kilimanjaro tour guides

Speak with our Summit Experts 24/7

+1-888-589-1884

+1 843 589 1884, most recommended company on tripadvisor.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO TOURS & SAFARI

Welcome to Climb Kili, your trusted partner for unforgettable journeys to the summit of Kilimanjaro. Our unwavering commitment is to offer memorable, high-quality adventures to those with a spirit of exploration and a desire to conquer the highest freestanding peak in the world.

The Climb Kili Difference

At Climb Kili, we distinguish ourselves in the landscape of Kilimanjaro expeditions, not merely through our expertise but also our dedication to crafting a unique experience for every adventurer. We understand that climbing Kilimanjaro is more than a trek – it’s a transformative journey. It’s about immersing oneself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of nature, pushing personal boundaries, and discovering inner resilience.

More Than Guides, We Are Your Partners

We are not just your guides; we are your partners on this voyage of self-discovery. Our team ensures that your journey is not only safe and thrilling but also profound and meaningful. We aim to leave each climber with a sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering Africa’s highest peak and memories of an extraordinary journey that will be cherished forever. Every step with Climb Kili brings you closer to a meticulously curated and personally fulfilling epic adventure. Embrace the climb! It’s time to conquer Kilimanjaro with Climb Kili.

The Magic of Kilimanjaro Tours

Every Kilimanjaro tour unravels a story of revelation. From unique biomes to the unparalleled panoramas at the summit, our Kilimanjaro tours offer an immersive experience that captures the essence of this awe-inspiring mountain.

The Best in Kilimanjaro Expeditions

At Climb Kili, our pride lies in being recognized as one of the top facilitators for Kilimanjaro expeditions. Our wise and accomplished team is committed to orchestrating every Kilimanjaro trek with precision and unwavering dedication to your absolute safety and satisfaction.

Expert Kilimanjaro Guides at Your Service

The aspiration to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro can be a daunting endeavor, but under the guidance of our expert Kilimanjaro guides, your well-being is ensured. Our guides, seasoned mountaineers, have dedicated their lives to traversing Kilimanjaro’s trails, ensuring a nurturing, enlightening, and secure environment throughout your journey.

Tailored Kilimanjaro Treks

Our belief rests in tailoring Kilimanjaro treks that resonate with the unique preferences and requirements of our climbers. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker in search of a challenging route or a beginner yearning for a less demanding trail, we have a Kilimanjaro expedition option that aligns with your expectations.

Join Us for a Memorable Kilimanjaro Adventure

For those who dream of reaching the ‘Roof of Africa,’ we invite you to embark on a journey beyond the ordinary. At Climb Kili, we combine years of expertise, meticulous preparation, and a passion for exploration to create Kilimanjaro journeys that leave lifelong memories.

Our Kilimanjaro guides have been assisting adventures from all over the world climb Kilimanjaro for over three decades. You choose your start date!

CLIMB KILI SAFARIS

As we run our own Safari company, we can do any length and itinerary safari you'd like.

With a Local office on Zanzibar, we can take care of all your Zanzi needs. The Zanzibar archipelago consists of over 50 islands – which vary from tiny outcrops to the larger

Page Welcome Package

Years of experience, summit success rate, they summited kili with our guides.

Trusted Experience Since 1984

With nearly 40 years experience summiting Mt Kilimanjaro, Why are we the best Kilimanjaro tour Company? We guide you long before the climbing Kilimanjaro by answering When is the best time to climb, how do you train for Kilimanjaro, what is the best route on Kilimanjaro and much more! Climb Kili is the premier trekking company for climbing Kilimanjaro and Tanzania safaris and we answer all the Kilimanjaro Questions.

At Climb Kili, we pride ourselves in providing the safest Mt Kilimanjaro treks with our certified equipment and professional Mt Kilimanjaro Guides. Make your reservation for a Kilimanjaro tour today!

Which Kilimanjaro Trek is Right for you?

7 day machame, 8 day lemosho, today on kilimanjaro.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! Kilimanjaro’s climbing ability caters to individuals across the fitness spectrum. Our diverse trails cater to a range of skill levels, with our proficient guides accompanying you at every step, ensuring your safety and success.

Our history is steeped in leading adventure enthusiasts up Kilimanjaro. Our seasoned guides, comprehensive preparation, and thorough route planning, coupled with a commitment to your safety and enjoyment, set us apart.

We equip our climbers with a comprehensive gear list, including critical items like thermal clothing, hiking boots, and a headlamp, among other essentials. Our team is ready to answer any questions and assist you in your preparation phase.

Seize the opportunity at Climb Kili for an unparalleled adventure, reaching towering heights and creating memories to last a lifetime! Don’t overlook this incredible opportunity.

CLIMB KILI BLOG

Top 3 Best Men’s and Women’s Boots for Kilimanjaro 2023

Embarking on a challenging adventure

Kilimanjaro Training Living at Sea Level

Training for Kilimanjaro Living at

Solo Female Trekking on Kilimanjaro

Is is safe to climb Kilimanjaro as a Solo Female Trekker?

MOUNT KILIMANJARO TOURS & SAFARI REVIEWS

Kilimanjaro Tours & Treks

Africa’s tallest peak creates an instantly recognizable silhouette.

Rising from the acacia forests and scrublands at the border of Kenya and Tanzania . At 19,343ft, the world’s tallest freestanding mountain can seem imposing, but that doesn’t mean it’s out of reach. Our Kilimanjaro tours are made to suit your experience and fitness levels, getting you to the summit with the best team possible. The climb will be challenging! But when you sit at the summit with the sprawling savanna far below, you realize the simple truth: it was all worth it. 

Our Kilimanjaro trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Which route is right for you?

Despite being longer and more arduous than the Marangu and Rongai trails, the Machame route has emerged in recent years as a popular choice for trekkers. The 25 miles trail passes through cloud forests and moorland zones to the glaciated precipices of Kibo’s south face. Unlike the Marangu and Rongai routes, trekkers descend via the Mweka route – a steep but scenic path through dry mountain desert and lowland forest.

A trail that winds along the north-eastern side of the mountain near the Kenyan border, Rongai offers up a different side to Africa’s most famous mountain. The route attracts a lower number of climbers than Marangu and Machame, which means the wilderness feels particularly pristine. Fewer people mean there’s a greater chance of seeing wildlife on the Rongai trail than on the other routes. This route also approaches Mount Kilimanjaro through rural heartlands, allowing trekkers to see Chagga village life.

This five-day climb is the most popular and direct of the Kilimanjaro routes, passing through vast grasslands, giant cacti fields and alpine meadows set against dramatic mountain peaks. It’s also the only route where camping is not needed, with trekkers sleeping in huts dotted along the way. The 22 mile uphill walk is well maintained and the views from the summit are striking. As the Marangu route is shorter, the period to acclimatize is also shortened and this has an impact on the trail's overall success rate. 

Why choose us

Our Kilimanjaro trek leaders have been voted among the best Intrepid Group leaders in the world and we have a leading reputation within the travel industry.

All our guides and trek leaders have been trained by independent, UK-based medical specialists and are proficient in first aid. They also carry oxygen cylinders on all treks for emergency use.

Our staff live and work in the Mount Kilimanjaro area, which means revenue from all our treks benefit the local economy.

There’s no hidden costs or ‘catches’ in our prices. All tours include sleeping bags, sleeping mat, camping and safety equipment, emergency oxygen and porterage of 1 bag (up to 33lbs). We also include Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees, climbing fees, camping and hut fees, and insurance for rescue services (just in case!)

Each of our treks begin with a briefing from our experienced English-speaking guide. On the road we operate on a 2:1 principle – that means we have one guide for every two climbers. Your crew will also be joined by dedicated cooks and porters.

We strive to use travel as a force for good. That’s why we choose to give back to the communities we visit, carbon offset all our trips and take our social and environmental responsibilities seriously. We’ve been officially certified as the world’s largest travel B Corp, which means when you choose Intrepid Travel, you can rest assured you’re traveling to improve the planet.

Kilimanjaro tour reviews

Filter by rating

Kilimanjaro: Marangu Route

Articles of Kilimanjaro

What I wish I knew before climbing Kilimanjaro

5 must-visit places in Tanzania (and what it’s really like visiting them)

7 reasons why your next adventure should be in Tanzania

Climbing Kilimanjaro with blind athlete Dan Berlin

Meet the women who climbed Kilimanjaro for human rights

Machame or Marangu? We ask a Leader which Kilimanjaro route is best

Learn more about Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro's highest point sits at 19,430 ft.

Average trek duration

It takes between 5-7 days to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

The best time to trek

The best time to trek Mount Kilimanjaro is in January, February or September.

Kilimanjaro travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Are there age restrictions for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro?

The regulations for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro specify a minimum age of 10 years, with no maximum age, however all Intrepid travelers are required to be over 15 years old.

While there is no maximum age for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, it is important to remember that the climb is strenuous and presents health risks, especially to people in high risk categories.

Serious consideration should be given to anyone under the age of 18 and over the age of 60.

Will the altitude affect me?

The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is above 19,000 feet. At this altitude it’s common for travelers to experience some adverse health effects – regardless of your age, gender or fitness. It even happened to Sir Edmund Hillary!

Everyone will adapt to the altitude and thinning air differently. This is why we always try to keep the ascent slow and steady, to allow your body to acclimatize and make your journey to the summit easier.

Some pre-existing medical conditions are known to severely worsen at high altitude and be difficult to adequately treat on the ground, leading to more serious consequences. It is imperative that you discuss your pre-existing medical condition/s with your doctor.

What will I eat?

To reach the summit you’re going to need the right fuel, which is why our cooks will be providing delicious and nutritious meals throughout your trek.

Our porters carry all the equipment and supplies we need and you’ll be treated to some local dishes.

We can accommodate food allergies and dietary requests but please tell us when you book.

It’s also a good idea to bring your own extra comfort snacks from home to keep your energy levels up during more difficult sections of the trail.

What will I drink?

While on the trek, your guides will boil and cool 0.6 gallons of water for you per day. This will ensure the water is safe to drink and you stay hydrated on the trek.

We recommend you pack 3 x 0.2 gallon refillable water bottles. Please note disposable plastic containers are not allowed on the mountain.

Where will I sleep on Mount Kilimanjaro?

Your accommodation will vary depending on the route you choose.

On the Machame and Rongai route you’ll be camping out under the stars with a full-service camping experience.

You don’t need to bring anything except your enthusiasm. Our two-person tents are ideal for expedition trips and feature a flysheet made from ripstop nylon, anti-mosquito netting, reflective guy ropes and a 3000mm waterhead, ensuring you stay warm and dry even in difficult conditions.

If you choose to trek the Marangu route you’ll enjoy basic but comfortable accommodation in wooden A-frame huts with single beds and simple mattresses.

Due to limited accommodation on the mountain, you may need to share a hut with non-Intrepid passengers and/or members of the opposite sex.

These sleeping huts are not equipped with facilities however there are seperate bathroom huts containing shared toilets and washing facilities.

What if I’ve never trekked before?

Although no mountaineering experience is required, a good level of physical fitness is necessary. You’ll need to be comfortable walking 6-8 hours uphill a day.

The distances may not be long but the altitude makes it harder than your average uphill hike.

We recommend increasing your aerobic exercise in the months leading up to the climb, such as by walking, running or climbing stairs.

There is plenty of time available each day to get between huts or camping sites so there is no need to rush, in fact the slower you go the more time your body has to adapt and the more you’ll enjoy the experience.

What should I pack for Mount Kilimanjaro?

Although a guide will always accompany you on the trail, you are unlikely to see your porter (as they are very fast!) except at the huts or the camps. Therefore it is important you carefully pack a smaller day pack you carry yourself. Anything you need during the course of the day should be in your day pack including, most importantly, something warm and something waterproof. 

From 2019 your maximum gear allowance is 20 lbs. At the welcome meeting you will be provided with a duffel/kit bag to transfer your hiking luggage into. This waterproof bag minimizes the weight your porter needs to carry and allows you to store excess luggage at the hotel.

Light clothing is generally sufficient until you reach the 12-14,000 feet altitude range provided you always have something warm and waterproof in your daypack. Beyond these altitudes, even if the mornings are glorious, you must always be ready for dramatic changes in the weather, including snow storms. You must have clothing with you in your daypack adequate to the conditions. Please ensure your day pack is large enough to carry these clothes, your lunch box, 0.6 gallons of water and any other items such as camera equipment. Warm clothing is important for the final ascent. The ascents are done at night and this is when the coldest temperatures are experienced. You must be prepared for temperatures of minus 13 Fahrenheit. As a rule you should wear two pairs of socks, two-three layers on the legs and four-five layers on top. A balaclava or neck gaiter and woolly hat are necessary to keep the head warm, while gloves and sunglasses are also needed.

Note: the bag the porter carries for you should not exceed 20 lbs. If bags are too heavy items may have to be removed or the climber may choose to hire an additional porter.

PACKING LIST

• Anorak/parka with hood (waterproof) x 1

• Down jacket x 1

• Sweater/fleece x 1

• Thermal top x 2

• T-shirts x 3, long sleeve shirts x 2-3

• Waterproof trousers or ski pants x 1

• Warm trousers x 2

• Hiking shorts/trousers x 1

• Long thermal pants x 1

• Thermal underwear

• Socks thin and thick x 6

• Hiking boots

• Comfortable closed shoes (for around camp)

• Mittens and ski gloves

• Balaclava and woollen hat

• Sunglasses

• Day pack, approximately 30 litres

• Refillable water bottles - 3 x 0.2 gallon (note plastic containers are not allowed on the mountain)

• Good quality, super-warm 4-season sleeping bag (these can be borrowed from our local operator in Tanzania but this service is on a request basis only - please book your bag at time of booking)

• Thermarest or trekking roll mat. (not required on Marangu route)

• Small first aid kit

• Headache tablets

• Imodium (loperamide)

• Climbers may like to consult their physicians about azetazolomide (Diamox), a drug that many find mitigates the ill effects of altitude, headache, diarrhoea & vomiting.

• Hand towel

• Wet wipes

• Toiletries

• Head torch and flashlight with spare batteries (needed for summit night)

• Sunblock and high SPF lip balm

• Camera, film, extra batteries - you will not be able to recharge on the mountain but can at the Kibo Hotel before and after the climb.

EQUIPMENT HIRE

Additional hiking equipment can be hired in Marangu. However, on a trek such at this, tried and tested equipment purchased from home may be more comfortable and of a better fit. If you do require any gear, please speak to your leader at the welcome meeting on Day One. Below is a list of some of the equipment available and the rough rental costs.

• Sleeping bag - Free (must be requested through your booking agent prior to departure)

• Thermarest/trekking roll mat - USD20 (not required on Marangu route)

• Trekking poles – USD10

• Waterproof trekking boots - USD30

• Gaiters - USD10

• 30 litre day pack - USD20

• Ski sunglasses/Sun goggles - USD10

• Waterprooj jackets/hooded parkas - USD15

• Warm fleece sweater - USD10

• Light hiking trousers and shorts - USD10 each

• Warm hiking trousers - USD15

• Trekking t-shirts/long-sleeved shirts - USD10 each

• Mittens/ski gloves/scarf/sun hat - USD10 each

• Balaclava/ski mask- USD5

When is the best time to visit Mount Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro's location near the equator is a great advantage, with very little seasonal variation in climbing conditions.

The rainy seasons from March to May and November to December may make the track a little slippery.

Generally speaking, January, February and September are considered the best times to climb the mountain.

What will the weather be like at Mount Kilimanjaro?

Part of what makes Kilimanjaro so unique is the diversity of ecosystems and micro-climates on its slopes. This same benefit is what makes predicting conditions a challenge.

You should trek expecting everything from tropical rainforests to sub-zero landscapes. The weather is prone to shift without warning and it is best to be prepared for all possibilities.

What are the toilet facilities like at Mount Kilimanjaro?

In a word? Improving. Until recently the toilet facilities left much to be desired but thankfully the park authorities have started to tackle the problem.

Some state-of-the-art eco-toilets have now been built at the major campsites.

There is the option to arrange a toilet tent for the entire trip. Please speak to your booking agent about the cost of this service.

What is the average success rate for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?

The success of each climb is dependent on a number of varying factors, such as the weather on Mount Kilimanjaro and the age and fitness of each trekker. With that said we have achieved a success rate of 75% to Uhuru Peak across our three climbing routes.

Do your mountain guides carry first aid kits?

Yes. We carry multiple, comprehensive first aid kits and our mountain guides are fully trained on their use. All of our mountain guides are first-aid qualified.

Are your mountain guides trained to recognize symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)?

Absolutely! Intrepid have invested in the highest standards of training of any operator on Kilimanjaro. This includes advanced altitude training delivered by a UK doctor and altitude research specialist. One of the key elements of this is training on the Lake Louise altitude assessment system, which allows our mountain guides to effectively monitor clients constantly whilst on Kilimanjaro and assess if they are suffering from AMS and, if so, how severe that AMS is. We also train them on how to respond in the case of a moderate or severe case of altitude sickness – which will always mean organizing for the affected client to descend immediately. During your briefing on the first evening of your trip, your mountain guide will talk to you about symptoms of AMS and how to recognize them.

Do you carry medicines for altitude?

Yes – there are two key, potentially life-saving drugs that our teams carry on the mountain. These are Dexamethasone and Nifedipine and they used to treat cerebral and pulmonary oedema, which are the two potentially life-threatening complications of severe AMS. Our mountain guides are fully trained on the use of these drugs for altitude related illnesses.

Please note that we do not carry Diamox on our Kilimanjaro treks. The reason for this is that, although medical research suggests that Diamox can be very effective in aiding acclimatization to altitude, it has been proven to be far less effective at treating severe AMS. You may wish to talk to your doctor prior to traveling about being prescribed Diamox to assist acclimatization while you climb Kilimanjaro.

Will oxygen be available?

We carry medical oxygen – and when a group has four passengers or more, this will mean multiple cylinders will be distributed among the team of mountain guides to ensure that oxygen is always quickly available in the case of an emergency. The oxygen that we carry is strictly for emergency use only – and cannot be used by clients to assist in climbing or summiting.

Do you carry Gamow bags or PACs?

No. Gamow bags and PACs are two types of portable hyperbaric chambers, which are sometimes used for sufferers of severe AMS. What makes Kilimanjaro relatively unique is that it is a "rapid ascent mountain" – meaning altitude gain happens extremely quickly. Logically, therefore, Kilimanjaro is also a "rapid descent mountain" and our policy is that in the case of severe AMS, our mountain guides will immediately evacuate the patient down the mountain, usually with the assistance of porters to carry the person affected. Often, a descent of just a few miles will be enough to make a difference. Gamow bags and PACs are more effective in other parts of the world where rapid descent on foot is not possible. Also, a gammow bag takes a little while to inflate – which on Kilimanjaro is valuable time lost when an evacuation down the mountain could already have commenced.

How do your mountain guides communicate on Kilimanjaro?

Mobile phone coverage on the mountain is improving – but it's still patchy in many areas. For this reason, Intrepid mountain guides carry short wave radios to allow for communication in the case of an emergency.

How do you ensure your porters are well looked after?

Unfortunately there is a problem in the trekking industry with some service providers taking advantage of porters, compromising staff safety in order to minimize costs. Our Tanzanian Destination Management Company (DMC) was established in 2014 with the purpose of ensuring Intrepid stood at the forefront of responsible tourism practices on Mount Kilimanjaro. We're proud to say that we're an official partner of the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC) and its Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP). This means all of our climbs have been assessed and scored based on a number of criteria designed to ensure the proper treatment of porters on the mountain. You can read more about KPAP's good work at the bottom of this page.

Who is your local operator in Tanzania?

All Intrepid Kilimanjaro climbs are operated by Intrepid Guerba Tanzania Limited, which is a fully owned Intrepid company based in northern Tanzania.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Ultimate Kilimanjaro

The #1 guide service for climbing kilimanjaro.

8 Ways to Prevent Injuries on Mount Kilimanjaro

7 Myths About Altitude (That You Probably Think are True)

Are All Kilimanjaro Crews Treated Fairly?

Is Climbing Kilimanjaro Really Dangerous? Kilimanjaro Deaths

12 Things You Need to Know Before Going on a Tanzanian Safari

What are the Most Dangerous Routes on Kilimanjaro?

11 Ways to Boost Your Hiking Endurance for Climbing Kilimanjaro

What Should I Wear to Climb Kilimanjaro?

10 Tips for a Successful Climb on Mount Kilimanjaro

The Seven Summits – Highest Mountain on Each Continent

15 Amazing Sights to See While Climbing Kilimanjaro

The Woman’s Guide to Climbing Kilimanjaro

What Celebrities Have Climbed Kilimanjaro?

Why Do Climbers Summit Kilimanjaro at Night?

2024 Ultimate Kilimanjaro Gear List Recommendations

5 Simple Ways to Avoid the Crowds While Climbing Kilimanjaro

12 Interesting Facts About Mount Kilimanjaro

Ultimate Kilimanjaro® – Why We’re Different

Can I Climb Kilimanjaro as a Complete Novice?

7 Things They Don’t Tell You About Climbing Kilimanjaro

Will Mount Kilimanjaro Erupt Again?

12 Things You Need to Know Before Climbing Kilimanjaro

Is Mount Kilimanjaro Too Crowded?

Ultimate Kilimanjaro Guides 89 Year Old on Kilimanjaro For New World Record

Kilimanjaro Map & Climbing Route Selection

How Hard is it to Climb Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro Meaning – How Did Kilimanjaro Get Its Name?

How to Stay Warm on the Summit of Kilimanjaro

Is it Worth it to Climb Kilimanjaro?

Why is Kilimanjaro Famous?

10 Places for the Best Photographs on Mount Kilimanjaro

7 Hard Truths About Climbing Kilimanjaro (That You Need to Know)

The 10 Biggest Misconceptions About Climbing Kilimanjaro

Common Objections to Climbing Kilimanjaro (& How to Overcome Them)

The 7 Most Important Gear Items for Climbing Kilimanjaro

10 Reasons to go on a Tanzanian Safari

10 Reasons You Should NOT Climb Kilimanjaro

Why People Fail When Climbing Kilimanjaro

The Beginner’s Guide to Climbing Kilimanjaro

5 Medications that Help Acclimatization & Combat Altitude Sickness

Climbing Kilimanjaro is Easy (Not Hard)

Can an Unfit Person Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Do you want to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Every year, over 30,000 people just like you come to Tanzania to scale the world’s tallest free-standing mountain and Africa’s highest peak. Climbing Kilimanjaro does not require any technical skills or special equipment, just some physical fitness, determination, and the right guide service to help you along the way.

That’s where we come in.

WHY CLIMB WITH ULTIMATE KILIMANJARO®?

For over 18 years, we have provided the highest quality Kilimanjaro climbs at a reasonable cost.

EXPERT GUIDES

• Hand selected, licensed local guides
• Decades of climbing experience
• Certified Wilderness First Responders
• Over 15,000 clients led to the summit
• Top performers in the industry

HIGH QUALITY STANDARDS

• Rugged, 4-season Mountain Hardwear tents
• Warm Mountain Hardwear sleeping bags
• Hot meals from fresh, local ingredients
• Clean water treated with WaterGuard
• Private toilet tent on all climbs

SAFETY FOCUSED

• Trained in first aid & mountain rescue
• Health checks performed twice per day
• Monitor oxygen saturation & heart rate
• Emergency oxygen included on all climbs
• Helicopter evacuation

HAPPY CUSTOMERS

• 89 year old Guinness World Record holder
• Celebrities, television hosts & producers
• US Senator, US Ambassador & Lt. Governor
• Filmmakers, authors & journalists
• Disabled veteran (with two prosthetic legs)

HIGHLY REGARDED

• U.S. and foreign newspapers
• International magazines
• Best selling books
• Award winning films
• and more…

wHAT’S IT LIKE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced mountaineer, our team be there every step of the way to help you along. We provide everything you need to succeed on Mount Kilimanjaro. Watch the video below to see how we guide clients on the Roof of Africa.

we have a reputation for excellence

Ultimate Kilimanjaro® is one of the largest and most reputable operators on Mount Kilimanjaro .

Due to our hard working, dedicated team, we have gained a reputation for excellence in the field among our peers and our clients. We are an authoritative expert in the industry.

Every year, we lead over 150 climbs and guide more than 1,000 people. Our clients have included celebrities, film makers, senators, ambassadors, authors, and journalists. We have successfully guided the world record holder for the oldest person (an 89 year old woman), a disabled war veteran (with two prosthetic legs), and a United States Senator to the summit.

All agree, you won’t find a better Kilimanjaro outfitter.

Our expert guides, high quality standards, and focus on safety have made us the top choice for thousands of customers from all over the world. In short, we know what it takes to get you to the summit – in an safe, fun, and affordable way.

Thousands of people have stood on the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro with us. Won’t you join us on the Roof of Africa?

OUR MOST FAMOUS CLIMBS

LATEST videos

Climbing Kilimanjaro? Do it the right way. Enter your email and get your free e-book instantly.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Trip Styles
• Destinations

• Trip Destinations
• Tanzania (Kilimanjaro) Hiking Tours

Kilimanjaro Trek

Moshi, tanzania, trip highlights.

• Attempt To Reach Africa's Highest Point, Uruhu Peak!
• Comfortable Tents & Camps
• World Class Trekking
• Amazing Natural & Cultural History
• Phenomenal Views
• Fresh, Local & Organic Cuisine
• An Array of African Wildlife
• Sing & Dance With Our Crew on the Mountain!

Description

Join us for an unforgettable hiking adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro! Known as “the Roof of Africa” and towering over its surrounding valleys at an astounding elevation of 19,341 feet (5,985m), Kilimanjaro is one of the “7 Summits” of the world!

At Wildland, our approach is to get our guests ‘off the beaten path’ for a fuller, more novel experience of the world’s wilderness destinations. On this trip we follow the Rongai Route which provides wonderful solitude and exposes our guests to different environments and views of the mountain before merging with the more popular Marangu route. Trekking Kilimanjaro requires no technical ability, just hiking, while the main challenge is the elevation. We have created the ideal 10-day itinerary for optimal acclimatization and a high success rate of reaching the summit.

After our Kilimanjaro hike, we provide the option for an add-on Wildlife Safari and Cultural Tour. The  Wild Africa Safari visits the Maasai, Datoga and Hadzabe tribes and Wildlife Safaris in Tanzania’s famous Serengeti, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro National Parks.

*Itinerary Note: Wildland Trekking stands alone in providing a complete experience on Kilimanjaro. We have a well-tested acclimatization process to increase your chances of a successful summit attempt. Your Kilimanjaro itinerary is not just a climb of the mountain but also includes an extra rest day after your travels in Tanzania to experience the local culture. Many companies economize by getting you in and out as quickly as possible, and that is the opposite of the Wildland approach.

$3850 Per Person

$345 single supplement.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL 5

Scale of 1-5. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult

Hiking Distances:

Up to 12.1 mi (19.5km)

Backpack Weight:

Significantly Moderate

Max Daily Elev. ↑↓:

Up to 4,000+ ft (1,219+ m)

Heights Exposure:

Significant

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THIS TRIP

• Hiking uphill or downhill with a 10-20 lb backpack for 8-10 hours
• Maintaining balance and footing on variable, uneven terrain
• Hiking at sustained elevations of 14,000-19,341 feet (4,267m-5,895m)
• Scrambling through one section of significant heights exposure on our summit day

SOLITUDE LEVEL 3

1 least solitude, 5 most solitude

We rate this Kilimanjaro hike a solitude 3. You can expect hours of solitude at a time while hiking.

•   Minimum Guests

Minimum of 2 Guests

We require a minimum of 2 guests to confirm this trip. If a trip date is not confirmed yet, you can register and will be notified when the trip is officially confirmed. We recommend not making final travel arrangements until your trip meets the minimum number of guests and is confirmed.

In most cases, if a trip does not reach the minimum number of guests, you may choose to transfer to another trip date or another trip, or be refunded your payments in full. We make the final determination for these trips 65-60 days before the departure date.

Private Trips

Travel in perfect company by booking a private trip exclusively for your group!

Our sliding scale for private trips is based on the final number of guests in your group. Rates are per person and do not include sales tax, national park fees or guide gratuity. The final rate is based on the actual number of guests on the trip and may adjust based on cancellations or additions.

Please Note: you can also enjoy a private trip at our normal scheduled rates by filling any empty tour to capacity. However, if group members drop from the tour those spots will automatically become available on our website for instant booking. By purchasing a private trip at the rates listed below, your trip will remain exclusive to your group regardless of cancellations. 

Private Rates FOr This Trip

• 2 People: Rate x 2.5
• 3 People: Rate x 2
• 4-5 People: Rate x 1.5
• 6-10 People: Rate x 1.15
• 11-12 People: Rate x 1
• 13+ people: contact us for availability and pricing

*all rates are per person and single supplements apply

Learn About Our Private Trips

Today is arrival day. The Wildland team will pick you up from the airport and shuttle you to our hotel for the next 2 nights in the nearby city of Moshi. Here you can rest from your travels by the pool, in your room or at the rooftop viewing area and lounge. If we are lucky, the clouds will dissipate and allow us our first glimpse of Mount Kilimanjaro during sunset. After we enjoy dinner together, your lead guide will conduct a full orientation meeting to review the itinerary specifics, gear & packing details, health considerations, and answer any questions. Be sure to drink copious amounts of water throughout the day, as flying and traveling can dehydrate you. Self-care begins immediately and we want you to be as ready as possible for our trek up the mountain!

• Hiking Mileage: 3.1 miles (5km)
• Elevation Gain/Loss: Minimal
• Trekking Duration: ~3 hours
• Driving Time: 1 hour
• Accommodations: Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

Today, after breakfast at our hotel, we will shuttle to the base of Mount Kilimanjaro to the village of Materuni. Here we will set out on a light hike to an amazing waterfall along the Mware River. Today’s hike helps with acclimatization while not being too strenuous after your long travels. Materuni Falls, born from melting ice and snow flowing from the top of the mountain, plunges over 220 feet (67 meters)! At these majestic falls we’ll enjoy a relaxing break, a swim if you like and a nutritious picnic lunch before heading back to the village. Once back at the village, we will visit a coffee plantation and see how they grow famous Arabica and Robusta coffee beans. You will be served a delicious cup of rich and aromatic coffee fresh as you can get it and served by the Chagga people, who hold the reputation of being the best farmers of Tanzania. After enjoying this cultural treat, we’ll head back to the hotel to relax before dinner. Get some rest; tomorrow our expedition begins!

• Hiking Mileage: 4.1 miles (6.6km)
• Elevation Gain: 2,075 feet (632m)
• Elevation Loss: 50 feet (15m)
• Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
• Accommodations: Premier Camping

Today is the official start of our expedition to climb Kilimanjaro! We head out on a roughly 3-hour drive to the village of Nale Moru where our trek begins. In Nale Moru, after meeting our entire crew and team, we will have a hot lunch. Our porters will get our gear organized and packed for the hike, and after everything is organized and ready we begin our trek. We’ll start hiking on a path that climbs gently and consistently through the beautiful, temperate forests that drape the foothills of Kilimanjaro. Along the way, we may have opportunities to view some wildlife: Colobus Monkeys are often abundant along with many species of birds, reptiles and gazelles. We continue hiking until we arrive at Simba Camp (8,650’/2,636m) for the night. Facing North, we’ll have stunning views of the plains of Kenya while we enjoy a delicious meal and a relaxing evening.

• Hiking Mileage: 3.5 miles (5.6km)
• Elevation Gain: 2,765 feet (843m)

Waking up on Kilimanjaro with Wildland means getting a hot drink of your choice delivered to your tent and a warm bowl of water to wash your hands and face. What a way to start the day! Then comes a nutritious breakfast to fuel our day’s activities. Today we head up the trail and immediately have outstanding views of Kibo Peak and the Eastern Ice Fields sitting on the crater rim. Arriving at Second Cave Camp (11,415’/3,480m) by lunch allows us to relax for a bit and give our bodies time to acclimatize before an afternoon walk to higher elevations, which helps us further our acclimatization process. Everything we do on the mountain is designed to prepare us for our summit bid. This includes non-stop self care, proper acclimatization practices and hiking “pole, pole”, translated “slowly, slowly” in Swahili.

• Hiking Mileage: 3.6 miles (5.8km)
• Elevation Gain: 1,060 feet (323m)
• Elevation Loss: 415 feet (126m)
• Trekking Duration: 4 hours

After our morning drinks and full breakfast, we will pack up to hike towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. Our hike through the open moorlands continues until we reach a small set of caves created by past historic lava flows. We will briefly explore these caves (optional) before making our last push to Kikelewa Camp (12,175’/3,711m) and our awaiting lunch. Again, arriving to camp for lunch allows time to recuperate and relax before another afternoon acclimatization hike. The views from tonight’s camp are spectacular and the sunset not to be missed. As darkness falls the lights in small far off Kenyan villages dot the landscape below us. Warm dinner and drinks are served before the nightly briefing and health check by your guide.

• Hiking Mileage: 2.2 miles (3.5km)
• Elevation Gain: 2,080 feet (634m)
• Elevation Loss: 30 feet (9m)
• Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours

This morning, after breakfast, we depart Kikelewa Cave and ascend to Mawenzi Tarn camp (14,120’/4,304m). The hike today is relatively short, and we will make it to camp before lunch once again. The views from this campsite are absolutely stunning. After a hot lunch, we will enjoy an acclimatization hike in the surrounding area and take in more of the views from our incredible vantage point. We will be back at camp with time to wash up before dinner is served.

• Hiking Mileage: 5.2 miles (8.4km)
• Elevation Gain: 1,720 feet (524m)
• Elevation Loss: 400 feet (122m)
• Trekking Duration: 6 hours

This morning we leave camp early with beautiful views of Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks after a full breakfast. Above 14,000 feet, it can be challenging to hike, so we will take our time and begin trekking across the high-altitude desert to our basecamp at Kibo Hut (15,425’/4,702m). Upon our arrival at basecamp around mid-day, we will eat lunch and then rest in our tents before an early dinner is served around 6pm. After dinner, your guides will conduct a final briefing and health check. Then we turn in to get our final rest and sleep before our summit attempt. We will be waking up around 11:30pm to have some hot drinks and snacks before starting our ascent to the Kilimanjaro summit at Uruhu Peak!

Summit Attempt Optional Hike:

• Hiking Mileage: 6 miles (9.7km)
• Elevation Gain/Loss: 4,050 feet (1,235m)

As we begin our summit attempt, we’ll only bring what we need. Typically, the sky is clear and filled with stars. It is a very peaceful time to be on the mountain. We’ll continue hiking with our goal to reach the edge of the crater at Gillman’s Point (18,652’/5,685m). Next we will traverse the crater rim to Stella Point (18,885’/5,756m), here a few trails converge to start the final ascent to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak (19,341’/5,895m). At the summit we’ll snap pictures and soak up the gratification of our achievement. Looking down on the valleys and forests surrounding Kilimanjaro as the sun rises, most hikers feel this is one of the most memorable half-hours of their lives. After having photos at Uhuru Peak, we’ll begin our decent back to basecamp.

Kibo Hut to Horombo Hut Hike:

• Hiking Mileage: 5.6 miles (9km)
• Elevation Gain: 80 feet (24m)
• Elevation Loss: 3,190 feet (972m)
• Trekking Duration: 10-14 hours (Summit & hike to camp combined here)

Upon arrival at basecamp, we will rest and have lunch before beginning our 3-hour (gentle) descent to Horombo camp (12,300’/3,749m) along the famous and popular Marangu route. NOTE: This is a very long day and most guests are very tired upon reaching basecamp and then walking to Horombo.

