Trailblazing Tails

View Original

Climbing Kilimanjaro- An Epic 7-Day Adventure On The Lemosho Route

Affiliate Disclosure: This site contains affiliated links to my favorite websites.

Climbing One Of The 7 Summits: Mount Kilimanjaro In Tanzania

Embark on an epic hiking journey to conquer the towering giant of Africa, Kilimanjaro. Nestled amidst Tanzania's stunning landscapes, this climb offers an unmatched adventure for seasoned trekkers and novice explorers.

As you set foot on this legendary peak, Kilimanjaro's majestic allure draws you in, promising a voyage of self-discovery and awe-inspiring vistas that will remain etched in your memory forever.

Picture yourself traversing rugged trails, each step a testament to human resilience, leading you ever closer to the summit's towering peak.

Our tour guide, Elly, meticulously crafted a 7-day expedition following the renowned Lemosho Route, recognized for its scenic vistas and gradual ascent, ensuring optimal acclimatization for a successful summit bid.

Each day presents a new opportunity to test limits and revel in the sheer majesty of the surroundings. Plus, you'll forge lasting bonds with the tour guide, support staff, and fellow hikers as you navigate rocky paths and inclines.

Whether seeking personal triumph or a deeper connection with nature, this 7-day Kilimanjaro climb promises an experience like no other. So, dust off your gear, pack your sense of adventure, and take an unforgettable hiking trip to the roof of Africa.

See this content in the original post

Climbing Kilimanjaro In Tanzania - Know Before You Go

1: Kilimanjaro presents a non-technical hiking experience, meaning you do not need any specialized gear, making it ideal for beginners with minimal or no prior trekking background. The primary challenge lies in acclimating to high altitudes, and for those unaccustomed to camping, it may pose an additional hurdle. 

2: Although Kilimanjaro is beginner-friendly, proper preparation is key. The climb poses a challenge because of its high elevation, demanding stamina, and somewhat good fitness level. You should be prepared for daily hikes lasting between 5 to 8 hours. 

3: The best times to climb Kilimanjaro are during the warmest and driest seasons, spanning from December to mid-March and mid-June to late October. These periods boast optimal weather conditions for the hike. Nonetheless, it's worth noting that they coincide with peak tourist seasons, attracting a higher influx of climbers, and resulting in busier trails.

4: Kilimanjaro offers several climbing routes: the Machame Route, Lemosho Route, Marangu, Shira, Umbwe, and the Northern Circuit. The journey to the Kilimanjaro Summit and back generally spans between five to nine days, encompassing both ascent and descent. Opting for a longer travel journey increases the likelihood of a successful summit, as extended time allows for better acclimatization to altitude and reduces fatigue. 

5: Before booking your climb up Kilimanjaro, it's essential to ask your tour guide about the inclusions and exclusions in the tour price. This ensures you have a clear understanding of what to expect. This helps you plan your total budget accordingly.

6: When planning your flights, remember to research the vaccination requirements of layover countries. One aspect often overlooked in booking flights is not considering the layover in a country.

Some countries mandate the Yellow Fever Vaccination, while some websites say that layovers in countries affected shouldn’t require vaccination if you remain within the premises and do not exit the airport.

While it may seem cost-effective initially, if your flight is delayed or canceled you may need to exit the airport for an overnight stay in a hotel, requiring you to pay a hefty sum for the needed vaccination to continue flying into Tanzania. Therefore, it's essential to weigh any financial flight savings against the potential expenses associated with obtaining the necessary immunization. 

Opting for a layover in a destination where additional vaccinations aren't required can alleviate this concern and save you from unexpected costs. 

7: Before traveling to Tanzania, it's crucial to inform your credit card company or bank of your destination. Failure to do so may result in flagged transactions and verification texts. Avoid any hiccups by notifying your credit card company ahead of time, since there's limited cell service at convenience stores along the route where tour guides stop for snacks.

8: Entrance visas are typically paid in cash upon arrival, and the price varies depending on your home country.

As you step into the airport after you disembark from the plane, you'll notice a small kiosk desk where you can grab a declaration card to fill out. Once completed, present the form to the customs officers to pay the entrance visa fee.

To secure your visa, ensure you have a copy of your passport, your return ticket, duly filled declaration form, and the visa fee. It's essential to inquire about the specific requirements and fees well in advance of your trip since this fee is not included in your tour price.

9: Before embarking on your Kilimanjaro climb, it's essential to plan for luggage storage at your hotel. Before you set out, ask your tour guide about the facilities available and whether there's an extra fee involved.

This simple step can save you from any last-minute surprises and ensure a smooth start to your journey. After all, the last thing you want is to weigh down the porters with unnecessary baggage when exploring the wonders of Kilimanjaro. So, don't hesitate to clarify this with your guide and enjoy your climb with peace of mind.

