Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Tours

Mount Kilimanjaro (or Kili, as it is often known) is located in northern Tanzania close to the towns of Arusha and Moshi, near the border with Kenya to the north.

Yes.  Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Tanzania.  These can be obtained online or at a Tanzanian embassy or consulate abroad.  Ask your travel specialist for guidance on visa requirements particular to your nationality.

Although Mount Kilimanjaro can be climbed throughout the year, unless you are an experienced climber not averse to poor weather conditions, you should avoid the two wet seasons, from April to May and November to December.

The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during one of the two dry seasons.  These run from January to mid-March and from June to October.  At these times, favourable weather – with mostly clear skies, milder temperatures and a reduced likelihood of rain or snow – enhances the experience.  Of the two periods, January to mid-March is warmer and less popular.

Any person in possession of the required climbing permit and accompanied by a licenced mountain guide may attempt to climb the mountain.  That said, while it is not a technical climb, it is very demanding both mentally and physically.  If you have health concerns, it is best to obtain medical advice beforehand.

While it is possible to climb the mountain for less than $2000, this generally equates to a sub-standard outfitter of dubious ethics.  For safety reasons, we encourage you to choose the most reputable company that you can afford, with prices reaching up to $6000 per person.  Expeditions that fall within the range of $2500 to $3500 are normally good value.  Note that these prices exclude other travel and related expenses.

Except for the Marangu Route, where you may sleep in a wooden hut, all the other routes overnight at designated campsites and sleep in tents.  Campsites have only the most basic ablution facilities. 

No.  Most climbing packages include the use of a shared tent and camping gear.  All camping equipment along with your personal luggage is carried by porters.  Porters are responsible for setting up and breaking down each camp.

To maintain stamina, ample nutritious food is served.  Breakfast includes porridge and cooked items.  A packed lunch is supplied to be eaten en route.  At day’s end, snacks before a hearty meal are served.  With advance notice, all dietary requirements can be catered for.

Climbing packages vary from 5 to 9 days.  Experts suggest booking the longest trek you can afford, to minimize your chances of altitude sickness (generally six days or more).  This will improve your chances of successfully summiting the mountain.  The total distance varies between routes.

Yes.  Regulations require all people attempting to climb Kilimanjaro to retain the services of a registered mountain guide.  These experienced professionals are there to safely guide you along your route.  All climbers must register their departure with the parks authority and sign in at each campsite.

Your guide should have excellent knowledge of the terrain and changing weather conditions.  They will regularly perform safety checks on equipment and monitor participants for signs of ill health.  They will maintain the pace of the slowest/weakest participant.  Ensure they are a certified Wilderness First Responder.

Although not technical, the climb is physically and mentally challenging, with the risk of altitude sickness.  Those planning to climb should undertake a progressive training program at least 12 weeks before the attempt, incorporating fitness and strength-building exercises, preferably using the gear you intend to climb with.  It is a good idea to have a medical evaluation before departure.

The main health concern is Altitude, or Acute Mountain Sickness, where sufferers experience headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite and shortness of breath.  High Altitude Pulmonary Edema and Cerebral Edema also present a risk.  The above conditions typically present at over 2500 metres (8200 ft) and are caused by ascending too quickly.  Gastrointestinal complaints also occur.  Consult a healthcare professional for prevention and treatment advice.  The rugged environment also presents the inherent risk of typical outdoor injuries.  The above concerns highlight the importance of selecting a reputable company that is equipped for all outcomes.

Yes.  Travel insurance protects individuals against financial loss in the event of unforeseen travel issues.  Ensure that your coverage includes possible hospitalization and repatriation expenses.

People entering Tanzania from or via a Yellow Fever endemic country must provide proof of a Yellow Fever vaccine.  Immunization against Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid and Tetanus is recommended.  Obtain further guidance from your local travel clinic.  Remember, Tanzania is a malaria zone, so you should seek guidance on anti-malaria measures and prophylaxis.

Tips for good service are the norm in Tanzania.  Bearing in mind that your support team is crucial to the success of your trip, a generous tip is always appreciated.  We suggest US$20 per person per day for each mountain guide and $10 per person per day for each porter.  It does add up but please keep in mind the rigorous conditions, sacrifice, experience and skills that make the difference in assisting your effort.

Adopt the “Leave no Trace” philosophy and do not discard anything en route.  Do not litter.  Keep to designated trails and campsites to protect the fragile environment.  Bring your own reusable water bottle/hydration pack.  Note that officials monitor everything that goes onto or leaves Kilimanjaro, so assist your support team so that they avoid penalties for non-compliance.

Notwithstanding space and weight considerations, rather have something and don’t need it than vice versa.  Porters will carry the bulk of your belongings but please limit yourself to your tried and tested essentials.  Read our comprehensive Kilimanjaro Packing List