Kilimanjaro sits at the entry point of the Seven Summits, but that doesn’t mean it’s simple. At 19,341 feet, it crosses five distinct climate zones and tests climbers’ ability to manage altitude, pace, and the physical demands of multi-day expedition life. CTSS Owner Mike Hamill hosted the full breakdown covering routes, acclimatization, gear, training, and what separates a guided mountaineering expedition from a standard trek operator.

What distinguishes the CTSS program comes down to a few things that matter more than most climbers expect before they get on the mountain: a slower acclimatization schedule, hand-picked mountaineering guide staff, and a commitment to ethical porter care through the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project. Whether Kilimanjaro is your first summit or a step in a longer Seven Summits journey, those details have a direct impact on your experience and your shot at the summit. Watch the webinar recording with Mike for the full picture, or visit the Kilimanjaro program page to learn more about routes, dates, and what to expect.