• Hiking Mileage: 12.1 miles (19.5km)
• Elevation Gain: 220 feet (67m)
• Elevation Loss: 6,350 feet (1,935m)
• Trekking Duration: 6-8 hours

Today is the last day of our trek on Mt. Kilimanjaro and it’s a long beautiful hike through a constantly changing landscape. Along the way, we stop at the Mandara Huts for a long break before continuing down. This tropical area often has groups of Blue monkeys and possibly the rarer Colobus monkeys. We’ll be descending to where the Marangu route begins/ends at the Marangu gate entrance of the Park. Here we’ll have a hot lunch upon our arrival. For those guests who made it to the summit of Kilimanjaro, climbed to Stella Point or Gilliman’s Point, you will collect official certificates from the Park before saying goodbye to your mountain crew; in classic Kilimanjaro style with songs and dancing!

Tonight, we again stay in Moshi at the Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel and have one final celebratory dinner capping off this adventure of a lifetime!

For guests only joining our Kilimanjaro Trek, you will be transported back to Kilimanjaro International Airport today. For guests joining our  Wild Africa Safari , today is Day 1 of the Safari itinerary, so we will leave early and transfer to our first day’s activities.

Optional Add-on Safari

Make the most of your time in Africa with an add-on Safari tour that takes place after your trek to Kilimanjaro (on Day 10)! 6 days in length and all-inclusive, our Safari Add-on tour is an opportunity to experience Africa’s amazing wildlife and unique, colorful cultures.  Click here to read more about our Add-on Safari Tour!

Wildland Trekking stands alone in providing a complete experience on Kilimanjaro. We have a well-tested acclimatization process to increase your chances of summiting. Your Kilimanjaro trek is not just a climb of the mountain but also includes an extra rest day to experience the local culture. Many companies economize by getting you in and out as quickly as possible, and that is the opposite of the Wildland approach.

Please Note : We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal  terms and conditions  apply to trips with itinerary changes.

Trip Dates & Booking

Trip dates & booking.

Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.

AVAILABLE TO BOOK

This trip is available and bookable online! Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team!

This trip has 1 or 2 spots remaining and is bookable online! Click on the date to book now or contact us online to book through customer service.

REQUEST A RESERVATION

This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Please contact us online or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to request a reservation.

Don't see your dates? Call us! We may be able to add new trip dates.

Trip details, what's included.

• $1,400 per person Kilimanjaro National Park fees (+$765 per person in park fees for Safari add-on)
• A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
• Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See  Guide Bios .
• Transportation for the duration of the tour starting on Day 1 and ending on the day you depart
• Lodging before and after the trekking portion of the trip
• All camping gear and supplies (including a dining tent, kitchen tent and bathroom tent)
• Porters to transport all gear, food, and most personal items
• Professional camp chef(s) & waiter(s)
• Drinking water and hot water for washing face, hands…etc.
• Use of a backpack and trekking poles
• All meals for the duration of the tour (dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 10)
• Professional, certified Wildland Kilimanjaro hiking guides
• Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit, emergency communication device, and emergency oxygen. *No supplemental oxygen use is permitted on our hikes.

What's Not Included

• Transportation to Tanzania (to Kilimanjaro International Airport)
• Trip insurance that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (required)
• Bar bills, drink bills, extra snacks, telephone bills, wifi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
• All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
• Clothes, rain gear, and footwear ( see recommendations )
• Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
• Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight (disposable plastic water bottles are prohibited in Kilimanjaro National Park; please have refillable water bottles or hydration bladders to use for the hike)
• Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 10-20% of the total trip cost. Please tip your lead guide and they will distribute responsibly to the crew. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated. Specific details are in our trip information packets and comes directly from the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) guidelines on tipping. This process will also be explained in detail at your climb’s orientation meeting directly from your lead guide(s). It is good to plan on bringing smaller bills (1’s, 5’s, 10’s & 20’s) of USD to use for tipping so it can be distributed among the whole crew transparently and fairly. Tanzanian Shilling is also accepted and easily obtained from local ATMs in Tanzania.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about what to pack.

Meals: What to Expect

This Kilimanjaro hiking tour features a combination of in-town meals and meals prepared by a professional chef. Most meals are prepared on the trail by our chef and support staff, and consist of local, organic, and fresh produce.

For optimal taste and energy, we supplement all our meals with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables. In addition, we provide you with with an assortment of trail snacks* (nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, & cookies) to eat at your own discretion.

We can often accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher, and non-gluten diets and make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee, and in some countries may be more difficult to accommodate than others. Please inquire with us for more information about the specific trip you’re interested in.

*Common trail snack brands and items found easily in the US are not readily available in this destination. (i.e. protein bars, trail bars, beef jerky, etc…) We recommend guests that prefer these types of trail snacks to bring a few of their own choice items from home.

Gear We Provide

We provide all group gear which includes the following:

• Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, & pillows
• Trekking poles
• Company-issued first-aid kit
• Emergency communication device(s)

Guest Packing List

When you register for this tour you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip ( click here to see it now.) All trips require a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots, rain gear, a recommended clothing system, a headlamp or flashlight, a hydration system (water bottles and/or bladder) and other items specific to each trip.

Additionally, some guests choose to bring their own sleeping bag. We supply high quality, synthetic fill bags that are professionally laundered after every trip. Synthetic fill is non-allergenic, insulates when damp and stands up well to repeated washings, but is heavier and bulkier than down. If you’re able to bring your own  down  sleeping bag, there are  multiple benefits . If not, we’ve got you covered!

Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled the most frequently asked questions that Wildland Trekking guests have about visiting and hiking the Tour of Tanzania and Mount Kilimanjaro. Learn the answers to these commonly asked questions about traveling in Tanzania by using the link below!

• Hiking and Visiting Mount Kilimanjaro – FAQs

Trip Logistics

How do i register.

Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can  click here  to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.

Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!

Entry Requirements (Visa Requirement)

For checking entry requirements for this trip, we recommend using this travel tool,  Sherpa Travel . Here, you can view what is required to enter the country, including necessary travel documents, visas, and vaccinations. If a visa is required, you can apply directly through this service. You may also check for entry requirements for your nationality on consular websites or your country’s foreign travel advisories. Ensuring you have completed all necessary steps to enter the country is your responsibility.

U.S. citizens may also obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Tanzania.

Where Do We Meet?

We will meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport (near Moshi, Tanzania) on Day 1 and transport you to the first two nights’ hotel, where we’ll meet and prepare for our trip. There will only be one airport shuttle departure for the group. Our Tanzania communications team will be in contact approximately  45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.

Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging

We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Moshi, Tanzania as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly  to our team to check availability.

Travel to Kilimanjaro International Airport

Booking flights.

For our Kilimanjaro Trek you will need to arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (near Moshi, Tanzania, airport code JRO) on the day the trip begins, no later than 4 P.M. Your guide will rendezvous with you at the airport and transport you to our hotel for the first 2 nights, Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel. The shuttle from the airport to the resort is usually 45 minutes-1 hour. There will only be one airport shuttle departure for the group. Your return flight should be scheduled for the final day of the tour after 9 A.M and only one group shuttle is planned for the group.

If you would like a shuttle to/from the airport at a different time, please contact the Adventure Consultant team to arrange a private shuttle for you.

Flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) are the guest’s responsibility. Multiple airlines operate connecting flights into JRO, but we recommend connecting through Amsterdam or Qatar. Most international airports in the U.S., Australia, Canada and Europe have flights that fly to these five connecting cities. The total travel time varies from 14 to 30 hours depending on the origin and number and duration of layovers.

Please Note: We recommend not flying with Kenya Airways because the connecting flight from Nairobi is often changed or cancelled, and they have a poor track record with losing luggage.

Porter Team

Anyone who has climbed to the summit of Kilimanjaro could not have achieved this goal without the tremendous support and effort made by local porters and guides. It takes a team not an individual to reach the summit of Africa and we have the upmost respect and fondness of every member of our expedition teams. Throughout Kilimanjaro’s climbing history and sadly still today, some porters do not receive the support and care from certain segments of the industry that they tirelessly deliver climb after climb to adventure travelers from all over the world.

We voluntarily participate with KPAP’s monitoring activities and allow KPAP to evaluate the treatment of our porters on all of our climbs. By climbing with us you can be assured that your porters are well taken care of.

KPAP also helps to improve the working conditions of porters by:

• Lending donated clothing at no charge to the mountain crew for use while climbing
• Educating the public on porter working conditions and climbing responsibly
• Providing industry guidelines for proper porter treatment
• Offering educational classes to porters

Please consider supporting KPAP by making a financial contribution to enable them to continue with their Partner for Responsible Travel Program and free services for porters. To make a donation, please visit https://kiliporters.org/

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.

In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the  Center for Disease Control website  for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.

Essential Eligibility Criteria

Essential Eligibility Criteria (“EEC”)  have been specifically identified to help you understand the skills and abilities necessary to participate on each Wildland trip, and they apply uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability.

Once you identify a trip in which you may be interested, please carefully review the  EEC  and itinerary details. If after reviewing the EEC that apply to your desired trip, you determine you need an accommodation in order to meet the EEC, please  contact us  prior to registering to discuss your requested accommodation.

The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. If you register and arrive for a trip for which you do not meet the EEC, you will be disqualified from participation on the trip and will be dismissed or evacuated from the trip without a refund.

Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.

Check out our  Meet Our Team  page for staff bios.

Guide Working Parameters

Guides are required to take 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down time…etc. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents/rooms  uninterrupted  for a minimum of 5 hours each night. We ask guests to respect these requirements and to not interrupt guides’ off time and sleep time unless there is a true emergency.

Age Restrictions

Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:

• 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
• 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis

Trip Insurance

Field evacuation, repatriation, and medical insurance is required on this trip as a condition of partnership terms with our Tanzanian vendors (field evacuation and repatriation minimum coverage is a combined $200,000 USD).

If you need to purchase field evacuation, repatriation, or medical insurance we recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance and policies meet all Tanzanian requirements.

For information on the recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please  click here .

For even greater information, or if you simply prefer communicating with a real, live person, feel free to contact our exclusive agent Michael Bennett. Michael will help you identify the best product for your needs, and there is no cost associated with his assistance. You may contact him at:

Email: [email protected] US by Phone: 877-305-9083 Direct/International by Phone: 702-448-3664

If you already have the required insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.

Weather on Kilimanjaro

The temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro vary tremendously from hot and exposed to quite cold. The trek from the national park entrance to the summit is the climatic equivalent of traveling from Brazilian rain forests to the Arctic in just a couple days. We will hike through 4 different ecological zones, representing a massive range of temperatures as we ascend toward the summit. Temperatures will be warm in Moshi.

The average temperatures and precipitation on Kilimanjaro are:

• Accommodations

KILIMANJARO WONDERS HOTEL

This is one of the first 4-star, boutique hotels in Moshi. It provides great, modern ambience and luxury facilities. Only 45 km from Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, it is a perfect home base to prepare for our trek up the mountain.  The view of the mountain from the roof top is outstanding! (A/C, heat, showers)

CHANYA LODGE

Chanya in Kiswahili translates to “positive” and this is the overall mission of Chanya Lodge’s dedication to their clientele. Located on the outskirts of Moshi, Chanya lodge is perfectly located in the foothills of the stately Mount Kilimanjaro. Here you’ll find 32 rooms, a plethora of carpeted-grass gardens, a large swimming pool, and a restaurant offering varied cuisine options.

PREMIER CAMPING

Our Kilimanjaro Treks feature premier camping with comfortable sleeping tents, kitchen tents, private portable bathroom tents, dedicated chefs, and a team of porters to carry and set up/break down camp each day. We provide all top-of-the-line gear. Our guests regularly rave about the camping accommodations on our Kilimanjaro adventures!

* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.

Trip Reviews

Average customer ratings:.

• 4.8 (19 reviews)
• Most recent

Trip of a Lifetime

This was my 5th trip with Wildland, and I continue to come back for the amazing memories they help create. The trip to Kilimanjaro was no different. As always, the people made the trip. We had the most incredible guides and support staff. They are truly superhuman. On the trail, during dinner, and just hanging out they make you smile. They encourage you up the mountain with songs, and there to help provide you the highest success rate possible. The tipping ceremony at the end is extra special as we all come together to share our final dinner and say goodbyes. This is a trip of a lifetime, and Wildland will make sure you always remember it.

Amazing Trip

A trip of a lifetime made even more outstanding by the care of Wildland. The team that guided us up the mountain anticipated our every need and gave us an amazing trip. I cannot wait for the next trip!

I can't wait for my next Wildland trip!

This trip was incredible! Seeing the diversity of vegetation and stark beauty of the summit crater were some of the highlights of my life thus far. Guides, porters, food, transportation and all accommodations were top notch. Highly recommend!

See All Guest Reviews!

Related trips, you might also like....

Nar Phu Service Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek

John Muir Trail: Florence Lake to Yosemite

• Similar Trips
• day by day itinerary
• logistical and travel information
• gear and clothing lists and more

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

First Name & Last Initial *

Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.

wildland Wires

Sign up to receive our exclusive Wildland Wire emails and stay up to date with Wildland Trekking's promotions, discounts, contests, outdoor tips and tricks, trip reports and more!

THE 10 BEST Kilimanjaro Region Tours & Excursions

Kilimanjaro region tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Materuni Waterfalls, coffee tour & Kikuletwa Hot Springs

2. Maasai village visit, Materuni waterfalls & coffee experience

3. Mountain Kilimanjaro Day Hike

4. Full Day Private Safari Tour - Arusha National Park

5. Best Kilimanjaro hiking day trip tour with Kilinge Adventures

6. Materuni Waterfalls, Visiting Chagga Village, CoffeeTour Kikuletwa Hotsprings

7. 4-Day Tarangire Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Maasai Guided Private Tour

8. 6 Days Serengeti Safari(hiking waterfalls &coffee tour)

9. Chemka Hotsprings

10. Experience Marangu Day Trip

11. Materuni Waterfall, Coffee Tour and Picnic Hot Lunch

12. Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Tour from Moshi

13. Kilimanjaro Airport taxi to/from Moshi town/Arusha town

14. Materuni Waterfalls and Coffee Tour

15. Maasai village visit and Chemka hot-springs with hot lunch.

16. 5 Days Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Manyara Joining Safari Tour Tanzania

17. Chagga Villages in Mount Kilimanjaro Cycling Day Trip

18. 1-Day Moshi Villages bike tour

19. Materuni Waterfalls and Coffee Tour With Banana Wine

20. The Best 6-Day Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour Via Machame route

21. 1-Day Safari to Materuni Waterfalls and Chemka Hot spring

22. Mount Kilimanjaro Day Hike Through Marangu Route to Mandara Hut

23. Chemka Hot Springs Tour from Moshi

24. 5-Day Tanzania Safari and Scenic Tour - Private Budget Safari

25. 6 Days best adventure kilimanjaro ,Tarangire ,Serengeti &Ngorongoro crater

26. Materuni waterfalls coffee tour & Chemka hot springs Day trip

27. Kilimanjaro National Park Day Trip

28. Kilimanjaro Airport Transfer

29. Full Day Private Materuni Waterfall and Kikuletwa Hot Spring Tour

30. Materuni Thundering Waterfalls,Coffee Experience with Moshi Town Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Materuni Waterfalls, coffee tour & Kikuletwa Hot Springs
• Mountain Kilimanjaro Day Hike
• Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Tour from Moshi
• Best Kilimanjaro hiking day trip tour with Kilinge Adventures
• Maasai village visit and Chemka hot-springs with hot lunch.
• Altezza Travel
• Monkey Adventures
• Spirit of Kilimanjaro
• Climbing Kilimanjaro
• Pristine Trails Adventures & Safaris
• Sirikwa Travel
• Oserok Trips
• Tanzania Horizon Safaris
• African Scenic Safaris
• Kilimanjaro Heroes Adventures
• Mboni Adventures
• Caracal Tours & Safaris
• Origin Trails
• Kisambi Tours
• Kilitwende Adventures

• You are here:
• All Tanzania Tours

Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing, Trekking and Hiking Tours

Your safari, tour length, rates in usd $ – change currency, starting from.

• Arusha (204)
• Zanzibar (2)
• Moshi (246)
• Dar es Salaam (1)
• Nairobi (1)
• Entebbe (0)
• Johannesburg (0)
• Victoria Falls Town (0)
• Kampala (0)
• Windhoek (0)
• Addis Ababa (0)
• Cape Town (0)
• Livingstone (0)
• Mombasa (0)
• Antananarivo (0)
• Hoedspruit (0)
• Port Elizabeth (0)
• Pretoria (0)
• Bujumbura (0)
• Hazyview (0)
• Diani Beach (0)
• Nelspruit (0)
• Upington (0)
• Blantyre (0)

Comfort Level

• Luxury+ (0)
• Mid-range (23)
• Budget (393)

Private or Shared Tour

• Private tour (256)
• Shared tour (198)

Safari Type

• Lodge, tented camp or hotel (159)
• Camping (295)

Operator Rating

• & up (423)

Specialized Tours

• Fly-in safaris (0)
• Beach time (8)
• Honeymoon (0)
• Gorilla trekking (0)
• Photographic safaris (0)
• Mountain climbing (454)
• Walking safaris (0)
• Self-drive (0)
• Guided self-drive (0)
• Chimp trekking (1)
• Overland tours (0)
• Cycling safaris (0)
• Canoe safaris (0)
• Horseback safaris (0)
• Birding tours (0)
• Accessible safaris (0)
• Golf & Wildlife (0)

Other Tour Features

• Airport transfer is included (411)
• Itinerary can be customized (306)

Filter by Operator

Filter by accommodation, operators from.

• South Africa (0)
• Tanzania (429)
• United Kingdom (8)
• United States (11)
• Australia (4)
• Belgium (0)
• Botswana (0)
• Canada (11)
• Comoros (0)
• Denmark (0)
• Ethiopia (0)
• Eswatini (1)
• Germany (1)
• Ireland (0)
• Lesotho (0)
• Madagascar (0)
• Mauritius (0)
• Mayotte (0)
• Mozambique (0)
• Namibia (0)
• Netherlands (0)
• New Zealand (0)
• Nigeria (0)
• Portugal (0)
• Reunion (0)
• Seychelles (0)
• Singapore (0)
• Switzerland (1)
• United Arab Emirates (0)
• Zimbabwe (0)

For many visitors to Africa, climbing Mt Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. The climb takes in muddy rainforests, unique high-altitude plants and alpine meadows before finally arriving at the glacier-coated summit. Standing tall above the savannahs of East Africa, Mt Kilimanjaro (5,895m/19,340ft) is an icon of Africa. But just how do you go about climbing Tanzania’s Mt Kilimanjaro and how fit do you have to be? We answer some of these common questions below.

11-Day Serengeti, Kilimanjaro Hike & Chimpanzee Trek

$4,298 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Budget Mountain Hut & Camping

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Mt Kilimanjaro, Mahale Mountains NP, Kigoma (Town) , Dar Es Salaam (End)

See Endless Adventures Tanzania   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  27 Reviews

7-Day All Tanzania Safari Parks, Mt Kilimanjaro & Maasai

$1,180 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Budget Camping & Hotel

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Lake Eyasi, Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Mt Kilimanjaro, Arusha (End)

Psalms Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  18 Reviews

10-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek

$5,277 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Budget Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Mt Kilimanjaro, Arusha (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

8-Day Kilimanjaro Adventure Lemosho Route

$2,090 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 30 people per group) Budget Camping

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Mt Kilimanjaro, Mt Kilimanjaro Summit, Foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Arusha (End)

Kili Slope Tours And Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  123 Reviews

7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Machame Route

$2,035 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per group) Budget Camping

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Machame Gate (Mt Kilimanjaro) , Mt Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak (Mt Kilimanjaro) , Mweka Gate (Mt Kilimanjaro) , Moshi (End)

5.0 /5  –  24 Reviews

10-Day Kilimanjaro Trekking Lemosho Route

$3,355 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 60 people per group) Budget Mountain Hut & Camping

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Mt Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak (Mt Kilimanjaro) , Kilimanjaro Airport, Moshi (End)

Dodo Group Tanzania   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  22 Reviews

9-Day Lemosho Route Unfogetable Climb

$4,269 pp (USD)

Gifted African Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  8 Reviews

5-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Summit Special

$1,499 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 10 people per group) Budget Mountain Hut

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Mt Kilimanjaro, Moshi (End)

Alpine Chat Adventure   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  28 Reviews

10-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking via Lemosho Route

$1,890 pp (USD)

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Mt Kilimanjaro, Kilimanjaro Airport, Moshi (End)

Taste of Kilimanjaro Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  13 Reviews

6-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Umbwe Route

$1,870 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per group) Budget Mountain Hut & Camping

Almighty Kilimanjaro   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  158 Reviews

9-Day Safari, Kilimanjaro Trek , Cultural & Scenic Tour

$2,530 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Mt Kilimanjaro, Maasai Village (Cultural Village) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Materuni (Highlight) , Arusha (End)

Colours Africa Tours and Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  157 Reviews

6-Day Rongai Route

$1,815 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 10 people per group) Budget Camping

Kilimanjaro Vikings   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  28 Reviews

7-Day Spcial Offer Mt Kilimanjaro Machame 7

$2,090 to $2,200 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 3 people per group) Budget Mountain Hut & Camping

AAA Express Adventure   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  71 Reviews

6-Day Climb Kilimanjaro via Marangu Route

$1,799 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 16 people per group) Budget Mountain Hut

Zara Tours   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro - the Machame Route

$1,991 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 10 people per group) Budget Camping & Hotel

Simba Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.7 /5  –  11 Reviews

3-Day Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater & Mt Kilimanjaro

$750 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Mt Kilimanjaro, Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Heavenly Laugh Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  4 Reviews

6-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route

$1,925 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per group) Budget Mountain Hut & Lodge

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Mt Kilimanjaro, Mt Kilimanjaro Summit, Moshi (End)

L S and Trekking   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  7 Reviews

8-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek

$2,816 pp (USD)

5.0 /5  –  357 Reviews

6-Day Kilimanjaro Trekking via Machame

$1,989 pp (USD)

Safari Nuggets   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  4 Reviews

4-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Hike Tarangire & Ngorongoro

$1,320 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Budget Mountain Hut & Lodge

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Mt Kilimanjaro, Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (End)

Dancing Simba Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  38 Reviews

Related Searches

• Tanzania Safari Tours
• Mt Kilimanjaro Travel Agencies
• African Mountain Climbing Tours
• Tanzania Mountain Climbing Tours
• Mt Meru Climbing Safaris
• Ol Doinyo Lengai Climbing Safaris
• Mt Longonot Climbing Tours
• Mt Bisoke Climbing Safaris
• Mt Kenya Hiking Tours
• Mt Elgon Climbing Safaris
• Rwenzori Mountains Climbing Tours
• Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Climbs

7 Questions About Kilimanjaro Mountain Climbing Tours

Answered by

Stuart butler.

Why should I choose a Kilimanjaro climbing tour?

“In 1923 George Mallory answered, “Because it’s there,” when a journalist asked him why he wanted to climb Mt Everest. It is a one-liner that applies equally to Mt Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. At 5,895m/19,340ft, Kilimanjaro is not just the highest mountain in Africa, it’s also the world’s largest freestanding mountain. Freestanding means it’s not a part of a mountain chain. More than that, Mt Kilimanjaro is an icon of Africa. For many people, the image of elephants in front of the mass of Kilimanjaro simply is Africa. While the size of the mountain inspires a sense of awe, it’s surprisingly easy to climb. As well, a week-long mountain climbing tour is easy to slot into a standard East African safari.”

How long do I need to complete the climb and does that include time to acclimatize?

“There are several different routes by which Kilimanjaro can be climbed. Some of these are only suitable for those with mountaineering experience. The standard route is the Marangu Route, often sold as a 4-night, 5-day return climb. However, the reality is you’ll be ascending to nearly 6,000m/19,685ft. This 5-day schedule doesn’t allow enough time to safely acclimatize. You should add at least a day to this schedule to allow for a safer ascent. Or, better, try one of the other longer and quieter routes, which will naturally allow for better acclimatization. The Shira Plateau Route, Machame Route or the Northern Circuit Route (the longest of the lot) are all safer ascents. As well as being more rewarding, these all have a fraction of the crowds of Marangu.”

What level of fitness and experience is required for a mountain climbing tour?

“Mt Kilimanjaro is a big mountain and no attempt on its summit should be taken lightly. That said, this is one of the easiest mountains of its height to climb. For all the standard routes, no special mountaineering experience or equipment is required. It’s merely a long but steady uphill climb. Any reasonably fit and determined person should be able to climb it. You will need very warm clothing, including a thick mountain jacket, thermals, gloves and a hat. You’ll also need a very warm four-season sleeping bag. The most common reason for not making it to the summit is altitude-related. The standard 5-day mountain climbing tour simply doesn’t give enough time to get fully acclimatized. It’s far better to add in an extra acclimatization day or to do a longer, more-gradual route than to try and rush up and down.”

What kind of accommodation will I stay in?

“Basic! Accommodation will either be in one of the very simple trekkers’ huts found on the mountain, or you’ll be camping. The huts are just that: a hut, with beds laid out dorm-style. The only form of heating will come from the other exhausted bodies sharing the hut. If you camp, then your chosen trekking company will provide small two-person dome tents. These offer a more comfortable night than in the huts. They are also more private! Better tour operators provide a much larger dining tent. The more upmarket companies will also provide tables and camp chairs. These extras might not sound like much but the added comfort they provide can really make the difference on your trek.”

What does a typical day look like on a Kilimanjaro climb?

“Days start early on Kilimanjaro and typically you’ll shiver your way out of your sleeping bag shortly after dawn. After a steaming bowl of porridge or similar, you’ll be back in your hiking boots to start walking. Aside from breaks to take in the wonderful scenery, or catch your breath, you’ll walk until lunchtime. There’ll be a hearty packed lunch. Then a couple more hours of walking before you arrive at your night spot by mid- to late afternoon. With any luck your porters might have arrived ahead of you and be boiling up a reviving cup of tea. Dinner is served early. Shortly after dark, most people snuggle back into the warmth of their sleeping bag and drift off to sleep. Take note that the more altitude you gain, the more disrupted your sleep is likely to be. Above 4,000m/13,100ft, a combination of the cold and a lack of oxygen make nights very uncomfortable. On summit day, you can give up on sleep altogether. Most people set off from camp around 1 AM. With the aid of flashlights, they walk through the night in order to be on the summit for dawn.”

How much will this tour cost?

“Climbing Kilimanjaro can be an expensive business. All trekkers must be on a package with a guide and at least one porter. The cheapest, shortest and most basic packages cost from US$1,250 per person for the 4-night, 5-day Marangu Route. Prices rise with each extra day and depend on the route you chose. The Shira Plateau Route costs a minimum of US$1,800 for a 7-day trek. This is the one we recommend due to its scenic variety and the opportunity it affords to properly acclimatize. It’s worth paying a little more in order to ensure better food and newer, better-quality tents. Plus, it’s worth having a guide who points out wildlife and interesting sites to you. Before booking a Kilimanjaro trip, be sure to check exactly what is and isn’t included. Remember that in all cases guides and porters will expect tips. This can add another couple of hundred dollars to even the cheapest Kilimanjaro climb.”

What should I consider when choosing a Kilimanjaro climbing tour?

“The most important question to ask yourself before deciding to climb Mt Kilimanjaro is whether you really have the stamina and desire to get to the top. Although not a hard mountain to climb, it’s certainly not a walk in the park. Expect long, energy-draining days, aching muscles, potential altitude problems and extreme cold. If none of these appeal, don’t sign up to a Kilimanjaro trip. You should also consider the season. July to October and January and February are the driest and most pleasant times to climb. Avoid the Wet season, when trails will be muddy or snowbound and views limited. Finally, allow plenty of time to acclimatize. Most people don’t, and many end up regretting that decision as altitude sickness is often the result. ”

Deals of the Week   Green Hikes & Treks   Up to 50% OFF

Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Mount Kilimanjaro

Explore a wide diversity of fully guided tours through Mount Kilimanjaro. We have 406 adventures that vary from 1 days to 28 days. With the greatest number of departures in June, this is also the most popular time of the year.

250+ fully guided Mount Kilimanjaro tours with 2,093 positive reviews

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes
• Christmas & New Year

Mt Kilimanjaro Trek - Marangu Route

Well organised and excellent support from the guides and all of the G fighters

Kilimanjaro climbing machame route 7 days

We had a fantastic experience with Almighty Kilimanjaro. All 7 of us made it to the top. Our Guides, cooks, and porters had every detail in hand. Swalahi is the best chief guide ever. The Machame 7 day route was perfect to prepare us to make the summit. What a way to celebrate my 65th birthday, and do it with my wife and 2 sons. We have no regrets with our Almighty. If we were ever to do it again we would not go with anyone else. They earned our total confidence.

9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing - Machame Route

Noel and Sunday are amazing guides we never met before and there is no doubt that they played a big part in making this adventure one we will always remember! I and my sister made it to the top safely with all smiles :)) we will never forget about the stories shared along the way up and always remember how amazing the Tanzanian people are. Thank you so much for your help :))

Mount Kilimanjaro climbing via Marangu Route 8 days Tanzania (all accommodation and transport are included)

spider tours and safaris is a local Company and that is one of the reasons we chose them, in order to support a local Company. They are very serious in the pre-booking and we managed to book several tours that were linked. Our first tour was safari in Serengeti and Ngorongoro crater. Our driver was Rojas, he picked us up at the border from Kenya and drove us to Serengeti. It was an Amazing 3 Days with Rojas, doing safari from North Serengeti to central and then the crater. We saw the big five and lived at Amazing lodges already prebooked with spider tours and safaris. Rojas also took us to a masai village (I would skip that, it is a rip off). He was a very good driver and guide and we had super fun with him in the car! Then the last day he drow us to Moshi, to our hotel were we met our guide for our Kilimanjaro tour (also booked with spider tours and safaris). The only thing we felt here was that we are hikers from Scandinavia and we were already equipped with warm clothes, so they sold us over a 100 dollars of rental, most of we needed but the thermal pants and the extra flees I never used. However the rest of the trip, was Amazing. Beautiful scenery, Amazing chef, Amazing porters. They made us come up on the top, which was a huge success. They also helped with transports when we got back to the hotel and to the Airport and were super helpful and friendly. Also a fair price to climb the mountain. I highly recommend them!!

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing - Rongai Route

Wooow, we made it!! Very fun and memorable experience!! Thanks to our guides and to the rest of the team! They were so much helpful, skilled and knowledgeable with their crafts. Steppe Dogs Adventures provided us with everything we need to make it to the top. Great food, equipment, and service! Asante sana!!

Kilimanjaro: Machame Route

This was an incredibly challenging and rewarding trip. The Intrepid guides were so knowledgeable, friendly and professional. We had a fantastic group with great dynamics, the food was good, the equipment was well looked after, our porters were such hard workers and our guides knew everything there was to know about the mountain and how to best deal with the altitude and looked after us all really well. I highly recommend climbing Kili with Intrepid.

Kilimanjaro - Machame Route & Zanzibar Adventure

Definitely worth it every second!

8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing - Lemosho Route

I went by myself for the 8 days Mount Kilimanjaro via Lemosho route, it was affordable and the guide and team of porters were great and really helped in getting me to the summit! I can't recommend Steppe Dogs Adventure enough, especially if your looking to do it on a budget. They kept the food plain and simple as well which I really appreciated.

Kilimanjaro climb machame route 6 days

We had the most amazing time climbing up Kilimanjaro. It was five days in which we covered 29 hours of walking, seeing the most amazing views and passing through different terrain. Muntari & Frankie were both very professional and fun guides who helped us through our journey up the mountain. Nicolas was a great host and waiter, attending to all of our needs throughout the time at camp. The chef put on some great meals, especially considering that we reached up to base camp of around 4,000 metres high. I would highly recommend anyone getting a shower and a toilet whilst booking this trip, both home comforts that made the camping nicer. It was an amazing trip and we feel very blessed that we had the opportunity to do it with such a fabulous company, we wouldn’t recommend anyone other than Muntari and the team. Thank you very much.

8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing - Machame Route

It was amazing 8 days in Machame Route on Kilimanjaro with Arnold and Sunday's guidance. Sunday is full of energy and active. Arnold is more quiet and full of patient. Both of them are all very professional and experiential on Mountain. Without their help, I might not be able to summit successfully. Not just guides, we got a very good supportive team, no matter cook, server and porters. They were doing the hardest and most physical challenging work for us. With their support made the trekking much easier. Lots of respect to them. Thank you so much Steppe Dogs Adventures and all the team members!!

8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing - Marangu Route

I and my dad had a great time trekking Mount Kilimanjaro with Steppe Dogs Adventures. The crew was professional. Everything were well organized from office staff to the mountain crew. We really enjoyed our trekking and when it became tough for us our guides were there to assist. We strongly recommend this company to anyone planning to go Tanzania. asante sana :)

Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 8 Day

I recently completed the Kilimanjaro climb via the Lemosho route with Kili Economy Safari, and it was truly a remarkable experience. The 8-day journey was well-organized, safe, and highly enjoyable. The stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and excellent support team made this adventure unforgettable. I highly recommend this trip to anyone looking for a challenging yet rewarding trek.

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Machame Route 9 Days (all accommodation and transport are included)

Incredibly impressed with this guide and porter of spider tours and safaris company. I did Kilimanjaro as part of a group of 10. We were treated incredibly by all of our team throughout the trip. The food was amazing and plenty of it. We always had as much cold treated water as we wanted and all 10 of us summit-ed. Also, unlike some other groups on the mountain, we had roll matts provided and another tent for eating etc. "The mess tent!"

Kilimanjaro Climb Machame Route 7 Days

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with Kwesa Tours was an unforgettable triumph! The professionalism and expert guidance from Julian, Edward, and Chasaka truly made this the experience of a lifetime. The breathtaking landscapes, the camaraderie within our group, and the unwavering support from the entire team made reaching the summit an achievement that will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you, Kwesa Tours, for making my dream of conquering Kilimanjaro a reality.

Kilimanjaro Climb Lemosho Route 8 Days

The most amazing experience ever. Kilimanjaro Lemosho route So good I had to come back and do it again. KWESA Tours was with me from beginning to end. From the moment I enquired to booking to landing in Tanzania till I left. The support was absolutely amazing and very professional. Their guides are truly the best. Multilingual and extremely professional with a smile. I have to say I never thought that I would feel as supported as I did. What else would you expect from a company that’s been in the industry for almost 10 years. That’s a lot of experience and it shows when you book with them. Highly recommend KWESA Tours and I’m going to keep coming back. Still want to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. Who’s coming with me back to it again with KWESA?

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Mount Kilimanjaro

What an incredible trip. It exceeded my expectations. The route was out of this world and to top it off I met some amazing people along the way. Almighty Kilimanjaro were brilliant, i felt in safe hands the whole time. They knew the mountain of the back of their hands. Their timings and organisation were consistently conducted with a professional, positive and friendly can do attitude. Our guides were Muntari and Frank. I highly recommend them if you ever book with Almighty Kilimanjaro. They were amazing. The rest of the supporting staff were also incredible and we would not of been successful without them.

I can strongly recommend to book your Kilimanjaro trekking with Steppe Dogs Adventures! Every day was well organized and our guides and cook and porters were very friendly, funny and helpful. We feel us like a big family. Special Thank you to our brilliant Noel David, our attentive assistant guide Sunday Mtui and our cheerful Muddy who prepared our daily delicious meals!

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided

Other Regions in Tanzania

• Northern Circuit Tanzania (1680)
• Tarangire National Park (141)
• Serengeti National Park (125)
• Ngorongoro National Park (108)
• Mount Meru (81)
• Zanzibar (81)
• Southern Circuit Tanzania (53)
• Mikumi National Park (37)
• Selous Game Reserve (33)
• Ruaha National Park (11)
• Western Tanzania (5)

Other types in Mount Kilimanjaro

• Budget (128)
• Hiking & Trekking (654)
• Group (554)
• Christmas & New Year (447)
• Personalized (403)
• Family (394)
• Partially Guided (262)
• Mountain Hikes (238)
• Active (201)
• Explorer (155)
• Private (120)
• Camping (56)
• Safari (26)
• Bicycle (13)
• Wildlife (10)
• Photography (9)
• Self-Guided (6)
• Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: Facts, Height & Maps
• How to Get to Kilimanjaro (from Nairobi & other Airports)
• Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro? [Month by Month]
• Kilimanjaro Insurance, Vaccinations, Visa and Permits
• Kilimanjaro Packing List
• How to Prepare for Kilimanjaro Climb
• Best 10 Kilimanjaro Tour Operators & Trekking Companies

International Versions

• Deutsch: Geführte Rundreise Kilimandscharo
• Français: Circuits et voyages Entièrement guidé – Mont Kilimandjaro
• Español: Totalmente guidado circuitos en Monte Kilimanjaro
• Nederlands: Volledig Begeleid Rondreizen in De Kilimanjaro

• BOOK YOUR NEXT TRIP
• 206.378.1927
• GEAR ACCOUNT

Mount Kilimanjaro

(19,340ft/5,895m) tanzania, climb mount kilimanjaro.

