Climbing Kilimanjaro

Q. Which route should I take?
A. Visit our Kili Routes page for more information.

Q. What is the best time of year to climb Kilimanjaro?
A. Although you can climb Kilimanjaro at any time, it is generally believed that the best months to climb are September and October. It tends to be drier during these months and there are fewer tourists in Tanzania. It is advised to try to avoid climbing during Tanzania's rainy season of March, April and May.

Q. What is the best route to climb?
A. Duma recommends the camping routes of Machame, Lemosho and Shira. The western camping routes are more scenic than the eastern routes and usually have better weather. For fitter climbers, the Western Breach, an alternate route to the summit may be taken from the Machame route.

Q: How should I physically prepare for my climb?
A: Kilimanjaro is considered by many to be the easiest high mountain to climb. However, the altitude of 5,895 meters (19,340 feet) is still extremely high and proper preparation is essential. It is helpful to engage in aerobic exercise a few times a week for two months prior to the climb. Also, it is absolutely essential that you understand the causes and symptoms of altitude sickness before beginning the trek. Be sure to read the Altitude Sickness Information page before planning your trip.

Q. What are the signs of altitude sickness?
A. Almost everyone will experience some form of altitude sickness while hiking Kilimanjaro. Although the symptoms are easily treatable with rest and hydration, more serious symptoms can sometimes develop. Again, be sure to read the Altitude Sickness Information page before planning your trip to understand the symptoms, prevention and treatment of altitude sickness.

Q. What happens if someone has to descend because of altitude sickness?
A. You will always hike with several guides/assistant guides. If someone is too sick to continue, they will descend with an assistant guide.

Q: How much experience do Duma's guides have climbing Kilimanjaro?
A: Each of Duma's guides have several years of experience on Kilmanjaro. Our most experienced guide has climbed Kilimanjaro more than 200 times (18 years) while our most junior guide has climbed about 50 times (5 years). Be sure to listen to your guide's advice while on the mountain and remember to go slowly! If you hike slowly, you increase your chances of reaching the top as your body has more chance to acclimatize.

Q. How far do we hike each day?
A. On most days, you will hike about 10 km (6.2 miles). In order to adjust to the change in elevation, you will be hiking the day's distance at a slow pace.

Q. Why do we make the final ascent to Uhuru at midnight?
A. The final ascent to Uhuru is made at night because of the weather patterns on Kilimanjaro. Clouds begin to roll in almost every day at 10am. If you summit during the day, you run the risk of being caught in snow, hail or rainstorms. The midnight trek to the summit is designed to ensure your safety. You will also have the best views from the top at dawn.

Q. What kind of gear do I need?
Please review our detailed packing list that explains what to bring on your climb as well as how your luggage will be carried up the mountain.

Q: Can I rent equipment from Duma for my climb?
A: Duma rents everything from waterproof hiking boots to headlamps. Please review our detailed packing list for prices and availability.

Q. What will the porters carry and what will I carry on the climb?
A. Porters will carry most of your luggage. You will carry a small day pack that contains your drinking water, rain gear, camera and lunch.

Q: Do Duma guides carry first aid kits?
A: Duma guides carry first aid kits that contain bandages, over the counter medicines, and some emergency supplies. Duma does not carry any prescription medicines so you will have to bring your own.

Q. Is it possible to buy energy snacks in Tanzania?
A. You cannot get energy snacks or drinks in Tanzania so you should bring a supply with you. Gel energy snacks are extremely useful for the summit day.

Q. What is happening to Kilimanjaro's icecap?
A. According to the United Nations Environment Program, Kilimanjaro's icecap receded 55% between 1962 and 2000. The mountain has lost 82% of its icecap since it was first surveyed in 1912. The glaciers are vanishing due to regional warming, most likely caused by global warming.

Q. How much should I tip each guide, cook and porter?
A. The tipping system in Tanzania generally follows the American style of tipping. Please view our tipping guidelines page for detailed recommendations on how much to tip each staff member.

Need more information on visiting Tanzania in general? Visit our FAQs page for more details.