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Mountain Climbing
Related Pages
- Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro
- Climbing Mt. Meru
Mount Kilimanjaro, at a height of 19,344 feet, is the highest mountain in Africa. Kilimanjaro contains the only permanent glaciers in Africa. The view from the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro is incomparable and the entire climb presents an ever-changing series of natural environments, from tropical rainforests to an eerie world of ice and snow.
Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro does not require professional climbing skills. It is, however, a strenuous climb and physical fitness is extremely important. There are several different routes up the mountain with varying degrees of difficulty. Before you decide on climb, you should consult with your physician and choose the best suited to your physical abilities. One good ‘’ measuring stick’ to determine your ability to reach the summit is whether you are able to jog slowly for an hour or more without experiencing shortness of breath.
All of our climbs are accompanied by experienced mountain guides and porters. Accommodations differ depending on the route and include both high- altitude tents and dormitory- style mountain lodges. The facilities are clean but spartan, so you should be prepared to ‘”rough it” as you make your ascent. One of your porters “doubles” as cook and will prepare three meals a day for you while you climb.
You can rent equipment (such as sleeping bags, walking sticks, etc) locally, although many climbers prefer to bring their own sleeping bag. When you book, you’ll receive a detailed list of suggested equipment and clothing. Dressing in layers helps you adjust to the varying temperatures during the day and at different altitudes.
Kilimanjaro is an awesome spectacle, and climbing it is achievable by anyone who is determined and reasonably fit. There are several routes to the summit, of which we recommend four. The Marangu (7 Days) and Rongai are easiest, while Machame (8 Days) and Shira provide more difficult ascents. Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is an experience of a lifetime.
Click on any of the links to learn more about the routes:
Marangu Route (5/7 days)
The cheapest of the available routes with the most overnight facilities and, invariably, the most climbers. In June/July, during the cold/dry season when temperatures plummet at night, the huts on this route might be a more tempting option than the camping routes.
Day 1
Transfer from Nairobi by shuttle bus. Lunch and briefing in Arusha. Drive to Moshi. There will be a briefing in the evening or early morning for all climbers.
Dinner and overnight at Mount Meru Game Lodge.
Day 2
Meet your guide and after the formalities, start hiking from Marangu Gate (1800 m). The hike is 3 to 5 hours through a fascinating rain forest to Mandara Hut (2700 m). Blue and Black and White Colobus monkeys are sometimes seen. Look for a tiny flower called Impatiens Kilimanjaris; endemic to Kilimanjaro. Picnic lunch en route. Optional hike to Maundi Crater (45 min) or rest upon arrival at Mandara Hut.
Afternoon tea, dinner and overnight at Mandara Hut.
Weather: warm and humid. Wear T-shirt, shorts and lighter shoes.
Water: available the whole time from a river along the route.
Day 3
After breakfast start hiking to Horombo Hut (3700 m). Leave the last glades of forest and follow the gently ascending path through the open alpine moorland. Today’s hike takes 5 to 7 hours. Picnic lunch en route. The altitude begins to make itself felt, cautioning you to walk slowly. “Pole pole” (slowly slowly in Swahili) is the order of the day while enjoying the flora and panoramic views of Kibo massif. Giant Senecios stand guard along the path. Kibo and Mawenzi Peak can be seen on a clear day.
Afternoon tea, dinner and overnight at Horombo Hut.
Weather: warm in the morning but cooler in the afternoon when clouds gather. Wear shorts, T-shirt and hiking boots. Carry a long sleeved shirt in the day path for the cool winds.
Water: fill water bottles at Mandara Hut. There is a stream half way to Horombo Hut.
Day 4
Hike slowly (6 hours) to Kibo Hut. Today leave moorland and enter the alpine desert past giant lobelia and traversing the saddle that buttresses Kibo and Mawenzi Peak. Packed lunch along the way.
Afternoon tea, dinner and overnight at Kibo Hut.
Weather: It is cooler as the altitude has increased. Long trousers and long sleeved shirt. Thin jacket or jumper in the day pack.
Water: fill up bottles at Horombo Hut. 2 hours from Horombo Hut is the last water sign. The porters will bring water for tea and the hike in the early morning.
Day 5
Start around 2 a.m., reaching Gillman’s Point (5685 m) at sunrise. The path from Kibo to Gillman’s is the most demanding 4 hours on the whole climb, zig-zagging slowly up steep scree. Continue another 2 hours to the roof of Africa, Uhuru Peak (5895 m). Descend to Kibo and Horombo Hut with the total walk being between 10 and 15 hours.
