Planning an adventure getaway for 2023? If lounging on a paradise island simply isn’t your thing and you prefer to keep active on your breaks away from day-to-day life, then why not set yourself a challenge and use this year’s break as an opportunity to achieve something great?
From trekking to Machu Picchu to walking the Great Wall of China, there are many adventurous expeditions that, for plenty of people, would constitute a huge bucket list tick – but what could be more fulfilling than being able to say you’ve scaled one of the highest mountains in the world?
Located in the African nation of Tanzania, the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro is the continent’s highest peak, standing at an impressive 5,895 metres (19,340 feet). It comprises three cones: Kibo, Shira and Mawenzi, with Kibo being the summit and the tallest of the three. Kilimanjaro is actually not just a mountain, but a volcano, too, and while both Shira and Mawenzi are now extinct, Kibo is considered only dormant, which means while it hasn’t erupted in some while (read: some 360,000 years ago) it could do so again at any time.
Around 30,000 people take on a Mount Kilimanjaro Trek each year, with a number of different tour operators offering organised group treks. Those who take on the challenge are rewarded handsomely, with the chance to take in verdant rainforests and alpine meadows on the ascent to Kili’s breath-taking glacier-covered peaks.
While there’s no denying that reaching the top and taking in the spectacular views from the second highest mountain in the world is a memorable moment indeed, the entire journey is one most who navigate it will never forget, taking them through a variety of different climatic zones and terrains along the way and pushing them to their limits.
How to get to Kilimanjaro
To reach Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll need to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is located just 50 km to the south from Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. A number of airlines operate direct flights to the destination, including KLM, which does so via Europe, and Emirates and Qatar Airlines, both of which do so via the Gulf – although this will depend on where you are beginning your journey.
You can also get a connecting flight from the Julius Nyerere International Airport in the capital city of Dar-es-Salaam (DAR) if you’re unable to fly direct, or alternatively, from Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).
Which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro?
There are seven (six leading up and one down) different routes when it comes to scaling Kili – and choosing the best option for you depends on your own personal mountain experience, as well as what you’d like to experience along the way.
Marangu – the tourist route – covers a distance of 70 km over five or six days and is one of the easiest if you’re a first-timer. Featuring gradual slopes throughout which only become steeper on the final day as you progress towards the summit, it’s a good choice but due to its short duration, doesn’t allow much time for acclimatisation along the way, which some may find hard. There are, however, some dormitory-style huts along the way if you’re keen for a slightly more civilised accommodation option as opposed to camping, which most other routes require.
When planning a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro, be cautious when selecting the Marangu route. During peak trekking seasons (July to September and January to March), it can be crowded with hikers. Experienced hikers with prior acclimatisation can opt for the five-day variation, but those new to mountain climbing should always stick to the six-day option for better transition.
The Machame route (or ‘Whisky route’, as it is nicknamed) is another popular choice, covering a shorter distance of 61 km over six to seven days, which means there is more time for participants to acclimatise, so although some think this path to be a more challenging one, its seven-day variation has a higher success rate than the so-called ‘Coca-Cola’ (Marangu) route, and is one of the best Kilimanjaro treks for beginners. In contrast, a six-day Machame trek is very challenging, and should be considered by the experienced hikers only.
Then, there’s the Lemosho route, which is often chosen by those keen to experience the most beautiful scenery along the way. You’ll cover 67 km over seven to eight days on this one, but you’ll pay slightly more for the privilege due to the length and remoteness of the trek. Lemosho is our favourite pick when it comes to acclimatisation and scenic value. This route is recommended to both beginners and experienced trekkers alike.
How to book an expedition
Leading Tanzania tour operator Altezza – currently ranked number one on Trip Advisor – offers group tours and expeditions leaving every two to three days, all conducted independently and with an emphasis on safety, quality and comfort. With no middlemen, you’ll be in direct contact with the team from the moment you begin the booking process and benefit from their hands-on experience to ensure you get the perfect tour.
Altezza also has an office right at the foot of Kilimanajaro itself and offers a well-coordinated support team to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish.
