7 secrets for Kilimanjaro trekkers you have never known before

Trekking Kilimanjaro can be an exhilarating experience, especially for those who love to hike. If you're planning to join a group of tourists for a trek, you should consider taking the most picturesque route. This is the path that most climbers take, with an 80% success rate of reaching the summit. However, before embarking on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it's important to do your research and know the seven secrets of climbing Kilimanjaro.

Kilimanjaro are better than others

Kilimanjaro can be climbed at any time of the year as there are no seasonal restrictions. However, some weather conditions are more favorable for climbing than others. The period from March to mid-June sees heavy rainfall, making it challenging for trekkers. The hottest months are April, May, and November, which can also negatively impact the experience. For the clearest skies and optimal trekking experience, consider climbing between mid-December and mid-March. This is a secret that will make your climb unforgettable.

Age do not matter

Age and physical fitness are not determining factors for Kilimanjaro trekking success. The key is to walk at a slow pace and acclimatize to the climate. Those who try to run or walk too quickly often fail to reach the summit. Surprisingly, many older individuals have been highly successful in trekking Kilimanjaro. Therefore, stick to a slow and steady rhythm, and you will increase your chances of success.

Loss of hunger and craving

Here's a secret you may not have known before: while food is necessary to fuel your climb up Kilimanjaro, it's common for climbers to lose their appetite at high altitudes. The higher you climb, the less inclined you may be to eat due to the change in taste and texture of food at higher altitudes.

Routes have higher success rates

There are seven routes to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, each starting from different points on the mountain:

Northern Circuit

Lemosho Route

Machame Route

Rongai Route

Shira Route

Marangu Route

Umbwe Route

The secret to selecting the best route is to avoid starting at too high an altitude. It's important to acclimatize properly and choose the route that suits your abilities. Pushing yourself too hard and too fast can lead to illness. The Northern Circuit and Lemosho Route have higher success rates than the others.

Even if a trekker is completely exhausted, they may find it difficult to sleep while on the trek.

While getting enough sleep is crucial for completing the trek and maintaining energy levels, it's another challenge at high altitudes with low oxygen levels. Even if you're feeling very tired, it can be difficult to get enough rest at the high elevations of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Your guide plays a critical role in ensuring your safety during the trek

The Kilimanjaro trek, which reaches a height of 19,340 feet, can be a challenging experience, and having a knowledgeable guide is crucial for your safety and success. One secret to keep in mind is that more than 75% of climbers experience altitude sickness just 10 steps beyond a certain point. This is why it's not permitted to climb Kilimanjaro without a registered tour operator. Your guide will also help you make decisions throughout the trek. When choosing a guide, you'll find options ranging from budget to luxury. To ensure you select the best guide for your trek, seek recommendations and read past client reviews on the operator's website. It's important to choose a guide with extensive experience in Kilimanjaro trekking, as everything that happens on the mountain is under their supervision.

Preparing yourself both physically and mentally is essential for Kilimanjaro trekking

Climbing Kilimanjaro is a challenging trek that requires proper preparation and packing of the right equipment. While previous mountaineering experience is not necessary, physical and emotional efforts are required to achieve success. Physically, the more you exercise, the easier the climb will be. Therefore, train yourself hard to enjoy the trek. Mentally, encourage yourself to complete the Kilimanjaro trek successfully.

Remember, climbing Kilimanjaro is not a race, but rather an incredible journey that you want to savor. So, start your trek with enthusiasm, share your thoughts and snacks with your trek mates, take plenty of photographs, and enjoy the adventure!