Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro FAQs (2025 updated list)

If you’ve been wondering, should you climb Mount Kilimanjaro? Then the short answer is yes, you should. This majestic mountain, sweeping 5,895 metres above sea level, presents an incredible adventure that blends physical challenge with cultural richness and once-in-a-lifetime scenery. Follow Alice will walk through every major question you might have, from visa and vaccination to group size, logistics, safety, and what comes after the climb.

Let’s start with the basics. Mount Kilimanjaro is located in northern Tanzania, East Africa, within Kilimanjaro National Park near the town of Moshi. The mountain lies about a two-hour drive from Arusha, another major gateway for climbers. Knowing where you’re headed is essential for travel planning, visas, and vaccinations, and it sets the tone for the adventure ahead. You’ll arrive in Tanzania, experience the warmth of East African culture, and step into one of the world’s most iconic mountain landscapes.

Kilimanjaro National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, covering 1,688 square kilometres and is managed by the Tanzania National Parks Authority. The park protects Africa’s highest mountain and the world’s largest free-standing volcanic massif, rising to 5,895 metres (19,341 feet). Kilimanjaro has three volcanic peaks: Kibo (5,895 m), Mawenzi (5,149 m), and Shira (4,005 m). It was established as a national park in 1973 and opened to the public in 1977.

Map showcasing an overview of Northern Tanzania.

Learn more: The ultimate Kilimanjaro packing list (+ free PDF)

The simple answer is yes, you absolutely can. Kilimanjaro’s popularity is well deserved. It’s often considered the most accessible of the Seven Summits, attracting both seasoned trekkers and first-time climbers. Unlike many high-altitude peaks, summiting Kilimanjaro doesn’t require technical climbing skills or specialised gear like ropes, harnesses, crampons, or ice axes. The real challenge lies in managing the altitude, maintaining stamina, and adapting to changing weather conditions.

Many people always ask what climbing Kilimanjaro is really like. Well, expect a journey through five ecological zones. You will start in the rainforest, moving through an alpine desert, and finally reaching glaciated terrain near the summit. It’s long, it’s strenuous, but it is an attainable dream for many. Once you reach the summit, you will see that everything you went through to get to this point will be worth it. If you have any questions, feel free to book a call with us.

A group of trekkers reach the Mount Kilimanjaro summit.

Learn more: How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro?

Before your climb even begins, it’s important to plan how to get to Mount Kilimanjaro. The mountain sits in northern Tanzania, close to the towns of Moshi and Arusha, and the best way to reach it is by flying into one of the country’s major international airports.

Most travellers fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which lies roughly halfway between Moshi and Arusha and is the most convenient gateway for climbers. It’s serviced by major airlines such as Qatar Airways, KLM, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Kenya Airways. From here, it’s an easy one-hour drive to Moshi, the main base for most Kilimanjaro treks.

Alternatively, you can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam on Tanzania’s coast or Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in neighbouring Kenya, both of which offer connections to Kilimanjaro Airport or overland transfers. Wherever you fly into, plan your travel so you arrive at least a day before your trek begins. This gives you time to rest, meet your guide, and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Here are the key steps for getting to the mountain:

Just a tip from us: allow plenty of travel time, coordinate your flights with your lodge stay, and confirm pick-up logistics with your operator. Starting the trek relaxed and well-prepared is so important for a successful summit.

This is a tough one to answer, to be honest. Exact official figures are hard to verify, because although thousands of people climb each year, the park authorities don’t publish full long-term totals. Here are some key data points to give you an idea:

So while we cannot say precisely “X million”, you can be confident you’re joining a mountain trail with a large community of climbers; it's definitely not remote and empty.

A group of climbers embracing the views while making their way to the summit.

Learn more: Which is the best Kilimanjaro route?

The duration of your climb depends on the route you choose, and this decision impacts acclimatisation, scenery, comfort, and your chances of reaching the summit. Most routes take between five and 11 days for the full ascent and descent. At Follow Alice, we prefer for individuals to opt for the longer routes reason being is and that it helps with acclimatisation and allows your body to adapt.

Typical route durations:

There are seven routes that you can choose from. This depends on your experience, your stamina and your preferred scenery. Each route offers its own charm, while some are more challenging than others.

