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Mount Kilimanjaro

This is a mountain region

Mount Kilimanjaro is the crown of Tanzania. At an altitude of 5895m Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, the highest freestanding mountain in the world, and one of the largest volcanoes ever to burst through the earth's crust.

On a clear day it can be seen from more than 160km away, and although it stands only three degrees below the Equator, its peak is permanently covered with snow and ice.

There is more than one way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and, as an experienced Mount Kilimanjaro climb tour operator, Tribes offers a full range of climb options:

The Machame Route - a good all round Kilimanjaro climb in terms of value for money, length of the trek, and success rate. Scenic and less-used than the Marangu route. Ascend from the western side of Kilimanjaro and descend down the south face.

The Marangu Route - attracts many more climbers than all the other routes put together. Quickest and most direct route to the top of Kilimanjaro. Park huts used for accommodation.  Ascend and descend by the same path.

Lemosho Route - designed for those wanting to ascend to the summit in daylight hours. Includes a night in Kibo crater and trek within and walk to the top of the inner Reusch crater. Stunning view into the Ash Pit.  Magnificent scenery. Often see wildlife on this route. We operate this trip at a very high level of comfort.

The Umbwe Route - one of the least-used routes. Significantly shorter than other routes whilst having good acclimatisation time. Very steep route best suited to experienced trekkers.

The Rongai Route - begins on the north side of the mountain and is the least-trodden route. Long drive to starting point. Obliged by park rules to descend via the Marangu Route. The park huts are used as accommodation on the descent.

The Western Breach Route - very steep and recommended only for very fit and capable climbers. Currently not available.

To make your choice you need to consider your priorities. Remember that the longer you spend over the Mount Kilimanjaro climb the more time you have for acclimatisation and this will greatly increase your chances of a successful trek to the summit. And the shorter the route the steeper are the climbs!  Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a true challenge.

Highlights

  • Highest mountain in Africa.
  • Highest freestanding mountain in the world.
  • You can simply enjoy walks in the foothills, or attempt a climb to the summit.
  • Tribes offers a full range of Kilimanjaro climbs.
  • We have a Porter Policy to protect our Kilimanjaro porters from exploitation.

Situation

Mount Kilimanjaro is in northern Tanzania, to the east of Arusha.

Activities

Walking in the foothills; climbing the mountain.

Health

A Kilimanjaro climb is challenging and you need a good level of fitness. Altitude sickness is a real risk and should not be taken lightly. Anyone with a specific medical condition should check with their doctor first.

Best times to go

You can climb Kilimanjaro all year, with advantages and disadvantages each month. Mid-Dec, Jan, Feb and March are the warmest months, almost clear of clouds. April and early May can get heavy rain or snow, but are good for a clear mountain. By late June, July and through Aug it can be very cold at night but the sky is clear above 3000m so there are great views. Through Sept and Oct it gets steadily warmer. Oct is good if you want little or no rain, and mild weather. Nov to mid-Dec is the short rains season. Possibly afternoon thunderstorms but tends to clear in evening with good views at night and mornings. There can be heavy snow towards the summit.

Getting there

The nearest town to Mount Kilimanjaro is Moshi, at the foot of the mountain. Moshi is about 45 minutes drive from Kilimanjaro airport.

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