HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?

How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro? The time required to climb the mountain can range from 5 to 10 days. This depend on the route option you choose and your acclimatization needs. Shorter routes offer a faster ascent, but the risk of altitude sickness increase. Longer routes provide more time to adjust to the higher altitudes. This increase your chance of reaching the summit.

Summary of times for different routes

Shorter routes, limited 5 to 6 days

• Examples: Marangu route (5 to 6 days) and Umbwe route (5 to 7 days)
• Advantages: Less days, ideal for hikers with tight schedules. Fewer days means less park fees, making the hike cheaper.
• Disadvantages: Not enough days to acclimatize. The increase the risk of AMS leads to low summit success rate.
• Recommended for: Experienced hikers or those willing to take the risk

Balanced routes, 7 to 8 days

• Examples: Machame route (6 to 7 days) and Lemosho route (6 to 8 days)
• Advantages: Good balance between number of days and acclimatization. Varied scenic landscapes.
• Disadvantages: Physically demanding, but higher success rates compared to shorter route options.
• Recommended for: Beginners and hikers looking for a gradual approach without hiking too many days.

Longer routes, 9 to 10 days

• Examples: Northern circuit route (9 to 10 days)
• Advantages: A slower pace means enough time adjust to the higher altitudes. This route offer the highest summit success rate.
• Disadvantages: Requires more days to complete the hike. Additional days on the mountain will cause the hike to be more expensive.
• Recommended for: Hikers with the time and budget to prioritize safety and success.

Important factors for choosing the duration

• Acclimatization: Longer routes offer you more time to gradually adjust to the altitude. This will reduce the risk of getting AMS.
• Experience: Beginners will benefit from longer routes with slower ascents.
• Schedule: Shorter routes may be tempting for hikers with tight schedules. But come with a trade-off in terms of acclimatization and summit success.
• Physical condition: All routes require that you have a good level of fitness. Longer routes distribute the physical effort more evenly.

How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro? 

In short to answer the question, how long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro? It will take anything from 5 to 10 days. This will depend on the route option and duration of the hike chosen. 

Choosing the right route and duration is a critical factor in achieving a successful and enjoyable Kilimanjaro climb. If in doubt, opt for a longer route to increase your chances of reaching the summit safely. The longer period you choose to hike for, the more time you give your body to adjust to higher altitudes.

When deciding how long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro also consider the following. Please note that the facilities and comforts on the mountain are limited and basic. You will not be able to take a proper shower. You will spend every night in a tent. It is important to find the right balance. Give your body enough time to adjust but also living without the comforts from home.