Overview | The Mountain | FAQ’s | READING LIST | ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

Climb Kilimanjaro with Alpine Ascents

“Of all the great guide services on Kilimanjaro, Alpine Ascents might be the best. Its success rate is close to 96%, and though its treks are longer and pricier, they avoid the jam-packed Marangu Route.” – Outside Magazine. Selected once again by Outside Magazine !

Named one of the Top Adventure Tour Outfitters in the World by Travel + Leisure, who highlighted our Kilimanjaro trip. We are proud to be the only climbing company chosen as a 5 star outfitter.

Acclaimed by climbers, industry professionals, and media alike, Alpine Ascents provides a one-of-a-kind experience on Kilimanjaro. We employ a professional mountain guide from our Seattle-based staff on each trip. Your guide is generally one of our full-time Alpine Ascents mountaineering guides and adds an unmatched level of summit success and risk awareness based on their broad range of climbing experience. Our guides are Kilimanjaro climbing experts first and foremost, but have an extensive mountaineering and wilderness medical background.

Our “real ” success rate is over 95% for the last 25 years.

Every one of our Kilimanjaro expeditions is led by an professional mountaineer;  a very unique part of our ability to offer the highest quality, safety conscious expeditions.

See guides at:    Alpine Ascents mountain guide.

Please note all our Kilimanjaro staff is fully vaccinated.

We Offer Three Routes To Climb Kilimanjaro

Every one of our Kilimanjaro expeditions is led by an  Alpine Ascents mountain guide.

The right route for you: why we recommend the 7 Day Machame, 8 Day Lemosho or the 9 Day Lemosho.

Choosing a route is not as complicated as some would have you believe: Alpine Ascents, using a western guide, has an approximately 96% success rate.

Machame 7 Day Route – This has been our bread-and-butter Kilimanjaro climbing route over the last 30 years, traveling through five distinct ecosystems in seven days. This is the classic climb of Kilimanjaro with Alpine Ascents. Most of our offerings are on the Machame and with over a 95% success is an excellent non-technical route for both beginners and those with some prior climbing experience. It should be noted that the “Lemosho” becomes the Machame route on day 3 or 4.

The Lemosho 8 Day Route – Starting on the Western slope of Kilimanjaro and joining the Machame route on day 4. Enjoys an extra day of acclimatization with the additional camp at 13,400 feet. This is an excellent route for those who want an extra day on the mountain compared to the Machame route. Like the Machame we maintain an over 95% success rate on this route.

Lemosho 9 Day Route  – Our nine-day Kilimanjaro climbing itinerary is geared toward the very fit trekker/climber with a chance to sleep at the crater floor after summit. This program has an extra camp above 15,000 feet in the middle of the climb to help with acclimatization. The route is similar to the 8 day, adding a night after the summit in the crater floor, giving a half day for climbers to explore the crater, glaciers and the ash pit – simply fantastic! The 9 day also has a later start time on summit day, leaving around 6am by morning light, rather than headlamp.

It was without a doubt the most enjoyable expedition I have been a part of. From the beginning to end, the level of competency, attention to detail, knowledge base, and guideship was top notch. Not only was the western guide a pillar of knowledge, the Tanzanian crew were clearly a cut above the other outfits crews. My partner and I were incredibly satisfied with every aspect of the expedition. From the guide, to the Tanzanian crew, to the accommodations and meals, the entire expedition was incredibly enjoyable and exceeded our expectations. On a scale of 1-10, everything was a 10! I would go anywhere in the world with you.

Most outfitters employ local African staff with relatively limited climbing and medical skills, and many are simply safari or trekking companies, as their name implies. In addition to providing a professional, US-based guide, we offer the utmost in quality of services that include chef-prepared meals, dining tents, and real toilet tents. This creates a unique blend of high-end luxury tour company and professional mountain guiding.

Alpine Ascents’ Success on Kilimanjaro:

We have been guiding Kilimanjaro for over 20 years with over 95% true summit success, touting one of the highest success and safety records in the industry. In recent years we have led over 1,000 people to the summit! (Some outfitters do not count all climbers in their statistics.)

Ascending Kilimanjaro with a mountain climbing organization will greatly improve your chances of success, and we provide one of our Seattle-based guides to lead every scheduled expedition. Every trip is organized with the utmost care and quality: from our lead Western guide, to chef-prepared meals, to dining and toilet tents. We look to take care of all elements with great attention to detail.

Every one of our Kilimanjaro expeditions is led by an  Alpine Ascents mountain guide.   Along with our lead guide, we employ highly experienced local guides and generally have a 2:1 climber-to-guide ratio.  On summit night we typically add other local senior staff, bringing the climber to guide ratio to better than 2:1.  Most of these experienced local guides have between 100-500 summits each and have worked with us for many years.  Some have been guiding for between 20-35 years on Kilimanjaro.  The importance of this level of experience can not be emphasized enough.

Absolutely enjoyed it! Everything — from general coordination and accommodations to small details like the flowers on the table in our dining tent — was amazing. All of the guides were wonderful. I feel I learned a lot from all of the guides – Swahili, backpacking and climbing skills, nutrition/hydration, dealing with altitude, and general information about the mountain, Tanzania, the culture, etc. By the end, the entire crew felt like a big family. Everything was top of the line and I was amazed at the five-course meals we had all day long. AAI does so much so well that it would be difficult to list all of the strengths! Clearly everything is well-organized and executed. Our group was the envy of the mountain! My expectations were not just met, they were exceeded – in fact, they were exceeded time and time again! The level of organization for the entire trip was outstanding, from being met at the airport through the summit and return!

Climb Kilimanjaro Pricing

Machame Route 7 Day Climb + 4 Day Safari: $7,970 / $8,350 ( summer 2025 ) 7 Day Climb Only: $5,420 / $5,700 ( summer 2025 )

Lemosho Route 9 Day Climb + 4 Day Safari: $9,370 / $9,850 ( summer 2025 ) 9 Day Climb Only: $6,820 / $7,200 ( summer 2025 )

8 Day Climb + 4 Day Safari: $8,770 / $9,200 ( summer 2025 ) 8 Day Climb Only: $6,220 / $6,500 ( summer 2025 )

Note: climb only itinerary 3 days shorter for all routes

Climb Kilimanjaro Schedule

Summer 2024 Machame Route unless noted otherwise

June 22 – July 6, 2024 –  1 space remaining Lead Guide: Eric Murphy July 6 – 20, 2024 –  Sold Out Lead Guide: Eric Murphy July 20 – Aug. 3, 2024 Lead Guide: Eric Murphy August 2 – 17, 2024 – 8-Day Lemosho Lead Guide: Rachel Molstad Aug. 3 – 17, 2024 Lead Guide: Ben Jones August 14 – 30, 2024 – 9-Day Lemosho Lead Guide: Rachel Molstad Aug. 17 – 31, 2024 Lead Guide: Ben Jones Aug. 31 – Sept. 14, 2024 Lead Guide: Ben Jones Sept. 14 – 28, 2024 Lead Guide: Ben Jones

Winter 2024-25 Machame Route unless noted otherwise

Dec. 6 – 20, 2024 Dec. 19, 2024 – Jan. 2, 2025 Dec. 27, 24 – Jan. 12, 25 – 9 Day Lemosho  Jan. 10 – Jan. 24, 2025 Jan. 18 – Feb. 2, 2025 – 8-Day Lemosho Jan. 19 – Feb. 2, 2025 Lead Guide: Ben Jones Jan. 31 – Feb. 14, 2025 Lead Guide: Ben Jones Feb. 9 – 23, 2025 Lead Guide: Ben Jones Feb. 21 – Mar. 7, 2025 Lead Guide: Ben Jones

Summer 2025 Machame Route unless noted otherwise

June 21 – July 5, 2025 July 5 – July 19, 2025 July 19 – August 2, 2025 August 2 – August 16, 2025 August 16 – August 30, 2025 August 30 – September 13, 2025 September 13 – September 27, 2025

CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY

Climbing Level

No prior climbing experience is required.

Pack Weight

Climbers must be able to carry an average of 15 lbs.

Physical Conditioning to Climb Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro, at 19,340 ft. is an extreme, high-altitude climb and is perhaps the most underestimated of the seven summits. You should be comfortable walking four to eight hours per day. Summit day is the most demanding portion of the climb, typically involving eight hours for the ascent, and six to seven hours for the descent. Our expeditions require strength and endurance. Being in sound physical condition is the single most important aspect for climbers to maximize their climbing potential. The better your physical condition, the more likely you are to perform well and have an enjoyable experience. The most frequent comment we have received over the years is that climbers have underestimated the fitness level needed to fully enjoy their trip. Additionally, inadequate fitness will affect the atmosphere, pace, and overall enjoyment of the climb for all participants. We highly recommend checking with your physician before undertaking any strenuous activity. Comprehensive training information can be found here .

The Mountain

Crowned by eternal snows, the mighty Kilimanjaro (19,340 ft.) is the highest free-standing mountain in the world and dominates its landscape unlike any other mountain. Located in Tanzania, this dormant volcano looms over five ecosystems and large game reserves, and is certainly one of the world’s most impressive sights. The terrain is nothing short of dramatic. As a mountaineering company, we treat this adventure as a mountain climbing expedition. We offer scheduled departures for two routes on the mountain: the Machame Route and the Lemosho Route.

Kilimanjaro is unique in many ways, but stands as the only one of the seven summits (the highest points on each continent) that is truly a nontechnical climb. Using well-marked trails to the summit along with our expert guide staff, a fit enthusiast has an excellent chance of reaching the summit. The combination of our expert guides, choice of routes, success and safety record has set Alpine Ascents apart from our peers. We invite you to review the “Why Climb With Us?” section of our website.

Kilimanjaro is an attractive climb for anyone interested in a physical challenge: climbers, wilderness enthusiasts, and hikers alike. Over the past 20 years, we have emerged as a leader in guiding climbs on Kilimanjaro, applying expertise from other formidable mountains to the wilds of Africa. We consider the Kilimanjaro climb and safari expedition to be one of the most appealing and treasured adventure experiences we offer.

Following our climb, we begin a four-day safari to the spectacular game parks of Tanzania, Ngorongoro Crater, The Tarangire River and National Park, and Serengeti National Park. Throughout the safari, we lodge in luxurious hotels and travel by Land Cruiser across the Great Rift Valley, following wildebeests, lions and other indigenous wildlife. More details can be found in our Safari Overview page and on our Itinerary pages.

Unique Characteristics

Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano composed of three extinct volcanic cones of varying ages:  Kibo (5,895 m); Mawenzi (5,149 m); and Shira (3,962 m). It is one of the world’s highest free-standing mountains: its mass rises 4,800 m above a rolling plain that averages 1,000 m above sea level. After reaching a height thought to be 5,900 m during its last major eruption 360,000 years ago, Kibo has been eroded by glaciers, rivers, and landslides to its present height.  It is believed that Kilimanjaro, like its neighbor Mt. Kenya, is losing glaciers due to localized deforestation and global warming.

The Name Kilimanjaro

Given the stature and greatness of Kilimanjaro, there is relatively little recorded history of the peak. Even the origins of the name present somewhat of a dilemma. Many people believe the name derived from the Kishwahili tribal name, Kilima, meaning “mountain.” The local Wachagga people claim to have no name for Kilimanjaro, but did name the dual peaks “Kipoo” and “Kimawenzi.”

Alpine Ascents Climb Kilimanjaro Frequently Asked Questions

Upon sign up we will forward our famed comprehensive pre-trip planning details.

All of our Kilimanjaro climbs avoid the two rainy seasons in Tanzania: the “long rains” in April and May and the “short rains” from late October through November. It is important to understand, however, that weather on Kilimanjaro is as changeable and unpredictable as mountain weather all over the world is. Some light rain is virtually constant in the lower sections of the mountain throughout the year, but it might dry out on any given day or week. And the upper reaches of the mountain, which are quite arid, can see passing rain or snow storms at any time of year.

Even though it is only about three degrees south of the equator, Northern Tanzania has surprisingly variable temperatures through different times of the year. July and August are generally referred to as “winter” by the locals, and it is the coolest time of the year in Nairobi and Arusha. Nighttime lows are typically about 48 degrees F, and daytime highs might only be in the high 60’s or 70’s. You are probably thinking these sound like very pleasant temperatures, and you are right. We tell people, “if you leave the US in the summer months and travel to East Africa, you are going to a cooler climate.” This is surprising to most people, but very true. Safari, and the time you spend in Arusha during these months, can be wonderful in terms of weather – never as hot and steamy as you probably imagine tropical Africa to be. Similarly, if you are on a trip during our winter, you will find the weather to be as much influenced by altitude as latitude. It is warmer in December or February, but it is still not extremely humid or hot.

The above description is for the lower elevations. It gets very different on the upper reaches of the mountain. Talk to anyone who has climbed Kilimanjaro at any time of the year, and they will probably comment about how cold they got on summit day. This has more to do with the mild hypoxia (lack of oxygen) and the exertion that climbers experience, than it has to do with temperatures, or even wind. When you go to 19,000 ft., anywhere on the earth, at any time of year, you need to have very efficient insulation and be prepared to conserve your body’s energy effectively. There is little difference in the degree of “warm” that can be experienced on a summit day on Kilimanjaro at any given time of year.

The most popular months on Kilimanjaro are July and August, with December running a close third. Alpine Ascents’ trips tend to fill at any time of year they are run, but you will see fewer people from other groups in months other than August or December.

Most trips run with between 12 and 15 people – though we will run smaller groups if a certain date has fewer sign ups. We also run Private Climbs year round.

We currently use three-person tents on our Kilimanjaro program. Two climbers per tent.

Yes, we have a large dining tent and tables and chairs that are used at all camps. (OK, sometimes we forgo the table and chairs at High Camp) These are especially nice if it happens to rain. Often people will go inside to get their food and then eat outdoors in beautiful evening light. We also provide toilet tents with commodes.

You will need a medium-sized backpack (say 2,500 to 3,500 cubic inches) that can hold your layers of clothing for changing temperatures and activity levels through the day. One thing that many people do not expect is the porters who carry your large bags will probably move slower that you do. It is not uncommon to get to camp as the afternoon and evening temperatures cool off, ahead of the porters, but with lots of photographs to be taken and relaxing to be done. You need to be prepared to be inactive through part of each day, as well as to hike. Most people carry packs that weigh about 20 lbs. You could pare this down to perhaps 15 if you were careful, but with a lot of camera equipment, or other personal preference-type items, it might be more.

We always plan to go to Uhuru, the true summit of Kilimanjaro, at 19,340 ft. A medical emergency that would require a lead guide’s attention rather than an African guide’s would be the only reason that they would not, but this has not happened to date.

We normally take one or two lead, or “chief,” African guides, plus three assistant African guides, for a total of five guides (including our guide) on a typical summit attempt. All of these guides are well-known to us and we have done many successful summits together. Obviously, this does not leave options for an unlimited number of turn-arounds during the summit attempt, but we have always been able to get people who really need to descend headed in the right direction very quickly, and under excellent care and supervision. This is in addition to our staff of lesser assistant guides, porters, cooks, cooks’ helpers – a staff of 50+ on full expeditions.

We offer carefully planned, highly nutritious meals prepared by trained chefs on the mountain; food quality is one of the highest praises we receive. It is not just about the great food, but getting the right food during such a demanding climb. As a climbing company (as opposed to a safari or light trekking company), we understand what and how people need to eat while in the mountains. We are happy to give you an outline of our menu plan. The quality of our expedition food is well known for all our expeditions, but is something special on Kilimanjaro climbs.

Resupplying during our trip allows us to provide lots of fresh and whole grain cooked foods. We have the best chefs and food on the mountain, hands down.

Here is a link to a sample menu in pdf.

We have private toilet tents set up at every camp. These are clean, sit down, commode-type toilets with water.

Yes, all hotels for the scheduled trip, meals on the mountain and on safari, airport transfers, and shuttle to Arusha are included. One thing that is not included in town and on safari are bottled drinks (soft drinks, bottled water, alcohol.) Also not included are tips at the hotels, tips for safari drivers, and tips for guides and porters at the end of the trip on the mountain.

We stay in high-standard safari lodges run by the renowned Sopa chain. We use these places to relax and reward ourselves after a rigorous climb. They really are beautiful in terms of setting and amenities. The safari drives have their own demands, long dusty days, and a lot of excitement and adventure with all the wildlife. One of the greatest feelings is to go into your room at the end of one of these days, get a shower and some clean clothes on, and go have a nice dinner with your friends who you recently climbed Kilimanjaro with. The sun will be setting on the African landscape and the large glass windows will scarcely separate you from this. Pretty civilized. We currently stay at the Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, Tarangire Sopa Lodge, and Serengeti Sopa Lodge on our four-day, three-night Safari.

You will be in a Land Cruiser, with a maximum of five or six per vehicle. An experienced guide will drive your vehicle. He is the only person who ever drives his vehicle and is responsible for its complete operation and maintenance for the two to three years it sees service after it is purchased new by our agent in Arusha. The only seat that sometimes becomes undesirable if the vehicle is full is the front seat with the driver. Everyone in the back is under a canopy that extends up so that you can stand for wildlife viewing and photography while you are in the parks.

On the mountain, we will provide you with a large three- to four-gallon cooler of water at each camp, and during our sit down lunches. This water is cartridge filtered by the staff using a large, commercial Katydyn filter. We strongly recommend that each client then treats this water one liter at a time as you fill your bottles several times each day, using iodine or other recommended water treatment solutions. We have found that this two-stage process is the most effective in preventing water-borne issues. Steri Pens work well, but use a lot of batteries and can break, so you always need the backup treatment pills.

For the past few seasons, we have relied on the satellite phone for possible emergency communication while we are on the mountain. Things change from season to season, however. We also carry a cell phone and radio phone on the mountain and safari. All our Kilimanjaro trips are run in our normal, self-contained expedition style. That is to say, complete medical kits and equipment to deal with emergencies travel with us. This self-reliant approach is especially important in Tanzania where, unlike, say, Nepal, helicopter evacuation is very limited. The staff of 40+ experienced Chagga men who travel with each group are who we really rely on for possible emergency response. If necessary, they could carry an injured person, and they can run from any location on our route to a road head and telephones in less than one day.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

Created by longtime Kilimanjaro guide, Eric Murphy, with help from our local contractor, Nicholas Minja of Big Expeditions, we began utilizing an extra porter or two on each trip, and instructed them to pick up any excess garbage from other groups during our seven days on the mountain. During an average trip, we were removing up to 80 kg (165 lbs.) of extra trash. The Kilimanjaro National Park quickly took notice. In late 2012, a new park warden was elected to manage Kilimanjaro National Park, and he increased the national park’s enforcement of garbage removal. The park is now looking the cleanest we have seen it in recent times. We continue to encourage Kilimanjaro National Park to educate local operators, tourists, and porters about Leave No Trace principles (LNT) while enjoying the mountain.

Alpine Ascents is deeply committed to maintaining ecosystems at home and around the world. With each expedition, trek, and course, we not only attempt to leave the environment as we found it, but strive to assist the local population in protecting the land and people indigenous to that region. Alpine Ascents reaches for the highest ethical business practices at home and abroad. Each staff member is dedicated to environmentally sound alpine ascents. On Kilimanjaro, Alpine Ascents now hires at least one porter per trip whose sole purpose is to oversee waste removal and clean up.

At Alpine Ascents, environmental stewardship remains one of our core values and we take Leave No Trace ethics and practices very seriously. The mountains are our home and we are unwilling to sacrifice their preservation for human objectives. On every one of our courses and climbs we teach and follow the environmentally appropriate Leave No Trace principles and practices.

Over the years, with the assistance of our Sherpa teams, we have stepped up efforts to clean Mt. Everest. Our Wag Bag® program made a pioneering step in human waste management for the National Park System and Forest Service in the North Cascades. On Aconcagua, we pioneered a waste removal system on our climbs, utilizing the WAG Bag® system. And we continue our on-going maintenance and minimal impact plans wherever we guide. We believe that given the proper information, most people will do all they can to help protect and maintain the environment. Alpine Ascents is committed to developing risk cognizant, self-reliant, and environmentally conscious mountaineers.

Supporting Local Climbing Staff

COVID-19 Hunger Relief Fund for Kilimanjaro Crew: Our Kilimanjaro Program Manager and longtime Kilimanjaro guide Eric Murphy launched a fundraiser to benefit the Tanzanian staff and crew of Big Expeditions – our partner company and outfitter on the mountain.  You can read more about the fundraiser and how to contribute on our blog.

Recent Kilimanjaro Newsletters

READING LIST

This is a highly recommended shortlist and we would be happy to pass on a longer reading list for those interested. These links will bounce to Amazon.com with reviews.

The Shadow of Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro & Mount Kenya: A Climbing and Trekking Guide

The Snows of Kilimanjaro: And Other Stories

Zombies on Kilimanjaro: A Father/Son Journey Above the Clouds

This is an awesome program that has been carefully planned and put together by Alpine Ascents. The level of preparation required by participants is very high however, Alpine Ascents makes sure months in advance that participants train accordingly.

Mount Kilimanjaro BLOG

2022 Kilimanjaro Webinar

Are you planning on climbing to the roof of Africa this summer?  If so, check out the 2022 Kilimanjaro webinar that we hosted on May 25th.  Our Kilimanjaro Program Director, Eric Murphy, outlined our COVID-19 protocols, the Tanzanian VISA process, and gave a detailed overview of the trip and what to expect.  We wrapped up […]

Kilimanjaro COVID-19 Hunger Relief Update

by Eric Murphy  Our ongoing and very successful ($37,000 +) Kilimanjaro Covid-19 Hunger Relief Fundraiser has just completed the 2nd food distributions for all 310 crew and staff. Members from our Tanzanian partner company Big Expeditions handled all aspects of whole purchase and transport of over 12,000 lbs of rice, corn and sugar. Arusha crew […]

Kilimanjaro: A Tribute to our Tanzanian Crew

by Paul Koubek  As one of the western guides fortunate to work with the Alpine Ascents Kilimanjaro Program, when I was asked to write a blog post about any topic I wanted, the first thing that came to mind for me about my experience on Kilimanjaro was: the people! Every Alpine Ascents climb of Kilimanjaro […]

WHY BOOK WITH ALPINE ASCENTS

Knowledge & expertise.

Alpine Ascents International leads expeditions that have become benchmarks of quality in the climbing community. We operate what we believe is the finest mountaineering school in the country. This expertise is based upon years of accumulated experience-not just from individual mountain guides, but through experience on particular mountains where details are fine-tuned over time.

Our guides are an integral part of Alpine Ascents because they understand and share our climbing principles. These individuals are dedicated to sharing their excellence with others. Many of our guides have been with Alpine Ascents for over five years, with a handful of veterans working with us for most of their careers. The quality of our Guide Staff is the primary difference between us and our competitors.

Environmental Reponsibility

Leave No Trace principles are fundamental to our program, and we encourage all who climb and trek with us to understand proper wilderness practices. We help facilitate this effort by passing on Leave No Trace training and literature to every Alpine Ascents climber.

Partners & Accreditations

Tanzania Exploration Tours and Safari’s

• Usa River, Arusha, Tanzania
• +255 686 166 360

Africa is Calling... Escape Now

African wilderness experts.

Come Experience the wild and untamed beauty of Africa with Tanzania Exploration. For the most unforgettable wildlife safari’s, life altering Mt Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions and relaxing Zanzibar Island beach vacations, let Tanzania Exploration take you on a journey through the heart of Tanzania, where you will encounter the majestic wildlife of the Serengeti, the magnificent views of the Ngorongoro Crater, and the rich and vibrant culture of the indigenous Maasai people.

Our Tanzania tour packages are designed to offer you luxurious and authentic African experiences with superb accommodation and sumptuous meals, expert wilderness guides and trackers and a host of exciting adventure activities to choose from.  

COME EXPLORE THE WONDERS OF TANZANIA WITH TANZANIA EXPLORATION

AFRICAN WILDERNESS SAFARI'S

ZANZIBAR ISLAND VACATIONS

COME EXPLORE THE WONDERS OF TANZANIA WITH    TANZANIA EXPLORATION

Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking

Our Expert Mount Kilimanjaro trekking Guides are highly skilled with extensive trekking experience to get you to the summit effortlessly. There are several routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro , with varying levels of difficulty and scenery. Enquire about our 7 official routes on Kilimanjaro that are recognized by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) as well as our recommendation for a successful summit. The best Kilimanjaro Tour company – Tanzania Exploration – Let us get you to the Top!!!

TANZANIA EXPLORATION TOURS MT KILIMANJARO TREKKING

MT KILIMANJARO EXPEDITIONS WITH TANZANIA EXPLORATION

Ever wandered, where is Mount Kilimanjaro located? Well, Mt Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania, a country in East Africa. It is situated near the border with Kenya, approximately 340 kilometers (211 miles) south of the equator. Kilimanjaro is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park and is the highest mountain in Africa, with its summit reaching an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. It consists of three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Kilimanjaro is a popular destination for climbers and trekkers from around the world. Planning to climb Mt Kilimanjaro and have endless questions on what to expect on Mt Kilimanjaro, Mt Kilimanjaro temperatures, Mt Kilimanjaro climbing, Mt Kilimanjaro trekking, Mt Kilimanjaro routes, Mt Kilimanjaro summit, Mt Kilimanjaro expeditions, Mt Kilimanjaro cost, Mt Kilimanjaro weather, Mt Kilimanjaro altitude sickness, Kilimanjaro training, Kilimanjaro packing list, Kilimanjaro gear, Kilimanjaro safety, Kilimanjaro hiking, Kilimanjaro best time to climb,  Kilimanjaro tours, Kilimanjaro guides, Kilimanjaro accommodations, Kilimanjaro charity climb, Kilimanjaro records, Kilimanjaro rescue and much more: click below for expert information, climbing packages and pricing as well as suggestions.

Our Expert Mount Kilimanjaro trekking Guides are highly skilled with extensive trekking experience to get you to the summit effortlessly. There are several routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro , with varying levels of difficulty and scenery. Enquire about our 7 official routes on Kilimanjaro that are recognized by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) as well as our recommendation for a successful summit. The best Kilimanjaro Tour company – Tanzania Exploration – Let us get you to the Top!!! 

Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Arial Safari

Creating memorable & magical moment.

We handle each request individually, working with our highly trained, specialist safari and mountain guides. We arrange amazing trips tailored specifically to personal desire. Every safari we organize in Tanzania is created with a personal touch in mind, all these are a result of our extensive years of experience in travel arrangements.

Creating Memorable & Magical Moment

"tanzania is one of the best places anywhere in africa for abundant big five game viewing of lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino", tanzania bird watching safari.

It’s easy to see why so many visitors flock to Tanzania from around the world to experience a truly unique African adventure in one of the world’s most pristine safari destinations. Tanzania is well known for its varied and abundant bird life. The avifauna of Tanzania includes more than 1155 confirmed bird species. The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Manyara National park and Tarangire National Park are just some of the main National parks where large bird species can be seen in abundance .

The Great Migration

The serengeti is the home of the greatest spectacular on the planet - the great wildebeest migration..

The wildebeest migration, also known as the Great Migration, is one of the most spectacular wildlife events that occurs annually in East Africa. It involves millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores moving in a cyclical pattern across the plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya, in search of fresh grazing land and water. The wildebeest migration is a continuous, year-round process that follows a circular pattern driven by weather patterns and availability of food and water. The migration can be broadly categorized into three main phases: calving season, rutting season, and dry season. 

Witness the breathtaking Serengeti Wildebeest Migration, an annual wildlife spectacle in East Africa’s iconic Serengeti National Park with Tanzania Exploration Safari’s and tours. Picture vast herds of wildebeest on a remarkable journey, traversing plains and rivers in search of fresh grazing lands. This incredible natural phenomenon showcases the raw power of nature as millions of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, navigate treacherous terrains, braving predators and crossing crocodile-infested waters. The Great Migration captivates both wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a front-row seat to one of the world’s most awe-inspiring wildlife events. Immerse yourself in the sheer magnitude and beauty of this grand migration, as the Serengeti comes alive with the thunderous hooves and resounding calls of wildebeest. Experience firsthand the raw and untamed essence of nature as you witness this extraordinary journey that has captivated explorers and photographers for generations. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable wildlife experience in the Serengeti, where nature’s grand migration unfolds before your eyes.

Witness the breathtaking Serengeti Wildebeest Migration, an annual wildlife spectacle in East Africa’s iconic Serengeti National Park with Tanzania Exploration Safari’s and tours. Picture vast herds of wildebeest on a remarkable journey, traversing plains and rivers in search of fresh grazing lands. This incredible natural phenomenon showcases the raw power of nature as millions of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, navigate treacherous terrains, braving predators and crossing crocodile-infested waters. The Great Migration captivates both wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a front-row seat to one of the world’s most awe-inspiring wildlife events. Immerse yourself in the sheer magnitude and beauty of this grand migration, as the Serengeti comes alive with the thunderous hooves and resounding calls of wildebeest. Experience firsthand the raw and untamed essence of nature as you witness this extraordinary journey that has captivated explorers and photographers for generations. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable wildlife experience in the Serengeti, where nature’s grand migration unfolds before your eyes.

Tanzania's Major National Parks

Featured attractions.

Guided Walking Safaris

Your Tanzania Exploration Guided Walking safaris will provide you with a more authentic and immersive safari experience, allowing you to connect more intimately with nature and wildlife. Walking safaris are eco-friendly as they have a low environmental impact. Walking safaris provide an opportunity to learn about local flora and fauna, as well as the cultural traditions and practices of the local people.

Family Friendly Safaris

Your Tanzania Exploration Family-friendly safaris are designed to cater to the needs of families with children of all ages. Family orientated safaris offer a range of accommodation options, such as family suites or tents with additional beds as well as interconnecting rooms. Meal options are fun, exciting and delicious catering for the fussiest of palates. our informative guides make offer an animated and insightful account of the wilderness capturing the attention and imagination of young minds.

Honeymoon Safaris and Zanzibar Island Vacations

Dreaming of Africa...

Escape to a tropical paradise for your honeymoon and embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Zanzibar Honeymoon Vacations and African Safari Holidays!  Picture yourself strolling hand in hand on pristine white-sand beaches with turquoise waters lapping at your feet, while the warm sun kisses your skin. You can indulge in romantic activities such as private beach dinners, spa treatments, and sunset cruises. Or, you can explore the island’s rich culture and history by wandering the charming alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or take a spice tour to discover the exotic flavors of the island. But that’s not all! Your adventure continues with an exciting African safari in Tanzania, where you’ll encounter some of the world’s most majestic animals. Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of animals move between Tanzania and Kenya, or take a thrilling game drive through the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater to see the Big Five in their natural habitat.

Tanzania Exploration packages are designed to provide the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, ensuring that your honeymoon is an unforgettable experience. With luxury accommodation, expert guides, and personalized service, you can rest assured that every detail will be taken care of. Don’t wait any longer to plan your dream honeymoon and adventure. Book your Zanzibar Honeymoon Vacations and African Safari Holidays today with Tanzania Exploration and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey with our Mount Kilimanjaro trekking packages. As the premier Kilimanjaro tour operators, Tanzania Exploration offers unparalleled experiences. Our Kilimanjaro tour packages are meticulously crafted to cater to adventurers seeking to conquer Africa’s tallest peak. With a legacy as one of the top Kilimanjaro trekking companies, we provide expert guidance and support for your Mount Kilimanjaro trek. Our team of experienced professionals ensures safety and success on every Kilimanjaro tour. We understand the significance of this endeavor and curate Kilimanjaro trekking packages that balance challenge and comfort. As dedicated Kilimanjaro tour companies, we facilitate a seamless journey, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking landscapes and personal accomplishments. Join us for an unforgettable Mount Kilimanjaro trek, where every step is a testament to your determination. Explore our Kilimanjaro tour packages and embark on a transformative adventure with one of the leading Kilimanjaro trekking operators in Tanzania.

Your Tanzania Exploration Guided Walking safaris will provide you with a more authentic and immersive safari experience, allowing you to connect more intimately with nature and wildlife. Walking safaris are eco-friendly as they have a low environmental impact. Walking safaris provide an opportunity to learn about local flora and fauna, as well as the cultural traditions and practices of the local people

Escape to a tropical paradise for your honeymoon and embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Zanzibar Honeymoon Vacations and African Safari Holidays!  Picture yourself strolling hand in hand on pristine white-sand beaches with turquoise waters lapping at your feet, while the warm sun kisses your skin. You can indulge in romantic activities such as private beach dinners, spa treatments, and sunset cruises. Or, you can explore the island’s rich culture and history by wandering the charming alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or take a spice tour to discover the exotic flavors of the island. But that’s not all! Your adventure continues with an exciting African safari in Tanzania, where you’ll encounter some of the world’s most majestic animals. Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of animals move between Tanzania and Kenya, or take a thrilling game drive through the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater to see the Big Five in their natural habitat.

Tanzania Exploration packages are designed to provide the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, ensuring that your honeymoon is an unforgettable experience. With luxury accommodation, expert guides, and personalized service, you can rest assured that every detail will be taken care of. Don’t wait any longer to plan your dream honeymoon and adventure. Book your Zanzibar Honeymoon Vacations and African Safari Holidays today with Tanzania Exploration and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey with our Mount Kilimanjaro trekking packages. As the premier Kilimanjaro tour operators, Tanzania Exploration offers unparalleled experiences. Our Kilimanjaro tour packages are meticulously crafted to cater to adventurers seeking to conquer Africa’s tallest peak. With a legacy as one of the top Kilimanjaro trekking companies, we provide expert guidance and support for your Mount Kilimanjaro trek. Our team of experienced professionals ensures safety and success on every Kilimanjaro tour. We understand the significance of this endeavor and curate Kilimanjaro trekking packages that balance challenge and comfort. As dedicated Kilimanjaro tour companies, we facilitate a seamless journey, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking landscapes and personal accomplishments. Join us for an unforgettable Mount Kilimanjaro trek, where every step is a testament to your determination. Explore our Kilimanjaro tour packages and embark on a transformative adventure with one of the leading Kilimanjaro trekking operators in Tanzania.

SAFARI'S OF A LIFETIME

Let the adventure begin with tanzanaia exploration safari's & tours, create your journey.

Other top safari destinations that host all or most of the Big Five include Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Amboseli, Laikipia Plateau, Samburu-Buffalo Springs-Shaba, Meru and to a lesser extent Shimba Hills. It is important to note Kenya’s ongoing conservation efforts to protect some of its greater and lesser species – one of which is the elephant population.

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN WITH TANZANAIA EXPLORATION SAFARI'S & TOURS

News & Article

Conquering Kilimanjaro: The Ultimate Adventure – Costs, Challenges, and Must-Knows

If you’re an adventure seeker, a lover of breathtaking landscapes, or someone in search of …

Unveiling the Wonders of Kilimanjaro: A Journey to the Roof of Africa

Mount Kilimanjaro, known as the “Roof of Africa,” is a breathtaking and iconic destination for …

A Perfect Trek by the Best Trek Provider

Want to try trekking? We are the best to connect with if you are up …

Embark on the Best Climbing Safari

We offer well designed trekking packages to this amazing trekking destination. If you are planning …

Best African Wildlife Parks

TANZANIA EXPLORATION TOURS & SAFARI’S – BEST AFRICAN SAFARI  WILDLIFE PARKS Welcome to Tanzania, the …

The Ultimate African Safari: Explore Tanzania’s Rich Wildlife

Ultimate Safari Adventure Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Look no further …

Book Your Dream Vacation Enquire Now

Northern Circuit

Western breach.

