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Stories: Kilimanjaro

Mountain adventures create the best stories, and we want to share some of ours with you. Dive into Alpenglow Stories to stay up to date on expeditions in the field, read blogs, and get tips and tricks from guides.

A Day-to-Day Breakdown of Climbing Kilimanjaro

Reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro is a challenge worth taking on, and our Rongai Route itinerary is designed to give climbers the best possible experience. With its gradual ascent, fewer crowds, and stunning views of the mountain’s north side, this route is one of the most enjoyable and effective ways to reach the top of Africa’s highest peak.
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Five Common Mistakes to Avoid When Climbing Kilimanjaro

If you’re considering a Kilimanjaro expedition, avoiding these five common mistakes can make the difference between reaching the summit and turning around early.
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A view of Mt. Kilimanjaro above the clouds

The Ecosystems of Mount Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a journey through dramatically changing ecosystems, from dense forests to alpine deserts and icy glaciers. The mountain’s unique position near the equator means climbers experience a range of climates and landscapes in just a few days. Each route offers a slightly different approach, and the Rongai Route, known for its remote and scenic ascent, provides an exceptional perspective on Kilimanjaro’s ecosystems.
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A view of Mt. Kilimanjaro above the clouds

Climb Kilimanjaro Smarter: The Alpenglow Expeditions Advantage

Standing at 19,341 feet, Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and one of the most sought-after summits in the world. But not all Kilimanjaro expeditions are created equal. Alpenglow Expeditions offers a superior experience by focusing on expert guiding, advanced acclimatization strategies, and a thoughtful approach to summit success. If you’re looking for the best way to climb Kilimanjaro, here’s why Alpenglow should be your top choice.
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Love in the Mountains: The Connections We Find at Altitude

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic candlelit dinners or bouquets of roses. At Alpenglow Expeditions, we’ve seen firsthand how the mountains have a unique way of connecting people—romantically, platonically, and everything in between. There’s something about stepping into the high alpine, with thin air and endless horizons, that brings people together in ways everyday life rarely does.
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Esteban 'Topo' Mena coiling a rope while guiding a Cotopaxi Expedition with Alpenglow Expeditions.

“Give Yourself the Time”: Graduating from Trekking to Climbing with Topo Mena

While ‘walking’ may sound trivial, a number of big mountains involve a lot of walking, albeit in extreme places. To talk about the journey, we connected with IFMGA-certified Alpenglow guide Esteban ‘Topo’ Mena about graduating from trekking to climbing. For beginners, he had this advice to offer: “At first, it’s important to give yourself the time to walk in the mountains and appreciate the land and the opportunity to just be there.”
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Clients hiking up Kilimanjaro at sunrise during a guided Kilimanjaro Expedition with Alpenglow Expeditions.

A Brief History of Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro, the majestic Roof of Africa and one of the world’s Seven Summits, stands as a sentinel in Tanzania, its snow-capped peak piercing the sky at 19,341’/5,895m above sea level. But beyond its towering presence lies a rich history held by the indigenous peoples who have long called this region home, and the intrepid adventurers who have since scaled its slopes.
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Exploring Kilimanjaro with Alpenglow Expeditions

Embarking on a journey to summit Mount Kilimanjaro is a dream for many adventurers, and with Alpenglow Expeditions’ expert guidance, unparalleled 24/7 logistical support, optional safari extension, and a commitment to safety and sustainability, our journey to one of the world’s Seven Summits is the opportunity of a lifetime.
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What’s in Adrian’s Closet?

  “Frostbite is Failure” Interview with Adrian Ballinger: A run-through of every climbing shoe and mountain boot in his arsenal. Mountain guides may be the most shoe-obsessed people on the…
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Kilimanjaro Summit Success

Successful Summit for Kilimanjaro Team Our Kilimanjaro team had a successful summit of Kilimanjaro on Saturday, July 13. But before we get to summit day, let’s pick up where we…
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