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Surprisingly, Mount Kilimanjaro many people still believe that Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Kenya. While it is possible that this belief has come about because many Kenya guide books or promotional posters show what is perhaps the best long distance view of Kilimanjaro taken from within the relatively nearby Amboseli National Park in Kenya, on the northern side of Kilimanjaro, nonetheless the entire park boundary that demarcates the mountain’s official edges does indeed lie within Tanzania.
So, Mount Kilimanjaro is definitely in Tanzania, not Kenya!
MOUNT KILIMANJARO is climable at any time of the year. However, the best time of year for climbing is January through mid-March and mid-June through October
This page tells you how to climb Kilimanjaro. It starts with picking the right time, getting yourself to Tanzania, then to the mountain.
You can read about the cost, selecting a trekking agency, selecting a route, and of course I discuss all the issues of the trek itself: training, fitness, altitude sickness…
Every issue that I mention here is explained in detail on another page, often several pages, but here you can get a good overview of what it takes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Planning a Kilimanjaro Climb
You need to make three major decisions before you can climb Kilimanjaro:
Mount Kilimanjaro three peaks were formed after volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. One volcanic cone, Shira, is now extinct and eroded, while the other two, Mawenzi and Kibo, ‘melted’ together after subsequent eruptions. Kibo is now the highest with its famous Uhuru peak at almost 6000m above sea level.
Given the stature and greatness of Mount Kilimanjaro , there is relatively little recorded history of the peak. Even the origins of the name present somewhat of a dilemma. Many people believe the name derived from the Kishwahili tribal name, Kilima, meaning “mountain.” The local Wachagga people claim to have no name for Kilimanjaro, but did name the dual peaks “Kipoo” and “Kimawenzi.”
Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano composed of three extinct volcanic cones of varying ages: Kibo (5,895 m); Mawenzi (5,149 m); and Shira (3,962 m). It is one of the world’s highest free-standing mountains: its mass rises 4,800 m above a rolling plain that averages 1,000 m above sea level. After reaching a height thought to be 5,900 m during its last major eruption 360,000 years ago, Kibo has been eroded by glaciers, rivers, and landslides to its present height. It is believed that Kilimanjaro, like its neighbor Mt. Kenya, is losing glaciers due to localized deforestation and global warming.
Mount Kilimanjaro Temperature
Kilimanjaro temperature is heavily influenced by changes in altitude. So much so that there are in fact distinct climatic zones on the mountain, each with its own distinct fauna and flora.
Rain forest zone (~800 meters – 3,000 meters)
From the earliest part of your trek you are going to be confronted with tropical rain forest. Humidity is high and light mist or sometimes drizzle is common. Various flora such as orchids, ferns, fig and olive trees cover this area of Kilimanjaro. You will likely see Blue and Colobus monkeys, and if you are trekking from the North-East Rongai route or Western Lemosho, Shira or Northern Circuit you may even see elephant, buffalo and large antelope.
Low alpine zone (~3,000 meters – 4,200 meters)
At approximately.3,000 metres the rainforest rapidly gives way to semi-arid grasslands and moorlands, this area is known as the low alpine zone. Heather and small shrubs cover the landscape, the weather is significantly less humid and temperatures can get to sub-zero in the evening. The most prominent flora features in this zone are the Senecios and Giant Lobelias, which look like deformed palm trees. Fauna is sparse; however you will likely see crows overhead foraging for food.
High alpine zone (~4,200 meters – 5,000 meters)
This zone is characterised by an arid desert environment that is rather inhospitable. During the day temperatures are hot and solar radiation is high (make sure to apply lots of sun-cream). At night temperatures plummet to below freezing. From this zone the slopes of Kibo and Kilimanjaro’s summit come into perfect view.
Glacial zone (~5,000 meters to 5,895 meters)
The final zone houses the upper reaches of Kibo and Mawenzi and consists of high altitude artic conditions. Life is very scarce in this zone as oxygen levels are near half what they were on the lower reaches of the mountain. Fine glacial silt covers the slopes that reach up to Kilimanjaro’s summit and large glaciers are visible from Kilimanjaro’s crater rim. Due to the high solar radiation during the day, freezing temperatures at night, gale force winds and low oxygen levels, this zone is not one where you want to stay too long!
Snow on Kilimanjaro
Snow on Kilimanjaro can occur all year round, but the most common months are November through March. Here is a chart showing average snowfall by month.