• Acclimatisation
• Packing List
• Climbing Cost
• Coronavirus
• Visa’s, Vaccinations, Malaria
• Kilimanjaro Blog
• Climb for Charity
• Get A Trek Quote

Start planning your Kilimanjaro hike

We help adventure-seekers plan and book their dream Kilimanjaro trek

Hey, I’m Mark. Welcome to my guide on hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

My aim is to provide free and inspiring advice to help you prepare for an amazing Kilimanjaro trekking experience.

I started this website in 2013 after climbing Kilimanjaro for the first time. Since then, over 5 million people have visited the site, and my guidebook, Mount Kilimanjaro: Trekkers Guide to the Summit , has been downloaded over 10,000 times.

On this page, I cover everything you need to know about Mount Kilimanjaro and how to prepare for your summit attempt.

So stick around, pop the kettle on, and let’s get started!

Plan your Kilimanjaro trek

This is the local guiding company I've vetted and recommend.

Discover Kilimanjaro

Routes:   All routes

Important:   Training ,  Costs , Visas and vaccinations ,  COVID-19

More useful articles:  Porter tips ,  Toilets on the mountain ,  Getting to Kilimanjaro ,  Full moon dates ,  Climbing with asthma ,  Charity climb , Kilimanjaro animals

Add-on:   Tanzania Safaris ,  Zanzibar ,  Tanzania hotels

Kilimanjaro FAQs

How difficult is kilimanjaro.

Hiking Kilimanjaro has its difficulties. Although it doesn’t require any technical climbing or mountaineering skills, due to the high altitude, it is a tough challenge.

Anyone with the right level of fitness and mental determination can climb Kilimanjaro though. For inspiring stories and preparation information see my article can a beginner climb Kilimanjaro ?

Mt Kilimanjaro Overview: Why is Kilimanjaro famous?

Mount Kilimanjaro is situated in the Northern part of Tanzania, in the Kilimanjaro National Park. It covers an area of 100 kilometres long and 65 kilometres wide.

The mountain is a dormant volcano that is comprised of three volcanic cones, Shira, Kibo (on which Uhuru summit stands) and Mawenzi. Kibo is classified as dormant but not extinct. The last major eruption from Kibo occurred 350,000 years ago. The last volcanic activity happened 200 years ago and resulted in today’s ash pit (visible from Uhuru Peak).

Read more about  Kilimanjaro's formation and eruption history .

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. By free-standing, or non-massif, I mean it is not part of a mountain range. The height of Mount Kilimanjaro is 5,895m or 19,341 feet, and its main summit is called Uhuru Peak. To put Mt Kilimanjaro’s height into perspective, Mount Everest stands at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) – just over 2,950 meters higher. But here’s an interesting Kilimanjaro Fact: Both Everest Base Camp’s (EBC) – South and North – are below the summit of Kilimanjaro; however, most hikers take upwards of 8-10 days to reach EBC. On Kilimanjaro, trekkers on fast routes reach the summit within 4-5 days. The rapid ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro makes it a difficult and rather dangerous mountain to hike due to the risks of altitude sickness. As the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the Seven Summits (i.e. highest mountains on each of the seven continents). The other mountains on the Seven Summit circuit, in order of height, are:

• Mount Everest – Asia – First ascent 1953 – 8,848 meters
• Aconcagua – South America – First ascent 1897 – 6,961 meters
• Denali – North America – First ascent 1913 – 6,194 meters
• Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa – First ascent 1889 – 5,895 meters
• Mount Elbrus – Europe – First ascent 1874 – 5,642 meters
• Mount Vinson – Antarctica – First ascent 1966 – 4,892 meters
• Mount Kosciuszko – Australia – First ascent 1840 – 2,228 meters

What are the Kilimanjaro Hike Routes?

There are 7 official routes on Kilimanjaro. Check out my Kilimanjaro route overview article where I provide a summary of the pros and cons of each trail to the peak.

Popular Southern Circuit Routes

Lemosho route.

The Lemosho starts on the far Western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is best trekked on a 7 or 8-day itinerary and offers great acclimatisation. High summit success rates and awesome scenery make the Lemosho one of my favourite routes on Kilimanjaro. Discover the Lemosho Route .

Machame Route

The Machame starts from the South-west at a slightly lower altitude than the Lemosho. It is typically completed on a 6 or 7-day itinerary, with the latter offering better acclimatisation and higher summit success rates. Like the Lemosho it is scenic and a great route to choose. Discover the Machame Route .

Other Unique Kilimanjaro Route Options

Marangu route.

The Marangu is the only route with hut accommodation. It tends to be the most popular route as it is shorter and cheaper than others. Success rates are relatively low though. If you are considering the Marangu, make sure you choose the 6-day itinerary (not the 5-day). Learn more about the  Marangu Route .

The Northern Circuit is the longest and quietest route on Kilimanjaro. The route starts on the Lemosho, but then traverses the Northside of the mountain and approaches the Uhuru Peak via Gilman’s Point. It’s a great trail if you have the time and money, and want to avoid the busier trails. Learn more about the  Northern Circuit .

Get connected with  my recommended local Kilimanjaro operator

Rongai Route

The Rongai is the only route that starts in the north, from the Kenyan border. The trail offers some of the best low lying images of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is also a great option if you are restricted to climbing during the rainy season, as the north tends to be in a rain shadow. Learn more about the  Rongai Route .

Kilimanjaro Routes (Not Recommended)

Shira route.

The Shira is the old starting point from the Western side of Kilimanjaro. Since the Lemosho gate opened, the Shira has become much less popular as its start point is relatively high, and therefore not good for acclimatisation. Learn more about the  Shira Route .

The Western Breach is a somewhat technical approach to Kilimanjaro. The route bypasses the Southern Circuit and heads north past Lava Tower. The trail is rocky and unstable. Rockfalls are common and I do not recommend this route unless you have technical climbing skills. Learn more about the Western Breach .

Umbwe Route

The Umbwe starts in the south and follows a relatively direct path up to Lava Tower, where it joins the Southern Circuit routes to Barranco. Due to its fast and direct approach, acclimatisation opportunities are poor and I don’t recommend it. Learn more about the Umbwe Route .

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best time to hike Kilimanjaro is January–March and June–October. The former season is generally colder than the latter but is also often quieter.

Here is a brief overview of the main seasons or read my article on the best time to climb Kilimanjaro .

January-March

January through March is a good time to climb Kilimanjaro. The weather is pretty stable and there isn’t much rain. It is however colder during this period. Snowfall at or near the summit is quite likely.

April and May are the rainy season months. It is not a great time to hike Kilimanjaro. Heavy rainfall on the lower reaches of the mountain is common. Cloud cover and poor visibility are also significant during this period.

June-October

June through October is the busiest season on the mountain as it coincides with the summer holiday period in Europe and North America. The weather is also very good. Generally dry and warm during the day.

November-December

November is a light rainy season. The Rongai makes for a good choice during this month as the North tends to stay dry. December is fast becoming a popular season, despite being very cold on the summit.

Can you give me more detail on Kilimanjaro weather?

I have a detailed article on Kilimanjaro’s weather , but as a quick snapshot, here is some detail.

Kilimanjaro’s weather is heavily influenced by the interaction of trade winds.

The Southeast trade winds travelling over the Indian Ocean carry loads of moisture. When they hit Kilimanjaro, around March, they are forced upwards where they condense, form clouds and precipitation. This means March through to May is the wettest season on Kilimanjaro.

Anti-trade winds from the northeast carry very little moisture but blow strongly. The strength of these winds which last from April through to October keeps the Southeast trade winds below them, hence these months are usually dry and cloud cover and precipitation is generally restricted to the lower slopes.

The Northeast monsoon arrives in November and brings some light rains to the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro.

March, April and November are the wettest months on Mt Kilimanjaro. January-March and June-October are the best months for trekking. Snowfall and cold temperatures are common during December-May.

The chart below shows the average snowfall in cm on the summit of Kilimanjaro. As you can see it is highest during November-May.

In terms of temperature, here are daily averages in degrees Celsius by month at different altitudes.

How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro?

It costs between $2000-$3500 to hike Kilimanjaro.

Trekking Kilimanjaro is unfortunately not a very cheap activity. Prior to 1991, you could literally rock up in Moshi with a backpack, some dry food and a spirit for adventure, and be on a trail up to Kilimanjaro’s summit unsupported.

Since the early 90s, though, trekkers have had to be accompanied by a registered guide and pay entrance park fees. The latter has got relatively expensive and can cost up to $1,000 depending on the length of a trek (see information on Kilimanjaro park fees ).

Today, the standard setup for a climb involves a full support team of a guide, cook and porters, who are instrumental in getting most trekkers to the summit successfully and safely. The combination of high park fees and full support teams mean that an average Kilimanjaro hike (excl. travel expenses like flights and off-mountain expenses) costs between $2,000-$3,500.

It is possible to find climbs for as little as $1,500 but these tend to be with operators who have questionable practices, particularly with regard to how much they pay their porters.

How can I avoid altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro?

Altitude sickness (aka Acute Mountain Sickness) is a systemic issue on Mount Kilimanjaro. This is partly to do with the fact that Kilimanjaro is a high altitude trek, but more critically because the speed of ascent on most Kilimanjaro routes is relatively rapid. Before you travel to Kilimanjaro it is vital that you  understand the risks of high altitude trekking .

I've written a detailed online guide that explains how you can improve your chances of achieving proper acclimatisation on Kilimanjaro, as well as explains what symptoms to look out for in terms of altitude sickness. I've also provided information on the severe and dangerous conditions of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema and Cerebral Edema.

• Click here to read my guide: Acclimatisation and Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro .
• I also suggest you read our article on the preventative medication, Diamox .

How many people hike Kilimanjaro each year?

Approx. 35,000 people attempt to hike Kilimanjaro every year.

What is Kilimanjaro summit success rate?

Kilimanjaro’s summit success rate varies from 45% to over 85%, depending on the route chosen. The chances of reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro are highly dependent on the number of days taken to trek the mountain. The more days, the higher the probability of success as your body has more time to adapt and acclimatize.

Insight from the tour operators I work with shows that success rates are over 85% for all the trekkers who climb Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru .

See detailed information on  Kilimanjaro summit success rates .

What insurance do I need for Kilimanjaro?

Climbing Kilimanjaro comes with obvious risks. It is important that you get adequate insurance for your Kilimanjaro climb. Most standard travel insurance policies will not cover high altitude treks.

In my article – Kilimanjaro Travel Insurance – I provide detailed advice on the type of insurance cover you need.

Alternatively, get a quote from my recommended insurance company, World Nomads . World Nomads provide specific coverage for hiking up to 6000m, which is perfect for Kilimanjaro.

What gear do I need to pack for Kilimanjaro?

The packing list for a Kilimanjaro trek includes a number of critical items. Some of these can be rented or bought in Moshi or Arusha before your trek, but there are a few  very important pieces of gear that I recommend you bring with you to Kilimanjaro.

This detailed  Kilimanjaro kit packing list  provides a comprehensive overview of the gear you need as well as recommendations and links to specific gear outfitters.

Here are links to specific sections within the packing list:

• Clothing : Weather conditions on Kilimanjaro fluctuate significantly and rapidly from lower altitudes to higher altitudes. In this section, I provide detailed advice and recommendations on the type of clothing you require and the important mechanism of layering
• Headgear : From hats, beanies and balaclavas, to headlamps and sunglasses, I cover it all in this section
• Footwear : Your feet are what get you to the top of Kilimanjaro. Read this section to understand what type of hiking boots you need, as well as which trekking socks are required
• Gloves and Trekking Poles : Your hands will be the first to freeze on the trail up to Kilimanjaro’s summit. Make sure you get the right gloves and invest in trekking poles to protect your knees
• Bags and Daypacks : There are two types of bags you need for a Kilimanjaro trek. Read this section to understand which bags are ideal for your hike
• Sleeping Bags : In this section, I outline the key characteristics to look for in a sleeping bag for Kilimanjaro
• Other Accessories : Here, I provide an exhaustive list of all the other accessories you need to climb Kilimanjaro. From water bottles and zip-lock bags to spare batteries and earplugs, I cover it all in this section

What’s the best training plan for Kilimanjaro?

You should do at least 6-8 weeks of training before embarking on your Kilimanjaro trek. The best type of training is in fact long-distance mountain trail walking. If you can’t get out into the mountains though, then aerobic gym workouts (running, cross-training, swimming etc.), that combine some strength work (especially leg workouts) are a good bet. 

What is the minimum age to climb Kilimanjaro?

The minimum age to climb Kilimanjaro is 10 years or older, however, it is possible to get special permission from the Tanzanian government to take children younger than 10 years old on a Kilimanjaro expedition. Read more about the youngest people to climb Kilimanjaro .

Do you recommend going on safari before or after hiking Kilimanjaro?

I recommend arranging a safari after your Kilimanjaro hike. This removes any stress associated with thinking about the climb whilst on safari, and you can relax and enjoy the wildlife. 

What are the best Kilimanjaro guidebooks?

There are a number of very interesting and useful books and guidebooks that have been written on Mount Kilimanjaro. I recommend having a look at my Kilimanjaro library where I review some of my  favourite Kilimanjaro books .

The most comprehensive and authoritative guidebook,  Kilimanjaro: The Trekking Guide to Africa’s Highest Mountain , was written by Trailblazer author and Kilimanjaro expert, Henry Stedman. If you are looking for a very detailed and informative guide, then I recommend you go for this one.

Alternatively, I've written a short guide called Mount Kilimanjaro: Trekkers Guide to the Summit , which provides all the essential information you need to know at a smaller cost.

In terms of fun and entertaining works of fiction from previous climbers, I suggest either Rick Ridgeway’s book, The Shadow of Kilimanjaro  or Tim Ward’s  Zombies on Kilimanjaro: A Father/Son Journey Above the Clouds .

How many people die annually climbing Kilimanjaro?

We estimate between 3-10 people die hiking Kilimanjaro each year. Deaths on the mountain occur due to various reasons including AMS (such as HACE and HAPE), falls, and hypothermia. Sometimes porters die due to the onset of malaria whilst on the trek.

Unfortunately, KINAPA doesn’t provide official statistics on deaths so you may see many conflicting figures on the internet.

Is climate change affecting Kilimanjaro glaciers?

Yes, climate change is affecting Kilimanjaro glaciers, unfortunately. There is scientific consensus that Mt Kilimanjaro’s glaciers have been rapidly receding for the past century, and that human-induced climate is largely to blame.

The whole mountain summit was covered by an ice cap at one stage, probably more than 100 meters deep. However, since 1912, Kilimanjaro has lost 82% of its ice cap and since 1962, it has lost 55% of its remaining glaciers. If the present rate of receding continues the majority of the glaciers on Kilimanjaro could vanish altogether.

Here’s a detailed article on  Kilimanjaro’s climate zones .

Recent Articles

The Climb Kilimanjaro Guide has a very active  blog . Here are links to recent articles.

Mount Kilimanjaro Hotels – The 13 Best Places For Post-Climbing R&R

Mount kilimanjaro deaths – surprising causes and statistics, kilimanjaro animals – what animals live on kilimanjaro, oldest person to climb kilimanjaro – 3 incredible feats, youngest person to climb kilimanjaro – brave children who’ve reached the summit, 13+ best hotels in arusha (accommodation near kilimanjaro).

Tags : Mount Kilimanjaro, Climb Kilimanjaro, Hike Kilimanjaro, Climbing Kilimanjaro, Trek Kilimanjaro, Kilimanjaro Hike, Africa, Tanzania, Mountain

Discover Kilimanjaro - Expert Guides, Tailored Treks, and Breathtaking Views

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro - Your Gateway to Tanzania's Iconic Summit Adventures

The first person to climb Mount Kilimanjaro was Hans Meyer. Since then, many have conquered this mountain, often called "The Roof of Africa." In addition to booking hiking tours with us, you'll learn about the duration, cost, and difficulty of climbing Kilimanjaro.

We offer both budget Kilimanjaro treks , luxury Kilimanjaro treks and combined East African safaris that include Mount Kilimanjaro climbing.

Reaching the peak of this high mountain means standing atop Africa's highest point . Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and one of the tallest globally.

To fulfill your dream of standing on top of Africa , book our Kilimanjaro trekking tours . The price depends on factors such as routes, porterage services, group size, and season.

However, we strive to keep the prices affordable. Our Kilimanjaro trekking tours range from as low as USD 1,000 and include climbing permits , accommodation, meals, guiding, and porterage services.

We recommend obtaining travel insurance before your journey to cover any potential need for helicopter rescue services. Browse our selection of Kilimanjaro trekking tours above or request a tailor-made package .

Visit us in Arusha & Zanzibar

We've hiked Mount Kilimanjaro before

Awesome hiking safaris & tours

Top Tanzania Kilimanjaro Safari Tours

Book highly popular tours for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. All our trips are guided by expert safari guides and supported by well-trained porters .

15-Day Wildebeest Migration & Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Safari Tour

An adventurous action packed 15 days safari to Kenya and Tanzania. You will visit the most popular destination in Kenya,…

15-Day Tanzania Wildlife & Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Safari Tour

A 15 days’ trip that will see you spend time in different environments from the grassy wilderness plains of Serengeti…

14-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour & Zanzibar Beach Holiday

Hike Mount Kilimanjaro and unwind on the Zanzibar beaches with this 14-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour & Zanzibar Beach Holiday….

12-Day Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour

This trip will see you visit 3 of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. Serengeti National Park in North Tanzania famous for…

12-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari & Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour

This can be an exciting adventure. You will visit the home of African Elephants, Amboseli national park in the Rift…

10-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking & Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour

This 10-day trip will take you to 2 of the East African countries, Uganda and Tanzania. More interestingly, you will…

10-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour

Take a trip to the most popular destination in Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park and to the famous Kilimanjaro National Park,…

8-Day-7-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour via Lemosho Route

One of the most beautiful natural routes on Kilimanjaro Mountain. Ascending the mountain from the West. It offers good acclimatization…

7-Day/6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour via Rongai Route

The only route that ascends Kilimanjaro from the North with a different view of a true unspoiled wilderness. Less crowded…

7-Day/6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour via Machame Route

The most popular route on Kilimanjaro Mountain. Famously referred to as the “Whiskey route”. Offers amazing views, good acclimatization possibilities…

6-Day/5-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour via Marangu Route

Also called the “Coca-Cola” route, Marangu route is the most established among all other routes on Kilimanjaro. It is the…

1-Day Arusha City Tour to Meserani Snake Park, Museum, Clock Tower & More

Do you have any clue about the Beauty and amazing features in Arusha City Tour? Here is an amazing opportunity…

Mount Kilimanjaro Tours & East Africa Safaris

Book tours to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park below or book combined Tanzanian packages to explore other travel destinations in East Africa as well.

Home to Mount Kilimanjaro, commonly referred to as "The Mountain of the Moon", Tanzania is one of those African travel destinations every passionate travel should have atop their bucket list. Tanzania is also home to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park and Zanzibar Archipelago. It's the African country with the largest number of big cats, making it a great pace for game viewing - especial for those that want to see all the big five game animals easily. See Tanzania hiking tours

12-Day Kilimanjaro-Tanzania Wildlife Safari

Ultimate guide for planning tanzania kilimanjaro safaris.

The Kilimanjaro are very popular mountains not just in Tanzania, East Africa, Or Africa but world over being that it’s the tallest mountain Africa .

Some people only know the Kilimanjaro for its part in several movies and documentaries. When one picks interest in the Kilimanjaro, they would want to know how it was formed , where it is found, how tall it is and many other questions.

Kilimanjaro Meaning – Meaning of the word “Kilimanjaro”

The question mostly asked but has never gotten a good answer is the origin of the name “Kilimanjaro” . It is believed that the Kilimanjaro name has roots in Swahili, Chagga and Masai languages.

There has been however no conclusive research to ascertain this claim.

The Nuttall Encyclopaedia was the first official document in the year 1907 to refer this mountain by then as the Kilima-Njaro.

There is no clear origin of this name but from the time the Europeans started exploring the Kilimanjaro in the 1860s, the mountain adopted this names somehow.

In 1885, Jim Thompson claimed that Kilima-Njaro that the locals believed that this name was interpreted as the mountain of glory (kilima) (njaro).

“Njaro” in one Kiswahili dialect means shining which is asserted that it was to refer to the snow on the top of this mountain.

There are a group people that claim the word “kilima” means mountain in Kiswahili. However the actual word means “hill”. “Mlima” is the actual word to mean mountain in Kiswahili.

The Chagga people who are the natives of the area are credited for naming the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks of the Kilimanjaro.

Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Video by Mike Corey from Fearless & Far

11 Essential Kilimanjaro Hiking Tips

• Physical preparedness
• Slow and steady
• Hiking equipment
• The right hiking route
• Make water your best friend
• Keep your energy levels up
• Layered dressing
• Hiking poles
• Expect altitude sickness (Carry enough Diamox )
• Follow the leader

Recommended Kilimanjaro Packing List

Kilimanjaro Mountain located in Tanzania is the tallest mountain on the African continent. Climbing to the top of Africa is a great accomplishment to those who are able to summit to Kilimanjaro’s highest peak, Uhuru.

You need to be well prepared for the fluctuating temperatures and different weather conditions at each elevation.

See full packing list here

Hiring Porters on Mount Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro porters are the hardest workers on Mount Kilimanjaro, the support crew of the tourists who climb the mountain. You will need them. Porters are the people who help carry your luggage (apart from your day bag) on your ascent to the summit.

Including other things like camping tents, food, water, medical kits, gas cylinders, chairs, tables, camping toilets and any other equipment/supplies needed while on the mountain. They carry the heavy loads so that you can walk lightly up the mountain and enjoy your trek to the summit, Uhuru peak. A maximum of 15kg per porter.

Before you start your ascent to the top, you will meet your support crew, that is the porters and your guides. The number of porters and guides per group depends on the size of the group and varies from one company to another.

Park Entrance Fees for Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Adults (16 & above) : Tsh 10,000 (East African Citizens), USD 70 (Foreign non-residents), USD 35 (Foreign non-residents)

Children (5 to 15 years old): Tsh 2,000 (East African Citizens), USD 20 (Foreign non-residents), USD 10 (Foreign non-residents)

Children below 5 years old: Free entry

East African Citizens (EAC): Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, Burundi

Different ways of making your payment: TANAPA Online Reservation, Electronic Cards (MasterCard, VISA card)

Payments are exclusive of VAT (18%)

List of Kilimanjaro Hiking Routes

There are 7 established routes on Mt. Kilimanjaro that can take you to the summit of Uhuru . With varying scenery, length, crowds, difficulty levels, success rates and acclimatization possibilities, it is up to you to choose which route to take you from the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro to the roof of the African continent.

These are: Machame Route , Lemosho Route , Northern Circuit Route , Marangu Route , Shira Route , Rongai Route and Umbwe Route .

Is Mount Kilimanjaro Safe?

One of the famous Seven Summits , Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa standing at 5,895m (19,341 ft) above sea level landing itself in the extreme altitude mountaineering category. Nonetheless, considering its size, it requires no technical skill to reach its summit, at Uhuru Peak.

That doesn’t mean it should be underestimated, climbing Kilimanjaro to the summit is quite challenging. Utmost, 1,000 people get evacuated from the mountain and some deaths have been recorded , the main cause of the deaths being altitude/mountain sickness .

Kilimanjaro Animals & Wildlife

The ecosystem of the Kilimanjaro National Park on the Kilimanjaro Ranges covers an area of about 652 square miles. This national park was first gazette as a forest reserve in 1921.It was later upgraded to national park status in 1973 and a few years later in 1987 it was declared a UNESCO world heritage site . Since then, there has been a good protection to the animals and other habitats against human encroachment.

There are cases of large mammals like the Buffalos, elephants and Giraffes. Some other animals include Porcupines and aardvarks. Because the mountain is covered in thick tropical rain forests, then most animals may not be seen as they hide in the lush forest.

What is the Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

If you are thinking about trekking the highest mountain ranges in Africa or have you have already booked your safari to Kilimanjaro ? The most common thing will be what’s the best time to visit and the other terms and conditions for the hike.

It’s possible that you can trek the Kilimanjaro any time throughout the year but some months are covered in cold weather and rains and snow especially the top and yet some are dry and a lot more favorable.

Its best advised to hike the Kilimanjaro is between the months of December to February and Mid June to September. Ideally these are the dry months but even then, sometimes it can and gets a bit messy.

The Birds of Kilimanjaro Mountain

The Kilimanjaro has a bird count of about 716 bird species . Most of the bird will be seen in the cultivated zone of the Kilimanjaro. The others will be seen the forested zone of the Kilimanjaro.

There are no birds in the rest of the zones as the conditions are very hard and do not support plant or animal life.

Butterflies on Mount Kilimanjaro

There are very few people that will come to Kilimanjaro to see butterflies , but the few that come are rewarded abundantly. There are about 44 butterfly species in the Kilimanjaro area of Tanzania.

There are other things you will see while on your search for butterflies like a lot of primates in the canopy of the forest and the bird are a spectacular reward you ought not to miss.

The species of trees and mammals are also something you will be delighted to see.

Climate & Weather of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Mountain Kilimanjaro has varying weather with some hot spells and extremely cold spans in the same day. The temperature ranges don’t however differ a lot from season to season.

The temperatures are also determined by the altitude and the time during the day.

The first part of the mountain which is the base has temperatures ranging between 21 to 27 °C. As you approach the peak, temperatures will drop to between 20 and -20°C.

Just like all the other mountains, there temperatures at the Kilimanjaro are very hard to predict therefore hikers should make sure they are prepared for all the conditions, be it extreme cold or extreme heat as both of these can happen in the same hike.

Dormant Volcanoes on Mount Kilimanjaro

The Kilimanjaro Mountain is made up of three volcanic cones Namely; Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira . Each has its own fault line. With many eruption from over a thousand of years ago, the volcanic power of this cones is believed to have died out.

The Shira cone which about 16,000 or 17,000 feet high is believed to have died about 2.5million years ago. It is believed that after its extinction, the cone collapsed to form the current Shira plateau.

The Kibo and Mawenzi cones are believed to have first erupted about 1 million years ago and they formed a ridge between them since they are so close to each other.

It is believed that Mawenzi died about 450,000 years ago and by this time it was at about 18,000 feet above sea level

The Cones Mawenzi and Shira are believed to b completely dead but the highest peak which is Kibo is believed to just be dormant will at some point in time erupt according to research.

Vegetation & Ecological Zones of Mount Kilimanjaro

The Kilimanjaro Ranges are made up several types of vegetation zones . There are about five distinct vegetation types on the Kilimanjaro. Every vegetation type runs about 100 meters. In the range of about 800 to about 1800 meters there will be human settlement and human activity

Are ecological zones are: Cultivation Zone , Forest Zone , Heath/Moorland Zone , Alpine/High Desert Zone & the Arctic Zone .

Kilimanjaro Elevation – How High is Mount Kilimanjaro?

The Kilimanjaro stands at about 5,895 meters high above sea level. The Kibo cone has the highest peak called Uhuru. There over 50,000 people that visit giant every year.

Other than having beautiful view from both the bottom and the top, the Kilimanjaro Mountain is one of the best adventures of not only Tanzania but the world.

Some people refer to it as the roof of Africa . The very accurate height of the Kilimanjaro Mountain is 5892.55 meter as of the year 2008.

Risks of Climbing Kilimanjaro Mountain

The mountain is safe despite its height and if one follows all the guidelines then there is no way you will get into trouble. There is an estimated death rate of about 10 people a year.

Deaths are usually due to altitude related illnesses and injuries from falls. Most of these deaths are avoidable if one follows the advisories.

There is a rescue mission of the Kilimanjaro that can attend to some of the medical emergencies and therefore one will need to meet all the requirements especially the having insurance to afford this emergency evacuation services.

You are not required to have hiking skills to hike the Kilimanjaro Mountains ; you will just be required to have prepared yourself for the hike. The lower slopes of the Kilimanjaro are not as cold as the top since the Kilimanjaro ranges are located along the Equator.

Is Mount Kilimanjaro Active, Dormant or Extinct?

It is believed that Mountain Kilimanjaro was formed over 3 million years ago. It was formed by the process of Vulcanicity as molten magma as forced through a vent to from molten rock when it reached the surface which later turned into the Kilimanjaro Mountain.

The mountain erupted several times to make it bigger and that’s the current Kilimanjaro that we see today.

The Kilimanjaro Mountain is made up of three volcanic cones Namely; Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. Each has its own fault line. With many eruption from over a thousand of years ago, the volcanic power of this cone sis belied to have died out.

The Cones Mawenzi and Shira are believed to be completely dead but the highest peak which is Kibo is believed to just be dormant will at some point in time erupt according to research.

Mount Kilimanjaro Eruptions

It is believed that the Kibo cone was the last of the three to erupt and this happened about 360,000 years ago. There was however some activity around 200,000 years ago.

At this time the highest point of the mountains stood at 19,341 feet above sea level. It is believed that the peak was a bit higher that that but the effects of other natural processes like erosion have affected it.

There is definitely some activity expected on the Kilimanjaro sometime in the future. There is either going to be some eruption or the mountain will collapse under its weight.

There have not been any foreseeable future activity recorded by scientist and it is safe for now.

Facts about Kilimanjaro Mountain

• A series of volcanic eruptions that happened a million years ago led to the formation of Mt. Kilimanjaro. It has 3 volcano cones, namely; Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. While Kibo is a dormant volcano that could erupt again, Mawenzi and Shira are considered extinct as they have not erupted in over a million years. Kibo is the youngest and tallest of the 3 volcano cones with its summit, Uhuru peak elevated at 5,895 meters above sea level.
• The first recorded summit of Kilimanjaro at Kibo was in October, 1889 by Hans Meyer , a German Geology professor. He had tried to summit the mountain on 2 occasions before his 3 rd attempt that was the successful summit. Many Europeans before him had attempted to summit Kilimanjaro but had failed. First record of an attempt was in 1861.
• Sheila McDonald was the first female to summit Kilimanjaro in 1927.
• In 1973, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park was established to protect the mountain’s vast wildlife unique environment and ecosystem. Years later (1978), it was declared a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. The indigenous Chagga people of Tanzania still farm the lower slopes of the mountain.
• The Chagga people have lived in the Kilimanjaro region for hundreds of years, considering the mountain to be a sacred place where their god, Ruwa lived at the white peak. A place of cultural and spiritual significance to them.
• As some records say the name “Kilimanjaro” is a name of the mountain in Kiswahili, also commonly accepted as a mixture of Kiswahili and KiChagga where “Kilima” (Kiswahili) means mountain and “Njaro” (KiChagga) means whiteness. Otherwise, the origins of the name are so unclear.

List of Gates on Kilimanjaro Mountain

Like all the other mountains, there are several routes to reach the summit of the Kilimanjaro Mountain. Each route will start at its own gate or point of entry to the Kilimanjaro .

All the entry points are at the base of this mountain and the most renowned routes are Marangu Gate, Machame Gate, Umbwe Gate, Mweka Gate, Lemosho Gate, Londorossi Gate, Rongai Gate and Nalemoru Gate.

There are different gates and routes to offer different experienced to the tourists. In most cases you will star form a different gate and complete from another to give you a unique experience.

Geology of Kilimanjaro Mountain

Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira are the peaks that make up the Kilimanjaro ranges. These volcanic cones are stratovolcanoes. The Shira cone is the lowest at an altitude of about 4,005 meters above sea level, then the Mawenzi at an altitude of about 5,149 meters above sea level.

The Kibo peak is the highest of them all. Kibo peak is believed to be dormant and could erupt in the future while Mawenzi and Shira are dormant volcanoes.

The Kilimanjaro Mountain is the tallest mounts in Africa and also among the biggest stratovolcanoes in the world. A stratovolcano is a mountain formed by vulcanicity with a serious of lava and ash laying on top of each other.

Mount Kilimanjaro Glaciers

Glacier are rare in Africa and can only be found In Uganda (Ruwenzori), Kenya (Mountain Kenya) and the Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. These being tropical countries, the occurrence of glaciers are such a unique thing and it bits the laws of science.

Here are some of the glaciers of the Kilimanjaro ranges: Credner Glacier, The Rebmann Glacier, The Ratzel Glacier, The Balletto Glacier, The Heim Glacier, Arrow Glacier and The Drygalski Glacier.

Arriving through Kilimanjaro International Airport in Moshi

The Kilimanjaro International Airport is also known as KIA/JRO is the major airport between Arusha and Moshi. It facilitates most tourism activities of the northern circuit in Tanzania an it the best get in for people wanting to visit Kilimanjaro Mountains .

It is estimated to host over 750,000 visitors a year.

The airport is a bit small in size compared to many international airports but it handles all sizes of aircrafts in including the large Boeings.

Wrapping it up

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro depends greatly on your fitness for reaching the summit. Prior training is highly recommended and will help you endure the hike.

When booking budget Kilimanjaro trekking tours with us, we consider factors like your training background, health condition, age, weight, and more.

This helps us assign routes suitable for your abilities as routes vary in difficulty. The cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not determined by the routes alone.

It includes climbing permits, accommodation, meals, porter-age services, guiding fees, and other facilities. Explore our Kilimanjaro trekking tours above or send us an inquiry below.

Why visit Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania for Hiking Tours?

With its snow-capped peak, lush rainforests, and diverse flora and fauna, Mountain Kilimanjaro is a very beautiful place to be. It's also the highest mountain in Africa; so summiting it puts you at the Roof of Africa. When it comes to culture, the region stands out. There is a lot of cultural community experiences around this marvelous mountain; when you visit some of their villages.

Discover the Reasons to Choose Us for Your Booking

Having explored Mount Kilimanjaro and numerous other safari destinations firsthand, we possess invaluable insights to provide you with. Allow us to craft a contemporary itinerary tailored to your preferences.

We are a relibale and experience Kilimanjaro hiking company that you can confide in for an unforgettable hike.

Booking with us

Book very flexible hiking itineraries that you can tailor by adding more activities and attractions.

Our honest promise

We promise you the best planned and most successful hike on Mount Kilimanjaro.

What we values & commit to

We consistently deliver top-notch hiking tours to Kilimanjaro. We are commited to this.

Support the less-previledged

A portion of our annual profits benefits single mothers around Mount Kilimanjaro and other tourism communities.

How We Get Things Done

We follow the best modern practices every step of the way; to ensure we plan the best tour itinerary that you'll love.

On inquiry, we shall carefully listen to your requests and propose various options based on it.

We shall then create your itinerary, send it to you and keep making ammends until you are comfortable.

A tentative reservation will be placed to lock your trip as we wait for a deposit and confirm your trip.

We make Kilimanjaro hiking easy! But, we'd love to hear your thoughts and requests...

We are a phone call , a video call meeting , an email , or an instant WhatsApp message away. Get in touch now for ideas.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The 9 Best Companies to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro With

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Summiting Kilimanjaro is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience for most travelers. To make it to the top, you’ll have to put in long hours of training, spend thousands of dollars, and take a lot of vacation time. It’s not a journey you can (or should) attempt alone, and it would be heartbreaking to travel all that way and not reach your goal. That’s why choosing the right tour company to climb Kilimanjaro is the most important part of your trip.

All companies featured on this list are approved partners with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), which monitors the treatment of porters on the mountain to ensure that they are paid fairly, do not carry excessively heavy loads, and are provided with comfortable accommodations and three meals a day during the trek.

Wildland Trekking

Wildland Trekking aims to get guests away from the crowds on Kilimanjaro’s slopes, and starts their trips on the Rongai Route before merging with the more popular Marangu Route. Wildland’s 10-day journey includes plenty of time for acclimatization, which is crucial for hiking at high altitudes. 

As Wildland says, “It takes a team, not an individual to reach the summit of Africa,” and the company truly values and invests in its porters. 

