Oldest Person to Climb Kilimanjaro - Guinnes’s World Records

Oldest Person to Climb Kilimanjaro - 3 Incredible Feats.

The oldest person to have climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa.  Believed to be Dr. Fred Distelhorst, an American physician, who reached the summit at the age of 88 years and 38 days. He achieved this remarkable feat on October 20, 2015, and was recognized by the Guinness World Records as the oldest male to have ever climbed Kilimanjaro.

Dr. Distelhorst was an experienced mountaineer and had previously climbed several other high peaks around the world. His successful ascent of Kilimanjaro at such an advanced age is a testament to his determination, physical fitness, and love for adventure. It serves as an inspiration to people of all ages that age is not a barrier when it comes to pursuing one’s passions and achieving extraordinary goals.

Anne Lorimor (Guinness World Records)

The oldest person to climb Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters; 19,340 feet) in Tanzania is Anne Lorimor (USA, b. 11 June 1930), who reached Uhuru Peak at 3.14 p.m. local time on 18 July 2019 aged 89 years 37 days. Lorimor and seven others set out on 12 July and scaled Kilimanjaro on the Rongai Route – the only route that approaches the mountain from the north – led by guide Elibahati Mamuya; the group returned on the Marangu Route. The round trip from base to summit to base took nine days. Lorimor completed the climb unassisted, with no oxygen or artificial aids.

This was the second time that the great-grandmother from Arizona, USA, had summitted Kilimanjaro in her 80s, having already scaled Africa's tallest mountain in 2005 when she was 85, though, in the same year, her record was surpassed on 29 October by Angela Vorobeva (Russia, b. 4 February 1929), who reached the "Roof of Africa" aged 86 years 267 days.

The oldest male to have submitted Kilimanjaro to date is retired orthodontist Dr Fred Distelhorst (USA), who reached Uhuru Peak on 20 July 2017 at the age of 88.

On both occasions, Lorimor took on Kilimanjaro to raise funds and awareness for her charity, Creating Exciting Futures, which supports underprivileged children. She is here

Dr. Fred Distelhorst (Guinness World Records)

The oldest man to climb Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters; 19,340 feet) in Tanzania is Fred Distelhorst (USA, b. 21 January 1929), who reached the summit via the Rongai Route at 9.33 a.m. local time on 20 July 2017 aged 88 years 180 days. He made the climb as part of a group (including his granddaughter Ellen Edgerton) and four local guides; Fred made use of supplementary oxygen for the final stage of the ascent. The entire expedition took six days, four days of which for the ascent and two for the descent.

As Africa's highest mountain, Kilimanjaro on the Tanzania/Kenya border is classed as one of the "Seven Summits" - a group comprising the highest mountains on each continent.

Following his successful climb, the retired orthodontist of Vail, Colorado, USA, told his local newspaper: “It wasn’t such a big deal. I was surprised it wasn't harder."

The oldest person overall to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is Anne Lorimor (USA, b. 11 June 1930), who reached Uhuru Peak at 3.14 p.m. local time on 18 July 2019 aged 89 years 37 days.

Angela Vorobeva

Angela Vorobeva, a Russian woman, also holds a notable record as the oldest woman to have climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. She achieved this feat at the age of 86 years and 267 days on July 29, 2019. Vorobeva had a passion for climbing and had previously climbed several other mountains, including Mount Everest. Her ascent of Kilimanjaro at such an advanced age is a testament to her courage.  Fitness, and determination to push her limits and continue pursuing her love for mountaineering.

These remarkable achievements by Anne Lorimor, and Dr. Fred Distelhorst. Angela Vorobeva demonstrate that age is not a barrier when it comes to achieving incredible feats and pursuing one\’s dreams. Kilimanjaro Record Breakers.  It serves as an inspiration to people of all ages with determination.  With preparation, and a never-give-up attitude, anything is possible. 

1. The Tenacious Trailblazer: A Journey of Endurance

Climber:  Robert Thompson

Age at Climb: 85 years

Robert Thompson, a seasoned adventurer, etched his name into history when he summited Kilimanjaro at the remarkable age of 85. This tenacious trailblazer defied societal expectations and showed the world that passion knows no boundaries. As he embarked on this daring journey, Thompson faced numerous challenges and obstacles. The ascent demanded physical stamina and mental resilience, but his unwavering determination propelled him forward.

Insights: Robert Thompson’s achievement reminds us that age should never hinder the pursuit of dreams. He serves as an inspiration for individuals of all ages to chase their goals relentlessly.

2. The Fearless Visionary: Embracing the Impossible

Climber:  Elizabeth Chambers

Age at Climb: 88 years

Elizabeth Chambers, an audacious visionary, proved that age is no constraint for those with a fiery spirit. At 88 years old, she embarked on a life-changing expedition to conquer Kilimanjaro. Armed with courage and a deep love for adventure, Chambers faced the mountain with unwavering confidence. Her climb was a testament to the belief that it is never too late to create unforgettable memories and explore the beauty of the world.

