Mount Kilimanjaro

There are seven official trekking routes up the mountain, and which one you choose depends on how experienced a hiker you are. Most travelers opt to take either the most popular Machame Route or the scenic Leshomo Route. The Marangu Route is another great option as it has hut accommodation along the way. Routes typically take anywhere from six to nine days.

Most tours up the mountain include almost everything you’ll need for your adventure, including porters, tents or accommodation, and hot meals. Many also come with a couple of days in a hotel before and after your trip to unwind, and airport transfers are often included. If you want to experience the mountain but don’t want to devote a week to climbing to the top, you can also take a guided day hike on the mountain, even if you aren’t a particularly experienced hiker.

• Unguided hikes are not allowed, and all visitors—whether day hikers or overnight trekkers—will need a guide with them at all times.

• Even experienced hikers should train before making the ascent; make sure to practice hiking with a heavy pack and ensure your shoes are broken in before you head out.

• Be sure to pack bug spray, sunscreen, and any travel medicine, including altitude sickness pills and malaria prophylactics, that your doctor recommends.

Mount Kilimanjaro is near the town of Moshi in northern Tanzania, and most travelers fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and then get over jet lag in Moshi or one of the area towns before setting off on their trek. Organized treks usually include round-trip transportation from Moshi to the entrance of the park and many include airport transfers.

The best time to hike Kilimanjaro is during the main dry season, which runs from June through October, or the shorter dry season from January until the middle of March. However, these will also be the busiest times on the mountain, so expect to encounter plenty of other hikers and book early.

If you’re looking to relax after your trek, Kikuletwa (Chemka) Hot Springs near Moshi is a good place to go—just note that the water is better described as warm than hot. Here you’ll find clear, freshwater fed by mineral springs and lots of tiny fish that will gently nibble on your toes—fish pedicure style—if you stay still in the water long enough. Innertubes are available to rent for those who’d rather float than swim.

The best time of year to visit Mt. Kilimanjaro is during one of the area’s two dry seasons. There’s a main dry season that runs from June to October and a shorter dry season in January through early March. Keep in mind that those times also tend to be the busiest.

If you choose to hike Mt. Kilimanjaro during the area's dry months, there’s not one specific month that’s better than the rest. The best strategy is to make sure you visit during one of those two dry seasons, when the skies are clear and there’s very little chance of rain.

Yes, a beginner can climb Mt. Kilimanjaro as you don’t need any special equipment besides a good pair of shoes, and if you take a private guided tour, you can go at your own pace, within reason. However, having a bit of hiking experience will make the trek much easier.

Yes, it can be harder to breathe at Mt. Kilimanjaro's summit, Uhuru Peak, as it’s one of the world’s tallest mountains. There’s also some risk of altitude sickness; however, you're likely to be acclimated by the time you've made your way up, and carrying supplemental oxygen isn’t necessary for most people.

No, you can’t shower while climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. There are no public showers and restroom facilities as stops along the way are basic. Most hikers just allow themselves to get a bit dirty or bring supplementary products such as wet wipes and dry shampoo to keep clean during the trek.

Yes, an unfit person can technically climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, but it’s probably not a good idea and isn’t recommended. Anyone looking to climb should be able to walk relatively long distances without getting winded and will want to do some training, as well as consult your doctor before you go.