10 Trips Millennial Travelers Will Love

Exodus Travels

Exodus Travels offers trips on two different routes on Kilimanjaro, the scenic Rongai Route and the slightly longer Lemosho Route. (Pick the Lemosho Route for the best chance of success—Exodus Travels has a 96 percent summit rate on this trail). 

Spend summit night under a full moon by choosing one of Exodus’ full moon departure trips, or opt for a woman-powered trek with an all-female crew trip.

Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) boasts an incredibly high summit rate, with 97 percent of clients making it to the top. (The average success rate on Kilimanjaro is 60-70 percent.)

The secret to A&K’s success lies in its preparation. Every climb will feature first-rate safety and emergency equipment (including oxygen and a portable altitude chamber), proper nutrition in the form of fresh food, and comfortable campsites complete with private toilets. 

Every A&K guide on its Kilimanjaro trips are certified Wilderness First Responders—and most have completed over 200 summits. 

The 5 Most Amazing Jungle Adventures in the World

Every year, MT Sobek operates an annual Wilderness First Responder and Wilderness First Aid training in Tanzania to ensure their guides are prepared for anything on the mountain. 

When you are focused on the summit, you might forget to consider the scenery along the way. Fortunately, MT Sobek has done the research for you, and follows a unique trail over the Machame Route, through the Great Barranco Valley, and over the Western Breach for some of the most beautiful views on the mountain. This path also allows for plenty of time to acclimatize (including spending the night in Kibo’s crater before making the summit push), contributing to the company’s 98 percent success rate. 

Intrepid Travel

Not a fan of camping? Sign up for Intrepid Travel’s Marangu Route trip , which overnights in mountain huts along the way instead of tents. Machame Route treks are also available, as are trips that combine Kilimanjaro with a relaxing safari. 

Intrepid Travel operates with a strict ratio of one guide for every two clients. 

Ultimate Kilimanjaro

Ultimate Kilimanjaro helped Anne Lorimor become the oldest person in the world to climb Kilimanjaro—so the odds are good that they can help you reach the top as well. 

The company has been leading trips up the mountain for over 15 years and leads over 150 climbs annually.

The 7 Most Beautiful Places on Earth

Pristine Trails Adventures & Safaris

Pristine Trails Adventures & Safaris is locally-owned. Owner Edward Lyimo was born and raised in Tanzania and worked at another tour company before deciding to start his own operation. Under the “Pristine Promise” all guides have extensive experience (and are Wilderness First Responder certified). Guides and cooks are re-trained each year during the low season. 

Guests will sleep in roomy Mountain Hardwear tents during the trek, atop local-made sleeping mats that will increase their comfort levels. 

World Expeditions

Leave Kilimanjaro better than you found it on a trip with World Expeditions . This eco-minded company asks its guests to pick up 10 pieces of litter each day of the trek, helping to keep the mountain pristine. 

World Expeditions has been offering Kilimanjaro treks for over 25 years, and is one of just a few companies that offer trips up the less-crowded Shira Route and Northern Circuit. 

Are Groupon Travel Deals Really a Bargain?

G Adventures

Kilimanjaro trips are expensive, but budget-minded travelers can find some good deals with G Adventures . G Adventures hikes are a little more basic than the others on this list (you won’t find private toilet tents on these expeditions.) However, G Adventures’ summit rates are still very high, varying from 90 percent to 96 percent depending on the route.

There are lots of Kilimanjaro trips to choose from with G Adventures, including tours that combine Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, and Zanzibar.  

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Madrid to Malaga: 8-Nt Southern Spain...

Luxe, 12-Night Spain, France, Monaco &...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

• Skip to main content
• Skip to header right navigation
• Skip to site footer

Albom Adventures

Capturing the essence of travel through photography

Inspiring travel through photography

Best Kilimanjaro Tour Operators Compared: Climb Africa’s Highest Peak

When you are ready to tackle Africa’s highest peak, you’ll want to be surrounded by the best Kilimanjaro tour operators. Here we share tips on what to look for, along with recommendations. As we have yet to make the climb, we have gone to an expert for advice. Marvin Derichs is an avid mountaineer who has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, along with several other impressive peaks. (see his bio below)

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak on the African continent and one of the few places in the world where you can find massive glaciers close to the earth’s equator. Climbing this majestic volcano is an epic adventure you will remember for the rest of your life.

If you want to successfully reach the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll need more than endurance and fortitude: you should have great hiking boots, well-suited mountain gear, and a reliable climbing tour operator.

While being presented by a tour operator isn’t legally required to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll run into a lot of trouble trying to arrange a mountain expedition on your own! First of all, the rules of Kilimanjaro National Park provide that each group of climbers must be accompanied by a recognized mountain guide, so good luck finding a good one without the expertise of a local tour operator.

Secondly, everyone entering the park must pay national park entry fees and climbing permits. And finally, you will need a 6-7-day stock of provisions and camping gear to get you to the top.

In Tanzania, tour operators manage all of these logistics: permits and park fees, health and safety equipment, experienced mountain guides, food throughout the trek, tents and gear, and a climbing crew to help carry it all. With tour operators handling so many important aspects of the climb, who you choose is a make-or-break decision.

What to look for when choosing the best Kilimanjaro tour operators

To reach the top of Kilimanjaro safely and successfully, climb only with the trusted tour operators in Tanzania.

But there are so many of them! How do you choose right? Let’s break it down:

• Start with those who have more experience : check which company has led the most climbs in recent years. It does not necessarily imply the operators that have been in business the longest but rather those that have grown a strong presence on the mountain over the years.
• Choose a company that has high success rates on their climbs. They must be doing something right!
• Always choose a tour operator that puts health and safety first . Climbing Kilimanjaro is no joke. Choose a company that cares about your safety, not saving your expenses .
• Finally, select an operator that is highly rated by independent reviewers and former climbers. Hundreds of reviews give an accurate picture of what you can expect. If you see over 100 positive reviews, you can be sure that it’s not friends and family doing a favour but actual clients sharing their real opinions.

The seven best Kilimanjaro tour operators

To make it even easier, we have rounded up the Top 7 Kilimanjaro Climbing Operators for you.

• Altezza Travel
• Team Kilimanjaro
• Kiliwarrior Expeditions
• Ultimate Kilimanjaro
• G Adventures
• Summits Africa
• Nature Discovery

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kilimanjaro and Safari Tours (@altezza.travel)

More on each of the best Kilimanjaro guides

1. altezza travel.

A clear winner of our Top 7 best Kilimanjaro guides is Altezza Travel. They hit each point on our checklist and boast a great track record when it comes to safety and customer satisfaction. You can’t go wrong climbing Mt Kilimanjaro with Altezza Travel .

Experience: 1 in every 5 climbs on Kilimanjaro is guided by Altezza Travel, making them the most experienced climbing operator on the mountain. They have been operating in Tanzania since 2014, and now they run more climbs than any other local company. While Kilimanjaro is clearly the focus of their activity, they can also supplement your climbing experience with a safari adventure or beach holidays on one of the Tanzanian islands.

Safety: Altezza wins the day on this point too. Dedicated to client safety, they conduct two daily health checks throughout the climb to detect the onset of altitude sickness before it progresses to a dangerous stage. All of their guides are certified Wilderness First Responders, yearly retrained and re-examined on their professional knowledge. Altezza also has a heli-pad on their climbing base, allowing them to receive helicopter evacuations (something no other operator can do as of this writing).

High Success Rate: Altezza Travel keeps a record of each summit attempt and successful ascent of their expeditions. While the official data on routes by TANAPA are outdated, Altezza can present accurate statistics making it possible to predict which route is more likely to get a beginner to the summit and which one will work better for a climber with experience. Altezza backs up every figure of their success rates with GPS data.

High Ratings: A quick look at their Trip Advisor and you’ll see – Altezza Travel has over 350 positive reviews. Better than that – they don’t have a single negative review! That says a lot about a climbing operator. Not only do they perfectly attend to all the necessities while on the climb, but also advise you on the best routes for altitude acclimatization and which gear to bring, ensuring everything is well-arranged and you’re fully ready for the challenge.

Altezza Travel also organizes climbs for celebrities, record-breaking summits and amazing feats: like Wings of Kilimanjaro, RedBull and National Geographic. They have their climbing base in Tanzania, right at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, which makes everything run that much smoother. The best Kilimanjaro guides lead with Altezza; the company reinforces ongoing training to make sure their guides are always the best in the industry. And every climbing group gets lots of care and attention; you can be sure you’ll have the best Mount Kilimanjaro climb with Altezza Travel.

2. Team Kilimanjaro

If you’re a dedicated athlete and adventurer when it comes to climbing mountains, then you may be interested in Team Kilimanjaro. Team Kilimanjaro is one of the only climbing operators to offer Super Lite tours: just a guide; no cook, no porters. You carry your own tent/sleeping bag and lightweight food up the mountain for a special, very rugged experience.

Team Kilimanjaro was founded by an expat John Rees-Evans, a passionate mountain enthusiast who has climbed Kilimanjaro multiple times himself. In fact, he holds a speed record up Kilimanjaro for British citizens – impressive! 

Team Kilimanjaro can boast amazing guides and genuine dedication to ethical treatment for porters, too, so you can rest assured you’re climbing with a responsible climbing operator. Client safety and a great climbing experience are the top priorities of Team Kilimanjaro.

3. Kiliwarrior Expeditions

Kiliwarrior Expeditions is a Canadian company with Tanzanian roots. Founders Wilbert Mollel and Gerry Analytis joined forces to provide an amazing climbing experience to anyone ready to call themselves a ‘Kiliwarrior’. 

This is a small, local operator with a team of guides who have been climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for over 20 years.  We are confident that Kiliwarriors prioritize client safety: all of their guides are Wilderness First Responder certified and competent in mountain-related health issues. Kiliwarriors specialize in a unique route – the Western Breach, for climbers who want to try a risky, less popular trek up Kilimanjaro. It is a longer route (a total of 9 days, including descent), but it offers a great acclimatization transition and amazing scenery throughout the climb.

Kiliwarrior Expeditions have also shown a great success record – 94% of their climbers reach the summit. You’re sure to have an amazing climb with this top climbing operator for Kilimanjaro.

4. Ultimate Kilimanjaro 

Another popular climbing operator on Kilimanjaro is Ultimate Kilimanjaro. They have a good track record, high ratings and plenty of experience. Ultimate Kilimanjaro has been in operation for 15 years, and they lead an estimated 150 climbs up Kili every year. Based on our calculations, this makes them the second-most experienced operator on Kilimanjaro.

Ultimate Kilimanjaro prioritizes client safety with mandatory twice-a-day medical checks for all climbers and guides trained as Wilderness First Responders.

Ultimate Kilimanjaro keeps the number of climbers per climb low (16 participants, max), which adds to the reasons why climbers choose them. They offer scheduled joint and private climbs, so you can climb with your own group of friends or make new friends along the way.

Ultimate Kilimanjaro makes sure to offer routes that have a great acclimatization profile, so you’ll definitely reach the summit with this awesome team.

5. G Adventures

G Adventures are an international operator running tours all over the globe. They don’t exclusively focus on Kilimanjaro climbs – it is one of the tours on their offer. Since they work with a number of destinations, they don’t offer treks for every single route on Kilimanjaro – only on a selected few (Marangu, Machame are some other popular ones).

G Adventures have experience running tours for over 30 years. Those keen to join a fun group from all over the world can jump on board with this international tour operator. Climbing Kilimanjaro is not the sole focus of this operator, so we could not find conclusive information for how long they have been offering Kilimanjaro climbs specifically.

G Adventures know how to create an amazing adventure and bring people from different countries and cultures together for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’re a solo climber looking to join a group, G Adventures’ Kilimanjaro treks are a great option to join up with like-minded people to climb Africa’s highest mountain.

6. Summits Africa

Summits Africa specializes in treks throughout East Africa (including Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda). They act as a connecting point for other tour operators leading treks in East Africa, so if you choose Summits Africa for a trek in Kenya or Uganda, you may be climbing with one of their trusted partners. They also give climbers more freedom in logistics arrangements than some other climbing operators: Summits Africa gives you the option to bring your own guide while they handle the climbing permits only or climb with their guides and porters.

Summits Africa has been organizing and leading climbs since 2001. They have a great deal of experience in mountain trekking, not only in Tanzania but throughout East Africa. If you’re interested in climbing other mountains, like the Rwenzori in Uganda or Mount Kenya in Kenya, then check out Summits Africa to arrange your climbing expedition. They also offer a few pre-scheduled climbs every year that individuals may join. For Kilimanjaro climbs, their office (located in Arusha, Tanzania) will handle all the details, and the Summits Africa climbing crew will lead your trek.

7. Nature Discovery

Nature Discovery has been in business for over 25 years. They focus on both safaris and treks across Tanzania, with a mission to respect the environment. Nature Discovery is one of the few climbing operators that offer treks on Mount Longido (located near the border to Kenya) and Ol Doinyo Lengai – an active volcano found near Lake Natron.

Their team is passionate about Tanzania’s wildlife and environment conservation, and they bring that enthusiasm on each of their mountain expeditions. Nature Discovery emphasizes such practices as Leave No Trace for all of their climbs and safaris, so travellers can be sure that they do not foster an organization that causes harm to nature.

Nature Discovery has a solid track record for safety and client satisfaction. A Kilimanjaro climb with this operator is sure to be a great and eco-friendly adventure.

Summary of the best Kilimanjaro tour operators

There are so many operators offering climbing tours on Mount Kilimanjaro. How do you choose? For a safe and successful climb, it is important to look for the best operators – those with plenty of experience, focus on safety and great independent reviews.

Our list includes a diverse selection of climbing operators: a global adventure travel company, small, local Tanzanian climbing operators and the most experienced climbing operators on Kilimanjaro. From this list, you can find a great climbing operator for your Mount Kilimanjaro climb.

Our top recommendation for a Kilimanjaro climb is Altezza Travel ; they send more teams up Kilimanjaro than any other operator in Tanzania, making them #1 in experience. Not only do they prioritize client safety, but also have the resources to perform helicopter evacuations (a rare service in Tanzania). They send climbing teams up every route on Kilimanjaro, and they keep GPS data to back up their claims about summit successes. If you’re looking for the best climbing operator, climb with Altezza.

Save on your trip with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

• Flights : we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), VRBO (self-contained), or Hostelworld (budget).
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
• Campervans or Motorhomes : we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
• Private guides : we love the private guides at Tours by Locals .
• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article on the best company to climb Kilimanjaro, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

Which of the best Kilimanjaro tour operators will you climb with?

In addition to the best guides for Kilimanjaro, you might enjoy …

• 5 Must-Try Adventure Activities in Switzerland
• Top 10 Exciting Adventures in New Zealand for the Active Traveller
• Adventure and Other Things to do in Denali Alaska
• 5 Destinations Perfect for Wildlife Adventures
• Colours of the Sahara Desert: A Travel Photography Exposé

About the author who compared the best Kilimanjaro tour operators

Marvin Derichs is a dedicated mountain climber and avid traveller. He spent many years in East Africa, exploring its mountains, cultures and lifestyles. So far he has been on the peaks of Mount Stanley (Margherita) in Uganda, Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru in Tanzania, and Mount Kenya in Kenya. Now he is sharing his experiences from Munich, Germany and planning further adventures in Africa.

Photo credits:

All photos on this page were provided by Altezza Travel and used with written permission. All rights reserved.

About Albom Adventures Editorial Team

Albom Adventures’ editorial team consists of travel bloggers and other travel writers who periodically provide content to this blog. If would like to join our editorial team, please send us an email via the information on our contact page .

Reader Interactions

July 25, 2022 at 6:44 am

Ashanti tours. Went with them in Feb through discover adventure in UK. And they were brilliant. Came down from summit with Cuthbert the owner in one day and truly is a gent. If you want the best i would recommend these guys all day long. Julio, Bryson were brilliant at leading group. Go with them and won’t go wrong

Glen Garvin

July 6, 2022 at 11:13 pm

How can you possibly leave RMI (Rainier Mountaineering) off of this list? They are the best across the world and have the most experienced, world-renown guides?

Skyler Soelberg

July 14, 2022 at 12:00 pm

Lol!! Climb Kili has twice the positive Tripadvisor reviews of any of these other companies.

June 26, 2022 at 8:18 am

Thank you for for such good outline short list down the best Kilimanjaro tour operators! very helpful!

March 5, 2022 at 6:10 pm

Very useful content. Thank you.

January 23, 2022 at 4:02 pm

I definitely don’t think I’d try to do this without a tour operator — too many logistics to keep track of. Thank you for putting this together! Altezza sounds great!

January 23, 2022 at 3:07 am

Thank you for such a detailed guide on all the best operators, climbing Kilimanjaro is something I’d love to challenge myself to do one day so it’s very interesting to read about all the options!

January 22, 2022 at 11:06 am

Great information with complete details and what to expect. And this place looks like a definite bucket list trip!

January 19, 2022 at 7:13 pm

This is interesting to me! Thank you for insight into such an epic adventure

Alex J. Cavanaugh

January 19, 2022 at 3:56 am

I’d like to see it, but don’t think a week of climbing is for me. You bet I would place safety first though.

January 19, 2022 at 3:18 am

I would LOVE to go there! thank you for the guide, you do have everything covered. Saving it for later to actually book trip

January 19, 2022 at 2:42 am

I’m glad I got to see these photos. Even at my youngest and healthiest, this would have been daunting to me.

Jasmine Martin

January 18, 2022 at 6:36 pm

I would absolutely love to visit Kilimanjaro. I am definitely going to use this for whenever I do visit there.

January 18, 2022 at 2:28 pm

This is great information for those looking to climb Kilmanjaro. It definitely would be a huge challenge!

January 18, 2022 at 11:40 am

Very interesting information! A nephew of mine summited Kilamjaro years ago and enjoyed the challenge very much. I blogged about his experiences at that time.

January 18, 2022 at 11:17 am

Lots of great info on climbing Kilimanjaro! I hope to make it back to Africa and do it!

Lydia C. Lee

January 18, 2022 at 10:18 am

Wow! Looks lovely. Feels like a very long way off at the moment.

January 18, 2022 at 8:05 am

This is such a great article! For a smaller hike, I went on a known tour company and it was pretty traumatising. So I’d definitely recommend someone to this article for such an intense hike. Thanks for sharing this.

January 17, 2022 at 12:43 pm

Good to know how to find a good tour! My friend was getting overwhelmed with all the options when planning a trip and climb there. Can’t wait to send this on 🙂

Renata Feyen

January 17, 2022 at 11:23 am

My physical condition is not good enough to make such climbs, but I suppose a good guide makes a huge difference

January 17, 2022 at 10:33 am

I don’t believe I am fit enough ever to be hiking Mt Kilimanjaro. However, I love your tips for selecting a good operator. Safety is essential, and what’s best than climbing the mountain with a trusted tour operator? Altezza Travel sounds like the best one out of the 7.

January 17, 2022 at 8:28 am

Until recently I didn’t know about this place or the tours. A co worker of mine is going there in September.

January 17, 2022 at 8:03 am

Thanks for sharing this! I am actually heading to Kilimanjaro in September and was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tour operators and didn’t have a clue where to even start, so this was super useful, thank you!

Vanessa Shields

January 17, 2022 at 7:53 am

So much great information on trekking up Kilimanjaro! This is definitely a bucket list activity. I’d definitely want to go with Altezza Travel as I like how experienced they are, focused on safety and they have a heli pad if needed!

Travel Addicted Unicorn

January 17, 2022 at 7:29 am

Oo wow what an interesting post…I have never climbed such a big mountain before (am not much of a hiker myself) but so inspiring when you see others do it. I did a trip with G adventures a few years ago but it was in Europe and I did like them. Didn’t know they did tours on mount Kilimanjaro and especially for 30 years!!

Jori Sutton

January 17, 2022 at 5:57 am

Have a friend planning this trip now! Will send it on!

January 17, 2022 at 5:38 am

As someone who usually likes to do things “self-guided,” I can easily say that hiking Mount Kilimanjaro would be an experience I’d definitely choose to go on a tour! These are all great suggestions that I’ll keep in mind if I ever tackle this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity someday! 🙂

Linda (LD Holland)

January 17, 2022 at 2:57 am

I am not sure I would ever consider trying Kilamanjaro without an organized tour. Great to get some tips on how to pick a good tour group. And to get some insight into some of the best ones.

January 17, 2022 at 12:50 am

Thank you for breaking down the best Kilimanjaro tour operators! it was very helpful! I’ll be saving this for down the road!

January 16, 2022 at 9:19 pm

This is a very helpful tips on kilimanjaro mountain. Btw, awesome tent color, love it 🙂

January 16, 2022 at 3:13 pm

This is a great guide to compare the top 7 Mount Kilimanjaro climbing operators. I’m in awe of those with such dedication and passion to accomplish this adventure.

January 16, 2022 at 2:59 pm

It’s pretty cool that you have so many options for hiking up Mount Kilimanjaro! My friends did it a few years ago and my husband and were soooo sad we couldn’t join them (we were just too poor while we were saving to get married…) I do love the idea of doing this one day though. I’ll try to remember that Altezza Travel is the one to go for.

January 16, 2022 at 12:26 pm

This info about Mt Kilimanjaro tours is SO helpful – thank you!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Climbing Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, East Africa, is the highest mountain in Africa with an elevation of 19,341 feet (5,895 meters). It is the largest free-standing mountain in the world and is one of the seven summits.

Its snow-capped peak towers above the surrounding Savannah’s and is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park, which is home to a variety of unique flora and fauna. While it is a dormant volcano, it still serves as an important source of inspiration for climbers and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. More information about Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is composed of three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo 19,340 feet (5895 meters); Mawenzi 16,896 feet (5149 m); and Shira 13,000 feet (3962 m). Uhuru Peak is the highest summit on Kibo’s crater rim.

Mount Kilimanjaro is a giant stratovolcano that began forming a million years ago, when lava spilled from the Rift Valley zone. Two of its three peaks, Mawenzi and Shira, are extinct while Kibo (the highest peak) is dormant and could erupt again.

The last major eruption has been dated to 360,000 years ago, while the most recent activity was recorded just 200 years ago. Kilimanjaro has 2.2 square kilometres (0.85 sq mi) of glacial ice and is losing it quickly due to climate change. The glaciers have shrunk 82% since 1912 and declined 33% since 1989. It might be ice free within 20 years, dramatically affecting local drinking water and crop irrigation.

Who Can Climb Kilimanjaro? Anyone from children over the age of 10 to older generations in their 60s and 70s! All you need is determination and the will to get to the summit. The real challenge with climbing Kilimanjaro is the altitude and the rate of ascent. Don’t worry we will be with you every step of the way!

Our Kilimanjaro Guides are highly skilled professionals and are a key component to your success.

Join the thousands of climbers who have stood on the Mount Kilimanjaro Summit Guided by Our Kilimanjaro Trek Expert Team. Climb Kili with the Best Kilimanjaro Tour Operator.

Kilimanjaro climb guide company : We are a premier Kilimanjaro trekking Tours company with decades of combined experience on the mountain, we specialize in Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. We run our own trekking operations, staffed with expert mountain guides, and do not act as a booking agent for other companies. We will give you comprehensive advice on packing, fitness, expected weather and trail conditions, and be by your side every step of the way – all the way to the Summit of Kilimanjaro! We will also bring you to the airport after the adventure of a lifetime.

Hiking Kilimanjaro Routes

There are Seven main Mount Kilimanjaro routes which lead to the summit, Uhuru Peak , one of which starts on the Northern side of the mountain and the rest on the Southern side. The routes are Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, Northern Circuit and Umbwe.

Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro takes between five to nine days in order to reach the Kilimanjaro Summit and then descend to the finishing point. The more days spent on the mountain the more likely you will summit successfully because you will become more acclimated to the altitude.

When is the best time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Mountain weather can be unpredictable, and the best time for a Kilimanjaro Hike is during the dry seasons: December to early March and June to October. We don’t climb during the height of the rainy season, for safety reasons.

LET US HELP YOU PLAN YOUR KILIMANJARO TRIP

Climb Kilimanjaro Tours and more

Kilimanjaro Routes & Prices

Choose the best route Easy to follow guide to all Kilimanjaro routes

Meet the Best Kilimanjaro Guides

Our guides are highly experienced, medically trained and committed to your safety

Safety is Our #1 Priority on Kilimanjaro

Our team carries a comprehensive medical kit, including bottled oxygen, and portable stretcher

And after your Kilimanjaro Climb

See the Big Five on Safari

Visit Ngorongoro or see the famous wildebeest migration

Visit Zanzibar, the spice island. Rest and relax on the idylic islands of Zanzibar

We had a fantastic time and felt we really were looked after like VIP's by Climbing Kilimanjaro !

James and Rebecca, UK

The whole Kilimanjaro Hike team was fantastic and we could not find fault with anything.

Jane and Debbie, Australia

The whole CK team were excellent, they looked after us well and were very friendly.

Doug and Gary, UK

Why Book with Us?

We run our own climbs for the best experience

In order to give you the very best chance of summiting we operate every aspect of your climb: that means fantastic guides, great equipment and lots of nourishing food.

Tailor made treks for individuals and groups

The whole of your trip can be tailor made to your requirement: your choice of routes, length of trek and dates in a custom made trip.

Great value all-inclusive climbs

Private airport collection, hotels before and after the trek, park fees, guides and porters and all your accommodation and food on the trek. All you need for a great climb.

Excellent safety procedures

Safety is the highest priority on all our Kilimanjaro climbs with detailed risk assessments and excellent guides who are all trained in first aid and altitude sickness prevention.

Highest Kilimanjaro Summit Success Record

Our Consultants team, expert guides and trip leaders are highly accomplished professionals, who know Mount Kilimanjaro like the back of their hands and are the key to the success of every one of our trips. We pride ourselves on having excellent staff and dedicated team leaders – that`s why we are so popular and have a very high summit success rate!

Responsible travel

We operate to the highest standards of responsible travel. Our porters are all treated well and we support the Leave no Trace rules so that Kilimanjaro is not spoiled.

100% Tailor made

• Your entire holiday is designed around your requirements
• Choose the route you want, the date you want and the options you want
• Create the perfect trip with our specialists

Expert Knowledge

• All our advisors have climbed Kilimanjaro, visited the safari parks and Zanzibar
• You will have the same advisor throughout the planning process.
• Make the most of your time and budget

Focus on Safety

• Certified Wilderness First Responders
• Daily pulse and oxygen saturation monitoring
• Emergency oxygen and medical kits
• High summit success rates and client satisfaction

The Best Guides On Kilimanjaro

• Make the difference between a good climb and an outstanding one
• Professional, experienced, licensed Mountain guides
• Honest, hardworking, team-oriented support staff

Kilimanjaro & Safaris

CLIMB OUT IN FRONT ®

Kopa Tours is the #1 African mountain outfitter.

• 🙋 All hikes are private - no groups
• ⭐ Est. 2019, 300+ client summits
• ⛰️ 98% summit success / A+ safety

We climb because we want to improve, to be the best version of ourselves.

Explore with heart

Kopa means "suit of hearts" in Swahili, and in everything we do at Kopa we do it with PASSION & we do it to have FUN.

Vacations aren't about the box ticking, or the Instagram photos -- they are about immersing yourself in an experience.

Lemosho Route  Highest Success Rate 8 day hike

Climb the most scenic route on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Big Buck Safari  Most Popular

Visit Lake Manyara, Serengeti Ntl. Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire Ntl. Park on this beautiful 5-day, 4-night safari.

Starting at:

$2,519 / person

Trip Offerings

From the plains ... to the peaks . we've got it all..

Choose the package type that suits your needs.

Testimonials

Our 30th wedding anniversary dinner at the Serengeti Safari Lodge was SUCH a treat. Thank you Kopa Tours!

Jill & Dennis Collins, Whitefish, MT, USA

Kopa Tours was in contact throughout the whole planning process .. from what size shoes to wear, to what level of sun screen protection, were ready to help for anything.

María Alvarez, San Diego, CA, USA

I hiked the Machame Route (6 day) on a last minute booking. Kopa did a pretty good job making sure everything was set up in time. Made it to the top!

Brent Hudson, Brooklyn, NY, USA

I and my 3 lifelong best friends had a wonderful time at the Serengeti. Hotels were nice and comfy. LOVED the butler service! Thanks, Danford!!

Patricia Rogers, Henderson, NV, USA

Kilimanjaro climbs - Safari journeys - Competitive pricing - Safe travels

Kilimanjaro Climb 3 Days Marangu Route - Kilimanjaro Trekking

• Trip Overview
• Trip Itinerary
• Similar Tours

About Kilimanjaro 3 Days Marangu route

Discover the iconic Marangu Route of Mount Kilimanjaro in a condensed three-day adventure. Ascend through diverse landscapes, from dense rainforests to moorland zones, as you make your way towards the summit. Marvel at the unique flora and fauna along the route, including endemic species found only on this mountain. Reach the Kibo Hut, where you will rest before the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. This tour offers a balanced combination of challenge and accessibility, providing an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience for both novice and experienced hikers.

Planning a three-day itinerary for the Marangu route on Mount Kilimanjaro and want to skip the Mandara camp, it's important to note that this approach can significantly increase the difficulty of the climb and the risk of altitude sickness. The Marangu route is already known for being the shortest and least challenging route, but skipping the initial acclimatization at Mandara camp can make it even more strenuous.

Scroll down to get more detail about this tour

What's included

• Unlimited bottled water
• Visa arrangements

Kilimanjaro Short 3 Days Marangu Route

————————–3 Days Marangu Route——————

Experience the magic of Mount Kilimanjaro on a captivating 3-day journey along the Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route.” Ascend through lush rainforests, traverse moorlands, and witness the transformation of the landscape as you reach higher altitudes.

With experienced guides by your side, you’ll immerse yourself in the beauty of Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems and learn about the local culture. The gradual ascent and comfortable accommodations on this route provide an enjoyable and fulfilling trekking experience, culminating in a triumphant summit of Uhuru Peak.

You may read and write some review for us from  Safari Bookings .

Book Kilimanjaro 3-Day Marangu Route  With  KILINGE ADVENTURES

Day 1: marangu gate to horombo hut.

Start early in the morning at the Marangu Gate (1,860 meters).

Complete the registration process and meet your guides and porters.

Begin the trek through the lush rainforest, enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Continue climbing until you reach the Horombo Hut (3,720 meters).

This is a long day of hiking, taking around 5-6 hours.

Spend the night at the Horombo Hut.

Day 2: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

After breakfast, continue your ascent towards Kibo Hut (4,703 meters).

The vegetation becomes sparser as you enter the alpine desert zone.

You'll have lunch along the way and rest at Kibo Hut.

The hike typically takes around 6-7 hours.

At Kibo Hut, prepare yourself for the summit attempt.

Rest, hydrate, and have an early dinner.

Try to sleep early to prepare for the challenging summit day.

Day 3: Summit Attempt and Descend to Marangu Gate

Wake up around midnight and begin the summit attempt.

The goal is to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) before sunrise.

Follow your guide in the darkness, using headlamps.

The climb is challenging, involving steep sections and scree.

After several hours, you'll reach Gilman's Point (5,681 meters).

Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak.

Take in the breathtaking views and celebrate your achievement.

Begin the descent, passing Kibo Hut and continuing down to the Marangu Gate.

Once you reach the gate, you'll complete the necessary paperwork.

Transfer back to your hotel or lodge for a well-deserved rest.

• Kilimanjaro Climbing hiking challenge
• kilimanjaro short trek route
• KILIMANJARO SPECIAL HIKING CHALLENGE

Kilinge Adventures dreamed of bringing tourists into this beautiful country, having the best Kilimanjaro Trekking experiences with the African wildlife experiences and be able to share the best of what Africa has to offer especially our lovely country Tanzania.

Our Facebook Page

TripAdvisor

Our newsletter.

Subscribe to our newsletter and get exlusive first minute offers straight into your inbox.

3 Days Marangu Route - Kilimanjaro Trekking

Fill out the form to book the Tour. Required fields are marked *

Enquiry about the Tour availability or anything you’d like to know. Required fields are marked *

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

View all tours

North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of 20 wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

Hiking Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro trekking, africa’s rooftop patio.

• Inca Trail tours
• Kilimanjaro

Ever stood on the top floor of a skyscraper and thought, “Bah, this ain’t so tall”? Then you might just be Kilimanjaro material. Join us as we walk in the bootprints of famed explorers and mountaineers on our way to the top of Africa’s tallest peak, hiking through lush rainforests and alpine deserts, across glaciers by day and sleeping closer to the stars than you ever dreamed possible by night. Over 1,500 trekkers make the ascent with us each year, and we’d love to help you to the top.

Kilimanjaro: Four ways to the top

Kilimanjaro is no picnic, but unlike other massive peaks, it gives those daring enough to climb it multiple routes to the top. Consult our route map to see which one’s right for you.

Kilimanjaro Trekking FAQ

Will the altitude affect us.

The air at the summit contains about half of the breathable oxygen most of us are used to at sea level. Everyone will handle the high altitude and thinner air differently and to varying degrees, which is why we try to keep the ascent slow and steady. The more time you give yourself to acclimatize, the easier your attempt at the summit will be.

What will we eat?

You’ll need energy to make that push to the top, and our camp cooks make certain that there’s plenty of healthy, quality food on hand. Our team of porters carries the equipment and supplies (including fresh produce), and meals consist of local and international cuisine. Our cooks can accommodate special requests, but please let us know when you book.

What are the conditions like?

As the highest peak in Africa (and the tallest freestanding mountain in the entire world), Kili is home to a variety of ecosystems and microclimataes. Everything from tropical forests to subzero alpine environments await up here, and the weather can switch from pleasant to inclement at a moment’s notice, so come prepared for anything.

Where will we sleep?

On all routes excluding the Marangu Route, we offer full-service camping. Apart from a sleeping bag and pillow (which can be rented), you don’t need to bring anything else. Your three-season tent, complete with built-in vestibule and mesh insect netting, will be pitched for you, and we’ll provide you with a 4cm-thick (1.6 in) mattress free of charge.

On the Marangu Route, you’ll stay in wooden A-frame huts with single beds and simple mattresses. Space on the mountain is limited, so prepare for the possibility of sharing your hut with non-G Adventures trekkers and/or members of the opposite sex. All huts are equipped with shared toilets and washing facilities.

I’ve never trekked before. Is that a problem?

While Kili is no cakewalk, it’s a perfectly achievable hike for healthy travellers with a moderate degree of physical fitness. That said, we do recommend that you do some advance training. The best way to prepare is to hike and hill-walk wherever you can in the weeks leading up to your departure in order to build up your stamina and climbing muscles. (A stair-climber at the gym is a good alternative if you don’t have any mountains at the ready.) Start training six months out. With a little preparation, you should get to the top without much trouble.

Featured Kilimanjaro Trekking Posts

Virtually climb Mt Kilimanjaro with us

Just because we aren’t travelling as much as we’d like to right now, doesn’t mean we can’t experience our big, beautiful world. Join one of our guides for a virtual tour of Mt Kilimanjaro!

Written by: G Adventures , 21 Sept. 2021 04:45 p.m.

Ten beautiful views and where to find them

Epic sunsets, panoramic alpine vistas, endless sky — here’s our gathering of bucket list-worthy scenes from around the globe

Written by: G Adventures , 13 Sept. 2021 05:38 p.m.

Take a hike: 8 of the world's greatest treks

These are no walks in the park. They’ll challenge you physically and engage you mentally, leaving you with an indelible impression of the richness of our planet.

Written by: Daniel Sendecki , 4 May 2017 04:40 p.m.

Top 4 training tips for trekking Kilimanjaro

Marathon runner and fitness enthusiast Charlie Watson gives you the scoop on training to climb Africa’s highest mountain.

Written by: Charlie Watson , 21 Dec. 2016 07:00 a.m.

The G Difference

Kilimanjaro is a beast of a mountain, but our skilled staff and dedicated support crews are always ready to help you get the best of it. And while we know Kili’s every rock, pebble, and grain of sand, the bonuses of climbing with us don’t end there.

Small group treks

Trek experts, more choice, full coverage.

