Training for Kilimanjaro

The ascent of Kilimanjaro should only be attempted by reasonably fit people, and inexperienced climbers might consider embarking on a training schedule to improve the chances of a successful Kilimanjaro climb. This needn’t be too arduous. Running and cycling will improve your aerobic fitness, and weightlifting might help build core strength, but the best like-for-like training for a Kilimanjaro climb is hiking, ideally in hilly terrain and/or at altitude. Aim to build up to the point where you can comfortably hike for four to five hours with a light pack on your back. And do use these training hikes as an opportunity to break in the hiking boots you intend to wear on Kilimanjaro, and to get used to the day pack you plan to carry.