Deep in the heart of the African Serengeti stands Mount Kilimanjaro. Hikers and mountain climbers from around the world flock to the trails each year, dream of visiting and exploring the mountain’s beautiful peaks.

While scaling this epic mountain isn’t as difficult as climbing something like Mount Everest, it’s still a strenuous task that should be taken very seriously. We’ve put together a list of things you should keep in mind as you prepare for an adventure that is bound to be one of the most exciting of your life.

Before Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

As we noted, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a strenuous task. While you won’t need fancy mountain climbing equipment, the hike will require strong legs and a good deal of stamina. This sort of hike is not recommended for beginners. Before you attempt to climb Mount Kilimanjaro you should complete a few hikes on local trails. Make sure you follow some of the more advanced trails in your area to ensure you have the endurance and strength to make it up the mountain.

Another important consideration is whether or not you might succumb to a condition known as altitude sickness. Because of a mountain’s high elevation, many find that it is more difficult to breathe the higher up the go. Have you attempted to hike mountain paths in Denver, Colorado or any other nearby mountain range of high elevation? If not, don’t waste your money on a trip to Tanzania until you’re sure you will be able to handle the changes in pressure.

Lastly, you absolutely must make sure you’re up to date on all of your vaccinations before traveling to Africa. Diseases such as Malaria are still running rampant in the sub-Saharan and there are dozens of vaccinations you should have before you visit. A trip to Mount Kilimanjaro won’t be possible if you can’t handle a rousing round of shots.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Unfortunately, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro isn’t something you’ll be able to do on your own. Government regulations in the mountain’s national park mandate group travel with an established expedition group.

Your hike will begin in Arusha, the second largest city in Tanzania. Your group will choose a route, each varying in intensity and accommodations. If you’d prefer to sleep in a cabin each night you’d probably prefer the Coca Cola Route, where you’ll find them littered along the paths. The opposite side of the mountain is where you’ll find the Rongai Route, which is a little bumpier and much less accommodating.

Be prepared for climate changes as you make your assent. At the base of the mountain you’ll find yourself in a lush tropical environment, but as you hike along the path you’ll find the temperature gradually decreasing. You’ll want to dress in layers so that you can handle the fluctuating temperatures and you’ll definitely need to add them as you get closer to the top.

Make sure your water bottle is well-insulated. You may want cooler water during the day, but there’s nothing worse than waking up in the morning to find your only source of hydration has frozen solid. Those carrying cameras should keep spare batteries well insulated or close to their bodies as well. It’s not uncommon for batteries to freeze in the harsh, cold temperatures as well.

Believe it or not, most of your actual climbing will happen at night when temperatures are more comfortable for climbing. Include a headlamp on the list of essential hiking gear you purchase before your trip. There are no streetlights along these paths, so you’ll need both the lamp and flashlights as you hike the mountain paths in the black of night.

Fortunately, you won’t find it necessary to carry all of your gear throughout the entire hike. You’re going to want to focus all of your energy on the hike itself, and most of the expedition groups traveling up Mount Kilimanjaro make arrangements to carry your luggage and equipment for you. They’ll even pitch tents and feed you delicious hot meals three times a day. That means you’ll only need to keep your essentials close at hand. What more could you ask for on what is otherwise a physically exhausting excursion?

After Your Excursion up Mount Kilimanjaro

No matter how much rest you get each evening you’re bound to be exhausted once you climb and descent the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Make sure you give your body plenty of time to rest and adjust before you head off on your next sub-Saharan African adventure.

There’s plenty to see in the Serengeti but you’ll be miserable if you attempt too much in too little time. We highly recommend stopping off at the Moivaro Coffee Lodge for a few nights before heading to your next destination. You’ll have an opportunity to relax, reflect on your stunning experience, and recharge before you move on to create more wonder memories of your time in Africa!

Image credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12