Every year, thousands of trekkers set their sights on summiting the highest peak in Africa, Kilimanjaro. But, how long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? The answer depends on a mix of factors, from your chosen route to your body's ability to acclimatise. This guide breaks down the average climbing times for each Kilimanjaro route and reveals the key elements influencing your journey's length.
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How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?
Average Duration for Climbing Kilimanjaro
Most Kilimanjaro treks range from 5 to 9 days, but the exact duration will depend on a couple of key factors — the route you take and your acclimatisation plan.
While summiting Kilimanjaro in as little as 5 days is achievable, climbers generally have more luck reaching the peak by taking their time. This is because giving your body adequate time to adjust to high altitude is crucial. Slower ascents significantly improve your acclimatisation, boosting your chances of reaching the summit and having a safer trek. Plus, they give you ample time to truly savour your journey and take in the breathtaking beauty of Kilimanjaro’s diverse climate zones.
Kilimanjaro Routes
The Kilimanjaro hike length can differ depending on which climbing route you take. Each route has its own unique charm and challenges. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular routes and their typical durations.
The Marangu Route (5-6 days):
This is the shortest and most comfortable Kilimanjaro route. It became known as the ‘Coca-Cola route’, because historically huts along this route would offer Coca-Cola and other soft drinks to climbers.
The Machame Route (6-7 days):
A favourite for its scenic beauty and varied terrain, the Machame route offers a nice balance of challenge and acclimatisation.
The Lemosho Route (7-9 days):
Considered one of the most beautiful Kilimanjaro routes, the Lemosho route includes a remote wilderness experience that you won’t want to rush.
The Rongai Route (6-7 days):
Beginning on the less-travelled northern side of the mountain, the Rongai route offers a quieter experience and gradual ascents.
The Northern Circuit (8-9 days):
This is the longest route, circling the mountain with stunning views and plenty of time for acclimatisation.
Each of these routes offers a unique perspective of Kilimanjaro, but it’s best to select the one that most aligns with your preferences and trekking style. At Elite Exped, we opt for the Lemosho route so our climbers have plenty of acclimatisation time and can take in the astounding views abundant on this route.
Factors Affecting the Climb Duration
While the route you choose plays a significant role in the length of your Kilimanjaro climb, other factors can also influence the overall duration.
Acclimatisation
On Kilimanjaro, one expression reigns supreme — “pole pole”. This is a Swahili phrase that means “slowly, slowly”, and is a guiding principle for climbing this mountain to ensure your body can steadily adjust to the altitude.
Altitude sickness is a real concern when climbing Kilimanjaro and taking time for acclimatisation is crucial for a safe and successful summit attempt. The key is finding the perfect balance for acclimatization.
That’s why we’ve chosen the Lemosho Route, a 7-day trek that provides the perfect balance for novice climbers. This approach allows your body to adjust to the decreasing oxygen levels at higher altitudes, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and increasing your chances of reaching the top.
Fitness
Your physical fitness and stamina will directly impact your trekking pace and overall climb duration. Being in good shape before you arrive will help you navigate the challenging terrain and maintain a steady pace, potentially shortening your overall trek.
Weather conditions
Kilimanjaro’s weather can be unpredictable, especially during the rainy seasons. We run our expeditions during the dry seasons, to avoid our team having to make any changes to the planned itinerary due to rain, snow and winds. However, during the dry season, Kilimanjaro temperatures can be extremely hot, which can slow progress a little.
Group dynamics
Climbing with a group is a rewarding and unforgettable experience, but the group's pace will be influenced by its slowest members, and your climb could take a little longer to accommodate the varying speeds and abilities.
Your Ideal Kilimanjaro Itinerary with Elite Exped
Choosing your expedition partner is a crucial decision that can make all the difference on your Kilimanjaro climb. With over 120 climbers guided and a 98% climber summit rate, you can trust us at Elite Exped to help you achieve your climbing dreams and summit Kilimanjaro. Our exceptional track record, experienced guides and cutting-edge equipment make us the perfect choice for anyone seeking a safe yet thrilling ascent.
Our groups take the Lemosho route and, on average, complete the trek in 7 days. Our full standard itinerary (including transportation) will take around 7 days — a more detailed itinerary is available here. For climbers looking for a luxury experience, you can take a look at our VVIP itinerary, which takes around 10 days in total.
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