Thinking of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro but unsure how tough it really is? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about Kilimanjaro’s difficulty, what makes it challenging, and how you can successfully reach the summit with the right support.
What Makes Kilimanjaro a Difficult Climb?
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most iconic trekking challenges on the planet. Standing at 5,896m, it’s Africa’s tallest mountain and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. So, how hard is it to climb Kilimanjaro? While it’s a non-technical climb, aspects such as the altitude, the trek’s duration, and the steep ascents can prove challenging. But don’t worry – with the right preparation, mindset, and support, climbing Kilimanjaro is achievable, even for beginners.
How Long Do You Hike Each Day on Kilimanjaro?
While climbing Kilimanjaro, you’ll be hiking for an average of 6-8 hours a day. On some days, like the trek to the summit, you’ll face a longer, more intense stretch of up to 14 hours!
The trekking time and altitude gain vary, but here’s some examples of what to expect (you can view the itinerary in full here):
- Day 3: 7 hours of trekking, gaining 1,152m in altitude, as you move from Machame Gate (1,828m) to Machame Camp (2,980m).
- Day 5: 7 hours of trekking, with a climb to Lava Tower at 4,630m, before descending to Barranco Camp at 3,950m. This helps your body acclimatise.
- Day 8 (Summit Day): You’ll start at Kosovo Camp (4,800m), climb to Stella Point (5,685m), then make your way to the summit of Uhuru Peak (5,896m) to watch the sunrise from the roof of Africa! This could take up to 14 hours in total, including the descent.
It’s a tough climb, but we have designed our Kilimanjaro itinerary to optimise acclimatisation, which plays a crucial role in increasing your chances of summiting successfully.
Can a Beginner Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
Yes – a beginner can climb Mount Kilimanjaro, especially with a supportive team and a well-paced itinerary. It’s not easy, but you don’t need technical climbing experience. Many of our trekkers are first-timers and, with the right preparation, they reach the summit feeling strong and proud!
The earth’s edge difference:
How We Can Help You Summit Kilimanjaro Successfully
At Earth’s Edge, we’re not just about reaching the summit. We’re focused on making sure you get there in the safest, most enjoyable way possible. Here’s how we do it:
Acclimatisation is Key:
Our 12-day itinerary includes 7 days of trekking on the Machame Trail, allowing for a slow ascent to give your body time to adjust to the increasing altitude. We don’t rush it.
Experienced Expedition Leaders & Doctors:
You’ll be supported by not just an expert expedition leader, but also a fully qualified expedition doctor who is with you every step of the way, ensuring you’re in safe hands from start to finish. If you start feeling symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), our doctor is there to assess and treat the symptoms, ensuring your safety.
Small Group Sizes:
By keeping groups small, we ensure that everyone gets the attention they need. The personal experience means more tailored support from the guides, and you can bond with fellow trekkers, which makes the journey feel less like a challenge and more like an adventure – which makes a big difference on tough days.
Training & Preparation:
Leading up to the expedition, we host a pre-departure training weekend where you’ll get to meet your fellow trekkers and receive expert advice on training, gear and fitness. This builds confidence and ensures you’re well-prepared for what lies ahead.
The Earth’s Edge Difference: Our Specially-Designed Itinerary
Unlike most companies, we spend our last night before summiting Kilimanjaro at Kosovo Camp, which is quieter and 120m higher than the usual Barafu Camp. This extra altitude helps cut an hour off your summit push, giving you a better chance at success with the added benefit of fewer people around.
The itinerary is designed to push you, but also ensure you’re well-supported. From the early morning rituals of native song and dance to the encouraging shouts of “pole pole” (Swahili for “slowly, slowly”) from our guides, you’ll never feel alone. And with a successful summit behind you, you’ll have a ‘free day’ to relax, explore, or go on a safari in Tarangire National Park to celebrate your incredible achievement.
Is Climbing Kilimanjaro Right for You?
Kilimanjaro is a challenge – but it’s not out of reach. If you have a good base level of fitness, are ready to challenge yourself, and have a love for adventure, then yes – Kilimanjaro is absolutely within your grasp.
You don’t need any mountaineering experience, but you do need to be prepared for long days and rewarding physical challenges. With support from our expert Tanzanian Earth’s Edge team, a carefully planned route, and a great group of fellow trekkers, you can absolutely climb Kilimanjaro – even as a beginner.
Kilimanjaro is not just about the summit – it’s about the journey, the stunning landscapes, the camaraderie, and the personal growth you’ll experience along the way. With careful preparation, strong support, and the right mindset, you’ll make it to the top of Africa’s highest peak!
Not sure if Kilimanjaro is achievable or the right trip for you? Reach out – we’d be happy to help you decide if it’s a good fit!
If you’re ready for your Kilimanjaro adventure, you can visit the expedition page for dates and availability!
Looking for a day-to-day guide to climbing Kilimanjaro? Read Ari’s Kilimanjaro Diaries for a full breakdown!
