How Hard Is It to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?   With 5,895 metres (19,340 ft), Mount Kilimanjaro is the biggest freestanding mountain in the world and the highest in Africa, shining bright on the map of Tanzania. If you’re planning a trip to this wonderful country, you might be wondering – is Mount Kilimanjaro hard to climb? We’re here to give you a solid breakdown of the Kilimanjaro hike difficulty, what you can expect, and how to maximize your chances of reaching the top. We can tell you one thing now – it’s not an easy trek, but it is very much worth it.

Is Kilimanjaro Hard To Climb?

A simple answer: yes. For most people, a Kilimanjaro hike is not a walk in the park. Having said that, the routes themselves are not too challenging. On most treks, there are no steep and difficult climbs to make, but that’s not the real problem here. The actual challenge is dealing with the altitude. The amount of oxygen near the peak is half of what we’re experiencing at sea level, which can take a serious toll on your body if you’re not careful. Another potential hurdle is low temperatures. Despite what most people assume about Africa, they can drop during the hike to rather low values. In addition to that, to hike Kilimanjaro, you’ll have to deal with sleeping in tents and having very limited access to amenities for at least five to six days. So even if not very technically demanding, the Kilimanjaro hike is considered hard by most people who’ve tried it.

Mount Kilimanjaro Difficulty

Altitude on Kilimanjaro

The most common issue people encounter when hiking Kilimanjaro is altitude, or more precisely, what low oxygen levels do to a body. At the summit of Kilimanjaro, you will experience approximately 49% of the oxygen that is typically available at sea level. It, very literally, takes your breath away. Such low levels increase the risk of developing altitude sickness, which can manifest itself in dizziness, headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. For this reason, one of the most important factors of a successful attempt is acclimatization. Opting for a longer itinerary (6–9 days) can significantly improve your chances of success.

Kilimanjaro Hike Routes

Route Distance Time
Umbwe 53 km (32 miles) 5 – 7 days
The Western Breach 52 km (32 miles) 6 – 7 days
Shira 56 km (35 miles) 6 – 8 days
Machame 62 km (37 miles) 6 – 7 days
Rongai 70 km (43 miles) 6 – 7 days
Lemosho 70 km (42 miles) 7 – 9 days
Marangu 72 km (45 miles) 5 – 6 days
Northern Circuit 88 km (53 miles) 8 – 9 days
Longer routes, like Lemosho and Northern Circuit, have higher success rates (85–95%) due to better acclimatization. Shorter routes, while cheaper, have lower success rates (around 60%). The most challenging and dangerous route is the Western Breach, known for steep, rocky slopes and occasional rockfalls.

Camping and Sleeping Conditions

Most routes require sleeping in tents, except for Marangu, which offers hut accommodations. Keep in mind, there are no showers available, and toilets, while maintained, can be basic.

Weather on Kilimanjaro

The best time to hike Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons:
  • July to October
  • December through February
Despite being in Africa, temperatures can drop to -20°C at night, so proper gear is essential.

Your Physical and Mental Condition

You don’t need to be a professional athlete to climb Kilimanjaro, but you should be prepared for 5–9 days of trekking, often covering steep terrain. The summit night is particularly tough, requiring up to 15 hours of hiking in one go. Mental resilience is just as important as physical fitness. Being away from comforts, sleeping in a tent, and enduring cold conditions can be mentally taxing. Training for endurance and strength beforehand is highly recommended.

How Difficult Is Kilimanjaro? Success Rates!

  • Longer routes like Lemosho have a 90% success rate.
  • Marangu, despite being a popular choice, has a 65% success rate.
  • The overall average success rate is 65%, meaning nearly half of climbers fail to reach the summit.

Can an Average Person Climb Kilimanjaro?

Yes! With proper preparation, choosing a longer route, and staying motivated, you can reach the summit.

Some FAQ at a Glance

How many people fail to climb Kilimanjaro? Around 35–50% of climbers fail, primarily due to altitude sickness. Is 50 too old to climb Kilimanjaro? No! Age is not a major factor as long as you’re in good health. Can a beginner climb Kilimanjaro? Yes, but training and choosing a longer route are crucial.

If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It

Climbing Kilimanjaro is tough, but the reward is incredible. Standing at the top of Africa, witnessing breathtaking views, and pushing your limits makes the journey unforgettable. At I Artist Adventure, we offer expert-guided Kilimanjaro hikes with high-quality tents, private cooks, park fees, and rescue services. Our experienced crew ensures your safety and comfort throughout the adventure. We’re here for you every step of the way. Book your Kilimanjaro trek today, or reach out with any questions. We’re happy to help! Share the Article: