A First-Timer’s Guide to Climbing Kilimanjaro

“We’ve put together a summary for the most common concerns first-timers have that will help you get over that mental hurdle.”

So, you’ve decided it’s time. Adventure awaits and Kilimanjaro is where it’s all going to start. But, just as you’re about to walk into the gear store on the high street to stock up on a list you’ve printed out from the internet, the one that makes as much sense as Mandarin to an apple, it suddenly dawns on you, that you haven’t a clue what on Earth you’re getting yourself into. Well look no further! We’ve put together a summary for the most common concerns first-timers have that will help you get over that mental hurdle.

CLIMBING DOESN’T EXACTLY MEAN CLIMBING
The trails to the summit of Kilimanjaro are actually treks. This means that at no point will you be using any gear other than trekking boots and walking poles. The paths are wide and very well defined and there is hardly any danger of falling off the side of anything. Every now and then you’ll come across that person who’ll correct you and say “you mean you’re trekking Kilimanjaro.” Nobody likes that person even though technically they’re right.

CAMPING IS THE FUN PART
There’s nothing like getting to the mess tent for a warm cup of tea or stepping out after dinner to see all the stars in the sky. The camping element is super fun and the campsites on Kilimanjaro are perched over epic views. The photo opportunities are unparalleled. Although the Marangu route does enable trekkers to go to Kilimanjaro and stay in lodges, I feel like a huge part of the experience is missed when camping is extracted from the equation.

BUYING GEAR DOESN’T REQUIRE A REMORTGAGE ON THE HOUSE
Of course, if you’d like to be dressed from head to toe in the latest greatest and shiniest then you probably will, but for Kilimanjaro you can get away with much cheaper products. Trekking t-shirts are essentially polyester sports t-shirts with a different logo. Most sports socks will be more than capable of doubling up as trekking socks and even if you do need to buy new warm layers, you can find great deals at places like Decathlon. In fact, the only items I’d recommend spending bigger bucks on are your waterproof/windproof shell layer, down jacket and trekking boots.

“Before trying to crunch those abs or run for miles on end in the park, the first thing to prepare is the mind and specifically wanting it.”

On LHO trips, we provide a comprehensive guide to buying gear and we’re always available to advise you in real time so you don’t walk into the store with sales commission written all over you.

PREPARING FOR KILI AT HOME
Before trying to crunch those abs or run for miles on end in the park, the first thing to prepare is the mind and specifically wanting it. Once you’ve decided that you want to go for this kind of adventure then you’ll see the point in preparing yourself physically, mentally and spiritually for the journey. When it comes to physical preparation, the recommendation is to find a routine that fits comfortably within your life. It’s no use telling you walk up flights of stairs if you live in the suburbs and it’s no use telling you to swim if the closest pool is half the distance between you and Kili anyway. The best thing to do is what fits comfortably for you and what will give you confidence when you take the first step. On LHO trips, we provide a fitness guide that can be incorporated into any routine.

MOST OF WHAT YOU’VE READ ABOUT PREPARING FOR ALTITUDE ILLNESS ON THE INTERNET IS OUTDATED AND IRRESPONSIBLE
The only prevention for altitude related illness is a slow walking pace, good nutrition, plenty of water and a route that follows an efficient acclimatization schedule. Diamox, a medication all Kilimanjaro trekkers will undoubtedly come across when doing their research, is not a cure or preventative medication for altitude illness. It only masks the symptoms, and when used incorrectly, which most people do, it is an extra efficient route to severe dehydration.

IF YOU’VE NEVER POOPED OUTSIDE YOUR OWN TOILET, PREPARE TO BE LIBERATED!
It was my main concern too before it finally happened. But, once it did the world suddenly became a much bigger place. The toilet situation isn’t as bad as you’d think. Sure, it isn’t much more than a hole in the floor but at the campsites there’s been major upgrade work and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. The only real advice we have in this area is to work on those quad muscles to feel comfortable in a squat.