
When to go
Pre-departure preparation
Getting there
Permits and visas
Accommodation
Money and currencies
Language
Maps
Equipment
Insurance
Health considerations
Selecting an outfitter
Guides and porters
Tipping
Environmental and cultural considerations
Using this guide
The story of Kilimanjaro
People of the region
Origin of the mountain’s name
Exploration
Kilimanjaro National Park
Natural history
Geology and volcanology
Glacial recession
Climate
Animal and plant life

Acclimatisation trek
Route X    Mount Meru Momela Route

Climbing Kilimanjaro
Ascent routes
Route A    Marangu Route
Route B    Machame Route
Route C    Umbwe Route
Route D    Lemosho Route
Route E    Shira Route
Route F    Rongai Route
Circuit paths
Route G    Southern Circuit Path
Route H    Northern Circuit Path
Summit ascent routes
Route I    Normal/Marangu Route
Route J    Barafu Route
Route K    Western Breach Route
The summit
Descent routes
Route L    Marangu Route
Route M    Mweka Route

Appendix A    Accommodation
Appendix B    Useful contacts
Appendix C    Further reading
Appendix D    Language glossary
 

Seasons

Two dry seasons - mid-December to March and July to early October

Centres

Flights into Nairobi in Kenya, Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro International Airport; outfitters normally based in Arusha or Moshi

Difficulty

Kilimanjaro is a big mountain, but the normal trekking routes are not technically difficult. Altitude and acclimatisation are the main problems and AMS can kill if not taken seriously.

Must See

Dawn over Africa from the summit, the natural environment, the Crater

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