What’s the Best Age to Trek to Kilimanjaro or Everest Base Camp?
If you’ve ever looked at photos from the summit of Kilimanjaro or trekkers standing proudly at Everest Base Camp, you’ve probably had this thought:
“Am I the right age for something like that?”
It’s one of the most common questions I get asked, by people in their 20s wondering if they’re “too early,” and by people in their 50s wondering if they’ve “missed the boat.”
So let me give it to you straight:
There is no perfect age.
But there is a right time, based on you, your health, your goals, and your mindset.
Here’s what that actually looks like in the real world.
I’ve seen people in their 20s fly up mountains, and people in their 60s leave them in the dust
On every Kilimanjaro or Everest Base Camp trek I’ve led, the same truth plays out again and again:
It’s not about your age. It’s about your attitude and your preparation.
Yes, younger trekkers might bounce back faster after a long day. But they also tend to go too fast, skip meals, and burn out early.
Older trekkers? They usually pace better, listen to their bodies, and finish stronger, because they’re not there to prove anything.
Some real examples from my trips:
A 28-year-old rugby coach who turned back halfway up Kili because of altitude sickness
A 54-year-old woman who reached the summit slowly and steadily with oxygen and a smile
A 38-year-old first-time hiker who trained hard and made Everest Base Camp without a single headache
A 61-year-old who nearly cancelled, then smashed the Inca Trail and is now planning Toubkal
It’s never about the number.
It’s about how you show up.
The best age to go is: when you’re ready to prioritise it
You don’t need to be super fit.
You don’t need to be a seasoned hiker.
You just need to be ready to commit.
That means:
You’ve got a window of time to train
You’re willing to invest in yourself and your wellbeing
You’re open to feeling uncomfortable — and growing from it
You’re excited by the challenge (not terrified of failing)
If that’s where you’re at right now (whether you’re 23 or 63), then this is your time.
And if it’s not your time yet? That’s okay too.
Which trek suits your age and experience?
Here’s a rough guide based on who I’ve seen thrive on each trek:
In Your 20s–30s:
You’ve got energy, flexibility, and (usually) fewer responsibilities. This is a great time to go big.
→ Try Kilimanjaro (Machame Route), Everest Base Camp, Salkantay, or Gokyo Lakes
In Your 40s–50s:
You’re likely more self-aware, financially secure, and craving meaningful challenges. This is the perfect sweet spot.
→ Try Everest Base Camp, Mount Toubkal, the Inca Trail, or even EBC + Gokyo for something more technical
In Your 60s+:
You bring patience, life experience, and often better pacing than anyone else. As long as you’re in good health, you’re absolutely capable.
→ Try Mount Toubkal, Inca Trail, Sahara Desert Trek, or Kilimanjaro with extra acclimatisation days and porter support
Of course, none of these are rules. I’ve had 60-year-olds on Kili and 25-year-olds on Toubkal.
The question isn’t “Can I?” it’s “Will I prepare properly?”
Worried about health or ability? You’re not alone.
This is where smart planning changes everything.
We offer:
✅ Honest fitness guidance
✅ Downloadable training plans
✅ Options to add oxygen, private porters, or personal guides
✅ WhatsApp support from the moment you book
You’re not doing this alone, and you don’t need to be the “perfect” trekker.
You just need to show up willing to train, trust the process, and put one foot in front of the other.
Ready to find out which trek suits you best?
📞 Book a free 1:1 planning call
→ Let’s talk through your age, goals and ability, and I’ll help you find the right fit.
🗓 We also offer monthly payment plans
→ So you don’t have to wait years to make this happen.
You’re not too young. You’re not too old. You’re just one decision away.