Mount Kilimanjaro Weather FAQ
What is the temperature at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro?
The temperature at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro can range from 0 to -20 degrees Celsius (32 to -4 degrees Fahrenheit). A big factor that drives the temperature at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is the wind. The wind chill factor can make a relatively cold night, like -2 degrees Celsius (28 degrees Fahrenheit), feel like -15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s worth noting that temperatures at the summit are colder at night, which is the time that most trekkers push for the summit. By late morning it can actually feel quite hot at the summit, especially on a windless clear day.
Which are the wettest months on Kilimanjaro?
The wettest months on Kilimanjaro are April and May. These are not good months to hike the mountain. Later March can also see quite a lot of rain. There is a short rainy season in November as well. The Northern side of Kilimanjaro is in a rain shadow, so if you’re limited to these months, then try the Rongai route.
The Mount Kilimanjaro weather affects your climb and your success chances. When to climb Kilimanjaro is an important decision.
Bad weather on Kilimanjaro not only makes for a miserable trek and ruins your photos, most importantly it simply makes the climb twice as hard!
You are a LOT more likely to reach the summit if the weather on Kilimanjaro is good.
Mount Kilimanjaro is near the equator. In the tropics there is no such thing as summer and winter. There are only dry and rainy periods. Or “dry seasons” and “wet seasons”.
Climbing Kilimanjaro during the wet season means you have to slog through very deep mud during the first days. At higher altitude you have fog and drizzle, and slowly but surely the moisture will creep into your clothes, your gear, your bones…
At the top you may have to fight your way through ice and snow. Having moisture in your clothes and everything is not going to help with the cold up there.
But there are other aspects to consider as well. The temperatures, the views, and of course the number of people on the mountain. As so often, there is no hard and fast answer and no single best time to climb Kilimanjaro.
What is the weather like on Kilimanjaro in January and February?
January and February is the first “short dry season” on Mount Kilimanjaro, making it a great time to trek. This time of the year tends to be colder than the longer dry season of June-September and you have a higher chance of encountering snow on the upper reaches of Mount Kilimanjaro.
What is the weather like on Kilimanjaro in March?
March on Kilimanjaro is a shoulder month in the trekking season. Towards the end of March you can feel more moisture in the air and encountering rain is more likely. However, the slopes are generally quite quiet, making early March a good time to hike Kilimanjaro.
What is the weather like on Kilimanjaro in April and May?
April and May are usually the wettest months on Kilimanjaro and not ideal for trekking. We recommend avoiding the rainy months of April and May on Kilimanjaro.
What is the weather like on Kilimanjaro in June, July, August and September?
June, July, Augusts and September are the busiest months on Mount Kilimanjaro as they coincide with the European and North American summer holiday period. Encountering rain or snow in June, July, August and September on Kilimanjaro is rare. As the slopes are busier at this time of the year it is quite easy to find tour companies that offer open groups that you can join to help save on costs.
What is the weather like on Kilimanjaro in October, November and December?
October on Kilimanjaro is a great shoulder month to trek. Weather conditions are good and the slopes less busy. November on Kilimanjaro is a short rainy month. If you plan to trek this month we recommend the northern approach on the Rongai, which is generally dry. December is a cold month, usually with lots of snow. Trekking is fine if you don’t mind the cold. December on Kilimanjaro allows for a Christmas or New Year summit, which has become popular.
Evacuation Protocols
• Do they carry supplementary oxygen and a Portable Altitude chamber? These are not mandatory but can provide peace of mind to climbers.
• What happens if you get injured and cannot continue the climb? Will you go down the mountain with a guide or a porter, who is responsible for getting you to the hospital?
Having a robust set of protocols for dealing with emergencies is essential. There are no helicopters at the top of the mountain.
Does the operator ask you questions about your health before taking your money? Or do you just sign a disclaimer and hit the trail?
Any tour operator worth their salt will have you fill out a comprehensive medical form so that they are aware of any prior medical issues that could affect your climb.
HOW FIT DO YOU NEED TO BE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?
Climbing Kilimanjaro is graded strenuous and you should be in good physical fitness and have experience of multi-day trekking or walking trips prior to undertaking a Kilimanjaro climb. Most days involve 4 – 7 hours of walking at altitude and the summit day is very strenuous with most people walking for between 14 – 18 hours. Even for fit people, the effects of altitude can make the climb very tough.