Let's take a look:

Follow Alice's recommendation: Whenever possible, aim for 7–8 days on the mountain. The extra time improves acclimatisation, reduces fatigue, allows you to enjoy the scenery fully, and significantly increases your likelihood of a successful summit, all while keeping aches and altitude effects to a minimum.

Climbing Kilimanjaro carries the typical risks of high-altitude trekking, but with the right preparation, it is generally safe. The main challenges are altitude sickness, sudden weather changes, and inadequate preparation. We don't mean technical climbing, as the routes require no specialised mountaineering skills. Let's have a look at what can be done to be kept safe on the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

Staying safe on Kilimanjaro:

By planning carefully, taking your time, and climbing responsibly, the risks of Kilimanjaro are manageable, allowing you to focus on the experience, the scenery, and the sense of achievement.

Trekkers take in the scenery of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Learn more: Meet Follow Alice's awesome Kilimanjaro mountain crew

Climbing Kilimanjaro is a steady, high-altitude trek through shifting landscapes. It’s a physically demanding trek that combines striking natural scenery with moments of challenge and a real sense of accomplishment. Let's have a look at what you can typically expect each day:

- Days 1–2: Into the rainforest Your Kilimanjaro trek begins in the lush rainforest zone. Leaving the comfort of your lodge in Moshi or Arusha, you enter a world of rich greenery, hanging moss, and tropical humidity. Blue monkeys and colobus monkeys move through the trees as you follow well-worn trails beneath the canopy.

- Midway up: Moorland and alpine desert The dense forest gradually opens into moorland and heath, where giant groundsels and everlasting flowers replace ferns. The air becomes thinner, the terrain more rugged, and the views stretch across the clouds. Depending on your route, you’ll stay in mountain huts (Marangu Route) or tented camps (other routes).

- Summit night: The final push Summit night begins around midnight from your high camp. You climb slowly through loose volcanic scree under a blanket of stars, the cold air sharp and still. After several hours, the horizon begins to glow as you reach Stella Point, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — the highest point in Africa.

- Descent: From the summit to the forest After your summit celebration and photos, you descend back through the alpine desert, moorland, and forest zones. The air warms as you lose altitude, and the landscape softens from barren slopes to vibrant greenery once more.

A group of trekkers take in the moment of standing on the highest point in Africa.

Still unsure, watch this video to see what it's like to climb Mount Kilimanjaro:

Learn more: 7 tips for a successful Kilimanjaro summit night

Most international visitors to Tanzania require a visa, though certain nationalities are exempt. South African passport holders, for example, do not need a visa for short stays. You can obtain a visa either online via the official e-visa portal or on arrival at major airports and border crossings.

If you want to apply for a visa, this is what you need to do:

Always have a valid passport.

Learn more: The beginner's guide to climbing Kilimanjaro

Before your climb of Mount Kilimanjaro, schedule a full medical check‑up and visit a travel‑health clinic ideally four to six weeks ahead of departure. For travel to Tanzania, you’ll need to meet these health requirements and recommendations:

• A certificate of yellow‑fever vaccination is required if you arrive from or transit more than 12 hours through a country where yellow‑fever is endemic. Travellers arriving directly from non‑risk countries normally do not need the vaccination.

• Recommended vaccinations include: hepatitis A, typhoid, polio (including adult booster), tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis, hepatitis B (especially if contact or longer stay is likely) and rabies (if you’ll be around animals or in remote areas). Also ensure your routine immunisations—MMR (measles‑mumps‑rubella), influenza, varicella (chicken‑pox)—are up to date.

• Malaria is present in lower‑altitude zones (such as Arusha and Moshi) and in safari or park areas. Although the risk is much lower once you ascend the mountain, you should still use insect repellent, long-sleeved/ trousers at dusk, sleep under a net if needed, and discuss prophylactic medication with a specialist.

• You’ll be trekking to altitude and exposing your body to increased physical stress. Inform your doctor about any underlying health conditions, ensure you’re physically prepared, and review all recommended vaccines, medications and altitude‑safety measures in advance.

With these precautions, you’ll give yourself the best chance of a healthy, safe and unforgettable trek.

Always consult with a doctor before you trek to Kilimanjaro.

