Typical Day on Mount Kilimanjaro
A Typical Day During Your Kilimanjaro Climb
When climbing Kilimanjaro with Bush Lion Tours, your daily routine is designed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience while helping you adjust to the altitude.
Morning Routine
Your day typically begins around 6:30 am with a warm cup of bed tea served right to your tent. Shortly after, you’ll receive a basin of hot water for freshening up. Breakfast is served in the mess tent at 7:30 am, where you can enjoy a hearty meal to energize you for the day ahead. After breakfast, you’ll return to your tent to finalize packing your day pack and backpack. By 8:00 to 8:30 am, your hike begins.
The Daily Hike
Most hikes last between 4 to 7 hours, covering various terrains at a relaxed, unforced pace. Breaks are taken at least once an hour, allowing you to rest, capture photos, and take in the stunning views. You’ll carry your day pack with essentials, while the porters transport camping equipment, your larger backpack, and other supplies to the next campsite.
For shorter hikes, you’ll arrive at camp in time for a hot lunch, prepared fresh by our cooks. On longer hiking days, you will have a picnic lunch or a packed lunch halfway through the trek. If the weather permits, meals are often served outdoors to enjoy nature fully.
Upon arriving at the campsite, you’ll find the tents already set up and your bags ready to collect. Tea is served in the afternoon, giving you the option to relax, explore the area, or go for an acclimatization hike. Dinner is served in the mess tent at 7:00 pm, followed by a briefing to evaluate the day and prepare for the next.
Summit Day
Summit day is different from the usual routine. You’ll wake up at 11:30 pm, have a quick snack with tea and biscuits, and begin your ascent to the summit around midnight or 12:00 am to 1:00 am. The hike to Uhuru Peak is challenging and involves steep switchbacks, but your guide will ensure a slow and steady pace to help you acclimatize.
As you climb higher, you’ll witness the breathtaking sunrise, reaching the peak at approximately 6:30 am. This moment will be the highlight of your Kilimanjaro adventure. After enjoying your time at the summit, you’ll descend back to the campsite to rest.
Camping Style
On the Marangu Route, you’ll stay in hut accommodations, while all other routes, like Machame and Lemosho, use high-quality tents. These tents are spacious, durable, and well-suited for the mountain’s varying conditions.
At Bush Lion Tours, we ensure all camping facilities are prepared ahead of your arrival, providing you with a seamless and comfortable experience from start to finish. Each day is carefully planned to balance adventure, acclimatization, and rest, ensuring your journey up Kilimanjaro is unforgettable.