The most challenging day of your Kilimanjaro Climb, regardless of which Kilimanjaro route you choose, will be the summit day. Because the time for acclimatisation is limited most people will suffer from mild Acute Mountain Sickness and this combined with a very long day of walking will make it one of the toughest days of your life.The trails on Kilimanjaro are generally clear and well maintained, although they can be slippery lower down and, you will be walking over shale closer to the summit.
The Barranco Wall on the Machame and Lemosho routes involves an easy scramble for 1.5 hours and the final climb to the summit is on loose scree and rock and can be snowy/icy. The climb is a hike so no specialist climbing skills are necessary. You must have done extensive hill-walking or aerobic exercise in the run-up to your Kilimanjaro Climb. If you do not currently enjoy a good level of fitness it may take many months of training to reach a suitable level of fitness to enjoy the walk. It is important to start slowly and gradually increase your fitness. Try to exercise for between 30 and 45 minutes three times per week (walking, running, cycling or swimming) and go for long walks on the weekends which should include some hills. A good local gym will be able to draw up a fitness program for you on request.
You must consult your doctor prior to embarking on a fitness program or this trip if your answer is YES to any of the following questions:
The Bottom Line: Kilimanjaro is a popular climb, and do not let the training and hardships put you off. With the proper training, a positive mental attitude and the right support the summit of Kilimanjaro is within your grasp.
You’ll also need to decide what route you want to take up the mountain. There are 7 routes on Kilimanjaro, and not all of these are created equal. In terms of acclimatization, longer routes have a much better success rate.
Other considerations are: how busy the route is, how scenic it is, whether you sleep in a tent or in huts. Whether you take the Western Breach or the Barranco Wall. Do you want a day or night time summit attempt?
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?
Mount Kilimanjaro sits in Kilimanjaro National Park. It’s 300km south of the equator – and Tanzania is iconically tropical, with wet seasons and and dry season variations laid over a hot muggy climate. So when is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro? Let’s take a look at the seasons and Kilimanjaro climbing season.
Tanzania experiences two rainy seasons: a short one in November to mid-December and the long rainy season from March to May. The routes on Mount Kilimanjaro can be wet and muddy underfoot during these seasons. If you care less about monsoonal weather and more about solitude, then you may prefer these times to climb as there are far fewer people. Although expect to get very damp.
July to October is peak time on the mountain, especially as it coincides with European summer holidays. This window of time is dry and cooler than the Christmas months, but prepare for some cold nights. If you want to enjoy similar weather, but with far fewer people, then Mid-May to June is an optimal time for you. It’s just before the holidays, but still peak climbing season.
December to February are much warmer and have good visibility. The short rainy season can run into December though so it may still be wet. These months also coincide with the Christmas holidays so it can still get busy.
You’ll also need to decide what route you want to take up the mountain.
There are 7 routes on Kilimanjaro, and not all of these are created equal. In terms of acclimatization, longer routes have a much better success rate.
Other considerations are: how busy the route is, how scenic it is, whether you sleep in a tent or in huts. Whether you take the Western Breach or the Barranco Wall. Do you want a day or night time summit attempt?
opine:
Only choose the Marangu route if you are on a tight budget, and if so, do the 6 day route which includes an acclimatization day. Or if you are on a budget and are confident in your ability to acclimatize and/or you have done a pre-acclimatization trek up Mt Meru or similar
The Marangu route is the cheapest route on Kilimanjaro. It is oldest route to the Summit, and the only one where you sleep in huts instead of tents. Marangu uses the same route on the descent, so during busy periods it can get quite crowded.
If you are on a budget, then the Marangu route can be an option. Many people are sold the idea that it’s an “easy” route, being only 5 days (you can opt to do it in 6 days and have an extra acclimatization day).
The idea of a 5 day hike seems a lot easier than an 8-10 day hike. But that doesn’t take into account the effects of altitude.
One of the reasons why the summit success rate on the Marangu route is only around 45% is because there is not enough time for acclimatization. For climbers confident in their ability to acclimatize and wanting a shorter hike to the summit, this is worth considering.
For those who are less experienced at altitude and want a less crowded, more scenic adventure, and who are not on a tight budget, should opt for one of the longer routes.
