Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging yet rewarding adventure. As Africa’s highest peak, the mountain offers incredible scenery and diverse landscapes, but the biggest challenge for many climbers is the significant elevation gain. Understanding the elevation changes on different Kilimanjaro routes is crucial for planning a successful trek. This guide covers the elevation gains you’ll encounter, the altitude challenges you may face, and tips for managing the climb.
Plan your Kilimanjaro climb with expert advice here.
1. Understanding Kilimanjaro’s Elevation: The Basics
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at an impressive 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. The climb takes you through five distinct climate zones, from lush rainforests to snowy summits. Each zone brings different challenges, but the most significant factor for many trekkers is the elevation gain, which can lead to altitude sickness if not managed properly.
Key Elevation Points:
- Base Camp (Moshi): 914 meters (3,000 feet)
- Summit (Uhuru Peak): 5,895 meters (19,341 feet)
- Total Elevation Gain: 4,981 meters (16,341 feet)
Learn more about Kilimanjaro’s elevation and routes here.
2. Kilimanjaro’s Main Routes and Their Elevation Gains
There are several routes to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, each with varying levels of difficulty and elevation gain. Some routes offer a more gradual ascent, allowing better acclimatization, while others are steeper and more direct. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular routes and their elevation gains.
Marangu Route
The Marangu Route is one of the shortest and most popular routes, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola” route. It offers huts for accommodation, making it more comfortable, but the rapid ascent can make acclimatization more difficult.
- Total Distance: 72 kilometers (45 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 4,005 meters (13,140 feet)
- Days Required: 5-6 days
Find out more about the Marangu Route.
Machame Route
The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey” route, is longer and more scenic. It allows for better acclimatization due to its “climb high, sleep low” strategy.
- Total Distance: 62 kilometers (38.5 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 4,185 meters (13,730 feet)
- Days Required: 6-7 days
Explore the Machame Route in detail here.
Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route is one of the most beautiful routes, offering panoramic views and a more gradual ascent, making it ideal for acclimatization.
- Total Distance: 70 kilometers (43.5 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 4,075 meters (13,370 feet)
- Days Required: 7-8 days
Learn more about the Lemosho Route.
3. Altitude Sickness: How Elevation Gain Affects Your Body
As you gain elevation, the air becomes thinner, which means there is less oxygen available for your body. This can lead to altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Altitude sickness is most likely to occur when ascending too quickly without proper acclimatization.
Tips to Prevent Altitude Sickness:
- Ascend Slowly: Choose a longer route with gradual elevation gain.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the climb.
- Climb High, Sleep Low: Follow a route that allows you to climb to a higher altitude during the day but sleep at a lower altitude to help your body adjust.
- Use Medication: Some climbers use Diamox (acetazolamide) to prevent altitude sickness, but consult your doctor first.
Learn more about altitude sickness and how to prevent it.
4. Day-by-Day Elevation Gains on Kilimanjaro
Here’s a general overview of the day-by-day elevation gains you can expect on the Machame Route, one of the most popular routes for climbers seeking a mix of challenge and scenery.
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp
- Starting Elevation: 1,640 meters (5,380 feet)
- Ending Elevation: 2,835 meters (9,300 feet)
- Elevation Gain: 1,195 meters (3,920 feet)
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
- Starting Elevation: 2,835 meters (9,300 feet)
- Ending Elevation: 3,750 meters (12,300 feet)
- Elevation Gain: 915 meters (3,000 feet)
Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
- Starting Elevation: 3,750 meters (12,300 feet)
- Lava Tower Elevation: 4,630 meters (15,190 feet)
- Barranco Camp Elevation: 3,950 meters (13,000 feet)
- Elevation Gain: 1,080 meters (3,540 feet) to Lava Tower, then descent to Barranco.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
- Starting Elevation: 3,950 meters (13,000 feet)
- Ending Elevation: 4,673 meters (15,330 feet)
- Elevation Gain: 723 meters (2,370 feet)
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (Summit)
- Starting Elevation: 4,673 meters (15,330 feet)
- Summit Elevation: 5,895 meters (19,341 feet)
- Elevation Gain: 1,222 meters (4,010 feet)
Explore more detailed day-by-day elevation breakdowns for Kilimanjaro climbs.
5. Training for the Elevation Gains on Kilimanjaro
To prepare for Kilimanjaro’s elevation gains, it’s important to focus on cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and endurance. Training on hills or mountains is ideal, but if you don’t have access to elevation, stair climbing or using a treadmill set at an incline can be effective substitutes.
Key Areas to Focus On:
- Hiking on Inclines: Train on hills or mountains to simulate the terrain.
- Cardio Workouts: Running, cycling, or swimming to improve stamina.
- Strength Training: Squats, lunges, and step-ups to build leg strength.
Learn more about how to train for a high-altitude trek.
6. Mental Preparation: Conquering the Climb
In addition to physical preparation, mental readiness is key to conquering Kilimanjaro’s elevation gains. The climb is not just a test of fitness but also a mental challenge. Staying positive, setting small goals, and focusing on the journey rather than the summit can help you push through tough moments.
Tips for Mental Preparation:
- Break It Down: Focus on reaching each camp, not just the summit.
- Stay Positive: Encouragement from guides and fellow climbers can boost morale.
- Mindfulness: Use deep breathing techniques to stay calm and focused during difficult sections.
Discover mental toughness tips for endurance treks here.
7. Final Thoughts: Elevation Gains and Your Kilimanjaro Climb
Understanding the elevation gains on Kilimanjaro is crucial for a successful climb. Whether you choose the Machame, Marangu, or Lemosho route, preparing for the altitude changes is key to reaching the summit. With proper acclimatization, physical preparation, and the right mindset, you can conquer the challenge of Africa’s highest peak.
For expert Kilimanjaro climbing advice and tour packages, visit Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist or Eddy Tours & Safaris.