Soraka Tours

Climb Kilimanjaro

Why Travel With Us

Soraka Tours offers adventures that combine thrilling experiences, cultural immersion, and responsible travel. With personalized services, unwavering focus on safety, and community support we offer an unparalleled journey to the roof of Africa and Tanzania's breathtaking landscapes. As a small, locally owned tour company, we eliminate the need for third-party booking, ensuring competitive prices and authentic experiences.

In addition to providing exceptional personalized services to all of our travelers, we also offer VIP accompaniment for solo female travelers. Being part-female owned with multiple Kilimanjaro summits, we truly understand the unique challenges that female travelers may face. We prioritize your safety by implementing thorough training, education, and awareness programs. We are proud to be an inclusive company that warmly welcomes travelers from all backgrounds.

We strive to provide a caring and well supported environment for our staff members. By investing in our employees we create a motivated and knowledgeable team that is passionate about delivering exceptional service to you.

Top of the line Equipment

Easy and secure booking system

Licensed and professional Guides

Licensed Tour Operator

Operational Excellence

Featured Groups

Sisters Rising Climb June 9, 2024 to June 17, 2024

Travel Tips and Recommendations

Getting a Tourist Visa

When is the Best time to climb Kilimanjaro

What to bring on one of our Safaris

TRIP ADVISOR REVIEWS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Username or email  *

Password  *

Remember me Login

Lost your password?

Create an account?

KILIMANJARO ROUTES

• KILIMANJARO GUIDE COST
• BOOK YOUR KILIMANJARO CLIMB

Mount Kilimanjaro Guides information on How to plan a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro

• Send Inquiry

So you probably have a lot of questions, like ” When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?” “Which route should I choose?” How difficult is Kilimanjaro? ” “How long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? “What are the routes on Kilimanjaro and how do I choose one? ” Climbing Kilimanjaro is an event in your life that will live with you forever. It is a journey of the soul through some of the most beautiful scenery. It does not require any technical expertise but does require lots of determination. So if you are committed, landing on this page is a good place to start. 

• Kilimanjaro can be climbed by any physically fit person and no climbing experience is necessary.
• A Kilimanjaro Climb can be done at any time of the year. There are two rainy seasons – late March to mid June and October to November – and the best months are January to March and July to October as the days are usually cloudless.
• During the day the temperature at 4000m tends to be 15°C and at night falls to -10°C. At the summit, temperatures are about 5°C during the day and drop to between -18°C and -22°C at night.

We can operate our private treks for any given departure date and any group size making this option ideal for family and friendship groups who wish to trek together. 

We are happy to edit the itinerary to suit your preferences and please let us know if you wish to extend the trip in any way. We also offer the fabulous Tanzania Safari in Arusha National Park or the Serengeti National Park and this can easily be included to extend the itinerary. 

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount kilimanjaro guide: climb africa's highest peak | tips, routes & tours.

Climbing Kilimanjaro with a local guide is a safe and enjoyable experience. It is a requirement for anyone climbing Kilimanjaro to be accompanied by a licensed guide who is licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park. Most people who climb have a team of crew members consisting of a lead guide, assistant guide, cook, and porters. The best times to climb Kilimanjaro are from December to March and from June and October when it is the driest. Local guides are used to climbing the mountain on a twice-monthly basis, negotiating its trails with diverse groups of visitors. In contrast, visiting guides only climb a limited number of times a year – around 2-3 times on average. The Marangu route is one of the most accessible routes to climb up the mighty mountain of Kilimanjaro. The Machame route is the most popular route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It provides hikers with varying landscapes and incredible views from the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro at Uhuru Peak.

Kilimanjaro Guide Services.

Kilimanjaro guide services typically include experienced guides, porters, and cooks, as well as necessary equipment and supplies. The guides are trained to ensure the safety and well-being of climbers, providing advice on acclimatization, route selection, and potential hazards. They also offer valuable insights into the mountain’s unique ecology and cultural significance.

Mount Kilimanjaro Guide offers a three-tiered pricing system to suit all budgets. Each level is underlined by our high standards of sales, service, and support, as well as the same impeccable standards of climb and safari logistics. We offer the only reliable, Fair Trade, community tourism option that guarantees equitable remuneration for all of our guiding and mountain support crews, who as a consequence are among the best in the industry.

Booking a Kilimanjaro Guide

Choose the Right Time to Visit: Consider the best time of year for your Kilimanjaro climb. The dry seasons (January to March and June to October) are generally recommended.

Select Your Climb Duration: Kilimanjaro treks vary in duration, typically 5 to 9 days. Choose a duration that suits your fitness level and preferences.

Pick a Kilimanjaro Route : There are several routes to the summit, each with its characteristics. Research and select a route that aligns with your goals and preferences.

Group Climb or Private Climb?: Decide whether you want to join a group trek or a private climb. Group treks can be more social, while private climbs offer flexibility.

 How much does the guide charge for their services?: The cost of hiring a Kilimanjaro guide can vary depending on several factors, including the route, duration of the trek, and the level of service provided

Pay the Deposit and Confirm Your Booking: Once you’ve made your decision, pay the required 30% deposit to secure your spot.

Kilimanjaro trekking routes: There are seven established routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro – Machame, Marangu , Lemosho, Umbwe, Shira, Northern Circuit, or Rongai, each one offering its unique scenery and sights en route, and each varying in difficulty. The Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe route all approach from the south of the mountain. The Lemosho, Shira and Northern Circuit routes approach from the west. The Rongai route approaches from the north. The Mweka Route is used as a descent route. On average, it takes 6 days to climb Kilimanjaro but extra days should be added to your trek to acclimatize to the high altitude.. It is recommended that climbers take a minimum of 6 days to do the climb. We have quoted the price based on 2 people doing the climb. It’s important to note that all climbers must be 10 years or older.

Can You Climb Mount Kilimanjaro Without a Guide

No, you cannot climb Mount Kilimanjaro without a guide. The Tanzanian government requires all climbers to be accompanied by a licensed guide. This rule is enforced to ensure the safety of climbers, as well as to protect the environment and maintain the integrity of the mountain. The climb can be challenging and potentially dangerous without proper guidance and support. 

This means that anyone attempting to climb Kilimanjaro must hire a Kilimanjaro Local Guides to accompany them on their trek. The Kilimanjaro guide will not only ensure the safety of the climbers but also provide valuable information about the mountain, its history, and its ecology.  Thus, it is mandatory to have a Kilimanjaro Local Guides when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Climbing Mt.Kilimanjaro Without Porters

Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro without porters is a challenging endeavor that requires a high level of physical fitness, preparation, and self-sufficiency. Porters typically assist climbers by carrying heavy gear, setting up camps, and preparing meals, so without them, climbers must manage these tasks themselves. This means carrying all necessary equipment, food, and water, navigating the mountain’s various routes, and dealing with the altitude and weather changes. It’s a demanding task that requires careful planning and a strong understanding of mountaineering.

Beginner's Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is often taken lightly, because we no ropes, irons or other attachments need, this does not mean that you will reach the top. Every year approximately 30000 to 50000 people start the climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, only 60% gets the actual summit also (Uhuru Peak). 40% do not make it have different reasons, it may be because their condition is not good enough, or that they deal with altitude sickness get (throbbing headache, vomiting, nausea, and feeling tired and lethargic), in most cases, this time will be noticed by your guide, but unfortunately there are still too many incompetent guides, or not notice this too late.  We understand there is about 1 to 10 death each year thus it is relatively safe be sure you book with a professional and competent company. All our main guides have at least 5 years experience with climbing Mt Kilimanjaro, and have the proper training and papers.

As a beginner, you should be fully aware of the conditions and requirements for climbing Kilimanjaro. The climb to the summit typically takes between five and nine days, and climbers will need to be prepared to hike for several hours each day, often at high altitudes. Altitude sickness is a common concern, and climbers should take appropriate measures to avoid this, such as acclimatization, staying hydrated, and taking rest days.

It’s also important to consider the seasonal climate when planning your climb. The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, which runs from June to October and from December to February. During this time, the weather is generally clear and dry, making for better climbing conditions.

So how much will the ascent of Kilimanjaro cost in total?

It isn’t cheap to climb Kilimanjaro, and we want you to be aware of the costings and rough budget that you should expect, before contemplating an ascent.

The Kilimanjaro cost will also depend on your trekking style, which type of trekking will you choose to climb Kilimanjaro. There are a lot of budget options where you can cut costs and also enjoy climbing. The Luxury climbing options would empty your wallets. There are mid-range operators who would like to manage both together, your budget and your comfort.

The mid-range operators will provide you with all the facilities needed to climb Kilimanjaro and the best part is their Price To Climb Kilimanjaro is affordable.

Classic Kilimanjaro Packages VIA Marangu Route

Our classic Kilimanjaro packages are designed to provide climbers with a comfortable and safe climbing experience. These packages are popular among our clients due to the high safety standards and comfort they offer, making the Kilimanjaro hikes enjoyable and memorable. The package includes all necessary amenities for the hike, supported by our experienced mountain crews to ensure a smooth and successful climb. Before and after the adventure you will stay in a 2-star hotel with caring staff, hot water, reliable Wi-Fi, and a restaurant.

Extend your trip with a African safari

Many people choose to extend their stay in Tanzania with a safari. Close to Moshi are three famous game parks, the Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha, and Lake Manyara. We offer a two day safari extension for  USD 800 (based on 2 sharing, and excluding park fees).

The scenery and numbers of animals are as epic as the scenes from the Lion King. You are likely to see elephants, giraffes, rhinos, gazelles, hippos, zebras, baboons, lions and wildebeast, to name but a few. The bush pigs and water buffalo are almost always in sight.

The jeeps used for the safaris are generally Landrovers or Landcruisers. At night you stay in local lodges that are really comfortable, or there is the cheaper option of staying in tents if you prefer. If you are interested in a safari, contact us for further details

mount kilimanjaro guide

Is climbing kilimanjaro possible at age 50.

Yes, climbing Kilimanjaro is possible at age 50 and beyond. Age is not a limiting factor when it comes to climbing this mountain. However, physical fitness, overall health, and proper acclimatization to altitude are crucial for a successful climb. Many people in their 50s, 60s, and even 70s have successfully reached the summit of Kilimanjaro. It’s always recommended to undergo a thorough medical check-up before undertaking such a strenuous activity.

Non-Summit Short Kilimanjaro Climbs & Day Treks

Kilimanjaro short treks | Day Hikes | look no further. Climbing Kilimanjaro is not on everyone’s wish list. Some people just wanted to get a chance to experience this majestic mountain without reaching Uhuru Peak and having to go through the hard slog of getting to the summit. 

Some don’t have the time, not the money to spend 7 days trekking and if you are one of these people, then our short treks are perfect for you. Doing a short trek on Kilimanjaro is a great option, giving you the chance to do either a 1-day, 2, or 3-day trek. While you can choose the number of days you spend on the mountain, you can’t choose your routes, as the Marangu route is the only route where short treks are allowed. 

For overnight hikes, you will stay at the park huts. All of these short Kilimanjaro treks and day hikes are offered on a private basis so you can start on any day that suits you. 

These tours can then be combined with a short Tanzania safari option to give you the best of both worlds. Note that for each of the tours, there is a day pre- and post at the hotel, so a 1-day trek e.g. is a three-day tour

From  650 USD TO 1000 USD, These prices do include 2-star hotel accommodation, airport transfers, therefore – only the transfers to the mountain and back, guide and porter wages, park fees, and food on the trek. 

AVERAGE DAILY HIKING HOURS ON KILIMANJARO 

When it comes to hiking on Kilimanjaro, the duration of trekking hours can vary depending on the day and the chosen route. However, on average, hikers typically spend around 4 to 7 hours per day trekking. It is advisable to start your climb between 8:00 and 8:30 am to ensure that you have enough daylight to complete your journey. It’s worth noting that hiking times can be affected by weather conditions, altitude sickness, and the fitness level of the individual. Therefore, it’s crucial to pace yourself and take breaks when necessary to avoid exhaustion and ensure a successful climb.

DISTANCE OF KILIMANJARO HIKE

Mount Kilimanjaro offers several routes to hike, and the distance to cover depends on the route you choose. The shortest route is Umbwe, measuring 23 miles or 37 kilometers. However, it is also the steepest route, requiring a high level of fitness and experience. On the other hand, the Northern Circuit is the longest route, measuring 56 miles or 90 kilometers. This route offers a more gradual ascent, providing hikers with ample time to acclimatize to the altitude. Therefore, the number of miles to hike Mount Kilimanjaro can range from 23 to 56 miles, depending on the route you pick.

CLIMBING KILIMANJARO: DO YOU NEED OXYGEN?

Climbers do not need supplemental oxygen to climb Kilimanjaro or reach the summit. Kilimanjaro’s altitude of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) is a significant challenge, but the acclimatization method of walking slowly “pole pole” climb high, sleep low is used to help the body adjust to the lower levels of oxygen in the air. This means that climbers take their time ascending the mountain, allowing their bodies to gradually adapt to the altitude. Additionally, climbers are advised to stay hydrated, eat well, and get enough rest to help their bodies cope with the physical demands of the climb. While supplemental oxygen is not typically required on Kilimanjaro, climbers should always consult with their doctor before attempting the climb to ensure they are physically fit enough to do so.

CAN YOU BREATHE AT THE SUMMIT OF MOUNT KILIMANJARO?

You can breathe at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, but the air is much thinner and contains much less oxygen than at sea level, which can make it difficult to breathe. At nearly 6000 meters above sea level, the air pressure is less than half that at sea level, which means that each breath you take contains much less oxygen. This can make it feel like you are working with only one lung and can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and headaches. However, with proper acclimatization and the use of supplemental oxygen, most people can make it to the summit and breathe comfortably. It’s important to take the necessary precautions and listen to your body to avoid altitude sickness and other potentially dangerous side effects of high-altitude trekking.

FAILURE RATE OF CLIMBING MOUNT KILIMANJARO 

It is estimated that the overall summit success rate for Kilimanjaro falls between 45% and 65%, meaning that a significant portion of climbers do not make it to the top. However, it is important to note that success rates can vary greatly depending on the specific route taken, the duration of the climb, and the preparation and fitness level of the climbers. It is generally recommended to choose a longer itinerary, typically lasting at least a week, to give yourself the best chance of reaching the summit. Additionally, working with a reputable guide and ensuring proper acclimatization can also increase the likelihood of a successful climb. While climbing Kilimanjaro is a challenging and demanding endeavor, with proper preparation and support, many climbers can achieve their goal of reaching the summit.

THE DIFFICULTY OF CLIMBING MT.KILIMANJARO 

Mount Kilimanjaro is considered a difficult mountain to climb. With an altitude of 19,341 feet or 5,895 meters, Kilimanjaro is an extreme altitude trek that requires careful preparation and training. More than 50% of climbers suffer from mountain sickness, which is a condition caused by the lack of oxygen at high altitudes. Therefore, it is essential to acclimatize properly to the altitude before attempting to climb Kilimanjaro. Additionally, climbing Kilimanjaro involves hiking through various terrains, including rocky paths, steep inclines, and challenging weather conditions. Therefore, climbers must have adequate physical fitness and endurance. climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging but rewarding experience for those who are prepared well and have the necessary skills and determination.

THE CHALLENGES OF CLIMBING MOUN T KILIMANJARO 

The hardest part of climbing Kilimanjaro varies from person to person, as everyone has different physical abilities and mental strengths. However, most climbers would agree that the summit night is the most challenging part of the climb. This is because it involves a steep ascent to the peak in very cold and high-altitude conditions. Climbers need to exert themselves physically while also battling altitude sickness and fatigue. The summit night typically involves waking up in the middle of the night and trekking for several hours in the dark, often using headlamps. Additionally, the weather conditions can be unpredictable and harsh, with strong winds and snowfall. It’s crucial to be mentally prepared for the physical and emotional challenges of summit night, as it can be an incredibly demanding experience.

KILIMANJARO TOILETS

So let’s start with the worst problem of all; human waste. It is something we all need to do at some point of the day and there are purpose built toilets at each camp and at some places along the route. If you are on Marangu you will find nice flush toilets but for the rest of the mountain they are long drops. Lower down the mountain in the forest zone and at the first camps, the toilets smell due to low altitude and warm weather during the day. The effect of this is that many people elect to go outside the toilet in the surrounding area, resulting in unwanted piles of human waste and toilet paper littering the area. The situation at Crater camp at 5700m is even more dire, where there are no custom toilets meaning that the only places to go are in and around crater camp itself. Due to the sub zero temperatures, nothing freezes. Between camps, there are few, if any toilet facilities.  For the reasons mentioned above, regardless of how dire the conditions are in the toilet we ask that climbers make use of them.  They are there for good reason. Take vicks and rub it under your nose if you must.  If not, hire a toilet tent where the waste can be properly disposed of. And if you really do need to go between camps, find yourself a “loo with a view” a good 20m off the trail and away from any streams, dig and hole and bury your deposit.

LITTER ON KILIMANJARO

Everything that is carried up the mountain that is not consumed must be brought back down again. At every camp, the gear that the porters carry must be weighed on leaving each camp and again on arriving at the next one.  KINAPA enforces strict regulations to keep Kilimanjaro clean. Licenses are easily revoked or heavy fines imposed if it is found that a guide is leaving litter on the mountain. So in theory, all you have to do is give your little paper bag to the kitchen team to be carried off the mountain or better still, leave it in a bag in your duffel and dispose of it when home. Why a paper bag? Simple, plastic is a global curse and as of 1 June, Tanzania has banned the use of plastic bags. Anyone arriving into Tanzania will have to “surrender” plastic bags in their possession before entering the country. En route to the summit, sucking on glucose sweet helps with thirst and a dry mouth but sadly, most of those sweet wrappers find their way to the scree paths. If you have the energy to dig out a sweet and open it, then you have the energy to put the wrapper back in your pocket. The same applies to hand warmers and dead camera batteries.

NOTABLE POINTS ON KILIMANJARO TREK

 uhuru peak.

Standing on Uhuru Peak, the summit of Kibo, and the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro at 5895m amsl, The highest point in the whole continent of Africa and the goal of every trekker on Mt Kilimanjaro. At a height of 5895m above sea level,  Uhuru Peak is the highest summit on Mt Kilimanjaro’s crater rim. First reached by Hans Meyer in 1889, the peak was named by Tanzania’s first president Julius Nyerere as Uhuru Peak, which translates to ‘Freedom Peak’, when Tanzania gained its independence in 1964. Till then it was known as Kaiser Wilhelm Spitze or Kaiser Wilhelm Peak as was named by Hans Meyer. The topic of its height is also a hotly debated one, with official figures (since the British Ordnance Survey in 1952) putting it at 5895, but contested by several independent sources. GPS data from a 1999 study puts it at a lower height of 5892.55m. Source

FURTWANGLER GLACIER

This glacier, on the crater floor, is named after Herr Furtwangler, the first person to ski down the slopes of Mt Kilimanjaro. It has sadly, been greatly reduced, but remains an important landmark

GILLMANS POINT

The Gillman point lies on the crater rim and has a steep ascent, especially when climbing from the Kibo huts. Gillman’s point lies at 5719m, and it usually takes about an hour and a half to reach Uhuru from here.  

STELLA POINT

Climbing the Mount Kilimanjaro, Machame route – Stella Point (5756m) – the last milestone before the top. An important waypoint, especially on the Barafu Route, is what is called, a false summit as it towers above in your line of sight. Once you reach Stella Point, Uhuru is not far away! Stella Point also lies on the crater rim and is named after Stella Latham

REUSCH CRATER

The Reusch crater is a majestic sight. The crater contains a 360m wide and 120m deep Ash Pit, which drives home the point that Mt Kilimanjaro is a volcano. Named after Pastor Richard Reusch, the crater honors him and marks his 25th climb of Mt Kilimanjaro. He went on to further climb the mountain, a total of 65 times! He is also known to have taken an ear off the Frozen Leopard, which was featured in Ernest Hemingway’s book, The Snows of Kilimanjaro.

THE WESTERN BREACH

Though it sounds like something out of a war movie, the Western Breach is an area of the Kibo Crater, through which at some point in the past, lava has broken through and breached the crater wall – hence the name. This is an interesting, quite stunning breach and allows an access route to the summit.

WHAT IS AN EVACUATION ON KILIMANJRO?

On Mt. Kilimanjaro, there are three ways of evacuation: helicopter, ambulance, and stretcher. Each one depends on several factors. As  part of your Kilimanjaro Park Fee, emergency evacuation services are included. This means that you will be carried down to the base of the mountain as quickly as possible, on a mountain stretcher.  In many cases, a foot evacuation is quicker than waiting for insurance cover to arrange the logistics for a helicopter. There are helicopter evacuation points on all of the major routes at specific locations, namely Horombo, Barranco, Barafu, Kosovo, Stella, Millennium and Shira. All points are within less than five hours from the crater by stretcher and SAR emergency medical service can be deployed within 5 minutes from Kilimanjaro or Meru, regardless of the season. Of course, nothing is free and deployment of this service is contingent on you already having insurance covers for evacuations to 6,000 meters above sea level.

At any point, if you are too exhausted or ill to trek down the mountain, we can carry you down via stretcher. Depending on where you are on the mountain, you might also have the option of getting an ambulance or a helicopter. 

Ambulance rescue is possible from all routes, but the highest it can reach is Shira point for (Lemosho and Machame Routes), or Horombo Hut on the Marangu Route (and Rongai Route on the descent). On other routes, you would have to come further down the mountain to be picked up by ambulance.  The ambulance fee is included in the park fee so you will not have to pay for this service. 

Your safety is guaranteed by a Moshi-based helicopter rescue team. Some hut stations and camping areas have a helicopter landing space for an efficient and secure evacuation. In Moshi, patients are taken to nearby hospitals (Kilimanjaro region). Depending on the day’s weather, a helicopter can land in as little as 10 to 15 minutes. 

EVACUATION ON KILIMANJARO? COST CONSIDERATIONS:

– Walking evacuations – No cost beyond crew tips – Helicopter evacuations – Can cost $ 2500 to $5000+ per incident & Medical treatment – Evacuees must cover all medical costs

MOUNT KILIMANJARO TRAVEL INSURANCE

The cost of a medical evacuation from the mountain is expensive, which is why adequate travel insurance  is required on all climbs booked through us. Adequate, means you must be covered for 1) Trekking or hiking – this may sound strange, but many insurance companies list that as an exclusion. 

2) Altitude up to 6,000 meters. Most travel insurance providers do not include this under their standard cover and often limit it to 3500m or less.  3) Sprains strains and physiotherapy – yes, many insurers exclude this; though ironically, this is what you will most likely need cover for.  4) Personal accidents – this is the horrible part of insurance. Yes, you need to be covered in the case of death. We are often told by clients – “if anything happens to me, just leave me there.” It is not that simple. 

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Costs

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can be a significant financial investment, with costs varying depending on the route chosen, the length of the climb, the tour operator, and the level of service. On average, Climb Kilimanjaro local guides can cost between $2,000 to $4,000, excluding flights. This typically includes park fees, guides, porters, food, and accommodation. Additional costs may include gear, tips for guides and porters, travel insurance, vaccinations, and visa fees.

Lower cost per person w/ more people

Days on the mountain, higher cost for longer duration, level of service, varies depending on tour operator, kilimanjaro route choice, $2,000 to $4,000, kilimanjaro national park fees, $70 to $100 per day for park fees, $50 to $60 per day for camping fees, staff wages, $20 to $30 per day for guides, $10 to $20 per day for porters, food, water, and transportation cost, $20 to $50 per day for food, $5 to $10 per liter for water, $100 to $300 for transportation, $200 to $600 for renting equipment, guide to climber & porter to climber ratio, 1 guide to every 2-3 climbers and 1 porter to every climber, tipping guides and porters, $200 to $500 per climber, 12 interesting facts about mount kilimanjaro, 1. it is one of the seven summits..

Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa, making it one of the seven summits. Here are the seven summits in order from highest to lowest.

• Asia: Everest (29,035’/8850m)
• South America: Aconcagua (22,834’/6960m)
• North America: Denali (20,310’/6,190m)
• Africa: Kilimanjaro (19,340’/5895m)
• Europe: Elbrus (18,513’/5642m)
• Oceania: Carstensz Pyramid (16,023’/4884m)

Kilimanjaro is very popular with both experienced hikers and first-time adventurers because it is considered harnesses the easiest of the seven summits. Scaling the mountain requires no technical skills or equipment, such as rope, harnesses, crampons, or ice axes. Therefore, it is a hiking or “free-standingwalk-upice couldn’t free-standing” peak, not a mountaineering or climbing peak.

2. Kilimanjaro stands on its own.

Kilimanjaro is not only Africa’s tallest peak but also the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. The summit, named Uhuru Point, is 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.

Most high mountains are part of ranges, such as Mount Everest’s Himalayan Mountain Range. These are formed in a process called plate tectonics. Below the ground, Earth’s crust is made up of multiple tectonic plates. These plates have been moving since the beginning of time due to geologic activity.

When plates push against each other, the edges crumple, forcing slabs of rock into the air. These are known as fold mountains and are the most common type of mountain. A fault-block mountain range is caused when a fault (crack) in the Earth’s crust pushes blocks of rock up between two tectonic plates. The uplifted blocks become block mountains. 

Free-standing mountains like Kilimanjaro are usually a result of volcanic activity. Volcanic mountains are formed when molten rock erupts, and piles upon the surface.

3. The mountain is on the equator.

The equator is an imaginary line that divides the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere. It passes through the exact center of the Earth and divides it in half. 

The equator is distinct from the rest of the globe due to the high amount of solar radiation it receives. The equatorial climate stays nearly the same year-round. The dominant patterns here are either warm and wet or warm and dry.

Mount Kilimanjaro lies just 205 miles from the equator, in the country of Tanzania. When early explorers reported seeing glaciers on the top of Kilimanjaro, people did not believe them as they thought ice couldn’t form so close to the hot, equatorial sun. Scientists now believe that the glaciers shrink and then regrow during the planet’s ice ages.

4. Three volcanic cones created it.

As mentioned above, Kilimanjaro was formed from volcanic activity. However, the mountain once had three volcanic cones –  Kibo, Shira, and Mawenzi .

• Kibo (19,340’/5,895m)
• Mawenzi (16,893’/5,149m)
• Shira (13,000’/3,962m)

Kibo is the tallest cone and also the central cone. This is where Kilimanjaro’s summit lies. It was formed 460,000 years ago.

Mawenzi is a craggy peak that ranks as the third highest peak in Africa, after Kibo and Mount Kenya (12,549’/3825m). You will have good views of Mawenzi on the Rongai and Northern Circuit routes.

Shira is no longer a peak. It is estimated to have been about 16,000 feet high before it collapsed, creating the Shira Plateau on the western side of the mountain. The Machame, Lemosho and Shira routes trek across this feature.

5. Kilimanjaro isn’t dead; it’s dormant.

Mount Kilimanjaro is a stratovolcano – a term for a very large volcano made of ash, lava, and rock. Shira and Mawenzi are extinct volcanoes, meaning that there is no activity underneath these cones. In short, they are cut off from their supply of lava.

However, Kibo is considered a dormant volcano; it can erupt again! If a volcano hasn’t erupted in the last 10,000 years, but scientists think it will erupt again, it’s considered dormant.

The last major eruption was 360,000 years ago. The most recent activity was 200,000 years ago. The ash pit is a two-hour round trip hike from the highest campsite, Crater Camp. Those who visit the ash pit will be greeted by the smell of sulfur from the volcano’s lava.

6. No one knows the real meaning of ‘Kilimanjaro.’

The origin of the name Kilimanjaro is not certain.

European explorers had adopted the name by 1860 and reported that “Kilimanjaro” was the mountain’s Swahili name. But according to the 1907 edition of The Nuttall Encyclopædia, the name of the mountain was “Kilima-Njaro,” comprised of the Swahili word “Kilima” meaning “mountain” and the Chagga word “Njaro” meaning “whiteness.” 

German missionary Johann Ludwig Krapf wrote in his Missionary Labours (1860), “The Swahili of the coast call the snow-mountain Kilimanjaro, “mountain of greatness.” It may also mean “mountain of caravans” (kilima – mountain; Jaro caravans), a landmark for caravans seen everywhere from afar, but the inhabitants of Jagga call it Kibo, `snow.”

Another possibility is that Kilimanjaro is the European pronunciation of a KiChagga phrase meaning “we failed to climb it.”

7. The first ascent was more than a century ago.

Mount Kilimanjaro was first climbed in 1889 by German geologist Hans Meyer , an Austrian climber Ludwig Purtscheller, and a local guide Yohani Kinyala Lauwo.

On Meyer’s first attempt in 1887, he made it to the base of Kibo but had to turn around there. He encountered thick snow and ice walls and did not have equipment for heavy snow and ice.

He made a second attempt in 1888 that was also unsuccessful. But it was not due to the mountain itself, but because Meyer was captured and held as a prisoner by locals as part of the Abushiri Revolt when the Arab and Swahili population rebelled against German traders. He was freed after a ransom was paid.

Meyer finally succeeded in 1889. His support team included a guide, two local tribe leaders, nine porters, and a cook. They reached the summit on the southern rim of the crater. The Marangu route closely follows Meyer’s groundbreaking path up and down Kilimanjaro.

8. Half of the people who attempt Kilimanjaro fail.

Now approximately 30,000 people climb Kilimanjaro every year. Though not substantiated, it is often reported that 50% of climbers fail. This comes as a surprise as Kilimanjaro is not regarded as a particularly difficult peak when compared to other mountains. After all, it is not a technical peak and does not require superhuman abilities to scale it.

Why do so many people fail? Mostly due to altitude sickness. People make the mistake of selecting the wrong route. Many who fail choose to climb on the Marangu Route, which is the shortest path (five days round trip) to the peak. However, the best way to climb is to use a longer route to aid in acclimatization.

Additionally, many people climbing Kilimanjaro are first-time backpackers. They do not adequately prepare for their climb in terms of having the right gear, doing enough training, and hiring a reputable guide service.

9. Elite athletes have climbed the Kilimanjaro elevation fast.

Kilimanjaro has been tackled at a pace that will amaze you. The fastest ascent and descent of Kilimanjaro was completed by Swiss Karl Egloff in just 6 hours and 42 minutes in 2014.

How is this possible? Athletes who do perform speed climbs of the elevations mountains have already well acclimatized to the altitude prior to their attempt. They’ve spent many days or weeks at high elevation to prepare. Therefore the risk of acute mountain sickness is eliminated.

Some other notable accomplishments include Spanish mountain runner Killian Jornet’s ascent to Uhuru Peak in just 5 hours 23 minutes and 50 seconds in 2010.

German Anne-Marie Flammersfeld holds the record for the fastest ascent and descent by a woman on Kilimanjaro, climbing to the summit in 8 hours 32 minutes and reaching the bottom in a total time on the mountain of 12 hours 58 minutes in 2015.

The record for fastest unaided ascent (meaning that the climber carried his own food, water and clothing) is held by Tanzanian Simon Mtuy, who climbed to the summit and back in 9 hours 19 minutes in 2006.

10. The young and the old have conquered Kilimanjaro.

Anyone with a reasonable degree of fitness can climb Kilimanjaro. Here is the proof.

The oldest person to successfully climb Kilimanjaro is 89 year old American woman Anne Lorimor, led by Ultimate Kilimanjaro®. She took the world record in 2019 from Dr. Fred Distelhorst, who was 88 when he summited. 

The youngest person to climb Kilimanjaro is American Coaltan Tanner, who summited at age six in 2018. The youngest girl to summit is Ashleen Mandrick, who was also six years old when she accomplished the feat, wrestling that title away from Montannah Kenney, who was seven.

The minimum age for climbing Kilimanjaro is 10 years old, but the park authority grants exceptions to children who have significant experience trekking.

11. The journey to the summit is like going from the equator to Antarctica.

While climbing Kilimanjaro, trekkers will experience five distinct ecological zones on their way to the top. These include:

• Bushland/Cultivated Zone: 2,600′-6,000’/800m-1,800m
• Rainforest Zone: 6,000′-9,200’/1,800m-2,800m
• Heath/Moorland Zone: 9,200′-13,200’/2,800m-4,000m
• Alpine Desert Zone: 13,200′-16,500’/4,000m-5,000m
• Arctic Zone:16,500’+/5,000m+

Weather conditions near the base of the mountain tend to be tropical to semi-temperate and are relatively stable all year round. The lower plains are hot and dry. As one heads away from the bushland towards the rainforest, conditions become increasingly warm and humid.

Each zone gets colder and drier as the elevation increases. Plant and animal life also disappear with the rise in altitude through the heath and alpine desert zones.

The summit is in the arctic zone, characterized by ice and rock. At this altitude, categorized as “extreme”, there can be no permanent human habitation as the body is deteriorating necessarily (short exposures are OK).

12. Kilimanjaro’s ice cap is destined to disappear.

Kilimanjaro’s glaciers are the poster child of global climate change. It’s icecap has shrunk 82% since 1912. Scientists estimate the glaciers may be completely gone in 50 years. The cause of this is thought to be due to deforestation, and not necessary global warming.

Melting and sublimation (the transition from solid phase directly to vapor) both contribute to the ice loss, says study author Doug Hardy, a glaciologist from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. The glaciers have been in retreat for more than a century, Hardy says, with a drying climate in East Africa one main culprit.

Nearly 5 million indigenous trees were planted around the base of the mountain in 2008 to combat the issue. If you are thinking about climbing Kilimanjaro, the time to do it is soon.

How To Climbing Kilimanjaro?

Climbing Kilimanjaro requires careful planning and preparation. It is recommended to choose a reputable tour operator who can guide you through the process, including obtaining necessary permits and arranging for porters and cooks. Physical fitness is crucial, so a regular exercise regimen should be started months in advance, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and hiking. Acclimatization to high altitudes is key to avoiding altitude sickness, so choose a route that allows gradual ascent. Pack appropriate gear for varying weather conditions, including thermal clothing, rain gear, hiking boots, and sun protection. Hydration and proper nutrition are also vital throughout the climb.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is one of the most rewarding experiences you might ever have the chance to do. It’s quite a bit different from climbing Everest or any other mountaineering experience. There is typically no mountaineering equipment involved, and most anyone in good physical shape can reach the summit if they plan carefully, even with no real previous climbing experience. It’s basically like a long hike. Of course, that’s not to make it sound easy. It’s not. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a very challenging thing and a not insignificant number of people are unable to make it to the summit. The most common problem is altitude sickness and no one is immune from that possibility.

The climb almost always takes between 5 and 8 days, and always with a fixed and preset itinerary. The climb up Kilimanjaro is mostly a walk. Some places – particularly summit day – are steep and grueling, but at other times you’ll be walking through flat meadows or even descending for periods along the fixed routes. Here are the basics of the things you’ll need to consider before you find yourself standing on the top of Africa:

CHOOSE AN  KILIMANJARO OPERATOR

Organizers of Kilimanjaro climbs and associated safaris are known as operators or outfitters. Their function is to retain experienced guiding and support crews and to arrange and conduct the expedition, supplying all kit, food, and other climb logistics. They will also usually arrange for your transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport, basic hotel accommodation before and after the climb itself, and a general flow of information and advice before, during, and after the sales/climb process. The best packages are all-inclusive except for drinks, tips, and a few occasional meals at the hotel.

CHOOSE A KILIMANJARO ROUTE 

The most common routes will take between 5 and 8 days, depending on which you choose and what you pay for in advance. In other words, you’ll decide in advance how many days your climb will be and you’ll stick to that plan unless something goes wrong and you have to descend.

BOOK YOURSELF A FLIGHT TO TANZANIA 

The best option would be to pick one of the direct flights into Kilimanjaro airport, located approximately 45 kilometers from the towns of Moshi, Marangu, or Arusha as this is, where most climbs will start or where your small group tour will meet.

Flights are easily arranged into Kilimanjaro, from European gateways like Amsterdam, London, Frankfurt, and Zurich, or via Nairobi, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, or Addis Ababa. Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA): CODE (IATA: JRO, ICAO: HTKJ), which is serviced daily by several airlines, is where you must fly to reach Kilimanjaro. 