The longer routes have a much better acclimatization schedule and as such a better chance of achieving summit success.
Since Marangu uses huts for accommodation, less porters are required per climber, as there is not the need for a full camp to be carried up the mountain. This also brings the cost down.
The Summit attempt is always made at night from Kibo Hut (the “basecamp”), there is no option for a daytime ascent.
and be trying to hike above 15,000ft in the middle of the night!
That the Marangu route provides accommodation in huts, might sound preferable to sleeping in a tent. Do bear in mind that the huts sleep 6-10 people in dormitory-style bunk beds. It’s not a luxury safari camp with crisp linen and hot running water!
opine:
The Machame route is a far better option than the Marangu route in terms of scenery and acclimatization protocol. It’s a busy route, but that doesn’t take away from it’s beauty.
If you cannot afford the high-priced Lemosho route, then this is a very good option. Some say it’s more “difficult” than the Marangu route, simply because the hiking days are longer. But the summit success is much higher, owing to the extra acclimatization.
In recent years, the Machame route has gained in popularity, and more climbers use this route than the Marangu route.
The Machame route has a much better acclimatization schedule, and has a much higher success rate than Marangu. As it has become more competitive, it has also become cheaper.
The scenery is spectacular. The vistas and views will take your breath away. The hiking can be tough with the relatively long days, but you will gain a lot in terms of acclimatization.
Lack of good acclimatization is the main reason most trekkers do not make the summit. On the Machame route, you can take a 6 or 7 day option, the extra day can be valuable for your acclimatization.
You will sleep in tents, there is no hut accommodation on this route which means you will need to choose your operator carefully. The last thing you want at the end of a day’s hiking is an old and leaky tent!
This route usually involves leaving at midnight to make your summit attempt from Barafu Camp. Those who do not like the idea of walking after dark might want to consider the Lemosho Route.
Many of the operators who use Lemosho, provide an option for leaving for the summit first thing in the morning. If this is an important factor, it’s worth asking your chosen operator if you can use the Machame route in conjunction with a daytime summit push.
It’s also possible to scale the Western Breach to the summit from Arrow Glacier Camp.
Merging with the Lemosho and Shira routes near the Lava Tower, Machame takes you up the Barranco Wall, which contrary to many scaremongering articles, is a tough, but not at all technical scramble.
The Machame route uses a different route on the descent, which keeps the trails less busy than the Marangu which uses the same route to descend as to ascend.
opine:
Use this route (or the Northern Circuits) if you are not on a tight budget and want a real mountain adventure as opposed to a “get to the summit (if you can) as fast as possible”. You will have an amazing experience. Also recommend doing two options morning summit push, or leaving at midnight from Barafu Camp.
There are a few different variations to the Lemosho Route, so check with your chosen operator which one they are using. Some spend two nights in the Shira Caldera at Shira Camp 1 and Shira Camp 2. Others go directly from Shira 1 to Barranco Camp. Some go from Shira 1 to Moir Camp and then onto Barranco Camp.
In our opinion, the Lemosho Route is the best route on Kilimanjaro. for good reason! It’s a longer route, allowing for better acclimatization and giving a higher probability of summit success
It takes you through the most beautiful and scenic parts of the mountain, and is not as busy as some of the other – cheaper – routes.
This route is not offered by the budget operators, so it keeps foot traffic lower but there is less competitiveness in the pricing. If you are not strapped for cash and want an amazing experience on the mountain, the Lemosho route should definitely be strong contender.
The forests to the west side of the mountain – where the Lemosho route begins – are undoubtedly the most beautiful and pristine, it’s possible to see evidence of game here.
Although you are unlikely to spot any animals, only a few years ago, trekkers were accompanied by armed rangers in case of close encounters!
The terrain is much less well-trodden than the Machame/Marangu routes, and the days can be long. The huge bonus is that the length of the trek allows very comprehensive acclimatization.
And really, acclimatization is the difference between making it to the summit or not. If you are fit enough to attempt Kilimanjaro at all, then acclimatization is the main barrier between success and failure.
The Lemosho route gives you the opportunity to acclimatize properly before your final push to the Summit. There are two possible summit routes to take: the usual one, via Barafu Camp, or the more dangerous and seldom-offered Western Breach.
