Yes, it is possible to bike up Kilimanjaro. The designated route for mountain biking is called the Kilema Route. It’s a gravel road that’s also used for park vehicles and emergency medical evacuations. It’s a challenging ride, but it does lead all the way to the top.

For those with exceptional fitness and technical skills, it is possible to ride most of the way to Uhuru Peak, the summit. However, the final sections are extremely steep and difficult. Many people choose to bike as far as they can and then continue on foot, often with porters carrying their bikes.

starting from a 5-day trip including acclimatization to 6days, those people who want to have more days in the mountain after the summit, sleeping on a low camp to recover from further descent.

The primary challenges are the extreme altitude, which can cause severe altitude sickness, and the intense physical demands of the climb. The terrain is also a major factor, with sections that are rocky, steep, and exposed. You’ll also need to be prepared for rapid weather changes, which can impact visibility and trail conditions.

You will need a sturdy mountain bike, preferably a full-suspension model, with good tires. A helmet is mandatory. For clothing, you’ll need to pack for a wide range of conditions, from a humid rainforest to a freezing alpine desert. This includes waterproof and windproof layers, thermal clothing, gloves, and sunglasses with UV protection.

Today the absolute highlight awaits us! We are ideally prepared and set off around midnight to tackle the summit climb. In the light of our headlamps we climb the 1000 m up to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim at 5680 m. Between Gilman’s Point and Stella Point we have to climb one or two blocks before a gently rising ridge turns towards the highest point, Uhuru Peak at 5895 m.

The porters carry our mountain bikes up to Stella Point and did us a great service. If you want to reach the top with your bike “by fair means”, you can of course try to push and carry your mountain bike there yourself. 

The remaining meters from Stella Point are actually easy to ride and we reach the highest point in Africa sitting in the saddle. An unforgettable experience! All the hardships of the last few days and especially those of the summit climb suddenly disappear when you stand on the summit of Kilimanjaro at sunrise. You have the mountain bike firmly under control, proud and happy to have achieved this unique achievement. You can be sure of applause and congratulations from the other climbers.
The local mountain guides and their guests also know about the special nature of this undertaking. After the great summit experience and an energizing rest, the second big highlight of the day follows. 

A seemingly endless descent over 4600 meters depth. Riding fun guaranteed. Following the ascent route, the first few meters of descent in particular are pure enjoyment. The mountaineers who are still climbing will hardly believe their eyes when you come towards them on your mountain bike. 

Mind you, we are at almost 6000 m. The rocky passages between Stella Point to just below Gilman’s Point require you to carry your mountain bike for a short time. Then a descent opens up that is unrivaled anywhere in the world. The slope above the Kibo Hut, which is initially very steep and then becomes increasingly moderate, leads us downhill in numerous twists and sharp bends. 

The dimensions of the summit structure and the slopes to be navigated are only now really noticeable.
In the warming sunlight you perceive the terrain completely differently than in the small beam of light from a headlamp. From the Hans Mayer Cave at the latest, the descent is pure pleasure without any major technical difficulties and in flowing windings all the way to Kibo hut (the base camp). There we enjoy a hearty breakfast, drink coffee and tea and adjust our equipment for further descent.

Estimated time: 10-12 hours Distance: 12km

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Elevation gain: 1145m

DESCENT FROM KIBO HUTS TO MARANGU VILLAGE VIA KILEMA GATE

 We won’t need the down jackets anymore, because the descent takes us back through high desert and moorland bush landscape into the rainforest and finally to the banana plantations outside Kilema gate. 

Between Kibo and Horombo Hut we take the flatter “Lower Kibo Route”, that no trail builder in the world could have thought of better. The trail invites you to play in rhythmic windings and shallow curves, and later on a narrow and varied trail the path leads back to the Horombo Hut. From there we use the Kilema path again at a further 2000 meters depth into the dense green jungle. Watch out for monkeys crossing the road.

Short checkout at Kilema Gate and over easy-grip clay tracks, in the rush of impressions, through the bright plantations and small villages, we continue to the road junction to Marangu Gate. The support team is waiting for us there with cool drinks and the bus for the return journey. Congratulations! What a success! 

Distance covered: 28km descent
Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Chanya Lodge

Biking up Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging and rewarding adventure that requires proper preparation. To have a successful and safe trip, you’ll need to focus your training on building the right physical and mental skills.

The Kilema Route is a physically demanding gravel road with rocky, steep sections. Your training should focus on two key areas:

Cardiovascular endurance is essential for dealing with the reduced oxygen levels at high altitude. Regular cardio activities like running, swimming, or cycling will build your stamina. Aim for long-duration workouts, such as two-hour bike rides on hilly terrain.

Muscular strength is also crucial. Your legs, core, and upper body will all be working hard. Incorporate strength training with a focus on your legs (squats, lunges, calf raises) and core muscles (planks). This will help you pedal efficiently and handle your bike on uneven ground.

The best way to prepare for the technical aspects of the Kilema Route is to ride on similar terrain. Find local hills or trails with varied surfaces and practice ascents and descents. This will build your technical biking skills and confidence. A full-suspension bike is highly recommended for comfort and control.

While you can’t perfectly replicate high altitude at home, you can prepare your body. If possible, train at higher elevations. If not, focus on building a strong aerobic base, which will make acclimatization on the mountain less strenuous.

Don’t wait until you get to Kilimanjaro to test your equipment. Make sure your mountain bike is in excellent condition, especially the brakes, gears, and tires. Wear the clothing and boots you plan to use on the mountain during your training rides. This will ensure they are comfortable and functional and help prevent blisters.

Focus on Mental Toughness
Biking up Kilimanjaro is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Be prepared for long, slow days and potentially difficult conditions. Cultivate a positive mindset and an attitude of perseverance.