When you book a flight to Kilimanjaro, there are four major airports that you can fly into in Tanzania and one into Kenya (Nairobi). There is a detailed article where I talk about  how to get to Kilimanjaro . This not only includes flights but also how to travel to Kilimanjaro overland. The airports catering to international flights in Tanzania are:

• Kilimanjaro International Airport  ( JRO – flight schedule  )
• Abeid Amani Karume International Airport  in Zanzibar, previously called Zanzibar International Airport( ZNZ – flight schedule  )
• Julius Nyerere International Airport  in Dar es Salaam ( DAR – flight schedule  ), previously called Dar Es Salaam International Airport
• Mwanza Airport  ( MWZ – flight schedule  ), located on the shores of Lake Victoria

There is also the small  Arusha airport  ( ARK – flight schedule  ) which caters to private chartered flights, although most flights here come through from JRO.

The most convenient Airport for your Kilimanjaro climb is, as the name suggests, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Most people climbing Mt Kilimanjaro fly into JRO these days. That said, Nairobi and Dar Es Salaam are the regional hubs and flights to these airports are much more frequent and cheaper. That said, they are still about seven to ten hours away from Arusha or Moshi by road, and the money saved by traveling here and then to Arusha is not significant. Do make sure that you check prices for all these airports as sometimes you can get a really good deal and save over a hundred dollars per person. This is of course, only valuable if you have more time than money. Also note that, when planning your trip, July and early August comprise the high seasons for these routes. If you are planning your trip during this time, book everything as early as you can! If you want to travel overland and save on costs, check the Riverside shuttle , which conducts daily bus service from Nairobi to Moshi and Arusha from US$ 35 onwards.

As of 2017, you will find the following Airlines operating flights to Kilimanjaro from Europe:

• KLM  – Most KLM flights to Kilimanjaro usually pass via Amsterdam.  KLM was one of the earliest airlines operating flights to Kilimanjaro. A ticket via KLM can cost between €700 to €900, though prices may increase to €1200 as well. Prices mentioned are one-way.
• Ethiopian Airlines  – Another early operator running flights to Kilimanjaro. 
• Kenya Airways  
• Turkish Airlines  
• Qatar Airways  

Many flights that you see (like Emirates, Air France, British Airways, Qantas) may also have connecting flights with one of the local operators:

• Precision Air  
• Air Tanzania  
• Regional Air  

If you’re flying in from the USA, it is extremely rare to find direct flights to JRO, and as of the current moment, no flights are flying directly here. However, most of the major airlines will fly you to a local hub, from where another airline will complete the final leg of the journey. Airlines departing from the US are listed here – Delta, Alaska, KLM, Condor, Etihad, and Turkish Airlines.

If you are traveling from SouthEast Asia, Etihad, Qatar, and Ethiopian Airlines are the most popular airlines that usually tie up with either Kenya Airways or one of the local operators mentioned above for the last stretch.

Most of us, book flights via the marketplace services that allow instant comparison amongst different airlines and dates. A few of the ones I recommend are listed below:

• DialAFlight  
• Skyscanner  
• Lastminute  
• Cheapflights  

but a typical  flight to Kilimanjaro  will cost about USD 700 to 1500. This depends on your starting location, your ending location, your travel dates, and when you book. The following should give an approximate idea:

• From the UK – £600 to £1200 
• From the USA – $400 to $1200
• From Australia / NZ – AUD 800 to $1500
• From Germany – €400 to €1900 

These figures are only indicative. The airline industry is quite variable in terms of price and depends not only on the distance and fuel costs but also on expected traffic on the routes (demand), competition (supply), local and global events, personal information about you, and even the time of the day that you book. 

ARRIVE IN TANZANIA 

You’ll likely spend a night or two in Arusha, Marangu, or Moshi, whichever Kilimanjaro’s basis is normally included in your package.

Though the cost of transport is usually included in your booking price, it is important to know how much it amounts to, as you are the one who is paying for it. Usually, this includes the pickup from and the drop back to the Airport unless you are going for an extended vacation in East Africa. Many people combine it with an African Safari, as it makes economic sense.

You will mostly be based in Arusha or Moshi. Besides the journey to Arusha from the Airport (about an hour and a half from JRO), the next step is to drive to the beginning of your trekking point. Now this is dependent on the route you have chosen, but here are some indicative figures:

• Arusha to Marangu – Almost a 3-hour drive – ~120 km – costs about US $150
• Arusha to Machame – a 2-hour drive – 80 km or more – costs about US $100 to $120
• Arusha to Lemosho – a 3-hour drive – 130 km – costs about US $200
• Arusha to Rongai – a 4-and-a-half hour drive – 260 km – about US $300
• Arusha to Umbwe – a 2-hour drive – 90 km – costs about US $120

A liter of petrol(gasoline) costs approximately 1 USD in Tanzania at the time of writing, and you can verify the  current rates here .

When getting Insurance for your trip, do make sure to include that you will be climbing Kilimanjaro – a mountain that is over 5000m tall. Doing so will raise your premium, but make sure that it covers everything and it will be well worth it. Reading the small print is essential and I cannot stress the importance of it. In case something happens and you make a claim for it, you need to be sure that your evacuation, medical, hospitalization, and repatriation expenses are covered.

Things to look out for in your travel insurance:

• Insurance covers Trekking / Hiking up to 6000 m – High Altitude Trekking. Most Insurance packages do not cover this and this usually needs to be selected/added separately
• Insurance covers accidents that can occur on Kilimanjaro – AMS, rock slides, falls, health complications (e.g. heart conditions, ear problems, snow blindness)
• Insurance cover includes the costs of hospitalization, evacuation, and repatriation
• An additional benefit would be if your insurance could also cover equipment, damage, theft, and flights 
• Insurance covers trip interruption, cancellation, delays, damaged baggage and equipment. Also, look out for any policies that include the tour operator’s default.

This insurance package may cost something around the US$ 100 figure. It will be deeply linked to your origin country and state and your trip duration. Do not skimp on this as this will be the best hedge for your vacation!

Note that helicopter evacuation is available on Kilimanjaro only at certain points, which I will refer to later in this article. The AMREF Flying Doctors of Africa  conducts helicopter evacuation service, and tourists looking to climb Kilimanjaro or go on a Tanzania safari or Kenya safari can buy the  Maisha Tourist Cover scheme , costing US$16 and up for a 30-day evacuation coverage in Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar.

Some medical insurance companies I recommend are:

• Worldnomads  
• Travel Guard  
• International Plan  

ACCOMMODATION

Any  Kilimanjaro accommodation you book before and after your trek must be booked separately. The easiest way to go about it is to go through your booking agency if you trust them. Be aware that, as with everything, they will charge a commission for this. 

Basic accommodation for tourists starts at US $50 to $100 per night and may vary based on the particular time of the year that you are looking to book. Anything cheaper than this is suspect and We would not recommend it. Tanzania is still a developing country and as such faces acute infrastructural shortages especially regarding cleanliness, hygiene, and public health. Do be careful when booking your accommodations in Tanzania – be it Arusha, Moshi, Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar. That said, the most expensive accommodations can range up to US $4000 a night! You can be assured of the best services money can buy in these places.

Equipment is divided into two parts. One that you will need to buy (even better if you already own them), and the second that will be provided by your agency, whether already included in the price or rented separately. Renting is a great way of ensuring that you do not end up paying for equipment that you won’t use much as well as save space and weight on your flight.  Details about the Kilimanjaro gear list are further .

CLIMBING KILIMANJARO 

The morning of the climb you’ll be driven to the starting point for your route and a large crew of local helpers will organize all the gear they’ll be bringing up the mountain for your group. A lead guide will be in charge of everything, but there will also be assistant guides, porters, and cooks making the trip with you. If four of you are climbing you’ll be bringing a support crew of between 10 and 16 people with you.

You’ll carry just your rain gear, camera, and water, and the porters will carry the rest of your gear along with all the tents, chairs, cooking equipment, food, water, and everything else your group will need.

You’ll set off for around 5 to 8 hours each day, except for summit day, which is much, much longer. The lead guide will coordinate everything and all the support staff and will lead your group personally, but climbers in your group can go at their own pace so assistant guides will space themselves out through the group, with one at the back of the pack.

By the time you arrive at the specified camp for that night, the porters will have set up tents and cooking gear. After dinner, you’ll get as much sleep as you can manage and the next morning the cooks will prepare breakfast. After eating you’ll begin climbing again and the porters will pack up all the gear, pass you at some point during the day, and will be all set up again with water boiling at the next camp when you arrive.

Descending From Kilimanjaro’s Summit 

Descending from Kilimanjaro’s summit is a challenging yet rewarding experience. After reaching the peak, climbers must carefully navigate their way down the steep, rocky terrain, often battling fatigue, altitude sickness, and harsh weather conditions. Despite the difficulties, the descent offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a sense of accomplishment. The descent typically takes two days, with climbers spending one more night on the mountain before reaching the base. Those on the Machame, Umbwe, Lemosho, or Shira routes must take as their descent trail the Mweka Route. Those who ascended on the Marangu or Rongai/Loitokitok trails must descend by the Marangu Route. The descent typically begins 20-30 minutes after reaching the summit, allowing time to soak in the breathtaking views and capture unforgettable memories. 

How Long Does It Take To Come Down Kilimanjaro?

Descending Mount Kilimanjaro typically takes about two days. After reaching the summit, climbers usually descend to a lower camp on the same day, which can take 5-7 hours. The following day, climbers continue their descent to the park gate, which can take 5-7 hours as well. The exact time can vary based on the route, the individual’s fitness level, and weather conditions.

Descending From Kilimanjaro’s Summit Is A Bit Like Skiing

While the climb upwards requires immense physical exertion, the descent offers a different kind of challenge. The path is mostly downhill, providing a welcome break from the strenuous climb. The terrain can be quite steep, requiring caution and mindful navigation. However, the stunning scenery makes the journey worthwhile.

Getting Off The Mountain Kilimanjaro – From High Altitude To Lower Depths:

Descending from Kilimanjaro’s summit is often compared to skiing due to the steep, loose gravel slopes that allow climbers to take large, sliding steps, almost as if they were skiing down the mountain. This method, known as scree sliding, is not only a faster way to descend but also reduces the impact on the knees and legs. However, it requires careful balance and control to prevent falls or injuries.

Reaching the Gate:

After a day of trekking downhill, the body and mind can feel both exhausted and exhilarated. The physical exertion of navigating steep, uneven terrain tests the body’s strength and endurance, while the mental challenge of maintaining focus and balance sharpens the mind. Despite the fatigue, there’s a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction from completing the trek. The surrounding natural beauty and the tranquility of the outdoors can also provide a sense of peace and rejuvenation.

KILIMANJARO SUMMIT DAY

Kilimanjaro Summit Day is the most challenging and rewarding part of the trek to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. On this day, climbers start their ascent in the early hours of the morning, often around midnight, in order to reach the summit by sunrise. The trek is physically demanding due to the high altitude, steep slopes, and extreme cold. Upon reaching the summit, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking views and the satisfaction of having conquered one of the world’s highest peaks.

You’ll reach the summit on the second to last day of your total climbing package. The night before summit day you’ll try to get to sleep around 7 p.m. and you’ll wake up shortly before midnight with four good hours of sleep if things go well. You’ll begin climbing around midnight and will spend the next 5 or 6 hours ascending the most challenging section of the mountain, mostly due to the extreme altitude. You’ll be near the summit around sunrise, and the final two hours are usually spent walking in the snow as you approach the peak.

You reach the summit, celebrate, snap a few photos, maybe make a call or two on your mobile phone from the top of Africa (no joke, holly work up there) and before you know it you’ll begin descending. After about 6 hours you’ll reach camp for your last night on the mountain, making the total journey of this day around 16 hours. The following day you’ll descend for another 4 or 5 hours, and then be driven back to Moshi for at least one more night.

Here’s a look at what to expect on your Kilimanjaro summit Day.

Stella or gilmans.

No matter what route you take through the foothills of Kilimanjaro you will make your approach to Uhuru Peak through either Stella Point or Gillman’s Point, the two connecting paths along the crater rim. Both routes are steep and challenging, however, the success rates on summit night are influenced more by the days leading up to the summit rather than the final approach. The majority of people take the Lemosho, Machame, or Umbwe routes and approach through Stella Point.  The alternative is to take the Rongai, Marangu, or Northern Circuit to approach Gilman’s Point.   The toughest mentally and the most demanding physically. From waking in the early hours in pitch black and sub-freezing temperatures to collapsing exhausted at camp at the end of the day, there is no respite.

KILIMANJARO SUMMIT NIGHT SCHEDULE 

Nighttime vs. Daytime Summits on Kilimanjaro

Depending on the route you take up the mountain, your summit bid may be a 10-15 hour night bid, or you may have the opportunity to summit during the day. Shorter routes, like Umbwe, include nighttime summits with immediate descents since limited acclimatization time on these treks makes it uncomfortable for climbers to stay at the summit elevations for long. Both daytime and nighttime summiteers will start at Barafu camp or Kibo hut but their experiences will unfold a bit differently…

Nighttime Summit Bid (all times approximate)

12 AM: Midnight After dinner, rest for a few hours; at midnight, you’ll be woken up by your guide. Put on your headlamp and head outside for a hot beverage and a snack; you have a long night ahead of you!

3 AM: Your slow, steady pace has brought you far enough up the mountain to get a special view of the line of glowing headlamps snaking up the trail, a human highway to the top.

4 AM: Take as deep a breath as you can; you’re facing the most difficult section of your summit bid: the steep, scree-covered switchbacks that wind their way up to Stella Point.

5:30 AM: You’re starting to get bone-tired from the steep slopes and the altitude, but the sight of the sun rising behind the crags and spires of nearby Mawenzi gives you new energy to keep pushing to the top!

6 AM: Finally, you’ve reached Stella Point: the steepest part of your climb is over! Take a break for a drink and a light snack, enjoy the morning sunshine on your face, and summon your last reserves of energy for the final push to Uhuru Peak!

7-7:30 AM: You’ve Reached the Summit!  It will be crowded with other hikers, and the air here is very thin, so take a few quick photos and begin your descent back to Stella Point.

8 AM: It’s so much easier going down! After you reach Stella Point, you’ll get your adrenaline pumping by taking the “direct” route down the mountain… “scree-skiing!”

10 AM: As the elevation drops, your body starts to feel better. Enjoy an early lunch to fuel up for the remaining hours of hiking into camp.

3-4 PM: Arrive into your camp in time for afternoon tea. It was a long, difficult day, but you did it!

Daytime Summit Bid (all times approximate)

5 AM: Wake up with some hot coffee or tea and enjoy breakfast at camp. You’ll set out just as dawn is breaking!

11 AM: Take a rest along the scree switchbacks that lead to Stella Point for a hot beverage and a picnic lunch. The fuel will help you push through to the top!

12:30 PM: Phew! You’ve finally reached Stella Point, so the steepest part of the trail is behind you; from here to Uhuru Peak, the trekking will be much easier.

2 PM: You’ve reached the Summit! Not many people are here, and your body has had plenty of time to acclimatize, so you can take your time at the top, snapping photos and celebrating with your fellow trekkers!

3 PM: Descend into Crater Camp via the quickest route possible: scree-skiing!

3:30 PM: You’ve reached Crater Camp. Refuel with tea and popcorn.

4 PM: Explore the sparkling glaciers, the ash pit, and the surrounding crater. Few trekkers have the chance to see these stunning sights up close!

6 PM: Enjoy a hot dinner with your fellow trekkers and some hot tea to keep you warm and hydrated in the dry, cold air of crater camp. Tomorrow morning, you’ll have the chance to summit again if you want, joining the trail of night-summiteers near the end of their journey, or you can enjoy a more leisurely descent day.

COMPARING THE DIFFICULTY OF CLIMBING EVEREST BASE CAMP AND KILIMANJARO 

When itcomess to comparing the difficulty level of Everest Base Camp and Kilimanjaro, it’s important to consider a variety of factors. While both treks are challenging and require a certain level of fitness and preparation, the general consensus among most people is that Kilimanjaro is the harder of the two.

One of the main reasons for this is the summit night climb, which is considered one of the toughest parts of the Kilimanjaro trek. During this final push to the summit, climbers must navigate steep and rocky terrain, deal with extreme cold and altitude sickness, and overcome the mental challenge of pushing themselves to their limits. In contrast, the trek to Everest Base Camp doesn’t involve a summit push, and while it still requires a high level of physical fitness, it’s generally less strenuous than the Kilimanjaro trek.

Another factor to consider is the altitude. While both treks involve high altitudes, Kilimanjaro is shorter in terms of overall elevation, with a peak altitude of 19,341 feet. Everest Base Camp, on the other hand, is situated at an altitude of 17,600 feet, but the trek involves a longer period of acclimatization to help climbers adjust to the thin air.

It’s worth noting that the terrain and climate on each trek are different. Kilimanjaro involves hiking through lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and icy glaciers, while the Everest Base Camp trek takes you through rugged mountain terrain and harsh, cold climates. Both treks are physically demanding and require a high level of fitness and preparation, but it’s generally agreed that Kilimanjaro is the harder of the two.

WHY IS CLIMBING MOUNT KILIMANJARO FAMOUS?

Mount Kilimanjaro is situated in the Northern part of Tanzania, in the Kilimanjaro National Park. It covers an area of 100 kilometers long and 65 kilometers wide. The mountain is a dormant volcano that is comprised of three volcanic cones, Shira, Kibo (on which Uhuru summit stands), and Mawenzi. Kibo is classified as dormant but not extinct. The last major eruption from Kibo occurred 350,000 years ago. The last volcanic activity happened 200 years ago and resulted in today’s ash pit (visible from Uhuru Peak).

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. By free-standing, or non-massif, we mean it is not part of a mountain range. The height of Mount Kilimanjaro is 5,895m or 19,341 feet, and its main summit is called Uhuru Peak. To put Mt Kilimanjaro’s height into perspective, Mount Everest stands at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) – just over 2,950 meters higher.

But here’s an interesting Kilimanjaro Fact: Both  Everest Base Camps (EBC) – South and North – are below the summit of Kilimanjaro; however, most hikers take upwards of 8-10 days to reach EBC. On Kilimanjaro trekkers on fast routes reach the summit within 4-5 days. The rapid ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro makes it a difficult and rather dangerous mountain to hike due to the risks of altitude sickness. As the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the Seven Summits

Where is Mount Kilimanjaro? 

Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano located in Tanzania, East Africa. It is the highest mountain in Africa and the highest single free-standing mountain in the world, with its summit about 4,900 meters from its base and 5,895 meters above sea level. The mountain is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park and is a major climbing destination. Kilimanjaro is composed of three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Despite its location near the equator, the mountain is known for its snow-capped peak, offering a unique and stunning landscape. It is a popular destination for climbers and trekkers from around the globe. 

Where Is Mount Kilimanjaro? | Geographical Region

Geographical Region: East Africa

Country: Tanzania

Province: Kilimanjaro

Location: Near the Kenyan border inner part of Tanzania

Height: 5,895 meters (19,340 feet)

Prominence: 5,885 meters (19,303 feet)

Cities Nearby: Moshi, Arusha

Type: Stratovolcano

Geographic Coordinates:  03°04′33″S 37°21′12″E / -3.07583, 37.35333

History Of Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, has a rich history of climbing that dates back to the late 19th century. The first recorded attempt to reach the summit was made by German geologist Hans Meyer and Austrian mountaineer Ludwig Purtscheller in 1889. Despite the challenges posed by the high altitude, freezing temperatures, and lack of proper climbing equipment, they successfully reached the highest point, Uhuru Peak, on October 6, 1889. Since then, Mount Kilimanjaro has become a popular destination for climbers from around the world, with thousands of people attempting the climb each year. And, the first woman to successfully conquer the summit of the mountain was Scottish mountaineer Sheila MacDonald in 1927.

Mt. Kilimanjaro and its six surrounding forest areas collectively came to be known as the Kilimanjaro National Park. This fascinating national which park has its own unique vegetation, and climate including the rare flora and fauna (home to the blue monkey Cercopithecus mitis)was established in 1973 to protect the unique environment surrounding the freestanding mountain. The Kilimanjaro National Park also got listed in a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Kilimanjaro, is the region which is home to the Chagga people who settled at the base civilization of the tallest mountain in Africa 400 years ago. Now, has become modern bustling cities and are the major tourist hubs in the country.

First Ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro

The first recorded ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro was accomplished by Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller in 1889. Meyer, a German geographer, had made two previous attempts to reach the summit but was hindered by severe weather, insufficient equipment, and health issues. On his third attempt, accompanied by Austrian mountaineer Ludwig Purtscheller and a local guide named Yohani Kinyala Lauwo, they successfully reached the highest point, Uhuru Peak, on October 6, 1889.

THE PEOPLE OF KILIMANJARO

The people of Kilimanjaro are primarily the Chagga tribe, one of the largest ethnic groups in Tanzania. They are known for their agricultural skills, particularly in cultivating bananas and coffee on the fertile slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. The Chagga people have a rich cultural history with traditional customs and beliefs, including the practice of age-old rituals and ceremonies. They are also known for their advanced system of irrigation and terracing, which has allowed them to thrive in the region for centuries.

THE NAME KILIMANJARO

Kilimanjaro is the name of the highest mountain in Africa, located in Tanzania. The name is believed to come from the Swahili word “Kilima,” meaning “mountain,” and the Kichagga word “Njaro,” loosely translated as “whiteness,” giving it the name “Mountain of Whiteness.” The mountain is famous for its three volcanic cones and is a popular destination for climbers from around the world.

HOW HAS CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTED MOUNT KILIMANJARO GLACIERS?

Climate change has significantly impacted the glaciers on Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the most iconic landmarks in Africa. Rising global temperatures have caused a rapid melting and retreat of these glaciers. According to scientific studies, more than 80% of the ice cover on Mount Kilimanjaro has disappeared since the early 20th century. If the current rate of glacial retreat continues, it is predicted that the glaciers on Mount Kilimanjaro could disappear entirely within a few decades.

HOW HIGH IS MOUNT KILIMANJARO?

There has been quite a lot of debate about the actual  height of Kilimanjaro. The altitude measurement and therefore the official elevation that the Tanzanian authorities quote is that  concluded by the 1952 survey that used Wild T2 theodolites and  calculated a height for Kilimanjaro’s summit of 5895 metres above mean  sea level. However, using more high-precision Leica Geosystems survey  equipment, the 1999 survey team calculated Kilimanjaro’s altitudes as  follows:

• ITRF Ellipsoidal Height of Kilimanjaro = 5875.50 metres (correct to within 5cm)
• Orthometric Height of Kilimanjaro = 5891.77 metres

THE EXACT HEIGHT OF KILIMANJARO IS 5893m. Or 5895m

Orthometric Height of Kilimanjaro (using Tanzanian geoidal datum) = 5892.55 metres

All this being said, when using a modern GPS that  approximates the geoid globally, you can likely expect your GPS to tell  you that the elevation of Kilimanjaro is 5895 metres. This was tested very thoroughly, when a Swiss team of map makers produced what is believed to still be the best available topographical map of Kilimanjaro, the data was observed carefully over a period of 17 minutes and fluctuated only between 5894 and 5895 metres.

THREE PEAKS OF KILIMANJARO HIKE 

Climb three of the volcanic cones (or peaks) of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania – Kibo, Mawenzi, Shira and Reach elevations as high as 16,000+ feet for Total trek time around 7-10 days roundtrip

Kibo, the highest peak (5,895m) on Mount Kilimanjaro, is covered by snow throughout the year despite being close to the equator. Conquering this peak is an adventure of a lifetime.

MAWENZI PEAK

Is the second highest peak which forms mount Kilimanjaro 5,149m. It is rugged and maintains the features of glaciation

With an altitude of 3,962m, is the oldest peak that collapsed and forms a Shira plateau with outstanding scenic beauty on the mountain with several kinds of migratory large mammals such as buffaloes, elephants, and especially elands.

MONTANE FOREST

Montane Forest – A wide band of exceptionally beautiful montane forest encircles the whole of Kilimanjaro from about 1800 –2800m. The forest zone is worth a visit even if you are not climbing to the peaks. Marangu nature trails is particular taking you through this forest  belt which supports several plant species, including endemic plants like Impatiens kilimanjari.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK 

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is located in Tanzania, East Africa, and is home to the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro. The park covers an area of 1,688 square kilometers and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including savannah, rainforest, alpine desert, and an arctic summit. The park is a popular destination for mountaineers and trekkers from around the world, offering various routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The Park Headquarters is at Marangu, about 44 Km from Moshi town and 80km from Kilimanjaro International Airport

CLIMATE OF MOUNT KILIMANJARO PARK 

Mount Kilimanjaro Park experiences a wide range of climatic conditions due to its varying altitudes. The base of the mountain has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity. As you ascend, the climate transitions through a temperate zone with cooler temperatures and frequent rainfall, followed by a cold desert climate with freezing temperatures at night. The summit is characterized by an arctic climate with extremely low temperatures, strong winds, and almost no precipitation. The park’s weather can be unpredictable, with the possibility of snowfall at any time of the year.

HOW TO GET TO KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK 

Kilimanjaro National Park is located in Tanzania, East Africa. The most common way to get there is by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is serviced by several international airlines. From the airport, it’s about a one-hour drive to the park. Alternatively, you can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya, and then take a domestic flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

BEST TIME TO VISIT KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK SAFARI 

The best time to visit Kilimanjaro National Park Safari is during the dry seasons, which are from late June to October and from late December to early March. During these periods, the weather is generally clear and sunny, providing excellent conditions for wildlife viewing and hiking. The lack of rainfall also means the roads and trails are more accessible. However, it’s important to note that temperatures can drop below freezing at night, especially at higher altitudes, so appropriate clothing is necessary.

ACCESSIBILITY:

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, located in Tanzania, is easily accessible by road, with all main entrances to the various climbing routes reachable by vehicle. The park entrances are closest to the town of Moshi, making it a convenient base for those planning to climb the mountain. The park is renowned for its breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems, and is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa.

Kilimanjaro National Park Attractions

Kilimanjaro National Park, located in Tanzania, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The park’s main attraction is Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, which attracts climbers from around the world. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, leopards, and buffalo. Visitors can explore the park’s lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and moorlands, and enjoy breathtaking views of the African plains.

UHURU POINT 

This is first highest point reached by climbers trying to conquer Kibo peak, 6km from Kibo hut (5895m). Visitors reached at this point are provided with the gold certificates and recorded as a successful climber.

STELLA POINT 

This is a second highest point reached by climbers trying to conquer Kibo peak, 5.3km from Kibo hut (5739m). Visitors reached at this point are provided with the silver certificates and recorded as a successful climber

This is a recent volcanic landmark on the highest point of Africa (100,000yrs). Visitors after reaching the summit may have a visit to this unique area

Mawenzi, the rugged peak (5,149m), can only be attempted by technical climb. Only people with specialized knowledge, skills and equipment are allowed

Shira with the height of 3962m, is the oldest peak that collapsed some 750 years ago while before collapsing was the highest of the three.

CATHEDRAL POINT – SHIRAPEAK

Cathedral is the point found on Shira Peak and can be climbed easily during day hike or summit

SHIRA PLATEAU 

After collapsing, the Shira peak formed a plateau of outstanding scenic beauty on the mountain. This plateau has an open grassland, heath and moorland with a large concentration of endemic plants including Senecio and lobelias. While on the plateau, one can visit the Shira central cone, the Cathedral and the Needle. Several kinds of migratory mammals such as buffaloes, elephants and elands use this plateau for feeding or salt licking

This stripped rocks are allocated along the Horombo -Kibo alternative trail 3Kms from Horombo huts. Visitors can have a short walk to this rocks as a part of the slogan “Go higher slip low”

VEGETATION ZONES 

Mount Kilimanjaro supports a unique combination of eco-climatic zones that takes you to the equivalent of a trip from the equator to the arctic in a brief tour.

As one climbs Kilimanjaro, vegetation and weather changes in response to the changing elevation. Between 1800-2800m, one goes through a montane forest. From 2800-4000m, vegetation is mainly heath and moorland composed of Helichrysum [Everlastings], Lobellia and Senecio. From 4000-5000m, vegetation is alpine desert with sparse plants adapted to harsh conditions. The summit zone has temperatures below the freezing point throughout the year. The mountain peak is covered by snow all year-round

MONTANE FOREST 

A wide band of exceptionally beautiful montane forest encircles the whole of Kilimanjaro from about 1800 –2800m. About 96% of water on Kilimanjaro originates from within this zone. The forest zone is worth a visit even if you are not climbing to the peaks. Marangu nature trails in particular take you through this forest belt. This belt supports several plant species, including endemic plants like Impatiens Kilimanjaro 

MAUNDI CRATER 

This crater is about 15 minutes walk past Mandara huts on the Marangu route. On clear days, the crater provides a panoramic view of Lakes Chala, Jipe and Nyumba ya Mungu, all of which derive their waters from the Majestic Kilimanjaro 

LAUWO WATERFALL 

Located along Marangu route 2.8Kms provides a spectacular experience while enjoying walking inside the thick montane forest

MARANGU WATERFALL 

Located along Marangu route 1Km provides a spectacular experience while enjoying walking inside the thick Montane forest.

Lake Chala is located about 30 minutes’ drive from Himo town. Although situated outside the Park, the lake is an important geological link to the park. It draws its water via underground streams that originate from Kilimanjaro. This deep fresh water lake can be visited prior to, or after climbing the mountain

Mount Kilimanjaro inhabits 140 species of mammals; 7 primates, 25 carnivores, 25 antelopes, 179 bird species and 24 species of bat. Hikes may view various animals including The Black and White Colobus Monkey, Blue monkey, Forest Duikers and small mammals like Myosorex zinkii which is endemic to Mt. Kilimanjaro. Buffaloes, Elands and Elephants are the large mammals often seen on Shira plateau and Rongai

KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK TOURISM ACTIVITIES 

Kilimanjaro National Park, located in Tanzania, offers a variety of tourism activities centered around its main attraction, Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. The park provides opportunities for mountain climbing and trekking, with several routes leading to the summit. Wildlife viewing is also popular, with animals such as elephants, buffalos, and monkeys inhabiting the lower slopes. Bird watching is another activity, with the park being home to numerous bird species. Additionally, visitors can explore the Chala Crater Lake, visit the Marangu village to experience local culture or enjoy scenic views and photography.

The park is endowed with various tourism activities that visitors can do during their visit. The activities include; Mountain Climbing to the Summit (MC), Paragliding, Nature Walking Safaris (Short Walking Safaris (SWS), Long Walking Safaris (LWS), Mawenzi Technical Climbing (MTC), Picnicking, Filming, Non-Summit Bound Climbers, Crater Camping and Mountain Cycling (MB).

MOUNTAIN CLIMBING 

Climbing to Kibo peak takes 5 to 8 days depending on the route. The more days, the higher the possibility to conquer the summit. An extra day in any station above 3000m above sea level during the climb is highly recommended for adequate acclimatization. Six mountain trails can take a climber to the highest point in Africa, each route offering different attractions and challenges

MAWENZI TECHNICAL CLIMBING 

Mawenzi is the second highest peak on Mount Kilimanjaro. The rugged peak of Mawenzi (5,149 m) lies to the East. The top of its Western face is fairly steep with many crags, pinnacles and dyke swarms. Its Eastern side falls in cliffs over 1,000m high in a complex of gullies and rock faces, rising above two deep gorges. The terrain of Mawenzi peak makes it unreachable but by technical roped ascents (supplied by an individual client). Technical climbers can hike the present seven sub-peaks namely Nordecke 5136 m, Hans Meyer 5149 m, highest point, Purtscheller 5120 m, Borchers 5115 m, Klute 5096 m, Latham 5087 m and Londt point 4945 m depending on the time and season of the year.

CRATER CAMPING 

Camping in the crater provides unique visitors’ night experience. While inside the crater tourist can visit the unique bench-shaped glaciers, the formation that can only be found at Mount Kilimanjaro.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO PARAGLIDING 

Paragliders should feel home at Mount Kilimanjaro  as freeflying the Worlds biggest free standing mountain is now under operation.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO CYCLING (KILEMA ROUTE)

Tourists have a chance to cycle inside the park. There are two routes, one for summit bound visitors (Kilema route) and second one for non summit visitors (Shira plateau). These routes are equipped with picnic sites and resting points. It takes 5 to 7 days to reach the summit. Mount Kilimanjaro cycling is named the “World’s most challenging mountain cycling”  and also “Worlds’ longest mountain downhill ride” with a difference of 4000m within a strip of 34Kms

KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK PICNICKING 

There are total of 13 picnic sites along the hiking routes (Rongai starting, Kisambioni, Lauwo, wona, last water, Jiwe la Ukoyo, Machame half way, Jiwe la Mbula, Baranco junction, Morum, Uwanja wa ndege, Mgongo wa Tembo, Daraja Refu, Kilimamchele) that offer a spectacular view of the attractions found in and outside the park. They are best places for taking packed meals on your way to the roof of Africa.

Marangu Via Lauwo To Mandara Route (SWS) :

The Route starts from Marangu via Lauwo Waterfall to Mandara Hut then back to Marangu. The route covers a distance of 12Km.

Machame Gate To Machame Hut Route (SWS)

The Route starts from Machame Gate to Macham Hut then back to Machame Gate. The route covers a distance of 11Km

Morum Barrier To Shira I Route (SWS)

The Route starts from Morum Barrier to Shira I then back to Morum Barrier Gate. The route covers a distance of 6Km.

Rongai Gate To Simba Camp

The Route starts from Rongai Gate to Simba Camp then back to Rongai Gate. The route covers a distance of 5Km.

NON – SUMMIT BOUND KILIMANJARO CLIMBERS

Activities for non-summit-bound Kilimanjaro climbers include:

• Visit the waterfalls (Lauwo)
• Visiting the Shira Plateau
•  Watching wildlife including high-altitude birds
• Walking through the Mountain Forest
• Day walk to Maundi crater in the park, Lake Chala and cultural sites such as Kifunika and cultural camps in the Kilimanjaro villages around.

Lemosho Route (LWS)

This route is also for ascending located on the western side of the mountain and it comprised of six stations of Mti Mkubwa then join Londorosi route at Shira I.

Londorosi Route (LWS)

This is ascending route located on the western side of the mountain and it comprised of five stations namely Shira I, Shira II, Baranco, Karanga and Barafu. It also offers the chance of using the Northern circuit and Western breach.

Machame Route (LWS)

This is ascending route located on the South-West of the mountain and it has five stations namely Machame hut, Shira cave, Baranco, Karanga and Barafu.

Mweka Route (LWS)

This is a descending route located on the southern side of the mountain. It comprised of three stations namely Mweka hut, High camp (Millenium) and Barafu. Visitors form Londorosi, Lemosho, Machame and Umbwe descent using this route.

Umbwe Route (LWS)

It is ascending route located on the South-West of the mountain and it has four stations, the Umbwe cave inside the forest belt and the other three after join Machame route at Baranco camp.

Kilema Route (LWS)

This route is for cycling. It has three stations namely Kilemamchele, Maua and Kibo; it is two way traffic.

Marangu Route (LWS)

This is ascending-descending route with provision of huts along the trail. It has three stations namely Mandara, Horombo and Kibo. On the mountain stations, there are toilets, kitchens, dinning and rooms for clients. Advance booking through a licensed mountain tour operator is mandatory.

Rongai Route (LWS)

It is ascending route with an option of using four or five stations depending on the choice of the climber. Visitors who ascend through this route will descend through Marangu route. Option of four stations includes Simba camp, second cave, third cave and school hut and the second option for five stations is Simba camp, second cave, Kikelelwa, Mawenzi tarn hut and School hut.