For the purposes of this, we will assume you are taking the Barafu route. Some operators will offer a morning hike to the summit, with others, you start at midnight and arrive at the crater rim at dawn.
opine:
if budget is not the primary concern for you, then your choice of routes up the mountain should really be between the Northern Circuit and the Lemosho route. These two routes are wonderfully scenic, and much less well-trodden than the more popular routes. We also advise a day time summit attempt and if you can handle it, a night at Crater Camp.
Taking advantage of the untrodden paths, the Northern Circuits (sometimes called “Kili 360”) route is one of the latest offerings on Kilimanjaro. This route takes you through some spectacular scenery, through largely-untouched parts of the mountain.
Being a longer trek, the acclimatization schedule is good, giving you an excellent chance of reaching the summit. Taking in the best of Kilimanjaro and avoiding the crowds, this route is worthy of consideration.
It’s more expensive than the more popular routes, owing to less competition from budget operators, but worth it if a more tranquil and ‘wilderness’ trek is what you are looking for.
All accommodation is in tents, there is no Hut accommodation on this route.
Beginning on the same path as the Lemosho route, the forests to the west side of the mountain are undoubtedly the most beautiful and pristine, it’s possible to see evidence of game here.
Although you are unlikely to spot any animals, only a few years ago, trekkers were accompanied by armed rangers in case of close encounters!
The terrain is much less well-trodden than the Machame/Marangu routes, and the days can be long. The huge bonus is that the length of the trek allows very comprehensive acclimatization.
And really, acclimatization is the difference between making it to the summit or not. If you are fit enough to attempt Kilimanjaro at all, then acclimatization is the main barrier between success and failure.
opine:
Rongai is an excellent route, provided you opt for the 7 or 8 day trek. 6 days at a push, but don’t bother trying to do it in 5 days, unless you are very confident of your acclimatization. Or if you have already climbed Mt Meru so have a certain amount of “pre-acclimatization”. In our opinion, it’s not as picturesque as the Lemosho route, but that’s only a matter of opinion. Many people feel it’s the “best” route!
The Rongai route used to the be the route to take if you wanted a quieter experience than the longer-standing and popular Marangu and Machame routes. These days, it is used by more and more operators so it’s getting busier, and the price is coming down. But don’t let that put you off.
Starting on the Northern side of the mountain, the Rongai route is often said to be a fairly “easy” route to the summit.
There are less steep hiking days, which for some can be seen as an advantage, but then the last day’s summit push can seem even worse! In this area there is generally less rainfall, so it’s possible to avoid the muddy trails through the rainforest on some of the other routes.
This route starts in open, part-cultivated countryside, rather than the Montagne forest of the southern and western slopes. Most operators offer 5-8 day hikes on this route.
The temptation to do a short trek should be avoided, as the extra days are crucial for acclimatization. Unlike some of the longer routes, the more gentle slopes give little opportunity for going to a higher altitude and then descending to camp.
That said, Rongai route has excellent summit success rates, and is an interesting and picturesque way to the summit. Although you do not get to hike through the rainforest on the way up, you will be descending via the Marangu route, so at least you will see it on the way down.
The vegetation is somewhat different on this route, though most of the usual heath and moorland species abound, particularly if you do take the longer route and camp at Mawenzi Tarn. The lobellias, senecios and red hot poker are all there.
Depending on your operator, there may be some differences in where you camp. Some stop at Simba Camp for the first night, others go to Rongai First Cave.
Either way, there is little difference in terms of difficulty or the length of hiking each day.
The hike to the summit is done at night – starting at midnight from either Kibo Hut (which follows the same as the Marangu route) or School Hut which is located slightly higher up the mountain.
opine:
For most ‘normal’ trekkers, there is no real need to consider this route. It’s very tough, and if attempted too quickly, has a poor acclimatization protocol.
If you’ve got those legs of steel, are confident of your ability to acclimatize and want a route with dramatic scenery and a real physical challenge – go for it!
Hailed as the most difficult route up the mountain – and when coupled with the Western Breach summit attempt – Umbwe route is certainly the most “straight up”.
Nothing about this route is technical, but it’s very steep, in the first couple of days you will find yourself using tree roots to help haul yourself up the mountain!
Strong legs and the love of a challenge are essential. Owing to it’s difficulty you will often have the mountainside to yourself for the first two days, as most normal people are making their way up less physically demanding routes.
Later on Day 2, however, it changes as you will be at Barranco Camp with other climbers from Lemosho route and Machame route.