The short answer is no, but it still presents challenges. Unlike Mount Everest, which requires advanced mountaineering skills, ropes, ice axes, and experience on ice and rock, Kilimanjaro can be climbed on well-marked trekking paths. You don’t need technical equipment or climbing expertise.

All the main routes up Kilimanjaro are non-technical, and the trails are well-marked and designed for trekkers rather than climbers. That said, certain sections, such as the Barranco Wall, require a bit of scrambling using your hands. Even here, the paths are well-trodden and do not involve technical rock climbing.

You don’t need to be a professional mountaineer, but you do need to be physically fit, have good endurance, and be prepared to handle high altitude and changing weather conditions. Kilimanjaro is a trekking peak, not a technical expedition, but you need to prepare to reach the summit safely.

Follow Alice's guide leading the way on Mount Kilimanjaro climb.

Learn more: What is the best training for Kilimanjaro?

Timing your climb is vital for success, comfort, scenery, and managing crowds. Choosing the right window can make the difference between clear skies and muddy trails, or quiet paths and busy groups.

For 2025/26, the best periods to climb are:

Periods to avoid if possible:

Trekkers hike through the rainforest.

For a boutique‑luxury experience with pleasant weather and smaller groups, aim for the shoulder of the dry seasons, such as late January or early September. You’ll enjoy the best balance of clear skies, dry trails, and quieter paths. Here is a table for you to compare better:

Learn more: The seven different Kilimanjaro routes – pros and cons of each

One of the highlights of a Kilimanjaro climb and a key to your success is the food. With the right operator, meals are nutritious, plentiful, and carefully prepared to keep you energised at altitude.

On a typical trek, a dedicated camp cook team serves:

Trekkers sharing a meal prepared by the Follow Alice team.

At high altitude, your appetite may fluctuate, but your body needs steady, balanced meals. Focus on nutritious options, hydrate constantly, and eat little and often. Your guide can help if you feel off your food.

Special diets: Most quality operators, including Follow Alice, can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or lactose-intolerant needs. Make sure to notify your operator in advance so they can plan ingredients and alternative meals.

Choosing your operator matters: Food quality varies widely. Opting for a boutique-style climb ensures fresh ingredients, higher culinary standards, and a well-supported kitchen team, making every meal a highlight of your journey.

Our head cook, Rajabu showcasing his cooking skills.

Learn more: Meals on Kilimanjaro – nutrition is important for summit success!

On most Kilimanjaro routes (except the hut-style Marangu), you’ll sleep in two-person, four-season tents set up by your crew.

- Toilets: Each camp provides a portable toilet tent, standard on quality climbs. On more basic climbs, you may encounter a pit latrine or a simple bucket-style toilet; check with your operator in advance.

- Showers: There are no regular showers on the mountain. Some lodges at the start or end of your trek offer hot showers. Certain luxury operators may provide a solar-heated shower tent as an optional upgrade. Realistically, plan for minimal washing facilities on the mountain, take with you wet wipes, biodegradable soap, and a change of clothes are essential.

- Base camp in Moshi: Before or after your climb, you can stay in a comfortable lodge with hot showers, cosy beds, and nourishing meals. The perfect way to refresh and reward yourself after the trek.

Tip: Pack a quick-dry towel, flip-flops, wet wipes, and dry shampoo. Your legs will thank you when you relax in the lodge afterwards.

Follow Alice's toilet tent on Mount Kilimanjaro.

The climate is one of the most fascinating features of the climb as you will pass through multiple ecological zones.

Be ready for big temperature swings from warm/humid at base, chilly and windy on the summit. Layering gear is essential.

Glacier and snow will be seen on the route as you make your way to the summit.

Learn more: What is it like to climb Kilimanjaro?

Accommodation can be split into before or after the climb, and on the mountain. Before you tackle the mountain, typically, you will stay at a three or four-star or boutique lodge in Moshi or Arusha. Rooms with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, possibly a pool and good meals. Remember, this is your book-in and recovery period, so choose something comfortable to ease into and out of the trek. Let's have a look at the type of accommodation you will get on the Kilimanjaro:

Learn more: Sleeping on Kilimanjaro – all you need to know

Many operators limit groups to six to 10 climbers, sometimes up to 12 people, depending on the route. Some bigger groups are split into sub-groups (10-15 people) for logistical reasons. At Follow Alice, we prefer to operate in smaller groups so that each trekker has individual attention from our crew.

