Kilimanjaro

Climbing to Kilimanjaro’s summit is physically and mentally challenging but with the help of our experienced guides and leaders, it is a challenge that can be met by most fit people. The climb does not require any technical mountaineering skills and Kili is classified as a trekking peak, suitable to all and one that can be achieved by a beginner with training. A good level of fitness and some experience on a mountain is recommended prior to departure. You will enjoy your trip a lot more if you have prepared well.

We recommend that you attend our free Meet Weekend in County Kerry to say hello to the group and meet with our guides. This is an ideal opportunity to check out your fitness levels when you are assessed by our experienced guides on this preparatory hill walk. The day also provides a good opportunity to get any questions answered or concerns dealt with that you may have in relation to the trip. We talk about dealing with altitude and different weather conditions as well as giving tips on gear and general training.

We consider ourselves among the world’s leading experts in high-altitude trekking and pride ourselves on putting together trips that provide the best possible opportunity to succeed. Acclimatisation is key to success and it’s important that you don’t underestimate the time you allow yourself to adjust to your new environment. Pace is key to preventing AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) and our guides monitor the group at all times for signs and symptoms.

On the Saturday of our Meet Weekend we climb one of Ireland’s highest peaks during the day while, very early on Sunday morning, we undertake a night hike. The hike simulates the requirements on the summit day/night of the actual trek, taking you out of your comfort zone and helping you learn how to prepare your mind and body for the challenge ahead.

For beginners, we offer fitness testing weekends and a variety of hillwalking options (see our Courses &Training section) and recommend a 12-month personal training programme for Everest Base Camp. If you have some degree of fitness and experience, we recommend a six-month training programme to ensure that you can trek comfortably between 4,000m and 6,000m. Our suggested programme is as follows:

• Months 1-2: These should include fortnightly hillwalking treks lasting three hours and including carrying a small/medium pack weighing 5kg approx.
• Months 3-4: Increase your fortnightly treks to last six hours plus and increase your pack weight to 7kg approx.
• Month 5: Do two walks on consecutive days twice during the month. Do a five-hour walk the first day and a six-hour trek the second day. Be careful to avoid injury.
• Month 6: Continue with some hillwalking but reduce to lower peaks and durations of a maximum of four hours.

Ask your GP for advice on vaccinations, keeping in mind your travel history to date. You are required to have a valid and up-to-date Vaccination Card (yellow in colour) approved for the destination. You can get this from your doctor.

Passport/visa:
You will need a valid full passport. Please ensure it has six months before expiry prior your departure date. All visitors are obliged to get a visa at the airport in Tanzania so please ensure you have four passport-size photos of yourself before we depart.

Money:
It is advisable to bring some money in cash for the trip. ATMs are not always reliable or might have a low daily withdrawal limit. Once en route, Euro or US Dollars in cash are the best way to pay for services including porters, tips, etc.