Book a guide. Tanzania law requires that climbers use licensed guides to take them up Kilimanjaro. Although some people choose to wait to get to Tanzania before hiring their guide, others prefer to get everything set up and paid for before they leave the United States. If you choose to wait to hire a guide in Tanzania, be aware that there have been instances where scam artists have taken a traveler's money without providing any services.
Train for your Kilimanjaro ascent by going on long hikes. On the Rongai route, you will be walking up to eight hours a day. On days when you are at higher elevations or have steeper ascents, you may only hike three to four hours as your guides will give you time to acclimate to the thin mountain air and to try and avoid high altitude sickness.
Because porters will be carrying the majority of your supplies up Kilimanjaro, it is not necessary to train with heavy backpacks.
Seek out good airline deals to Tanzania and also for places to stay before and after your Kilimanjaro climb.
Purchase gear. If you have booked your trip with a tour operator, most should supply you with a list of equipment you will need. Climbers should bring broken-in hiking boots, mats to sleep on, sleeping bags, waterproof clothing in case of rain, toiletries, and hiking accessories such as water bottles. Some companies provide tents, sleeping bags, and other essentials. In addition, it is cold at the top of Kilimanjaro so you will need cold-weather gear, as well. Some tour operators offer gear rental to travelers who don't want to bring their own.
Visit a doctor to get the necessary shots and medication you will need for your trip to Tanzania. You should also have a medical checkup to make sure that you are in good health and are able to make the climb.
Learn the signs of altitude sickness so you will know if you are suffering from it while on the Rongai route. General symptoms include feeling nauseous, rapid pulse, dizziness, headache and shortness of breath.
