THE JOURNEY TO AFRICA’S ROOFTOP AND THE HIGHEST FREE-STANDING MOUNTAIN IN THE WORLD VIA MACHAME GATE, THE WHISKY ROUTE.

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). It’s located in Tanzania and is known for its three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. The climb doesn’t require technical mountaineering skills, making it accessible to many hikers with the right preparation.

Routes

There are several routes to the summit, each varying in length, difficulty, and scenery:

• Marangu Route: Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, it’s the only one with hut accommodations. It’s considered the easiest but has lower success rates due to its short duration.
• Machame Route: Known as the “Whiskey” route, it’s more challenging and scenic, offering better acclimatization with higher success rates.
• Lemosho Route: Known for its beautiful landscapes, it offers good acclimatization and is less crowded.
• Rongai Route: The only route starting from the north, it’s less crowded and offers a unique perspective.
• Northern Circuit Route: The longest route, providing excellent acclimatization and the highest success rates.
• Umbwe Route: The steepest and most challenging, recommended for experienced climbers.

Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” – Abraham Lincoln:

Preparation is crucial before committing yourself to any engagement, mountain climbing is one of its kind where thorough preparation ranging from physical, mentally, spiritually is not optional. Preparation starts from acquiring the right hiking gears including travel documents, physical preparation and praying that God will give you strength, indeed the word of God tells us that we can do all things through Christ which strengthens me, Philippians 4:13. Mental preparation takes 90% whereas physical preparations take only 10%, someone said the hardest mountain to climb is one within. The mountain within must be dealt with before attempting the physical one.

Day one: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

You’ll start your trek at Machame Gate standing at 1,800M asl, trekking through lush rainforest to reach Machame Camp standing at 2,835M asl with elevation gain of 1035M covering 11kms. This is an excitement day; you are not tired and you have been waiting for the day and you feel you are equal to the task. Along the way you will have water breaks as well time to enjoy your packed lunch with the direction of your guides. During rainy season the trail to Machame Camp is sometimes muddy and one may need gaiters and waterproof boots, at this point make sure you pack your rain gears in your day pack as weather may decided to test them. Your summit success is attached from day one always walks “pole pole” as this will help your body in acclimatizing and reduce chances of altitude sickness. Once you arrive at the camp your will be required to register and proceed to your camp site for dinner get enough rest as you gear up for the following day.

Day two: Machame Camp to Shira camp.

“Every day, a million miracles begin at sunrise.” Eric Jerome Dickey. The blessings of a new day come with new positive energy as we wait to see what the day has for us. Second day you will trek for 5km with elevation gain of 915M asl. The trail becomes steeper, and you’ll transition from rainforest to moorland, with stunning views of the Shira Plateau. At Shira you will be welcomed by a strong and cold wind as you get to enjoy your lunch. Later in the day you will visit the caves around and also get a glimpse of Shira two camp from Lemosho route. Then return to your camp for overnight after enjoying dinner freshly prepared from the mountain.

Day three: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp.

Elevation: 3,750 meters (12,300 feet) to 4,600 meters (15,190 feet) to 3,900 meters (12,800 feet). This day includes significant altitude gain and loss, which helps with acclimatization. You’ll pass the Lava Tower where you will find hot lunch ready before descending to Barranco Camp. During day the the trail to Lava Tower becomes more crowded as Machame and lemosho route joins heading to Barranco camp. To get a good camp site prior arrangement including sending your men to get one is not an option.  After a lunch you will descend to Barranco camp for overnight and dinner.

Day four: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp.

Elevation: 3,900 meters (12,800 feet) to 4,035 meters (13,250 feet) to 4,640 meters (15,220 feet). You’ll tackle the Barranco Wall (breakfast), a steep but non-technical climb which requires some scrambling and use of hands., followed by a series of ascents and descents to Karanga Camp. The wall is approximately 250m high which takes 1-2 hours to climb and one must be careful, hikers with height issues may find it challenges and may requires special assistance. The Wall is an exciting and adventurous part of the Kilimanjaro climb, offering stunning views and a great sense of accomplishment once you reach the top. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll be able to tackle this challenge successfully.

 The views after this steep climb are rewarding and breathtaking one will take advantage of the break and get some photos for memories. After some photos we proceed to Karanga camp where hot lunch is served get some rest then proceed to Barafu camp ready for a summit push.

Day five: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,640 meters (15,220 feet) to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) to 3,080 meters (10,105 feet).

The summit attempt begins at 11:05PM, starting at this time allows climbers to reach the summit by sunrise and descend before the weather worsens. The initial part of the climb is steep and on loose volcanic scree. It’s a slow, steady ascent in the dark and cold, requiring headlamps to see the path. This section is physically and mentally demanding due to the altitude and lack of oxygen. After reaching Stella Point, you will continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. This final stretch is less steep but still challenging due to the altitude and exhaustion. The sunrise over the crater and glaciers is a stunning sight and a significant motivator to keep pushing forward.

Tips for Success

• Dress Warmly: Layer your clothing to protect against the extreme cold. Make sure you have a good insulated jacket, warm gloves, hat, and thermal layers.
• Hydrate: Even in the cold, staying hydrated is crucial. Keep your water bottles from freezing by insulating them or keeping them close to your body.
• Fuel Up: Eat snacks regularly to maintain your energy levels. High-energy foods like nuts, energy bars, and chocolate are good options.
• Pace Yourself: The key to success is to go slowly. The guides will set a pace that ensures you conserve energy and acclimatize better.
• Stay Positive: The mental challenge is significant. Stay focused on the goal, and remember that every step brings you closer to the summit.

Reaching the Summit

Uhuru Peak: Reaching Uhuru Peak is a momentous achievement. Take some time to enjoy the views, take photos, and savor the accomplishment of standing on the highest point in Africa.

Reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience. With the right preparation, mindset, and support from your guides and fellow climbers, you can successfully reach Uhuru Peak and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of Africa.

The trek from Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp marks the descent after successfully summiting Mount Kilimanjaro. This part of the journey is challenging due to the steep descent and the impact on your knees and legs, but it also offers a sense of relief and accomplishment. From Barafu Camp, the trail descends through alpine desert, moorland, and into the rainforest zone. The trail is less steep but still requires careful navigation. Trekking poles are very useful for reducing strain on your knees. At the gate you will receive your summit certificate.

Tips for the Descent

• Pace Yourself: While it may be tempting to rush down, maintain a steady pace to prevent injuries and manage fatigue.
• Use Trekking Poles: They help absorb shock and provide stability on the descent.
• Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Continue to drink water and eat snacks to keep your energy levels up.
• Watch Your Step: The descent can be slippery, especially if it has rained. Be cautious of your footing.
• Take Breaks: Rest periodically to give your legs a break and enjoy the changing scenery.

Packing List

• Clothing: Layered clothing (base layers, insulating layers, and waterproof outer layers), warm hat, gloves, and thermal socks.
• Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots and camp shoes.
• Gear: Backpack, sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures), trekking poles, headlamp, and water bottles/hydration system.
• Miscellaneous: Sunglasses, sunscreen, first aid kit, personal medications, snacks, and toiletries.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is more than just a trek; it’s a transformative experience that challenges and rewards you in countless ways. The journey demands physical and mental fortitude, but the rewards are immense, offering lasting memories, personal growth, and a deep sense of accomplish.

By Peter Mureithi