Meals and overnight at Horombo Hut.
Weather: cold; effects of high altitude is felt. Wear everything you brought.
Water: the porters have carried extra water to Kibo. Ask them and they will fill your bottles.
Day 6
Descend to Marangu Gate. It is easier to go down than up but today is a sustained descent of 5 hours. Packed lunch on way down.
Dinner, overnight and the best shower of your life at the Mount Meru Game Lodge.
Day 7
Transfer to Arusha. Lunch and then transfer by shuttle bus to Nairobi.
Conditions apply. See Terms and Conditions
Machame Route Private Climb (8 days)
Once championed as the discerning wilderness route for climbers, Machame is gaining on Marangu in terms of popularity. It is also the second-most accessible trailhead of the non-steep routes making it attractive to clients. Its reputation as one of the most scenic routes is entirely justified, with the sweeping views across the Masai Steppe to Meru and the impressive Barranco Valley praised by all who climb it. Gains in popularity, however, are inevitably at the expense of total exclusivity but as the descent route is different from the ascent, climbers are only aware of the popularity when they reach camp; it is still infinitely quieter than the Marangu Route.
Notes: Our services start/end up with a pick up/drop off Kilimanjaro airport.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION:
Day 1
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro airport you will be met by a Nordic Professional Mountain Guide holding a sign board with your booking name clearly written. After checking that you have all your luggage and belongings he will take you to one of our vehicles and transfer you to your hotel for a briefing and get ready for Kilimanjaro climb next day.
Dinner and overnight at Keys Hotel in Moshi or similar
Website: www.keys-hotel-tours.com
Day 2
Pick up from your lodge after breakfast and transfer to Machame gate where you will register before you start your climb. From the park entrance gate (Machame), you will walk for about two to three hours trek through a dense forest of fig and rubber trees, begonia flowers, and other tropical vegetation. A stop for hot lunch will be made halfway to this evening's campsite. As you continue your ascent, you will find that the tropical forest has given way to tall grasses and giant heather. You will be walking on a ridge, to the left of which is the Semira stream, and on the right, the Weru Weru. Depending on the pace of the climbers, arrival at Machame Camp is usually between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Your camp is set up near some old metals huts, which were once used for shelter.
This initial stage of the climb is tranquil and relatively easy. There is no point in rushing to get to the camp, as there is little to do there. Guides tend to recommend a slow ascent, even at this point, for gradual acclimatisation.
Do not try to keep up with your porters, who will usually bound ahead. Instead, take time to admire the beauty of the rainforest. If you are interested in botany, you should carry a small reference book.
Dinner and overnight at Machame Camp (BLD)
Day 3 – Shira Camp
On this and subsequent mornings, wake-up call is at around 6:00 AM. You will be greeted with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, and weather permitting, by a fabulous view of Uhuru peak!!!
Today's trek takes you up a steep track through a savannah of tall grasses, volcanic rock, and bearded heather. You will encounter giant groundsels as you hike through a ghostly landscape of volcanic lava, caves, and foamy streams.
Lunch will be taken just below the Shira Plateau, about three to four hours from Shira Camp. The hike to the next campsite takes approximately six hours and you should arrive between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Most climbers tend to pace themselves, walking slowly and resting about every half-hour. Many will feel lethargic and have headaches by the time they reach camp. Guides advise those with symptoms of altitude sickness to drink tea and sleep a lot -- and there is no better advice to follow at this stage.
Dinner and overnight at Shira Camp (BLD)
Day 4 – Barranco Camp
After breakfast you will start crossing the Bastains stream, you will begin to descend towards Barranco Camp. The descent takes you along an immense canyon called Grand Barranco. Along the way, you will see numerous waterfalls, which are fed, by streams coming from the mountain, converging here to form the Umbwe River. Your camp is set at almost the same altitude as the night before. Today's trek lasts for about six hours and arrival at camp is between 4:30PM and 5:30PM.
Dinner and overnight at Barranco Camp (BLD)
Extra day
Karanga Camp - This morning you begin your hike to Karanga Camp, which is on the same altitude as Barranco Camp.You will encounter a bit of a climb at Barranco Cliff and spend the rest of the trek climbing up and down the slopes of the mountain most of the way to camp. The climbing is not considered difficult and you should arrive in time for lunch (approximately 1:00PM) having trekked for about four hours.
In the afternoon you have the opportunity to hike in the Karanga Valley where giant senecios and lobelia grow; however, you are well advised to rest as much as you possibly can to prepare you for the climb ahead.
Dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp (BLD)
Day 5 – Barafu Camp
The scenic climb to Barafu is mostly on a moraine with a view of Mawenzi peak towering majestically to the right, and overhead, Kibo peak seemingly just out of reach. The alpine desert terrain encountered at this point is mostly a mineral environment with few lichens and mosses. Lunch will be taken half way. All climbers advised to go to bed very early this night, as the next day is the longest one.
Dinner and overnight at Barafu Camp (BLD)
Day 6 Ascent to Summit / Descent Mweka Camp
You will be awakened at midnight and after a light breakfast, start climbing at around 00:30 AM. It is at this stage that the climb becomes much more difficult. Here, very few will not be suffering from altitude sickness in some form or another; and climbers should carry as little as possible on this portion of the climb. Temperatures will range from -4° to 5° Fahrenheit. Making your way up a path that is flanked by the Ratzel and Rebman glaciers, you will climb for about six hours before reaching the edge of the crater, between Stella and Hans Meyer points. Another hour of climbing brings you to the summit.
Uhuru stands at 19,340 feet and is the highest point on the continent of Africa. The track around the edge of the crater is rocky and icy. Concentrate on your feet, and follow your guide very closely for this portion of the journey.
The descent is now easier than the ascent. You will reach Barafu Camp after about three hours (around 11:30 AM). Climbers will be given the opportunity to rest and have some refreshments before continuing on to Mweka Camp for the night. Arriving into camp at around 5:00PM, you will have trekked a total of thirteen hours today.
Dinner and overnight at Mweka Camp (BLD)
Day 7 – Arusha
After breakfast then continue to go down to Mweka gate where you sign your name and details in a register. This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Those climbers who reached Stella Point are issued with green certificates and those who reached Uhuru Peak receive gold certificates. Meet by a driver guide and drive to your hotel in Moshi. It is a welcome treat to take a hot shower and celebrate the climb.
Day 8 – Departure
Transfer to Kilimanjaro airport for your flight back home.
End of Nordic services.
Rongai Route (5/7 days)
We avoid the crowded Marangu Route on Kilimanjaro, prefering to approach the mountain from the north by the lightly-used Rongai roite. Experienced guides consider this ascent route both the easier and more beautiful than the main Marangu trail. The Rongai route begins in delightful forest, with the possiblitlty of wildlife viewing, and each day of walking progresses thorugh a different climate zone, adding considerably to the interest of the trek.
Day 1
Transfer from Nairobi by shuttle bus. Lunch in Arusha. Drive to Moshi. There will be a briefing in the evening or early morning for all climbers.
Dinner and overnight at Mount Meru Game Lodge.
Day 2
Transfer from Marangu to Rongai (2,000 m.). Walk through forest to Camp (2,700 m.) Blue monkeys are sometimes seen. Look for a tiny, red flower called Impatiens kilimanjaris; endemic to Kilimanjaro. Pack lunch en route.
Afternoon tea, dinner and overnight at First Cave Camp.
Day 3
Walk through moorland to the “Second Cave” (3,450 m.), then on to the “Third Cave” (3,900 m.). Pack lunch en route,
Afternoon tea, dinner and overnight at Second Cave Camp.
Day 4
A short and easy day, crossing the lunar desert of the “Saddle” to reach School Campsite (4,750 m.) Pack lunch en route.
Dinner and overnight at School Camp.
Day 5
Start around 2 a.m., climbing steeply to Gillman’s Point (5685 m) arriving at sunrise. The path to Gillman’s is the most demanding 4 hours on the whole climb. Continue another 2 hours to the roof of Africa, Uhuru Peak (5895 m). Descend to Kibo and Horombo Hut.
Meals and overnight at Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Day 6
Descend to Marangu Gate. It is easier to go down than up. Packed lunch on way down.
Dinner and overnight at Mount Meru Game Lodge
Day 7
Transfer to Arusha. Lunch and then transfer by shuttle bus to Nairobi.
