Kilimanjaro is a trek rather than a climb: no ropes, no ice axes. The real challenge is altitude, which is why the number of days you take matters more than raw fitness.
The main routes
Marangu (the "Coca-Cola" route) uses huts and takes 5-6 days. Machame (the "Whiskey" route) is scenic and popular over 6-7 days. Lemosho (7-8 days) approaches from the west with the best acclimatisation and success rates, while Rongai comes in drier from the north. As a rule, more days on the mountain means a much better chance of summiting.
When to climb
The dry windows - January to February and June to October - give the clearest skies and safest trails.
How to prepare
Build some hill-walking fitness beforehand, then on the mountain go pole pole (slowly), drink plenty of water, and let your body acclimatise. Guides and porters are mandatory and are arranged through licensed operators. Many climbers warm up first on Mount Meru, which sits right by Arusha.
Kilimanjaro International is about 37 km from the hotel, so rest here the night before, leave your extra bags with us, and return to a hot shower and a soft bed after the descent.
