Onwards And Upwards: Beginner’s Guide On How You Can Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Is it possible to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

If it has been a lifelong dream of yours to be able to conquer the peak at Kilimanjaro, then now is your time! Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for beginners is actually not quite nearly as impossible as it sounds, and it has actually been done before. In this guide, we shall list everything- from how hard it is to climb Kilimanjaro to the best Kilimanjaro route for beginners. This Mount Kilimanjaro guide is really going to help you out when you stand at the base of the peak, being actually able to live the experience you always dreamt of!

Plan Your Trip Right

• Choose the right time: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro from December to mid March and mid June towards the end of October can be your best shot because these dry, warm months provide the best possible weather for your hike. 
• Carefully consider the Cost Involved: Depending on the route you choose, the equipment, tour operator as well as the level of comfort and length of your trip, the cost for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for beginners can be anywhere between $1000 to $4000.
• Obtaining the Right Equipment: While trekking on Mount Kilimanjaro, it is essential that you have the right equipment on hand. This includes good warm hiking boots which are waterproof and well fitted,  warm clothing with a fleece jacket, down jacket and thermals as well as  a comfortable sleeping bag which is suited to freezing temperatures.

Routes and Roads to Mount Kilimanjaro:

If you’ve been wondering what the best Kilimanjaro route for beginners is, then we have got you covered. Do remember to choose a route that is suitable to the length of your trip, for fitness level and what you wish to experience while trekking Mount Kilimanjaro.

The first is the Marangu route, also known as the coca cola route, which is considered the best Kilimanjaro route for beginners and included accommodation with huts instead of tents making it a little easier for the first time climbers.

Other than this, there are- the Rongai route that starts from the northern side of Kilimanjaro, the Machame route, which- although offers a difficult climb, also allows the climbers to look at some of the most beautiful landscapes, the Lemosha route- which is somewhat less crowded than the more popular ones, and the Northern Circuit route- which is quite new and not as traveled by yet.

Do you need any physical training to climb the Kilimanjaro?

Well, while there is no professional requirement, it is prescribed that one practice at least some amount of physical exercise prior to trekking Mount Kilimanjaro.

• Practicing a few cardiovascular exercises is often prescribed to improve your endurance and enhance your overall fitness.
• Strength training can be helpful in building strength in legs, calves and core. Practice exercises that are used for strength training various parts of the body like planks, squashes etc. 
• Practicing hiking on a variety of terrains can help you familiarize yourself better with what you’re about to engage in at  Kilimanjaro.
• Maintaining a healthy and nutritious diet is essential to a healthy body and for your Mount Kilimanjaro climb.
• Finally, you’ll often find expert climbers and experienced hikers at Kilimanjaro advising those wanting to climb the peak to stay positive in their mindset. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for beginners is as much a test of their mental resilience as their physical strength, and they both go hand in hand. Having a positive and determined mindset and the sheer will to achieve your goal is one of the many important things that are going to help you out in your Mount Kilimanjaro climb.

Dealing with the Altitude

People often wonder about the difficulty in climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and one of the most significant factors that stand in their way is the altitude sickness that hikers experience as they climb higher. Here are some ways you can deal with that so your experience is not full of difficulty in climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

• Take plenty of breaks: It’s okay if you feel tired after short spans of time and feel like taking breaks. You do not have to push yourself beyond your capacity as the climb only gets tougher as the heights increase.
• Be mindful of your nutrition and hydration: Staying hydrated and a proper nutrition intake are essential to a successful climb at Kilimanjaro and help you in avoiding altitude sickness.

Some Tips for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for beginners:

• Choosing a credible tour operator: Choosing an agency and tour guides you can trust is essential before you decide on climbing the peak, and will ensure the success of your climb.
• Make sure you are in good health: Climbing Kilimanjaro without a guide can be risky, but climbing it in poor health is also not recommended. Consult with a medical practitioner, if you’re fit enough to undertake a journey so taxing on the body and only then begin your climb. 
• Do not hurry: If you’ve been wondering if it is hard to climb mount Kilimanjaro, then don’t do that anymore, because after reading a guide you must have gained some insight into the activity, but it is important to remember that it is not a case. 

In Conclusion:

Now that you know so much about the Kilimanjaro and what it takes to really climb the highest mountain peak in all of Africa, follow the tips listed above and make the best of your climbing journey!