Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a great challenge. There is no need for support from a small army as in some other famous mountain climbs. It is this accessibility of the mountain which makes it so popular. Most people decide that they are going to go in a group, but there are some options for you to go mostly solo. You must be aware that climbing the mountain without a guide is illegal.

What Can Solo Travelers Do?

There are many options out there for solo travelers when you are ready to climb to the top. Many people take group tours to ensure that they have good companions and share costs.

What Are Group Tours Like for Kilimanjaro?

Taking a group tour is a very easy option that will allow you to meet new people and join up with other solo travelers and small groups. You can set up a group tour with one of the hundreds of operators that are online, or you can do it when you get to the country in one of the trekking towns such as Arusha or Kilimanjaro.

There are many benefits to joining a group. You get to meet new people. You can also share the entire experience with other people and get a much better deal. When you check out the size of the group in advance you can get a much larger discount when you have a small group.

How Can I Group Up?

You can meet many people in advance. One of the best things to do is to find companions online and then see about getting a lower price. There are many forums you can join and get in touch with other people who are looking to set up a group trip. If you are looking for the best solution you should get your team together in Moshi or Arusha. From there you can then meet and arrange a group trip. There are many small hotels and hostels as well in the area, which can be a great place to meet before attempting a trip. You want to make sure that you are compatible with the group before heading on a long hike.

You Want to Do It Solo?

You may just want to climb solo and if that is the case, that is fine. But again, remember that you cannot do it without a guide. You also are going to need two porters with you according to the law, to help you with carrying your supplies, and to cook for you. You can be the only trekker in your party, however. You should expect the cost to be much higher when you are alone.

One thing about the laws, they are in place for a reason. Kilimanjaro is very challenging, and you are going to have no support on the mountain. You will be hiking for at least 5 days and there is no place to buy anything. It is critical that you have all the food, supplies, and water you are going to need. It is also very easy to get lost, and the temperatures can range from freeing to burning hot very easily. You need to have a guide to help you make the climb and not lose your way. The support staff will assist you with this, and also have local knowledge.

When planning to make the climb, weigh your options carefully and chose the one that is going to work best for your needs. Guides are priceless, make sure you invest in a good one.