How do I train to summit Kilimanjaro? That’s a question we’re all-too familiar with. Some newer adventurers look at the 19,341-foot peak with doubt, and to be sure, Kili is a formidable challenge. However, summiting may be easier than you think with the correct tactics and moderate but consistent preparation. Moderate is the key…
Thomson Safaris staffers at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. You asked, and we delivered! The first round of staffers’ unconventional tips for climbing Kili received so much praise that we decided to give you more – and fortunately, our Kili consultants have a seemingly endless supply of helpful trekking advice. Here’s what our staff…
Thomson Safaris staffers at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. You’ve always wanted to climb Kili, but you’re not sure if you’ll be able to summit. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Mount Kilimanjaro is the world’s tallest freestanding mountain, and as such, trekkers need to prepare accordingly. Fortunately, many Thomson staffers have climbed…
How does a non-climber prepare for the mountain trek of a lifetime? Erin, the next Thomson staffer scheduled to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, is a bit of a trekking novice. “I haven’t hiked or camped since I was in girl scouts!” she laughed. After being motivated by the many Thomson guests who have summited the…
Meet Thomson staffer Sam, she’s headed to Kilimanjaro later this year, and is sharing the training tips that will increase her chance of summiting the Roof of Africa. She’s also letting us in on what motivates her to travel, and keeps her going when training is hard. We hope you are as inspired as we are.
Your trek may be right around the corner or months down the line, but it’s never too early to start getting ready. We could give tips on everything from which boots to buy to which songs to download (hey, it matters!), but no matter what, we’d tell all our guests to make sure they’ve done the…
Guests planning to trek Kili often ask us what they should do to train. No matter what your fitness level, Kilimanjaro offers specific challenges, and we strongly recommend people train specifically to meet them. We always tell them that since they can’t train for the most difficult element they’ll face on Kili, the altitude,…
You can, and should, train for your climb, but you can’t “train” for altitude. We’ve found that people do exceptionally well with 9-10 days on Kilimanjaro, resulting in Thomson Safaris 98% summit success rate.
Stair climbing intervals are a great way to get your legs and lungs in shape for the climb. Mix things up by alternating legs or skipping steps, and be sure to add on your boots and day pack for full effect.
What kind of training do you need to summit Kilimanjaro? You’ll want to develop a good cardiovascular base and focus on Kili-specific strength training like squats, lunges, and calf raises. Try one of Thomson Safaris favorite leg-strengthening and stability moves!