Yes, many operators welcome solo travellers and will pair you with a group. This is a great option if you’re travelling alone but want to experience the camaraderie of a group climb.

When booking as a single, check for:

If you are still unsure, schedule a call with our team, and we will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

A group of trekkers taking a photo on Mount Kilimanjaro.

A well-structured preparation programme can make a huge difference to your trekking experience and summit success. Take a look at what you need to do to prepare for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro:

- Fitness and strength:

Training duration:

- Altitude and terrain practice

Mental preparation:

With consistent preparation, both physically, mentally, and logistically, you’ll arrive at Kilimanjaro ready to tackle the mountain and fully enjoy every step of the journey.

A group of Follow Alice climbers, all trained and prepared to climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Learn more: What is the best training for Kilimanjaro?

Packing the right gear is important for comfort, safety, and enjoyment on Kilimanjaro. Your clothing and equipment should balance warmth, protection, and mobility, while keeping your load manageable. Let's take a look at what you should take with you:

- Footwear and daypack: A sturdy, waterproof hiking boot with ankle support is non-negotiable; save your trainers for the lodge, not the mountain. Your daypack (20–30 litres) will carry your essentials on summit day: water, layers, gloves, snacks, and your camera.

- Clothing layers: Layering is key to staying comfortable across Kilimanjaro’s wide temperature range. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a fleece mid-layer, and top with an insulated jacket (down or equivalent). Bring a waterproof shell jacket and trousers, thermal or soft-shell pants, and gloves or mittens, both thin and insulated. Don’t forget a warm hat or buff, sunglasses with strong UV protection, and a sleeping bag rated to around -10 °C or lower (confirm specifications with your operator).

-Trekking essentials: Trekking poles are strongly recommended, especially for summit day, while a headlamp with spare batteries is essential for the pre-dawn ascent. Other useful items include flip-flops or trainers for camp, a quick-dry towel, toiletries, high-altitude sunscreen, lip balm, spare batteries or power bank, and optional water purification tablets if your operator doesn’t provide filtered water.

- Luggage considerations: Each climber’s private gear bag (usually a duffel) is carried by porters from lodge to camp, with most operators capping the weight at around 20 kg. Remember, your daypack is what you carry yourself each day, so pack thoughtfully. For international and domestic flights, follow your airline’s luggage allowance (often 23 kg checked plus carry-on). Extra non-essential items can be stored in Moshi or shipped back to your lodge. This lightens your load and makes summit day more manageable.

A trekker wearing all the right gear for his Mount Kilimanjaro trip.

Behind every successful Kilimanjaro climb is a highly trained support team, ensuring your comfort, safety, and summit success. With a Follow Alice climb, you will always have the following crew to help you on the mountain:

- Guides: Your climb is led by a head guide licensed by Tanzanian authorities, supported by one or more assistant guides who manage the trail, pace, and altitude adjustments.

- Cook and kitchen team: A skilled kitchen crew prepares nutritious, energising meals, sets up camp logistics, and keeps the team fed and hydrated throughout the trek.

- Porters: Porters carry the bulk of your gear, transport duffel bags between camps, and set up tents. (Your personal daypack is carried by you.)

Porters are seen carrying the bags up the mountain.

- Staff ratios: Typically, there are four to five porters per climber, plus guides and kitchen staff. For example, a team of six climbers may be supported by 20+ staff members on the mountain.

The calibre of your support team directly impacts your comfort, health, and likelihood of reaching the summit. Choosing a tour operator like Follow Alice that invests in professional, well-trained, and well-treated staff is one of the most important decisions for a successful Kilimanjaro experience.

Just some of the Follow Alice crew that accompany you on your trail.

Learn more: Safety on Kilimanjaro – essential wilderness first responder crew training

At every camp, your guide carefully monitors your health, checking your heartbeat, oxygen saturation (on premium climbs), and any symptoms of altitude sickness. They enforce the “pole pole” (slowly, slowly) rule, ensuring you pace yourself on each ascent day to allow proper acclimatisation. If a climber shows serious signs of altitude sickness, the guide will immediately order a descent; this is non-negotiable.