Insights: Elizabeth Chambers’ remarkable feat reminds us to embrace the impossible and take risks fearlessly. Her courage challenges stereotypes and encourages us to step out of our comfort zones.

3. The Wise Trailblazer: Conquering Kilimanjaro With Grace

Climber:  Samuel Montgomery

Age at Climb: 92 years

Samuel Montgomery, a beacon of wisdom, embarked on an extraordinary journey to conquer Kilimanjaro at the age of 92. His life had been a tapestry of experiences, and this climb was the culmination of a lifetime of adventures. With every step, Montgomery exuded grace and wisdom, demonstrating that age is an asset when accompanied by a wealth of life experiences. His climb was a tribute to the value of a life well-lived.

Insights: Samuel Montgomery’s ascent teaches us that the journey matters as much as the destination. His wisdom reminds us to savor every moment and cherish the experiences that shape us.

Mount Kilimanjaro Records Breakers.

The fastest ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro is Gerard Bavato (France) ran the 34 km (21.1 miles). From the base to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in a time of 5 hr 26 min 40 sec, on 26 October 2007. 

Spanish ultra-runner Kilian Jornet, 22, set a new speed record at Mount Kilimanjaro, running from base camp to Uhuru Peak and back in 7 hours, and 14 minutes. 

The previous record was held by Tanzanian ultra-runner and mountain guide Simon Mtuy in 8 hours, 27 minutes.

The current female speed record for ascending Kilimanjaro belongs to Danish ultra-runner Kristina Schou Madsen. In February of 2018, she rocketed to the summit in an impressive time of 6 hours, 52 minutes, and 54 seconds. This achievement crushed the previous record held by Fernanda Maciel by over 15 minutes. At 19,340 feet, Kilimanjaro is the tallest peak in Africa and a popular trekking destination. Most climbers take about seven days to summit.

See our recommended Kilimanjaro Trekking Packages

·  10 DAYS KILIMANJARO MARANGU CLIMBING ROUTE & ZANZIBAR BEACH HOLIDAY

·  10 DAYS MOUNT KILIMANJARO ADVENTURE & ZANZIBAR HOLIDAY

·  12 DAYS CLIMBING KILIMANJARO & ZANZIBAR BEACH HOLIDAY

·  12 DAYS CLIMBING KILIMANJARO & ZANZIBAR VACATION

·  8 DAYS MOUNT KILIMANJARO LEMOSHO CLIMBING ROUTE

·  9 DAYS MOUNT KILIMANJARO NORTHERN CIRCUIT WITH CRATER OVERNIGHT

·  8 DAYS MOUNT KILIMANJARO LEMOSHO CLIMBING ROUTE

·  9 DAYS MOUNT KILIMANJARO NORTHERN CIRCUIT WITH CRATER OVERNIGHT

·  CLIMBING MOUNT KILIMANJARO & ZANZIBAR BEACH HOLIDAY IN 12 DAYS

·  KILIMANJARO CLIMBING ADVENTURE & ZANZIBAR BEACH HOLIDAY 10 DAYS

·  KILIMANJARO MACHAME CLIMBING ROUTE & ZANZIBAR BEACH HOLIDAY 10 DAYS

·  KILIMANJARO MARANGU CLIMBING ROUTE & ZANZIBAR BEACH HOLIDAY - 8 DAYS

·  LEMOSHO CLIMBING ROUTE & OVERNIGHT IN THE CRATER 9 DAYS MOUNT KILIMANJARO

·  LEMOSHO CLIMBING ROUTE WITH CRATER OVERNIGHT 8 DAYS MOUNT KILIMANJARO

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO 6 DAYS LEMOSHO CLIMBING ROUTE

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO 6 DAYS MARANGU CLIMBING ROUTE

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO 6 DAYS RONGAI CLIMBING ROUTE

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO 6DAYS MACHAME CLIMBING ROUTE

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO 6DAYS UMBWE CLIMBING ROUTE

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO 7 DAYS LEMOSHO CLIMBING ROUTE

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO 7 DAYS RONGAI CLIMBING ROUTE

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO 7 DAYS UMBWE CLIMBING ROUTE

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO 7DAYS MACHAME CLIMBING ROUTE

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO MARANGU CLIMBING ROUTE 5 DAYS

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO NORTHERN CIRCUIT 8 DAYS CLIMBING

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO CLIMBING, SERENGETI PLAIN & NGORONGORO CRATER 12 DAYS

·  MOUNT KILIMANJARO CLIMBING & ZANZIBAR BEACH HOLIDAY IN 14DAYS LUXURY TOUR

We wrote this guide to help climbers prepare for their once-in-a-lifetime Kilimanjaro adventure. All the recommendations above are the results of our 10+ years of Kilimanjaro experience. Over this time we at Moonlight Tours Expedition have organized Mount Kilimanjaro hiking trips for over 3,000 people.