10: You might be surprised by the abundance of support staff provided, but every team member plays a crucial role in ensuring your safety and the triumph of your climb of Kilimanjaro. Rest assured you will have porters dedicated to carrying all your gear. They are assigned to set up your tent and place your belongings inside. You only carry your drinking water, a small first kit, a snack, and any clothing you wear.

11: When planning your trek, consider the convenience of a private toilet. Ask your tour guide about the option of having one, sparing you the need to use communal toilets at each campsite. Though it may involve an additional porter and fee, the comfort and privacy it provides make it well worth the investment.

After all, indulging in a little luxury amidst the climb of Africa’s tallest mountain’s rugged terrain can enhance your overall experience.

12: When preparing for your trek, don't forget to pack your rainy weather and winter hiking gear. While the lower elevation on Kilimanjaro may be warm, the rainforest can be misty and foggy, and as you increase your elevation, the temperature drops significantly.

13: Before setting off, it's wise to enlist your tour guide for a gear shakedown at the hotel. This ensures you're not burdened with unnecessary items. Keep in mind, porters have a weight limit of 33 lbs (15 kg) to carry. Exceeding it means hauling it up Kilimanjaro yourself.

14: When preparing for your trek, use an 80L waterproof soft-sided duffle bag to carefully pack all your backpacking equipment and hiking apparel for the porters to carry. I used this one found on Amazon.

15: While your tour guide is committed to your safety, thefts sometimes occur. To minimize risk, place your duffle bag in the middle of your tent between your sleeping bag and your tentmates. Also, wear a hip belt and place it inside your sleep bag, such as this one I also found on Amazon, to carry the cash tips you'll give the support staff.

See this content in the original post

Looking for more inspiration to hit the trails? Check out my book, Wander, Wonder, and Wellness: Hiking Your Way to Health and Happiness, available now on Amazon—it’s packed with tips, stories, and motivation to make every hike a transformative experience!

The Hike Journal - Exploring Arusha and Climbing Kilimanjaro

After arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, my first order of business was to obtain my entrance visa and passport stamp. With those formalities out of the way, I eagerly make my way to the baggage reclaim area to retrieve my suitcase. Finally feeling like I was officially in the country, I can hardly wait to start my adventure.

Next on the agenda: meeting our tour guide, shuttling to McEllys Hotel, checking in, taking a tour of the Arusha Marketplace, and in the evening a gear shakedown with our tour guide going over what we will need for our Kilimanjaro climb. My anticipation mounts as we prepare to conquer the majestic peak in the morning.

Along the way, we make a pit stop at a convenience store for drinks and snacks, fueling up for the adventure ahead.

Suddenly, the majestic peak of Kilimanjaro comes into view, and we're in awe. Driving through the countryside, we catch glimpses of wildlife, adding to the thrill of the experience. Upon arrival, our tour guide takes care of the necessary permits as we enjoy a hearty boxed lunch at the Lemosho Route picnic area. Watching the porters expertly carry our gear to the first campsite, we're impressed by their strength and skill.

So, with a heart full of dreams and a spirit primed for adventure, I set forth on this climb, ready to embrace the challenges and rewards that awaited me on Kilimanjaro.

As we trek through the lush rainforest, we're greeted by a riot of colorful flowers, adding to the natural beauty of our surroundings. Suddenly, the forest comes alive with the sights and sounds of Bonobo monkeys, a thrilling encounter for all of us. As the day draws to a close, we gather in the mess tent for our first dinner of the climb, a delicious meal that not only fuels us for the challenges ahead but is not what we expect; it’s a 3-course meal, soup, an entree and dessert of fresh fruit. Truly, our adventure on Kilimanjaro is off to an unforgettable start.

As the day draws to a close, I find my sleeping mat and bag neatly laid out in the tent by the porters. My tentmate and I are speechless at their thoughtfulness. After a satisfying dinner, we gather to look at pictures, reminiscing about our first day climbing Kilimanjaro. A game of Uno adds a touch of fun before we head to our tents for the evening, eagerly anticipating the adventures that await us tomorrow.

Day 2: from Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp - Climbing Kilimanjaro

As we bid farewell to the lush rainforest, we enter the enchanting Moorlands, greeted by a drier climate. It's a perfect sunny day as we stop to photograph more colorful flowers along the way. After a morning of hiking, we have a hot lunch and a well-deserved rest break. Again I’m surprised as I was expecting a sandwich and fruit. Our tour guide surpasses any experience I've ever had. Our tour guide team surpasses any experience I've had before. They've truly set the bar high for tour-guided adventures. Honestly, I'm being completely pampered.

