How to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

How to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro: Step-by-Step Guide

1.  Choose the Right Time to Go

Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, but the best seasons are:

2.  Pick the Right Route

There are 6 main routes. Choose based on your fitness, budget, and experience.

 Longer routes = better acclimatization = higher chance of summit success.

3. Book With a Licensed Operator

You must book through a registered company — it’s illegal to climb without a guide.

Ribris Safaris provides:

• Certified guides and porters

• Tents, meals, gear, and park fees

• Emergency support and rescue protocols

4. Prepare & Pack Properly

Essential gear includes:

• Broken-in hiking boots

• Waterproof jacket and pants

• Warm layers (base layer, fleece, insulated jacket)

• Sleeping bag rated to -10°C or lower

• Headlamp, trekking poles, gloves, hat, sunglasses

 You’ll carry a daypack; porters carry the rest (max 15 kg).

5. Train Before the Climb

Start 8–12 weeks before your climb:

• Do long-distance hikes or stair climbing

• Build cardio (running, cycling)

• Strengthen legs and core

Altitude training is a plus but not required.

6.  Acclimatize & Stay Healthy

Altitude sickness is the biggest challenge.

• Go “pole pole” (slowly)

• Stay hydrated (3–4L/day)

• Eat well

• Watch for symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness)

• Consider Diamox if needed (with doctor approval)

7.  Climb Day by Day

Each day, you’ll hike 4–7 hours with breaks. Evenings are spent at camps or huts.
The final summit push starts around midnight to reach Uhuru Peak by sunrise.

8.  Reach the Summit!

If successful, you’ll stand on Uhuru Peak – 5,895m (19,341ft) — the highest point in Africa.

It’s cold, windy, and unforgettable. Take photos, soak it in… then descend safely.

9.  Descend Carefully

The descent takes 1–2 days. It’s tough on the knees but faster than the ascent.

10.  Celebrate Your Success

You’ll receive a summit certificate, and your team (guides, porters, cooks) will celebrate with songs and joy.

 Don’t forget to tip your team — they make it all possible.

BONUS: Do’s & Don’ts

 Do:

• Listen to your guide

• Take it slow

• Drink plenty of water

• Be mentally prepared

 Don’t:

• Rush to the top

• Ignore signs of altitude sickness

• Overpack

• Underestimate the challenge