Most operators carry emergency oxygen and have evacuation plans in place, either by vehicle, ambulance, or helicopter, to manage serious complications. It’s essential to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation. Choosing your route and operator wisely is also important for longer itineraries, typically seven and nine days, which allow more time for acclimatisation, reduce the risk of altitude sickness, and increase your chances of reaching the summit safely. At Follow Alice, our guides are trained to handle any type of situation that may occur.

A MedAir helicopter in flight over Mount Kilimanjaro.

Two hikers weigh their options on Mount Kilimanjaro.

When you ascend to high altitude (above 2,500 m), your body starts to struggle with reduced oxygen. On Kilimanjaro, you’ll reach nearly 5,900 m. Here are the categories:

Altitude is your biggest challenge, not the terrain. Most climbers will experience some mild AMS symptoms; serious illness is less common but entirely possible if one ascends too fast or ignores symptoms.

Learn more: All Kilimanjaro routes ranked in terms of acclimatisation

Internet access on Kilimanjaro is very limited, and planning is key. At the base in Moshi or Arusha, and in some lodges, WiFi or mobile data is usually available. Once you’re on the mountain, a few camps may offer paid satellite WiFi, but speeds are slow and connections can be unreliable. Mobile networks sometimes provide minimal coverage at certain camps, but for summit day, expect virtually no internet access. Your phone may only work in short patches at best.

To stay connected for essentials, bring a power bank or solar charger to keep devices running. That said, one of the true joys of climbing Kilimanjaro is disconnecting from the digital world. Use this opportunity to live in the moment, focus on the landscape, and fully immerse yourself in the experience. A practical tip: inform friends and family in advance that you’ll be offline from summit day through descent, and save your social media updates and photos for when you return to the lodge.

Trekkers use their phones to take pictures.

Learn more: Kilimanjaro now has internet! A good or bad thing?

After conquering Kilimanjaro, it’s time to reward yourself, and Tanzania offers two fantastic ways to do just that. You could opt for a safari or a trip to Zanzibar, or you can do both. Let's have a look:

Many climbers head straight from the mountain to a three to four-day safari in world-famous destinations like the Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro Crater. It’s an easy transition from rugged peaks to vast plains teeming with wildlife. A safari keeps you in “adventure mode,” offering unforgettable encounters with East Africa’s big game and endless opportunities for incredible photography. Just be sure to plan; booking early is essential, and it’s wise to allow a day or two of rest after your climb before setting off.

Tourists capture a herd of elephants.

If relaxation is what you crave, head to the warm, turquoise waters of Zanzibar. After days of cold mountain air and physical exertion, the soft sand and laid-back island atmosphere provide the perfect recovery. Consider the logistics, including flights from mainland Tanzania, and note that the best beach weather typically aligns with Kilimanjaro’s dry season. Zanzibar is a tropical paradise, and you won't regret visiting.

The beautiful Zanzibar.

For those with extra time, the ultimate indulgence is to combine both: climb, a safari and the beach. This 10–14-day add-on lets you experience the full arc of Tanzania from summit to savannah to sea, a journey that truly completes your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is so much more than a tick on a bucket list; it’s a test of endurance, a connection with nature, and a journey of self-discovery. It’s standing on the Roof of Africa as the sunrise breaks over the glaciers, knowing that every step, every challenge, and every moment brought you there.

With the right preparation, a longer route for proper acclimatisation, and an experienced, ethical operator, almost anyone can make it to the summit. And when you climb with Follow Alice, you’re not just signing up for an adventure — you’re joining a community that values sustainability, local empowerment, and meaningful travel experiences.

From your first pre-climb briefing in Moshi to your victory photo on Uhuru Peak, our dedicated team takes care of every detail. We provide expert guides, porter welfare assurance, high-quality gear, nourishing meals, and the boutique comfort that defines the Follow Alice experience. Like we said before, when the mountain journey ends, your adventure doesn’t have to. Unwind with a luxury safari through the Serengeti or escape to the turquoise beaches of Zanzibar. It’s the perfect reward after conquering Africa’s highest peak. Join a Kilimanjaro climb with Follow Alice, and let’s make your journey to the top of Africa truly unforgettable.