However, as we continue our journey, we notice the wind picking up. By afternoon, we find ourselves at camp, indulging in a delightful afternoon tea. The daily routine unfolds, with the weather fluctuating from a frosty morning to t-shirt weather, only to cool down again in the evenings. Despite the changes, we're treated to a beautiful sunset, with the silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance, reminding us of the majestic peak that awaits us. Truly, each day on this journey brings new experiences and wonders to behold.

Day 3: from Shira 1 Camp To Shira 2 Camp - Climbing Kilimanjaro

Waking up to hot coffee and tea served by one of our porters is the perfect start to the day, as we continue to Shira 2 Camp. We're still hiking in the Moorlands, enjoying the scenery along the way. The part of the trail presents a very gradual ascent, perfect for taking in the surroundings. Once again, we're blessed with another beautiful sunny day, making the trek even more enjoyable.

However, our journey is not without its challenges. My friend unfortunately tripped and cut her knee, reminding us of the importance of caution.

Finally arriving at Shira 2 Camp, which is 25km away from the summit of Kilimanjaro, we're greeted with a stunning sight—the mountain glowing in today’s sunset. We're particularly grateful that we don't have to use the communal toilets, they are positioned perilously close to the edge of the cliff.

And the fact that Shira 2 Camp has cell service is an unexpected convenience. We can't help but appreciate the expertise of the porters, who always seem to know the perfect place to stand on a rocky outcroping, ensuring our comfort and safety throughout our time at camp.

And to our delight, our chef has prepared a mouthwatering Deep Dish Pizza for dinner, offering a delicious and comforting perfect end to our adventurous day on Kilimanjaro.

Day 4: from Shira 2 to the Lava Tower then to Barranco Camp - Climbing Kilimanjaro

Another cold morning greets us as we stir from slumber with a wake-up call from our porter. I find comfort in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, for my tentmate while I indulge in a soothing cup of tea. We enjoy eating breakfast alfresco and gaze at the great view of Mount Kilimanjaro, and its majestic glacier.

As we embark on our hike to the Lava Tower, the altitude brings a sense of exhilaration, marking our first time over 15,000 feet. En route, we're mesmerized by the sight of wildlife against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro.

Arriving at the Lava Tower Camp sign, the thin air made it a little harder to breathe, but the breathtaking scenery made it all worthwhile. However.

I started to lag behind the group, trailing by about 20 minutes, not to slow down the others Elly, the main tour guide, stayed with me as the other 2 guides continued with the group. I eventually reached Barranco Camp where all the hiking trails converge. The scenery here was nothing short of incredible.

Following today's climb, we found ourselves utterly spent, after dinner, and with temperatures dropping, we retired early in preparation for an early start to tackle the infamous Barranco Wall the next morning. As we settled into our sleeping bags, anticipation mingled with exhaustion, knowing that tomorrow would bring another day of thrilling adventure and breathtaking vistas.

Day 5: From Barranco Camp To Barafu Hut To Kilimanjaro Summit Attempt - Climbing Kilimanjaro

Before the break of dawn, we rouse from our slumber to wake up before the world stirs. The looming challenge of the Barranco Wall awaits, its rocky and rugged terrain poses a formidable obstacle. But our tour guides providing steady guidance, we commence the ascent, clinging to the rock face as we navigate the treacherous pathway and the infamous Kissing Wall.

From the dizzying heights of the Barranco Wall, we catch a glimpse of our humble Barranco Camp below, a testament to our progress. With sheer determination, we conquer the summit, triumphantly reaching the pinnacle of the Barranco Wall.

However, the arduous climb takes its toll, and I find myself trailing behind the group, accompanied only by Elly, our steadfast tour guide. As we press onward, the air grows thin, forcing frequent breaks to catch our breath.

Despite the porter relieving me of my backpack, the journey to Barafu Camp proves to be an exhausting ordeal, standing at an altitude of 15,400 feet, and stretching for almost five hours. By the time I arrive, I find myself several hours behind the rest of the group, who have already refueled and retired to rest before the push to summit Kilimanjaro.

Approaching 8:30 pm, I stealthily entered the tent for a quick nap, ensuring not to disturb my tentmate and Vincent kindly provided me two Nalgene bottles filled with piping hot water to ward off the creeping chill I felt setting in.

Day 6: Kilimanjaro Summit to Mweka Camp - Climbing Kilimanjaro

With the night draped around us like a heavy cloak, our tour guide rouses us from our respite at 11 pm, signaling the commencement of our final ascent. However, a nagging sense of unease grips me as I take an O2 reading, revealing dangerously low levels. In the interest of safety, Elly, our tour guide, and I resolve to forgo the summit bid, opting instead to preserve my health amidst the thin, unforgiving air.

