It’s 3:30 am, -8°C / 18°F, and all I want to do is lie down and go to sleep. The only reason I'm keeping my feet moving is my guide, Juma’s, unceasing encouragement. I’m trekking up Kilimanjaro in July under the brightest full moon I’ve ever seen. It lights up Mount Mawenzi—which lies opposite Kili and is considered far too treacherous to summit—like a humongous chunk of silver in a Tolkienesque fairytale. Although Kili is only 5,895m / 19,341ft high (more or less the same height as Everest Base Camp) and is successfully summited by thousands of non-climbers every year, there are five key things you must do to make it to your own personal Uhuru. (Uhuru Peak is where all those famous photographs are taken; once you reach Gilman’s Point, which is about two hours trekking before Uhuru, you’re considered to have summited Kili at its ‘technical top’. Uhuru means freedom in Swahili, and the summit was named in honor of Tanzania's independence from Britain in the 1960s.)

1. Drink Water

This may get a ‘duh’ from seasoned hikers, but I can’t stress enough how important it is to stay hydrated. Your trek starts in a humid jungle (keep an eye out for colobus monkeys and exquisite wildflowers) where you’ll sweat profusely. As you ascend, you sweat less, but the air becomes much drier. Plus, anti-altitude sickness medications are often diuretics, meaning frequent trips to rather basic outhouses or the nearest bush (pack hand sanitizer and wet wipes in your daypack). Dehydration is a major cause of altitude sickness on summit night: ensure your CamelBak or water bottle is fully insulated so that your water doesn’t freeze in sub-zero conditions. A good rule to follow is ‘pole, pole’ (slowly, slowly) and ‘sip, sip’ to ensure you’re taking in enough fluids throughout the climb.

2. Take a Hiking Partner

No one climbs Kili alone. In Tanzania, we believe in the power of community, and on this mountain, teamwork is everything. Your guide from I Artist Adventure is not just there to lead the way but to ensure your safety and well-being. Our expert guides have summited Kilimanjaro hundreds of times and know every trail, every challenge, and every motivation trick to keep you moving. Your guide will see when you’re taking strain and provide encouragement when you need it most. If your backpack feels too heavy on summit night, let them help. Don’t be a hero—listen to your guide and respect the mountain.

3. Take Anti-Altitude Medication

Altitude affects everyone differently, regardless of fitness level. Ask your doctor about anti-altitude sickness medication before your trip. It can make a significant difference by helping your body absorb oxygen more efficiently. I’ve seen professional athletes struggle at 4,500m / 14,700ft, while older hikers with the right mindset and preparation reach Uhuru Peak with ease. At I Artist Adventure, our experienced team monitors your vitals daily, ensuring you’re adapting well to the altitude. We also recommend pairing your Kilimanjaro trek with a relaxing post-climb safari in the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater—a chance to recover while experiencing Tanzania’s incredible wildlife.

4. Eat Well

Many trekkers lose their appetite at high altitudes, but fueling your body is essential. Our mountain chefs prepare fresh, nutritious meals to keep your energy levels up. If you’re a picky eater, bring snacks you enjoy: dried fruit, nuts, chocolate, and energy bars are great options. Every meal on your climb with I Artist Adventure is carefully planned to provide the right balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. You’ll need the fuel to make it through summit night!

5. Get Your Head Right

Climbing Kilimanjaro is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. You’ll face cold temperatures, basic toilet facilities, shared sleeping spaces, and long days of trekking. But with the right mindset, you can conquer it all. Tanzanians have a saying: ‘Haba na haba hujaza kibaba’ (Little by little fills the pot). Take each step one at a time, trust your guide, and embrace the journey. I once watched a 70-year-old woman reach the summit with no issues, while a young athlete struggled and turned back. It’s not just about physical strength—it’s about determination, patience, and a sense of adventure.

The Ultimate Reward

After reading this, you might think, ‘Wow, Kilimanjaro sounds tough!’ And it is. But it’s also one of the most incredible experiences you’ll ever have. The moment you stand on Uhuru Peak, watching the sun rise over Africa from its highest point, every challenge fades away. It’s a feeling of pure triumph, an unforgettable adventure. If you’re ready to take on Kilimanjaro and experience Tanzania in all its breathtaking glory, let I Artist Adventure guide you to the top. And after your climb, why not explore the Serengeti, relax in Zanzibar, or witness the Great Migration? Your adventure doesn’t have to end at the summit. Join us for the adventure of a lifetime!