Kilimanjaro Climb - Machame Route Essential Info

Climate & Weather

The main trekking seasons on Kilimanjaro correspond with the mountain’s two dry seasons namely January to mid-March and June to October.

Of course you can trek up Kilimanjaro in the rainy season but not only is there a much higher chance of trekking in the rain, the summits of Kibo and Mawenzi are likely to be wreathed in thick cloud too.

As to the relative merits of the two trekking seasons, the differences are small though significant. The January to March season tends to be colder and there is a much greater chance of snow on the path at this time. The days, however, are often clearer, with only the occasional brief shower. It is usually an exceptionally beautiful time to climb and is often a little quieter than the other peak season of June to October, which coincides with the main academic holidays in Europe and the West.

In this latter season the clouds tend to hang around the tree-line following the heavy rains of March to May. Once above this altitude, however, the skies are blue and brilliant and the chance of precipitation minimal (though still present).

Arusha, on the inland plateau is always warm, alternating between 20 and 26 degrees in the cooler months of June to August and reaching a very warm 30 degrees from January to March.

During your climb on Kilimanjaro you will pass through a range of climatic zones and extremes of temperature. You start in the low to mid 20's and can be sure that on summit day the temperature will be well below freezing and can fall to -20 in bad weather.

Grade & Fitness

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. Even for fit people the effects of altitude can make the climb very tough. The effect of altitude should not be underestimated.

The trails on Kilimanjaro are generally clear and well maintained, although they can be slippery lower down. The Barranco Wall on day 5 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.

Accommodation & Meals

During the climb you will camp on the mountain. We use top quality mountaineering tents and equipment which are rated for sub zero conditions and high winds. We supply 3 person North face VE25 and mountain 25 tents for each two people as well as sleeping mats, a mess tent, camping tables and chairs, a toilet tent, kitchen equipment and staff tents.

During the climb we provide three meals a day, afternoon snacks, hot drinks and all drinking water (filtered). Our excellent menu and the wonders our chefs can work high on the mountain never cease to impress our clients.

In Arusha you will stay in luxuorious boutique hotels or lodges where breakfast will be included.

Single Rooms/Tents

Single tents are generally not available whilst on the climb. Single rooms are available in Arusha, there is a supplement payable.

Your Guide

Our guides are some of the best in the business. All have at least seven years experience on Kilimanjaro, are fully qualified and trained according to Tanzanian law, are passionate about the fauna, flora and culture of Kilimanjaro and all have many successful ascents behind them. All speak fluent English and they will add hugely to your experience of climbing Kilimanjaro. As well as guiding you on the mountain they bring a wealth of knowledge to your journey and coordinate all your porters, accommodation and meals.

Our guides are fully trained and experienced in recognising the signs and dealing with Altitude Sickness.

Your Porters

Porters are an integral part of your climb and we have a fantastic team of full time porters. We are very proud of our porter protection policy. Our local partner is a partner for responsible travel with the International Mountain Explorers Connection and Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project. Our team in Arusha also qualify for IMEC/KPAP membership. Under the terms of this membership porters are incredibly well cared for which leads to a great deal of job satisfaction for them.

Equipment

While trekking you will only have to carry a day bag with water, snacks, spare clothes, waterproofs and your camera. Your main bag will be moved by a porter. Your bag must be of a duffle bag or backpack design and weigh a maximum of 15kg. Trekking equipment is available to hire in Arusha. You do not need climbing equipment. We will supply you with a detailed equipment list as part of your pre-departure information pack.

Health & Vaccinations

You will require certain vaccinations and malaria tablets to visit Tanzania. For detailed advice on travel health please visit the NHS Fit For Travel Website. Alternatively, Nomad Travel Clinics around the UK can provide vaccination & health information.

Acute Mountain Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness or Altitude Sickness is a major concern when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and although we have chosen routes that are designed to minimise the chances of you suffering from AMS each individual is affected differently by altitude.

Our pre-departure information pack and our blog has detailed information on minimising the risks of AMS, recognising the signs and the appropriate course of action to take. Your guides are all fully trained in recognising the symptoms of and in dealing with AMS.

If you have any pre-existing health conditions that you think may make you more susceptible to AMS we recommend you consult your doctor before booking this trip.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance which includes evacuation cover and covers trekking to the altitude of Uhuru Peak-Kilimanjaro’s Summit (5895m) is a requirement for this holiday. We will require the details of your policy including your policy numbers and the insurance companies emergency number prior to your departure.