The trek to Mweka Camp was a rollercoaster of emotions., but the morning brought a silver lining. Vincent wakes me to witness the breathtaking sunrise, a moment of solace amidst the setbacks. As I left my tent, a fellow hiker greeted me; she too had faced challenges with the thin air, unable to reach the summit. Despite the setbacks, it was another sunny and beautiful day. At breakfast, we found comfort in our shared experience, realizing neither of us had ventured over 15,000 feet before.

The trail is somewhat steep but not difficult, but the landscape is captivating. As we descend we spot the helipad, a stark reminder of the mountain's unforgiving nature. But the warmth enveloped us, and I had to shed layers to stay comfortable.

Our descent continues, and we encounter a young man being carried by porters, a victim of altitude sickness.; he has succumbed to the altitude but starts to revive as we descend to under 14,000 feet.

The terrain becomes more rugged as we pass High Camp, and navigated toward Mweka Camp. Passing High Camp, we learned of the fierce racing competition to reach Uhuru Peak. "That's more adventure than I can manage," I quipped, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the idea of racing up this formidable mountain.

Out of nowhere, a light drizzle begins just about a mile from Mweka Camp. As we arrived, the heavens opened, just as we were entering our tents. The rest of the group arrives in the pouring rain a few hours later.

Despite the weather, spirits remained high as we shared stories of our journey over dinner. Then it’s straight to bed; with tomorrow earmarked for celebration, eager to commemorate our adventure on Kilimanjaro.

Day 7: From Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate - Climbing Kilimanjaro

It's rained all night, but as dawn breaks, it's a sunny morning. We gather to eat breakfast, then separate our gratuities in the mess tent. Elly, our guide, calls each team lead for our support staff, and we thank each team lead for their hard work. After gratuities are given, we celebrate with song and dance.

Ready for our descent, we hike back into the rainforest, where the lush greenery is beautiful to behold. Eventually, we reach Mweka, where we have a wonderful lunch. those who made the summit receive a climbing certificate and take the opportunity to visit a souvenir shop.

With our climb complete, we drive back to the hotel, marking the end of our climb adventure. Despite the challenges and the rain, the experience has been unforgettable, filled with triumphant moments, camaraderie, and awe at the natural world. As we bid farewell to Kilimanjaro, we carry with us memories that will last a lifetime, grateful for the opportunity to conquer such a magnificent peak.

Don’t forget to check out my book, Wander, Wonder, and Wellness: Hiking Your Way to Health and Happiness, available now on Amazon—it’s packed with tips, stories, and motivation to make every hike a transformative experience!

Wrapping Up: The Kilimanjaro Climb

I embarked on an epic hiking odyssey to conquer Africa's towering giant, Kilimanjaro. Nestled amidst Tanzania's breathtaking landscapes, this climb offered an unmatched adventure for both seasoned trekkers and novice explorers.

As we climbed toward this legendary peak, Kilimanjaro's majestic allure captivated us, promising a journey of self-discovery and awe-inspiring vistas etched in memory forever.

Imagine navigating rugged trails, each step a testament to human resilience, drawing you closer to the summit's towering peak.

Led by our meticulous tour guide, Elly, we embarked on a 7-day climbing expedition along the renowned Lemosho Route, famed for its scenic vistas and gradual ascent, ensuring optimal acclimatization for a successful summit. It certainly exceeds all my expectations, from our tour guide and support staff to every day during the climb.

Each hiking day presented opportunities to push limits and revel in the majestic surroundings, forging lasting bonds with fellow hikers and support staff.

Whether seeking personal triumph or a deeper connection with nature, this 7-day Kilimanjaro climb promises an unparalleled experience. Dust off your gear, pack your sense of adventure and embark on an unforgettable journey to Africa's rooftop.

Remember to secure travel insurance, it comes at a surprisingly affordable price. and protects you from flight delays, tour cancellations, and accidents that occur on the trail. Get a quote from InsureMyTrip before your big trip.

See you next time, and as usual, let's explore the trails together and enjoy the views along the way.

Affiliate Disclosure: This site contains affiliated links to my favorite websites. As a verified Amazon Associate and a member of the Amazon Influencer Program I earn from qualifying purchases. I may receive a commission for any purchases made by you on their website using these links, but don’t worry, you won’t pay more by going through their link. Plus, I only recommend products I’ve used, thoroughly tested, and can recommend without hesitation.

See this content in the original post

Remember to bookmark this page to have this information at your fingertips whenever you need it. Subscribe and I'll email you the free 10 Hiking Essentials guide along with the Bonus Camping Essentials Checklist. Plus, I’ll keep you updated on the best off-the-beaten-path destinations, avoiding the crowds and discovering unique spots.

If we're not connected on social media, come on over, and let's be friends. You can find me on Facebook or Instagram @thehikingtexan

Head over to my Amazon Storefront to browse more hiking, camping, and outdoor gear.

See this content in the original post