How Hard is it to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is a fair difficult mountain to climb – recent research suggests that over 50% of those who attempt it suffer from mountain sickness and just over 65% of them are unable to reach the summit.

The reasons behind this high number of unsuccessful attempts vary, from issues caused by the altitude to the mindset of the climber.

Kilimanjaro is an extreme altitude mountain trek. Measuring 19,341 feet, or 5,895 meters, you will need to prepare well before attempting to climb Kilimanjaro

Mt. Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes – Difficulty Levels

1. Lemosho Route This route is incredibly scenic and considered one of the easier routes because the terrain to reach Barranco Camp is rather flat, making the first day easy. The Lemosho Route has been used by many record-holders for age, including the youngest and oldest record holders.

This route usually is attempted over 7 to 8 days.

2. Machame Route – Sought after because of the beautiful trek through a rainforest on the first day, this trek is one of the most scenic approaches up Kilimanjaro. However, its six-day itinerary is one of the most difficult ones, and we recommend a much simpler 7-day itinerary to help reach Uhuru Peak.

3. Marangu Route This tough route has one of the lowest success rates, especially for climbers on the 5-day itinerary. A 6-day trek is much better overall, even better than its friend, the 6-day Machame Route (but not the 7-day). A draw-back is that his route can be quite crowded during high season. Also, the same trail is used both for ascent and descent.

4. Rongai Route – This is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. The 7-day trek poses some challenges but is overall a great climb for acclimatization. It is not recommended to attempt this route in under 7 days.

5. Northern Circuit Route poses an incredible adventure, including crater camping and hiking along a less traveled route. While offering the longest itinerary (8 or 9 days), the scenery around the circuit is incredible and well worth the added days. Also, the longer route provides for excellent acclimatization.

6. Umbwe Route is a very steep ascent and is only suggested for the most experienced climbers. Karl Egloff and other ‘sky runners’ summited Kilimanjaro via this route.

How Hard is it to Climb to Uhuru Peak?

The final day of the trek is the most challenging. However, some climbers who trained and prepared in advance find it surprisingly easier than expected.

Keep in mind some highlights of the summit night:

• A midnight start. Your team will be walking in the dark.
• The uphill trek is steep, but completely walkable.
• You will walk 5-7 hours to meet the sunrise at Uhuru Peak.
• You will be provided snacks along the way (tea, biscuits) to help boost your energy and stamina.

Your guide will be with you and your team the entire way, encouraging you and giving support as needed.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition that occurs when a person ascends to high altitudes too quickly, leading to a lack of oxygen in the body. It is most common above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) and can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening complications.

Why Does It Happen?

At higher altitudes, the air pressure decreases, meaning there is less oxygen available for the body to function properly. When someone ascends too quickly, their body doesn’t have enough time to adapt to the lower oxygen levels, resulting in symptoms of altitude sickness.

Who Is at Risk?

• Anyone traveling to high altitudes (hikers, trekkers, skiers, climbers, pilots, etc.)
• Those who ascend too quickly without proper acclimatization
• Individuals with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions
• People who consume alcohol or engage in strenuous activity at high altitudes

Altitude Sickness: What is it?

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly, reducing the oxygen available to your body. It typically happens above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) and can range from mild to severe.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

Symptoms usually appear 6 to 12 hours after ascent and may include:

• Mild AMS: Headache, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and loss of appetite.
• Moderate AMS: Worsening headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and coordination issues.
• Severe AMS (life-threatening):
• High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): Fluid buildup in the lungs, causing breathlessness even at rest, chest tightness, and a blue tint to lips or fingernails.
• High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): Brain swelling, leading to severe confusion, loss of coordination, hallucinations, and unconsciousness.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Ascending too quickly without proper acclimatization
• High altitude (usually above 8,000 ft, but can occur lower in some people)
• Physical exertion before acclimatization
• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Dehydration or alcohol consumption at altitude

Prevention

• Ascend gradually: Don’t exceed 1,500 feet (500 meters) per day once above 8,000 feet.
• Acclimatization: Spend a day or two at an intermediate altitude before going higher.
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol or sedatives.
• Eat high-carbohydrate meals to maintain energy levels.
• Consider medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) to help speed up acclimatization.
• Oxygen supplementation if needed.

Treatment

• Mild AMS: Rest, descend slightly, stay hydrated, and take pain relievers if needed.
• Moderate AMS: Immediate descent of at least 1,000 feet (300 meters), oxygen therapy, or medication.
• Severe AMS (HAPE/HACE): Immediate descent to lower altitude, oxygen, and possibly hospitalization.

Preparing for Altitude Sickness

The undisputed main cause of altitude sickness is ascending to a high altitude too rapidly. Your safety remains the top priority and altitude sickness is often preventable. Some of the symptoms of altitude sickness include: difficulty sleeping, nausea, severe headaches, lack of appetite, dizziness. It is important to share with your guide any symptoms you are having, especially if you have trouble sleeping or your appetite is reduced.

The focus on acclimatization is two-fold: helps climbers successfully summit and also helps prevent altitude sickness. The same principles for proper acclimatization are followed to combat altitude sickness:

• Choosing longer routes
• Walking slowly
• Listening to the guide
• Drinking plenty of water

Also, taking Diamox pills is advisable to minimize the symptoms of high-altitude transition.