From Barranco, you will either take the Southern Circuit to the Summit via Barafu Camp (with Lemosho and Machame climbers) or you will head north to Lava Tower and onto Arrow Glacier from which to tackle the Western Breach.
The Umbwe route, coupled with the Western Breach is certainly the most challenging and direct way to the Summit.
For those who are experienced in the mountains, who are very fit and strong and want to make Kilimanjaro a more serious challenge, then this route certainly fits the bill!
If you are not going up the Western Breach, then We see no particular advantage to giving yourself the two unnecessarily tough days at the beginning, only to go onto the same route as the Lemosho and Machame.
However, it’s spectacular. As you haul out of the forest on Day 2, you will traverse a ridge with the most incredible views on Kilimanjaro. You are unlikely to see many – if any – other people on the first and second days hiking.
Operators offer this route as a 5, 6 or 7 day option. Unless you are well-acclimatized already (from Mt Meru) or extremely confident of your acclimatization and very experienced in the mountains, you should not consider the 5 or 6 day route.
Go with the 7 day trek, you will still have the physical challenge but with a better chance of acclimatizing properly.
As We have said before, and will keep saying: if you are fit enough to even consider climbing Kilimanjaro then the main obstacle between you and the summit is acclimatization.
opine:
Why bother? Just book the Lemosho route. Unless you are short of time, want to see the western side of the mountain without the forest, and – crucially – have had experience at altitude and are confident of your ability to begin trekking at 3600m – quite a gain in elevation from Moshi or Arusha.
Let save you some time: The Shira Route is the same as the Lemosho route, but starts at a higher elevation. Consider it if you are already acclimatized after climbing Mt Meru or Mt Kenya. If not, then read about the Lemosho Route instead!
Is the “Shira Route” even available any more? If your operator is offering you this route, do read on before clicking the “buy now” button.
Shira was the original route on the western side of the mountain before the Lemosho route was available. Setting off from Shira Gate, before Londorossi Gate was opened. Starting at 3,600m, you are taken to your starting point by 4WD vehicle along what is now used as the “rescue road”.
Starting your trek on the Shira Plateau, you miss the wonderful hike through the montane forest. Which on this side of the mountain is nothing short of spectacular.
Starting at the Shira Gate, you essentially follow the emergency road across the plateau to your first campsite. This takes you through the scrubby heath and moorland zone.
Apart from the first day, this route is exactly the same as Lemosho.Your first campsite will effectively be the same as your second campsite if you had taken the Lemosho route. You simply miss the first day’s hike and start higher up. We can’t see much advantage in this.
A major problem with this route is that it’s start point is around 3,600m. This is too high an altitude for all but the most experienced altitude trekkers. If you are well acclimatized – perhaps by climbing Mt Meru first – then you could consider using this route as it’s shorter than Lemosho.
But for the rest of us who want to acclimatize and not feel sick on the first day, We don’t recommend it. Most operators now offer the Lemosho route in place of this one.
Assuming you are fit enough to even attempt to climb Kilimanjaro, acclimatization is the biggest obstacle to a successful summit
Every year, fitter, stronger people fail to reach the summit due to poor acclimatization. On the other hand, less fit, less strong people who are well-acclimatized are often successful.
Essentially by cutting out the first day’s hiking through the rainforest, you lose valuable acclimatization time, reducing your likelihood of reaching the summit.
But you also miss the experience of the rainforest. Part of the fascination of climbing Kilimanjaro is seeing the different climate zones and how they differ from one another.
Mostly this route is not offered any more, possibly some operators will offer it by request. Those that advertise the “Shira Route”, often actually start at Londorossi gate and follow the Lemosho route.
Shira Route?
Kilimanjaro’s Western Breach is notorious for being the most dangerous and difficult route to the summit.
The Western Breach actually describes the last part of your climb. Once you are at the bottom of the crater rim, at your “base camp” there are three main routes that take you to the top:
The Western Breach is described by many as “the most difficult route”, “the most dangerous”, “too technical for most people”, “need mountaineering experience”. Enough to strike fear in the hearts of all but the most hardened climbers.
It’s tough. All routes to the summit are tough. Anyone who skips down the mountain proclaiming it to be “easy”, is either telling huge porky pies (lies) or spends most of their vacations high up in the Himalayas, doing more trekking than beer-drinking.
