My Solo Kilimanjaro Climb

Intense study took place while planning my climb to Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, the highest mountain of continent Africa. I read various articles to have the feel of trek. And to get the nature of ascent and descent during climb. I found multiple options of five to nine days to trek on different routes. I closed in the trekking route of five days.

Five day trek is possible only through Marangu route. Steep climb and no extra day for acclimatization. This means putting your physical and mental strength to extreme test at high altitude. But this is not the right way to proceed, in fact. One day acclimatization on route is highly recommended for higher chances of climbing success in very high altitude.

I have been walking, hiking regularly. Still I maintained my fitness regime and regular exercise for the climb. I booked my trip with two extra hotel days, before and after climb, in Moshi, the base town for climbers. Eagerly waited for 13th Jan 2017, the day to depart from Delhi for Kilimanjaro. It was a long air journey from Delhi. And further one hour drive from Kilimanjaro international airport to Moshi town.

Tired but excited, I took some rest then had briefing session with my guide and the trip organizer. Though to reduce total cost I had opted to join group but my date of climb did not match with group dates so I had to book as solo climber with a crew of four: my guide; my cook; two porters to carry my rucksack, food items, fruits, vegetables, water etc. even a small size cylinder of cooking gas, too. One hiking bag I kept with me.

Next morning after more than an hour’s drive from Moshi town, I reached Marangu gate waiting hall. Here all trip organizers complete the documentation and permit formalities. In the meanwhile all trekkers rest and get ready with final preparations for the Kilimanjaro trek of six days or five days. It takes lot of time. In fact it took around two hours to get my permit. But instead of sitting and sipping coffee, I preferred warm up walk to keep me in motion.

Than began my thrilling hike that would continue next 5 days. The trail passed through dense rain forests transiting into the moorland. Panorama changed every few kilometers. Exotic flora and fauna emerged. Than the chilling feel of endless desert. And the dreadful night climb. Culminating into the defining moment of victory. 

My limbs were tired. My toes were broken. But my spirit was high and alive which kept me pushing towards victory.

Links to the other posts of series:

My Kilimanjaro Climb-Green Oasis

My Kilimanjaro Climb-Exotic Moorland

My Kilimanjaro Climb-Alpine Desert

My Kilimanjaro Climb-Descending Back

My Kilimanjaro Climb-Beyond Climbing

49 Comments

  1. Kilimanjaro that too solo. Wow, just wow. I travel all around the world to meet different people with different stories. I guess I should go there too may be I will find something or someone interesting.

  2. A friend of mine recently completed the summit and I am head over heels with her experience and photos. Awaiting to know yours.

  3. I’ve always wondered what it would take to climb a mountain like Kilimanjaro. I didn’t know you could save a little money with going with a group! I’m excited to read more about your climb!

  4. Wow trekking by yourself, that’s so brave of you. I mean, there are other people, but personally I would prefer someone I know with me.

  5. Wow such an adventurous solo trek. I have never been on a solo trip once or twice and its really memorable. I have read some of your blog posts and they are really inspiring.

  6. Very impressive and inspiring! Kilimanjaro Climb-Trekking and that too.. Solo. Very commendable Indu as it does seem to be a tough one. Its close to 6000 meters right? And not much time for acclimatisation! Bravo!

  7. Oh, I can’t wait to read the rest of your Kilimajaro adventure! It seems like it took a lot of preparation but I bet it was totally worthy!

  8. Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania alone sounds like an amazing achievement. I could never see myself doing that but I am very happy that you successfully climbed it.

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