How Dangerous Is The Trek to Kilimanjaro?

That’s a good question, and one we get asked pretty often on our weekly Tuesday Tune Ins over on Facebook.
We think it’s a good idea to be as prepared as possible for the trek you’ve chosen, so the danger factor is definitely one to know before you go!
 

Is this a dangerous trek?

We yetis like to talk about "managed danger" on our treks. What this means is that, while our treks are generally safe experiences for all involved, it would be impossible to plan for every situation, and sometimes things do happen. So, it’s important to think ahead.
With Kilimanjaro, you are going to summit a mountain, but you won’t need the technical skills required to climb up the side of a mountain. It is a strenuous journey, but it is basically a long, intense, uphill walk. In that way, it really isn’t a dangerous journey as long as you are looking after yourself (remember it’s a bimble not a bash!).
 

What can you do to stay safe?

To stay safe on the trek, we recommend you think about the possible risk factors. So, altitude is something to think about. Whenever you go to high altitude it’s going to be challenging, and with that can come some danger. Now, this is where preparation and mindset comes in. We call it the mountain mindset. As you’ve probably heard from us before, we like to focus on the journey, not just the summit. That means keeping hydrated on the trek, going at a comfortable pace and slowing down if altitude is causing fatigue, trusting your prep work, and above all - listening to your guide. If you’re feeling the effects of altitude, make sure you are taking care of yourself, and letting your guide know what’s going on. These are some really simple things you can do to limit any sort of danger when you’re on the Kilimanjaro trek.

If you want to be extra prepared for the effects of altitude, contact us for a chat, or make an appointment with our pals at The Altitude Centre to experience altitude before you go!

You might have heard us talk about the idea of an 80/20 rule. Basically, the rule is that your trek is going to be 20% physical fitness, 80% mental fitness. Now, it doesn’t really break down like this, because at altitude the truth is that it’s pretty much all mental - but it’s a good rule to follow, and good to know when you’re on the trail. We’ve had great success bringing trekkers to Kilimanjaro, and we definitely think you can do it. If you’ve got the right mindset on the trek, it’s going to be enjoyable, it’s going to be a great time, and you’re much more likely to have success making it to the summit.

So when you’re asking yourself ‘How dangerous is the trek to Kilimanjaro?’ Really it comes down to you! Kilimanjaro is a 5,895 m peak, so it’s going to be a challenge - but if you are ready to take that challenge on, and you prep, and take care of yourself on the trek, you’ll do great!

Hundreds of thousands of people have climbed Kili, including two of our Evertrek Yetis Andy and Dave, who both summited successfully and had an awesome time. So, if Kilimanjaro is on your list, lock it in, train for it, plan for it, and you’ll have an awesome time too!
We hope that answers your question: How dangerous is the trek to Kilimanjaro?


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Written By

Andy Moore

Head Yeti & CEO