What are the advantages of the Western Breach:
WHAT?
What was that last point? It’s certainly NOT easier if you read most of the literature!
So let me qualify that statement.
It’s easier than the other two routes IF:
If – and only if – the above points apply to you, then it is in fact easier. It’s much shorter, so you spend 4 hours climbing instead of the long 7-8 hour slog through the scree. The endless switchbacks can be tedious, the views are amazing (if you can stomach the exposure).
Did We mention legs of steel? It’s very steep, so if you have spent a lot of your training making sure you’ve got thighs that would make Serena Williams proud, this route might be considered.
It’s an extremely steep rock face, very much the “straight up” route. Once you get beyond a certain point, evacuation is impossible – in order to go down, you have to go up and through the crater over to the other side.
What are the disadvantages?
Crater Camp Kilimanjaro : Africa’s Highest Camp!
18,700 ft, 5700 metres. The highest crater camp Kilimanjaro. The highest camp in Africa. A camp situated in what is commonly called the “extreme altitude” zone. A camp that is one of the most beautiful and spectacular – and dangerous – that most people will ever see.
Amongst the black volcanic rocks tower enormous glaciers, ever moving, ever retreating, glistening in the sunshine. The sound of huge cracks as a massive wall of ice adjusts it’s position ever so slightly.
The chances are, you’ll see no one else here. Nothing growing, no animal life. The thin mountain air and sub-zero temperatures are inhospitable to life of any sort.
To get here, you have to scale the highest mountain in Africa, and then descend from it’s rim into the crater, at the centre. As you explore an area as familiar as walking on the moon, sometimes a faint whiff of sulphur can be detected, as the central Ash Pit belches out it’s gases.
A reminder that Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano.
Standing above the clouds, looking down on the world, all the comforts of home stripped away, most problems seem trivial. Up here it’s about survival. Staying warm, adapting to the altitude, and enjoying the majesty of this great mountain.
Camping in the Crater
A night at Crater Camp is something you will remember for the rest of your life. Hopefully for all the right reasons. It’s tough here. As the sun sets, it’s a stark reminder that we are sleeping only meters from a huge freezing glacier.
With only a tent, our clothes and sleeping bag as protection. An emergency up here can lead to tragedy. With the rocks of the crater rim towering above us, we feel very small. Very insignificant. But very alive.
We felt almost ‘high’ from the effects of hypoxia, taking in this incredible scenery. Exploring the glaciers, walking on the crisp volcanic earth and watching the sun set over the Western Breach.
Sleeping in Crater Camp, an offering not made by most operators on Kilimanjaro, requires that you are very well acclimatized. This won’t happen on the shorter routes. For climbers showing effects of altitude sickness on the ascent to the summit, sleeping at this height can be catastrophic.
Headaches and nausea are standard procedure for your night in this camp. Sleeping is tricky, jolting awake from the lack of available oxygen for normal breathing.
It’s exhilarating. It’s not for the faint of heart. And it’s not for anyone who feels unwell at the crater rim.
Try to visit the the Ash Pit, a perfectly formed volcanic cone. If you can stomach the smell of rotten eggs. Fumaroles blowing out malodorous fumes from the centre of the mountain, standing atop, looking down into the now dormant, volcano.
How do I get there?
Crater Camp can be accessed either by scaling the Western Breach, or hiking from Barafu Camp to Stella Point. If coming from the Western Breach, I would recommended making the extra hike to Summit before sleeping in the crater, rather than leaving it until the following morning.
The few extra meters up to the summit can help with the “walk high, sleep low” acclimatization protocol. It also means that the summit has been scaled and early the next morning, descent is all that’s needed.
Coming from Barafu, mostly trekkers do a daytime push to the summit, arriving after lunch, before spending the night in Crater Camp Kilimanjaro. spending a night in the Crater was more important than the summit (well, not quite, but almost).
Acclimatization is Key
A good operator – even if a night in the crater is scheduled in the itinerary – will check each climber’s condition at the Summit before making a final decision as to who will sleep there.
Many climbers who reach the Summit decide they do not want to take the risk of sleeping so high.
Evacuation from the crater is very difficult. It’s approximately a mile trek to get back to Stella Point, up the crater rim. There are no helicopters here. You should be given the option to descend back to Barafu after a successful Summit.
Unless you’ve come the Western Breach. Some, extremely hardy people have been able to scale the Western Breach, reach the summit and descend to Barafu camp in one day. And if you are strong (mad!) enough to do that, you are probably strong enough to sleep in the crater!
Don’t be fooled that it’s just clients that can get into trouble up here. On our last trek, out of the 14 climbers in our group, only two of us slept in the Crater. That night, one of our porters got very ill and had to descend immediately.
It’s imperative to have a guide who is well-versed in high altitude first response. Who knows how to treat an emergency. A Portable Altitude Chamber (gamow bag), as well as oxygen canisters are highly recommended.
The longest route possible! Typically, it is the Lemosho Route that climbers use, which has a good acclimatization schedule. For the very “tough”, try the Umbwe Route, but add extra days. Some operators on the Machame Route will offer a night at Crater.
What happens at the top of the mountain? Are you camping in the Crater, taking a hike to the Ash Pit?
Most people who think about climbing Kilimanjaro, think about getting to the Summit, seeing the Uhuru Peak signpost for themselves, and taking photographs. However, there is so much more to the top of this mountain than just Uhuru Peak. The Kilimanjaro Ash Pit is the very center of the volcanic cone.
Uhuru Peak sits at the highest point of the crater rim, below this is the crater. Filled with glaciers and volcanic rock, it is possible to camp on the crater floor, if you are very well acclimatized.
Exploring the glaciers up close is an amazing experience, feeling the cold, hard ice under the blue skies and equatorial sun. Whilst inside the crater, a place where few people go is to the Ash Pit: the very center of the volcano.
Fumaroles belching forth their sulfurous gases, the raw sulfur on the sides, and the perfectly formed cone reaching down into the depths of the earth. This is where it all came from.
Whilst standing at the summit is an astonishing achievement, for us, it doesn’t really stop there. What is this place, apart from just being the “highest mountain in Africa” and the “highest free-standing mountain in the world”?
Sure, there are more dramatic “volcano experiences” in the world, watching active volcanos in Costa Rica, for instance. But once you are on the top of Kilimanjaro, in this inhospitable land of ice, rocks and thin mountain air, seeing the Ash Pit is an opportunity not to be missed.
Kilimanjaro consists of three volcanic peaks. Shira (3962m), Mawenzi (5149m) and Kibo (5895m). Kibo is the youngest of these three peaks, it’s most recent activity being in the Pleistocene era.
What remains of both Shira and Mawenzi have been partially covered by volcanic material from Kibo. Only on Kibo can you see the concentric craters still intact.
At the top of Kibo is the Kibo Crater, the main crater you see from the summit and aerial photos. Within the Kibo Crater there is the Reusch Crater, and within this lies the Ash Pit. These three are all visible from the summit on a clear day.
All three are concentric craters, and the Ash Pit forms a perfect circle. The closer you get to the Ash Pit, the stronger the ‘rotten eggs’ smell of sulfur is. Which is not great if you are already feeling a bit nauseous from the altitude!
The Ash Pit is 395ft wide and is composed of shale and large boulders which have rolled down. Fumaroles, vents that emit sulfur and steam are found at the base of the Ash Pit, and it’s estimated that the temperature of these vents is that of boiling water.
The Reusch crater was named after a missionary who famously found a leopard frozen in the snow and cut of its ear as a souvenir. This leopard was the inspiration for the opening lines of Hemingway’s book The Snows of Kilimanjaro.
From the Crater floor, you have to climb up this steep slope to get there!
Normally, visiting the Ash Pit requires a night to be spent in Crater Camp. And you’ll only be able to do that if you are well enough acclimatized to sleep at over 18,000 feet. And your operator will have had to make the logistical arrangements for you to do so.
This can be costly, and it’s dangerous to sleep up there. Mostly it’s the high-end operators that offer it, on a longer trek to ensure good acclimatization.
Sometimes an operator will take you to the Ash Pit after you’ve reached the summit before heading back down the mountain. Obviously, this would only be possible if you were feeling fit, strong and well-acclimatized.
If you are looking for something a bit more than just getting to the top, then We highly recommend a night in the Crater and a visit to the Ash Pit.
Walking from Crater Camp, it will take about 30-40 minutes to get to the Ash Pit. You hike across the crater floor, past the glaciers, and up the ridge of the Reusch Crater. Once you get there, don’t lean over too far, if you fall down this, you won’t be getting out again!
