Kilimanjaro is not only the highest peak in Africa, it’s also the tallest freestanding mountain in the world! Called the “Mountain of Greatness” by the native Tanzanians, this journey to one of the famed Seven Summits is an experience of a lifetime! Additionally, the Seven Summit culture is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. The camps, the food, celebratory song and dance, and camaraderie take this already once-in-a-lifetime experience to the next level!

Our non-technical custom route begins on the north side of the mountain allowing us the biggest chance to see Africa’s buffalo, elephant, and baboon. Often called the “Kenyan Route”, our ascent route follows the Rongai Route for a few days before meeting up with the Marangu Route, and then branches off at the summit to explore and sleep at Crater Camp. Our descent route descends the south side of the mountain and hikes us through five ecosystems including the rain forest and arctic alpine zone with glaciers! Although Kilimanjaro is partially covered in glaciers, our route meanders around the icy slopes to Uhuru Peak - the highest point in Africa. We do not use crampons, or rock climb at any time, making this expedition a high altitude trek.

This custom route sleeps us one night at Crater Camp with an elevation of 18,865’; the summit being 19,341’. Thus, hikers need to be in excellent physical condition in order to sleep at Crater Camp without altitude sickness. Physically, climbers need to be able to trek for eight hours per day and at one mph with a 10 pound pack. BE provides 6, 3, and 1-month training plans and the plans must be followed.

Kilimanjaro appeals to first-time mountaineers who are eager to experience a high altitude expedition as well as to the seasoned climber in pursuit of the Seven Summits.