How long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

It is a common question asked by people gearing up for a hike Mount Kilimanjaro.

It is, therefore, safe to say that Kilimanjaro hike time depends on a number of factors such as the route and the operator’s guide.

How many days will it take to climb Kilimanjaro?

Judging from the observations, for most climbers, it takes six days for an entire trek. However, there are other instances when the climbers may take approximately four to seven days depending on the route that they selected. The route plays a significant role in determining how long it takes to hike Kilimanjaro and the sceneries that you will enjoy before getting to the summit.

Details to note about the Kilimanjaro hike distance

It is important to keep in mind that it is the highest peak in Africa before you begin your expedition. Do not underestimate the distance, it is a task, and you have to be fully prepared for it. Making it to the top is an achievement that most people yearn for and if you want to reach the top then take your time. You will fail once you try to get to the summit too quickly. It is advised that you take your time and move to the top slowly but surely. As you continue with the hike, you will learn the meaning words “pole pole” which is Swahili for slowly, slowly." You can use these words when the guide is going too fast. Kilimanjaro hike distance varies according to the various routes used. Machame route is 49 kilometers, Marangu - 54 kilometers and Lemosho route - 66.86 kilometers. Overall, the hike distance will depend on the route that you select.

Facts about Mt Kilimanjaro hike time and fitness level

Mt Kilimanjaro hike time requires one to be fit and before arriving in Tanzania ensure that you have braced yourself for the fitness journey. It is not an easy task, and you will be required to ask yourself a number of questions to determine whether you are in a good shape. If you notice that you are not in an excellent shape, then you will know that it is time to step up and to do something. Your level of fitness does not necessarily determine the time that you will spend hiking, but it plays a significant role in establishing whether you will actually get to the summit. You need to prepare in advance by involving the services of an operator. The operator’s website will show you the hike time for different routes that ranges from five to nine days.

The length of the routes

During your expedition, you will come across such names as Lemosho, Marangu, Machame, and others. They are strange names I know but do you know which one is the shortest route.

Marangu will take you five or six days to climb with a total of thirty-six kilometers as you go up and another thirty-six back. Machame route is slightly longer compared to Marangu, and it takes up an extra day to acclimatize. On the other hand, Lemosho has different options that can make the route longer or shorter compared to the other two, but it is tackled with an additional day or two. The main aim is to understand which route is good for you. The best way to deal with the selection process is to ask your operator questions before booking. You will be surprised by the various  things that you will learn.

Which route is the best?

The route you choose depends on the time that you have and the amount that you are willing to spend. The longer the route, the more money you will spend. Now you have the answers to the numerous questions such as "how long does it take to hike Kilimanjaro?”

How long to climb Kilimanjaro?

Finally, you have to check the website of your operator and the description of each route. Take your time to study the details and select your scenery preference. The tallest mountain in Africa is 200 miles south of the equator in Tanzania.