Conditions apply. See Terms and Conditions
Day Hike on Mt. Kilimanjaro
Option # 1 from US$ 290 per person
You will be picked up from your lodge or hotel by our professional driver guide and our head mountain guide. They will have your picnic lunches with them. You will then all transfer to Marangu Gate. After the registration procedure at the gate you will start hiking via the Waterfalls which are on the way to Mandara Hut 2700 m. The hike to the Mandara Hut is 3 to 5 hours through a fascinating rain forest. Blue and also Black and White Colobus monkeys are sometimes seen en route. Also look out for a beautiful tiny flower called Impatiens Kilimanjaris; endemic to the Kilimanjaro environs. On the way your knowledgeable Head Mountain Guide will explain and inform you about the Flora and Fauna whilst setting a comfortable pace for you. You will stop for your picnic lunch and if you feel strong enough you will proceed on up and then return to Marangu gate in the late afternoon where you will be met by your driver guide and transferred back to your hotel.
Option # 2 from US$ 445 per person
Day 1
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you will be met by our Nordic Travel Professional Driver Guide he will be holding a sign board with your booking name. After greeting you all and checking that you all have your luggage and possessions he will transfer you to your hotel in Marangu.
You will overnight at Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort (BB)
Website: www.kilimanjaromtresort.com
Day 2
You will be picked up from your lodge or hotel by our Professional Driver Guide and our Head Mountain Guide, they will have your picnic lunches with them. You will then all transfer to Marangu Gate. After the registration procedure at the gate you will start hiking via the Waterfalls which are on the way to Mandara Hut 2700 m.. The hike to the Mandara Hut is 3 to 5 hours through a fascinating rain forest. Blue and also Black and White Colobus monkeys are sometimes seen en route. Also look out for a beautiful tiny flower called Impatiens Kilimanjaris; endemic to the Kilimanjaro environs. On the way your knowledgeable Head Mountain Guide will explain and inform you about the Flora and Fauna whilst setting a comfortable pace for you. You will stop for your picnic lunch and if you feel strong enough you will proceed on up and then return to Marangu gate in the late afternoon where you will be met by your driver guide to continue with your onward plans.
Conditions apply. See Terms and Conditions
Mt. Meru (4 / 6 Days)
Mt. Meru (4,566 m.) is the second highest mountain in Tanzania and a much underrated mountain climb because of its close proximity to Kilimanjaro. It is a horseshoe-shaped volcanic crater with a spectacularly narrow ridge and superb all around views. The cliffs of the inner wall below the summit are over 1500m high, and inside the caldera is a subsidiary peak called the Ash cone (3,670 m.) that last erupted only 100 years ago. There is an immense variety of tree and plant life, adding considerably to the interest of the trek.
The trek below the Miriakamba hut is more like a walking safari than mountain climb and our guide is well informed and full of information as you walk. Accommodation is in two well maintained wooden huts that have spectacular views of Kilimanjaro rising above the clouds. The climb of Meru is very much justified on its own merits but is also a great way to get acclimatised for Kilimanjaro.
Day 1 Arrive Arusha
Transfer to Mt. Meru Game Lodge for lunch and your Mountain Briefing.
Dinner and overnight at Mount Meru Game Lodge.
Day 2
After breakfast we drive to the Momella Gate. Your guide and ranger will be waiting for you. We start walking from the Momella Gate (1,500 m.) through forest with an abundance of birds and monkeys to the Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m.), situated in an idyllic grassy glade with fine views of Kilimanjaro. This is a 3 – 4 hours hike. We take a picnic lunch with us to have en route. After lunch we can continue walking to view the amazing Caldera or just rest and enjoy the views at the Miriakamba hut.
Dinner and overnight at the Miriakamba Hut.
Day 3
After breakfast we begin the day with a steep climb to the Saddle hut (3,570 m.) This is a 3-4 hours hike; again we have a picnic lunch en route. In the afternoon we have an optional ascent of Little Meru (3,820 m.), this is a two hour climb. We return to the Saddle Hut for dinner.
Dinner and overnight at the Saddle Hut.
Day 4
We have an early start with a superb walk up the narrow ridge cresting the summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m.) with wonderful views at sunrise. This is an exhilarating walk to the peak, it may sometimes be impossible beyond Rhino Point (3,800 m.) in extremely adverse weather conditions. You can expect a 4 – 5 hour hike.
Our happy and exhilarated climbers return to Saddle Hut for a celebratory brunch and further descent to the Miriakamba Hut.
Dinner and Overnight at the Miriakamba Hut
Day 5
After breakfast we have a short descent through open grassland often with views of wildlife back to the Momella Gate where the vehicle will pick us up and return to Mount Meru Game Lodge.
All meals and overnight at Mount Meru Game Lodge.
Day 6
Depart
More Information
(all documents will open in a new window)
General Information about Mountain Climbing (pdf, 44KB)
Suggested Equipment List for Mountain Climbing (pdf, 26KB)