KILIMANJARO ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES 

The Park provides a variety of accommodations ranging from Mountain huts, hostel and 32 public Campsites. Booking for huts and hostel is done through licensed local tour operators

MANDARA HUT

It a first station located along the Marangu ascending/descending trail 8kms from Marangu gate. The word Mandara originate from the name of the former Chief of Marangu whose name was Mandara. The reason is to keep the good memory of the chief Mandara who was in charge during the time when the hut was opened in 1942. The hut has a capacity of 100beds for tourists and 200beds for guides and porters; therefore total number of people being 300 at a time

HOROMBO HUT

This is a second station allocated 19kms from Marangu gate, at an altitude of 3720m amsl. The word Horombo originate from the name of the former Chief of Rombo district (Keni) whose name was Horombo Urio. The reason is to keep the good memory of the chief Horombo. The hut has a capacity of 170 beds for tourists and 900beds for guides and porters; therefore total number of people being 1,070at a time

This is the third and base station located 28kms from Marangu gate at an altitude of 4720m amsl. It originates its name from the peak “Kibo”

MACHAME CAMP

This is the first camp along Machame route located 11kms and at an altitude of 2835M amsl

SHIRA CAVE CAMP

This is the second camp along Machame route located 16kms from Machame gate and at an altitude of 3750M amsl

LAVA TOWER CAMP

This is a camp (used mostly for acclimatization) along Machame route located 23kms from Machame gate and at an altitude of 4600M a.m.s.l

BARANCO HUT CAMP

This is the fourth/third camp along Machame route located 26kms from Machame gate and at an altitude of 3900M a.m.s.l

ARROW GLACIER CAMP 

This is the third camp along Machame route located 24kms from Machame gate and at an altitude of 4903M a.m.s.l. It is used by visitors who attemps their summit using the Western breach to uhuru

KARANGA HUT CAMP

This is the fifth camp along Machame route located 32kms from Machame gate and at an altitude of 3995M a.m.s.

BARAFU HUT CAMP

This is the sixth camp along Machame route located 36kms from Machame gate and at an altitude of 4673M a.m.s.l

This is the second camp along Mweka route located 13.5kms from Mweka gate and at an altitude of 3950M a.m.s.l

This is the last camp along Mweka route located 10kms from Mweka gate and at an altitude of 3100M a.m.s.l. This camp is used by visitors after summit

MTI MKUMBWA CAMP

This is the first camp along Lemosho route located 3.5kms from lemosho gate and at an altitude of 2650M a.m.s.l.

SHIRA 1 CAMP 

This is the second camp along Lemosho route located 10.5kms from lemosho gate and at an altitude of 3610M a.m.s.l.

SHIA 11 CAMP

This is the third camp along Lemosho route located 20.5kms from lemosho gate and at an altitude of 3850M a.m.s.l.

MOIR HUT CAMP 

This is a first camp located 10Kms from Shira I camp and it is used for overnight for visitors using the western circuit.

This is a second camp after Moir hut were visitors overnight before joining the Rongai route at Third cave or School hut.

This is the first camp along Rongai route located 5kms from Rongai gate and at an altitude of 2671M a.m.s.l

SECOND CAVE CAMP 

This is the second camp along Rongai route located 13kms from Rongai gate and at an altitude of 3450M a.m.s.l.

THIRD CAVE CAMP 

This is the third camp along Rongai route located 16kms from Rongai gate and at an altitude of 3800M a.m.s.l.

KIKELElWA CAMP

This is the third camp via Mawenzi hut along Rongai route located 1kms from Rongai gate and at an altitude of 3600M a.m.s.l.

 MAMWENZI TARN HUT CAMP 

This is the fourth camp along Rongai route located 21kms from Rongai gate and at an altitude of 4315M a.m.s.l.

SCHOOL HUT CAMP

This is the fifth and a base camp along Rongai route located 31kms from Rongai gate (via Mawenzi tarn hut) and at an altitude of 400M a.m.s.l.

This camp is under development and it will be used by visitors from Rongai route. It is located adjacent to Horombo huts

UMBWE CAVE CAMP

This is the first camp along the Umbwe route “the whisky route”

KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK FEES 

Kilimanjaro National Park fees are mandatory costs for visitors wishing to explore the park and climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The fees include park entry, camping, rescue fees, and guide and porter services. The cost varies depending on the length of the climb and the route chosen, but generally, it ranges from $800 to $5000 per person. These fees contribute to the maintenance and preservation of the park.

Rescue Fees

First up are the rescue fees for Kilimanjaro. Should anything happen, then the KINAPA, Kilimanjaro National Park, will arrange a rescue.The fees for this are 20 USD. Not a bad price considering the fact that this mountain is almost 6,000 meters high.

Conservation Fees

The conservation fee is basically the entry fee for Kilimanjaro, your ticket to the party. This is a daily fee of 70 USD. If you are choosing a 7-day Lemosho or Machame route, then you can do the math: 7 x 70 USD = 490 USD. The conservation fees are charged by the park department and go towards, you’ve guessed it, conservation of Kilimanjaro National Park. Apart from the fact that this is the highest fee, it is also the most important one. These fees make sure that Kilimanjaro is looked after.

Camping Fees

On all Mount Kilimanjaro climbing routes other l than the Marangu Route, you will be staying on campsites. Just like the conservation fees, this fee is calculated per person per day/night. The fees are USD 50 / 44 EUR / 40 GBP. 

On the Marangu route, you will be staying in huts. These huts need a coat of paint every now and then as well. Although the Marangu Route is a relatively affordable trek, you must know that still, 60 USD / 53 EUR / 48 GBP per night goes towards the huts.

Crater Fees

It is an interesting experience that comes at an extra cost. For 100 USD / 88 EUR / 80 GBP a night you can stay at Crater Camp.

Guide & Porter Fees

What is also included in the costs of your Kilimanjaro climb is the daily fees for guides and porters. You pay 2 USD / 1,80 EUR / 1,60 GBP per staff member a day. There are a few exceptions for the above-mentioned park fees. For children, there are some discounts and if you are a citizen (and resident) of Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda or South Sudan you can also enjoy some benefits. There is also some discount applicable to expatriates. 

WHAT IS THE COST OF CLIMB KILIMANJARO INCLUDING FLIGHTS, TIPS, YOUR HEALTH, PARK FEES

The cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can vary greatly depending on several factors such as the route chosen, the length of the climb, the tour operator, and the level of comfort or luxury you desire. On average, the climb itself can cost between $2,000 to $4,000. Flights to Tanzania, where Kilimanjaro is located, can range from $800 to $2,500 depending on the time of year and where you are flying from. Therefore, a rough estimate for the total cost, including flights, could be between $2,800 to $6,500. However, this does not include additional costs such as gear, tips for guides and porters, travel insurance, and potential visa fees.

Value Added Tax [Tax]

A value-added tax (VAT) 18% of services is a type of general consumption tax that is placed on goods and services whenever a value is added at a stage of production or distribution. The Tanzanian government charges an 18% VAT to Kilimanjaro operators.

Common things that are included are accommodation, both one day before your trek starts and the day it ends in a hotel, camping or hut accommodation on the mountain, food and water during the trek. Your agency will also provide you with basic utilities like a dining and a sleeping tent, utensils for your meals and hot water. A major component of this price is the  national park fees  . You will also have to cater for vehicle entry fees, camping fees / Hut fees, Rescue fees, Crew fees and taxes etc. and these are included in this price. The fee is usually based on a daily limit, but the minimum fee fixed by the Tanzanian government is for a five day trek. We strongly recommend a minimum six day trek and ideally 7 or 8 day trek. Despite the higher price tag for longer routes, the success rates due to better acclimatization are unarguable.

The National Park or Conservation Fees is different for Tanzanian residents ( and other EAC members  ) and, as is usual, is much higher for non-residents. Do remember to carry your own first aid kit and snacks (energy bars) as well, because vendors are no longer allowed to sell these things on the route

FLORA & FAUNA OF KILIMANJARO

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The mountain’s varying altitudes and climates contribute to its biodiversity, with each altitude level hosting different ecosystems. The lower slopes are covered in dense tropical rainforest, home to elephants, leopards, and various monkey species. As the altitude increases, the vegetation changes to moorland, populated by unique high-altitude plants like the giant groundsels and lobelias. The alpine desert zone, above the moorland, is largely devoid of large wildlife but hosts a few hardy bird and rodent species. The summit zone is inhospitable to most life forms due to its extreme conditions.

There are those who have devoted a lifetime study to the flora of Kilimanjaro, and even then have only scratched the surface. Diversity is the key word, and in certain species, such as the cloud forest orchids, these can experience relatively rapid evolution causing some merging of species and some confusion as to what is a species, a sub-species or merely a localised variation on an established theme.

The main floral features of Kilimanjaro are the Giant Lobelia, or Lobelia deckenii, a curious plant with an otherworldly structure and occasional gigantism thanks to high rainfall and intense tropical solar radiation. Another is the Tree Grounsel, or Senico Kilimanjari, a local variation of a common mountain plant seen on both Mount Kenya and Rwenzori. Another feature of the ecology is a selection of Protea varieties that again are a standard African highland floral species. These most commonly form part of the Cape Fynbos family. It is in fact a commercial species in many parts of Africa. The crisp, dry textured daisies that proliferate in many forms beyond the forest belt are the ubiquitous everlasting daisies, a perennial favourite in and pot pourri, and again a species common to most tropical highland regions of Africa.

A type of diminutive wild cedar of the Widdringtonia variety grows in what is known as heather fields of Kilimanjaro, and although not a heather in strict terms it certainly does give the slopes a temperate highland feel.

Animal and birdlife in the lower forests compete in every respect with the flora for sheer diversity. What can mostly be seen and heard are the larger primates consisting of the piebald Colobus Monkeys, Blue Monkeys and of course the ubiquitous baboons. Forest elephants, giraffe and buffalo are all rare and secretive forest dwellers, but a chance encounter now and again is distinctly possible along certain routes.

Known disparagingly as a sky rat the white-collared raven is a very common sight. Sometimes a single pair will track a climbing party for an entire trip in the hope of bounty, and they have on occasions been known to advance their fortunes by raiding unattended camps. They are the safe-crackers of the local animal kingdom, and can unzip a backpack and locate a bag of noodles or candy with uncanny skill. They also mate for life and a single specimen will either be a juvenile or an adult that has lost its mate.

Look out for hornbills, a variety of raptors and a staggering diversity of smaller forest species. On higher ground the presence of life grows increasingly sparse, until eventually even the ravens peel of and leave you to your own devices as you ascend the kill-zone.

Mount Kilimanjaro Glaciers: The 4 Famous Glaciers

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is renowned for its four famous glaciers: the Northern Ice Field, the Eastern Ice Field, the Southern Ice Field, and the Furtwängler Glacier. These glaciers, despite being near the equator, exist due to the mountain’s high altitude. However, they have been rapidly receding due to climate change. The Furtwängler Glacier, in particular, has lost more than 80% of its mass since the early 20th century. These glaciers contribute to the unique beauty and biodiversity of Mount Kilimanjaro, attracting climbers and tourists from around the world.

What Are The 4 Famous Kilimanjaro Glacier?

Besides the Furtwangler Glacier, the Kilimanjaro Glacier also consists of the Rebmann Glacier, Credner Glacier, and Arrow Glacier.

Furtwängler Glacier

Furtwängler Glacier is located at the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. It gets its name from mountaineer Walter Furtwängler. He, alongside Siegfried König started a fourth party and summited the mountain in 1912. The Kilimanjaro climb was quite legendary!

Unfortunately, from 1912 to 2023, about 85 percent of the ice cap melted and disappeared due to the changing weather conditions. The glacier was formed out of a small ice cap of Kilimanjaro and had been there for the longest time known. It has been estimated that the glacier is at least eleven thousand years old, dating back to 1650 CE.

One of the saddest realities, as per the statistics and patterns from the past to this date, is that the glacier is close to completely disappearing by the year 2060, which is not very far from the current time. All the ice had been estimated to have disappeared by 2040 at this pace.

The history of a drastic change in the glacier dates back to 1976 when the glacier started disappearing and making its complete half disappearance by the year 2000. Furtwangler went from 113,000 square meters (1,220,000 sq ft) to 60,000 m2 (650,000 sq ft). The decline was constant after the year. In 2018, the glacier had been cut to 11,000 m2 (120,000 sq ft). Though there is still a much smaller remnant of the glacier to this day, it had been forecasted from the declining patterns of the glaciers that it would be churned down to nothing by 2023. Thankfully, so has not been the case yet!

A mysterious thing happened in the Furtwangler glacier in 2006. A big hole was discovered by scientists during fieldwork in the center of the glacier. The hole runs deep to 6 meters (20 feet). This led to the glacier being cut into two halves the following year, in 2007.

Credner Glacier

Credner Glacier is located on the northwest slope at an elevation between 5,800 and 5,500 meters (19,000 and 18,000 ft) of Mount Kilimanjaro. This glacier is located in the top half of the glacier as well. The glacier goes down from the Northern Ice Field. This is possibly one of the largest glaciers in Tanzania, if not the largest. The Credner glacier, sadly, has been the target of the growing climate change and has been decreasing in size for a while now. In 2013, it was estimated that the glacier would perish in a decade. So is not the case, but the glacier’s end may be very close, considering how badly the climate is changing. Credner has always been the likelihood of retreating since it is in the most exposed area of Mount Kili.

Rebmann Glacier

In 1848, German explorer and mountaineer Johann Rebmann reported the observations of the glaciers in Kilimanjaro. This gave the name Rebmann Glacier as a tribute to Johann. Rebmann is located on the opposite side of Credner Glacier. Furthermore, it is a small remnant of the glacier in Kilimanjaro. The glacier has been retreating for many decades now, dating back to 1912, which makes it more than 100 years ago. And 82 percent of ice has perished from the glacier as of 2023.

Arrow Glacier

The Arrow Glacier is a small remnant of ice glacier in Mount Kilimanjaro located at an elevation between 5,470 and 5,300 meters (17,950 and 17,390 ft). The glacier is on the west side of the mountain. This glacier is adjacent to the Lemosho route of Mount Kilimanjaro. In the past, it had been forecasted that arrow glaciers may not even exist by 2011. Furthermore, Arrow Glacier did not possess the name since the very beginning of time. It was only called so after it lost big parts of itself and only remained as a very small piece of ice. The Arrow Glacier was once part of the Little Barranco Glacier, which has already perished.

What Type Of Glacier Has Mount Kilimanjaro?

Mount Kilimanjaro has a tropical glacier alongside other peaks like Mount Kenya and the Rwenzori range across the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda in Africa. All these mountains are very tall and cross an altitude of 5000 meters above sea level. This makes the mountain extremely cold and freezy throughout the year.

How Many Glaciers Are On Kilimanjaro?

In total, Kilimanjaro has 16 glaciers that have yet to be discovered and explored. Among all these, the four most famous are Arrow Glacier, Rebmann Glacier, Credner Glacier, and Furdwangler Glacier. All these glaciers have been dispersed in almost every direction of the mountain. Kilimanjaro glaciers are located all at the summit of the peak.

One of the most heartbreaking realities about the Kilimanjaro glacier is that there have been at least four glaciers that have already disappeared to this date and numerous others which have retreated or kept retreating. This is the result of excessive humidity and harsh climatic changes. The glaciers are melting or breaking down from their original forms even today. It has been forecasted by many explorers and intellectuals that the glaciers will no longer remain in existence and have the probability of disappearing completely with time.

Does Kilimanjaro Still Have A Glacier?

The activities in nature are unstoppable. Though there still are glaciers in Kilimanjaro, they are not in the same form as they used to be even a few years ago. The glaciers are retreating and perishing with time. It is also said that the glaciers have been existing in Mount Kilimanjaro for 11,700 years.

Mount Kilimanjaro Climate – Five Main Mount Ecological Zones

Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, is unique for its five distinct ecological zones. The first zone, the bushland or lower slopes, is characterized by coffee and banana plantations. The second zone, the rainforest, is home to a variety of wildlife and receives high rainfall. The third zone, the heath and moorland, is a semi-alpine area with lower temperatures and less precipitation. The fourth zone, the alpine desert, is a harsh environment with extreme temperature fluctuations and very little life. The fifth and final zone, the arctic zone, is a barren landscape covered in ice and snow. Each zone has its unique climate, flora, and fauna.

LOWER SLOPES 

Altitude: 800m to 1800m Rainfall: 500mm to 1800mm

The southern lower slopes of Kilimanjaro contain ample evidence of human activity. The original scrub and lowland forest have been replaced by grazing land, cultivation and densely populated settlements fed by water permeating from the forest zone. The slopes were originally earmarked by the British and Germans as potential settlement areas due to the ‘European’ weather. These lush and fertile lands are in stark contrast to the northern slopes where low rainfall coupled with the porosity of the lava soils prohibits cultivation. There are none of the larger mammals in this zone but some of the smaller tree-dwelling mammals are numerous such as bushbabies, tree hyrax, and genet.

Altitude: 1800 to 2800m Rainfall: 2000mm to the south and west and under 1000mm to north and east

The forest belt completely encircles Kilimanjaro and provides the best conditions for plant life. It serves as the water provider for all the lower slopes with up to 96% of all the water on the mountain originating from this zone and then percolating down through the porous lava rock to emerge as springs. The forest supports a variety of wildlife including several large mammals such as elephants and buffalo and in certain areas, it is compulsory to have an armed guide. Occasionally eland inhabits the upper fringes of the forest. Colobus and blue monkeys are common, along with bushbuck, duikers, leopard, and bush-pig. The forest is often cloaked with a band of clouds, particularly between 2500m and 3000m. This cloud promotes high humidity and dampness year-round. Whilst clear nights can get pretty cold, during the day temperatures rarely leave the range 15C to 20C.

HEATH & MOORLAND

Altitude: 2800m to 4000m Rainfall: 1300mm at the edge of the forest and 530mm at the upper limit.

This semi-alpine zone is characterized by a heathland type of vegetation and abundant wildflowers. Lobelia deckenii, a species of flowering plant, and Senecio Kilimanjaro, a giant groundsel, are endemic to the area and particularly striking. This zone does not support abundant wildlife due to its altitude but there have been sightings of hunting dogs, buffalo, elephants, and most commonly eland. The Shira plateau is even occasionally visited by lions. Smaller mammals are more common and support a few predators such as civets, servals, and leopards.

HIGHLAND DESERT

Altitude: 4000m to 5000m Rainfall: 250mm

The temperature of the Kilimanjaro semi-desert zone ranges from sub-zero at night to 30C during the day. Water is scarce and there is little soil to retain any moisture. There are only 55 recorded plant species that survive at this altitude. Lichens and tussock grasses are present in reasonable numbers, as are some mosses. But as the soil is subject to movement overnight as the ground water freezes, most root plants find life extremely hard. There are no resident larger animals in the desert, although eland, leopard, serval and hunting dog all pass through on occasion. Only a few birds can survive in this rarefied air and once again none are resident. Ravens and some large birds of prey will hunt during the day but head downhill with the sunset.

THE SUMMIT OF KILIMANJARO

Altitude: 5000m – 5985m Rainfall: under 100mm

An arctic zone characterized by freezing cold nights and a burning daytime sun. Oxygen levels are half that of sea level. There is minimal liquid surface water because of a combination of low rainfall and porous rock, and the bleak terrain supports minimal life forms. A few lichens grow, but only at a rate of about 1mm per year, so even the most unimpressive-looking spread is probably of venerable age. The highest recorded flowering plant was a Helichrysum newii at 5670m within the Kibo Crater but these are few and far between, as are sightings of mammals at this altitude

Wildlife on Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is home to a diverse range of wildlife species, largely due to its varying climates and habitats. The lower slopes of the mountain are inhabited by elephants, leopards, buffalos, and monkeys, while the higher altitudes are home to smaller mammals like bushbabies and duikers. The mountain also hosts a variety of bird species, including sunbirds, warblers, and the endangered Abbott’s Starling. However, due to the harsh conditions at the highest altitudes, wildlife is sparse near the summit.

If you are ever around Mount Kilimanjaro, you will be going around on a safari ride.  Kilimanjaro National Park will provide you with a view of different animals in the area. However, you will get to see a wide variety of animals as you go higher for mount climbing. Not only the daytime but nighttime also serves to be the best to find some nocturnal animals in the Kilimanjaro area. Animals and birds are easily spotted on the slopes on the lower sides of the mountain.

District Zones In Mount Kilimanjaro To Find Wildlife

There are five district zones in Kilimanjaro where you can find wildlife, namely; cultivated zone, rainforest zone, Afro-alpine moorland zone, alpine desert zone, arctic zone at 800 m to 1,800 m, 1,800 m to 2,800 m, 2,800 m to 4,000 m, 4,000 m to 5,000 m, and above 5,000 m respectively.

Mammals On Mount Kilimanjaro

When you are in the lower ranges of Kilimanjaro, you will get to see several mammals like, elephant s, bush babies (galagos), cape buffaloes, black rhinos, giraffes, leopards, servals, hyenas, baboons, monkeys, antelopes, aardvarks, mongooses, porcupines, honey badgers, and tree hyraxes.

The larger animals like cape buffaloes, black rhinos, and elephants roam around the lower range. While you may spot them around the lower range of the national park, it is least likely for them to go to higher ranges which lowers the chances of you seeing them anywhere around the base camp. The dangers of being attacked by such animals around the night while ascending Mount Kilimanjaro, hence, aren’t probable. But, in exceptional cases, you might want to watch for such animals even when you are in the higher ranges, as you always have to remain safe regardless of the low chances of them being there.

Monkeys On Mount Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro is famous for the widest range of the rarest monkeys in the world. Old-world monkeys in the area are very common. These monkeys are often found in the rainforest belt of the wildlife reserve. The ever enthusiastic breed of monkeys called blue monkeys or diademed monkeys are always around. They are not very afraid of humans. Hence you can encounter them up close around the national park. Another common breed of monkey is the black-and-white colobus monkey. They are, however, more timid in comparison to the blue monkeys. Regardless, finding them around the Kilimanjaro area will not be as hard.

Antelopes on Kilimanjaro

You will find many types of antelopes on Kilimanjaro, including red and grey duikers, Abbot’s duikers, mountain reedbucks, common elands, klipspringers, and bushbuck. Common elands (or oryxes) are the bigger antelopes in the area. These species are 1.6m tall and can weigh up to 940 kg ranging from 400 kg. Likewise, there are extremely small species like klipspringers who only weigh a maximum of 18 kg. Klipspringers are monogamous to their mates and are nocturnal. Another amazing fact about this species is that they walk on the tip of their hooves. Similarly, the most endangered species on Kilimanjaro is Abbot’s duikers. They can only be found in Tanzania. These animals are likely to hide in their thick vegetation. They are, again, nocturnal by nature.

Chameleons On Kilimanjaro

Chameleons can be found widely on Kilimanjaro. One of the rarest types of chameleon, three-horned chameleons, are in big numbers on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro. The female of this species does not have any horns. These chameleons are the natives only in East Africa. Kilimanjaro two-horned chameleon or Dwarf Fischer’s chameleon are found in northern Tanzania and southern Kenya. These are just as rare to find in general. However, it can be found in good numbers in Kilimanjaro.

Nocturnal Wildlife On Kilimanjaro

Nocturnal animals are the ones that are wide awake during the night time in contrast to the daytime. Some of the most common nocturnal animals on Kilimanjaro are klipspringers, bush babies, and tree hyraxes. Bush babies have the appearance of innocence because of their big and round eyes. However, they are harder to spot because of their timid nature. Tree hyraxes or tree dassies are Kilimanjaro’s most common and noisy nocturnal animals. Their screeches can be heard not just in the lower ranges but also in the upper ranges. Likewise, while they look similar to a rabbit, they are far relatives of elephants and manatees. They tend to way up to only 2 kg.

Birds On Kilimanjaro

There are about 179 different species of birds in Kilimanjaro which includes; vultures, buzzards, ravens, hornbills, turacos (Laurie), shrikes, hornbills, cuckoos, flycatchers, barbets, chats, woodpeckers, bee-eaters, and sunbirds. In the moorland area of the base camp, you will spot White-necked ravens. Another beautiful species of bird in Kilimanjaro is the African pygmy kingfisher. Abbot’s starling can be found only in some areas of Kenya and Tanzania. Therefore, if you are around the Kilimanjaro wildlife area, you will surely get a rare sighting of this bird species. Emerald malachite sunbird is terrific-looking birds that are rare but can be spotted in the Kilimanjaro area. And you will not want to miss out on the unique African pitta in Kilimanjaro.

Which Routes Should I Take To Find Wildlife On Kilimanjaro?

While there are quite many routes that you can take on your way up to the top of Kilimanjaro, there are some routes that are better than others. The most commonly taken route will be The Northern Circuit or Grand Traverse if you want to find sightings of birds and animals. A large number of animals roam around the northern part of Kilimanjaro. This gives you the option of exploring more animals and birds in this circuit. The nine-day route of the Northern circuit allows one to spot and explore various animals and birds in Kilimanjaro.

The Rongai route in the northeast also provides you with an impressive range of wildlife. The Lemosho and Machame routes are other great routes to find wildlife on Kilimanjaro. You will be ascending through the rainforests. Whatsoever, the trekking and walk-up will be gentler than you may think. The Shira route and the Marangu route are also an option for you. But, these routes have a comparatively difficult ascend and descent which makes the former routes more convenient and better options.

Do Lions Live On Kilimanjaro?

You will not encounter animals as large and dangerous as lions in Kilimanjaro. Mount Kilimanjaro has a wider range of mammals and giant animals; however, predators like lions are not present in the mountain area or the base camp either. Besides, you are safe from lion attacks even around the national park area. Whatever, you must be aware enough to find animals like elephants, monkeys, antelope, and Abbott’s Duiker in the lower ranges of Kilimanjaro.

Do Gorillas Live On Mount Kilimanjaro?

No, you will not find any gorillas on Mount Kilimanjaro. However, if you take a 1-and-a-half-hour flight to Kigali, you will find mountain gorillas there. In Kilimanjaro, there are no such primates as gorillas, though.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO TEMPERATURE

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, experiences a wide range of temperatures due to its elevation. At its base, the average temperature is around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 27 degrees Celsius). As you ascend, the temperature drops approximately 1 degree Celsius for every 200 meters in altitude gained. The summit, at 5,895 meters above sea level, can experience temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius. The temperature can also vary greatly between day and night, with nights being significantly colder.

RAIN FOREST ZONE  (~800 Meters – 3,000 Meters)

From the earliest part of your trek you are going to be confronted with tropical rain forest. Humidity is high and light mist or sometimes drizzle is common. Various flora such as orchids, ferns, fig and olive trees cover this area of Kilimanjaro. You will likely see Blue and Colobus monkeys, and if you are trekking from the North-East Rongai route or Western Lemosho, Shira or Northern Circuit you may even see elephant, buffalo and large antelope.

LOW ALPINE ZONE (~3,000 Meters – 4,200 Meters)

At approximately.3,000 metres the rainforest rapidly gives way to semi-arid grasslands and moorlands, this area is known as the low alpine zone. Heather and small shrubs cover the landscape, the weather is significantly less humid and temperatures can get to sub-zero in the evening. The most prominent flora features in this zone are the Senecios and Giant Lobelias, which look like deformed palm trees. Fauna is sparse; however you will likely see crows overhead foraging for food.

HIGH ALPINE ZONE (~4,200 Meters – 5,000 Meters)

This zone is characterised by an arid desert environment that is rather inhospitable. During the day temperatures are hot and solar radiation is high (make sure to apply lots of sun-cream). At night temperatures plummet to below freezing. From this zone the slopes of Kibo and Kilimanjaro’s summit come into perfect view.

GLACIAL ZONE (5000 To 5,895 Meters)

The final zone houses the upper reaches of Kibo and Mawenzi and consists of high altitude artic conditions. Life is very scarce in this zone as oxygen levels are near half what they were on the lower reaches of the mountain. Fine glacial silt covers the slopes that reach up to Kilimanjaro’s summit and large glaciers are visible from Kilimanjaro’s crater rim. Due to the high solar radiation during the day, freezing temperatures at night, gale force winds and low oxygen levels, this zone is not one where you want to stay too long!

SNOW ON KILIMANJARO

Snow on Kilimanjaro can occur all year round, but the most common months are November through March. Here is a chart showing average snowfall by month.

WHAT IS THE TEMPERATURE AT TOP OF MOUNT KILIMANJARO?

The temperature at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro can range from 0 to -20 degrees Celsius (32 to -4 degrees Fahrenheit). A big factor that drives the temperature at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is the wind. The wind chill factor can make a relatively cold night, like -2 degrees Celsius (28 degrees Fahrenheit), feel like -15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s worth noting that temperatures at the summit are colder at night, which is the time that most trekkers push for the summit. By late morning it can actually feel quite hot at the summit, especially on a windless clear day.

WHICH ARE THE WETTEST MONTHS ON KILIMANJARO?

The wettest months on Kilimanjaro are April and May. These are not good months to hike the mountain. Later March can also see quite a lot of rain. There is a short rainy season in November as well. The Northern side of Kilimanjaro is in a rain shadow, so if you’re limited to these months, then try the Rongai route.

Kilimanjaro Routes are the designated paths that climbers use to ascend and descend Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. There are seven main routes: Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, Northern Circuit, and Umbwe. Each route varies in terms of difficulty, scenery, traffic, and the number of days required for the climb. The Marangu route is the most popular, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola” route, while the Machame route, known as the “Whiskey” route, is considered the most scenic. The choice of route depends on the climber’s experience, fitness level, and personal preference.

MARANGU ROUTE

The Marangu Route , often referred to as the “Coca Cola” route, is one of the most popular routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Known for its relative ease compared to other routes, it offers sleeping huts along the way for climbers, and is the only route that can be hiked in five days, although six days are recommended for better acclimatization. Despite its reputation for being easier, the success rate is not as high as other routes due to the faster ascent.

MACHAME ROUTE

The Machame Route , also known as the “Whiskey” route, is one of the most popular routes to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Known for its scenic beauty, the route approaches the summit from the southwest and descends using the Mweka route, offering climbers varied and stunning landscapes. Despite its popularity, the Machame Route is considered a difficult route due to its steep trails and is recommended for more experienced climbers.

LEMOSHO ROUTE

The Lemosho Route is a popular trekking path for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, known for its beautiful scenery and high success rate. It starts on the western side of the mountain and crosses over the Shira Plateau, before joining the Machame Route. The trek typically takes 7 to 8 days, allowing climbers to acclimatize to the altitude. The Lemosho Route is considered one of the most scenic routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering panoramic views of various sides of the mountain.

NORTHERN CIRCUITS ROUTE

The Northern Circuits Route is a popular trekking path in Tanzania, known for being the longest route to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a complete traverse of the mountain, allowing trekkers to see every aspect of Kilimanjaro’s diverse environments. The route takes approximately nine days to complete, providing a high success rate due to its longer acclimatization period. The Northern Circuits Route is less crowded compared to other routes, offering a more solitary and serene experience.

RONGAI ROUTE

The Rongai Route is one of the less crowded paths to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. Starting from the northeastern side of the mountain near the Kenyan border, the route offers a unique wilderness experience with the possibility of spotting wildlife. It is considered one of the easier routes, with a gradual ascent that allows for better acclimatization, although it is less scenic compared to other routes. The descent is made through the Marangu Route.

UMBWE ROUTE

The Umbwe Route is one of the shortest but also the most challenging and demanding routes to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Known for its steep and rapid ascent, it is often chosen by experienced climbers who are well-prepared for the physical and mental challenges it presents. The route offers stunning and diverse landscapes, from rainforests to moorlands, but has a low success rate due to the difficulty of acclimatization.

SHIRA ROUTE

The Shira Route is one of the six main routes used to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. It is considered one of the more difficult paths due to its high altitude and steep climbs. The route starts at Shira Gate on the western side of the mountain and traverses across Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in the world. Despite its difficulty, the Shira Route is known for its stunning panoramic views and diverse landscapes.

WESTERN BREACH ROUTE

The Western Breach Route is one of the most challenging and less-traveled paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It involves a steep climb and potential rockfall danger, making it suitable for experienced climbers. The route approaches the summit from the west and includes an overnight stay at the Arrow Glacier camp. Despite its challenges, the Western Breach Route offers stunning views and a unique climbing experience.

CRATER CAMP KILIMANJARO: AFRICA HIGHEST CAMP

Crater Camp is a campsite located near the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. Situated at an altitude of approximately 18,800 feet, it is nestled in the mountain’s crater, next to the Furtwangler Glacier. The camp is not frequently used due to its high altitude and the associated health risks, but it offers climbers a unique opportunity to explore the glaciers and ash pit of Kilimanjaro. It is typically used by climbers on longer routes who want to spend an extra day acclimatizing or exploring the summit area.

KILIMANJARO ASH PIT : THE CENTER OF THE VOLCANO

The Kilimanjaro Ash Pit is a volcanic crater located at the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. It is part of the dormant Kibo volcano, one of the three volcanic cones of Mount Kilimanjaro. The ash pit is approximately 140 meters deep and 360 meters wide, and it is considered one of the most perfectly formed volcanic craters in the world. Despite the harsh conditions at the summit, the ash pit is a popular destination for climbers and adventurers.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO DIFFICULTY LEVELS

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is the highest mountain in Africa and is a popular destination for climbers. However, the difficulty of climbing Kilimanjaro should not be underestimated. Despite not requiring technical climbing skills, the trek is physically demanding due to the high altitude, low temperature, and occasional high winds. The main challenge for most climbers is altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening if not managed properly. Proper acclimatization, physical preparation, and a slow ascent can increase the chances of a successful climb. 

The trek involves daily hiking for 5 to 8 hours, with significant elevation gains of 1,000 to 2,000+ feet (305 to 610+ meters) per day. This demanding level of trekking will be experienced throughout the trip, and you should be in excellent physical shape to undertake the climb. Before attempting the trek, it is recommended to engage in regular workouts, including at least 4 one-hour sessions per week. Ideally, some of these workouts should involve hiking with a small backpack, gradually increasing the duration and altitude gain if possible.

The distance covered on the Kilimanjaro trek is not the main challenge; a seven-night trek can add up to as little as 150 kilometers or 100 miles, and about half of it is optional. The focus lies on the elevation gain and acclimatization process. Each day on the trail usually starts with a 2-4 hour morning walk, covering most, if not all, of the distance between camps. In the afternoons, trekkers are encouraged to participate in additional acclimatization treks, which take them higher in altitude before returning to camp to sleep at a lower altitude. This acclimatization process helps the body adjust to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. These treks typically last for 2-5 hours.

The summit day of Mount Kilimanjaro is particularly challenging, involving around 12-15 hours of continuous walking to reach the top. It’s a long and grueling day, often with cold temperatures and difficult terrain.

For a seven-night trek, you can expect a total of around 56 hours of walking. However, the average walking speed tends to be quite slow due to the high altitude and challenging conditions.

Mount Kilimanjaro Elevation Gain

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is the highest mountain in Africa and the highest single free-standing mountain in the world, with an elevation gain of approximately 4,900 meters (16,100 feet) from its base to the summit. The mountain’s peak, known as Uhuru Peak, stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. The elevation gain is significant and challenging, making acclimatization crucial for climbers to avoid altitude sickness.

1. Northern Circuit: 2,100 M (6,890 Ft) At Lemosho Gate

This is the longest route in Kilimanjaro. Yet, it is also the most common route taken by travelers. The Northern circuit route will take up to 9 days of trekking, extending towards the Lemosho route to the Shira plateau. The Lemosho route is west, while the travelers must cross the Lava Tower and head north to the Rongai route. When you take the Northern route, you should climb from the eastern side and descend from the southern side of the Mweka route.

The Northern Circuit may be one of the most commonly chosen and longest routes, but it is not for those with bad health and fitness. This route might lead to difficulty and a lot of tiredness which is not always the best experience for all. If you want to take a route where you can go slow in case any respiration problem arises in the higher route, however, then this route might be it for you.

2. Lemosho Route: 2,100 M (6,890 Ft) At Lemosho Gate

The Lemosho route at 2100m at Lemosho Gate is probably one of the best routes anyone can take when they are looking to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. This is one of the most scenic yet convenient routes of all time. And it has been highly preferred by travelers as well. Moreover, the chances of altitude sickness lessen when traveling from the Lemosho route because it will take you eight days which is good enough to familiarize yourself with the altitude sickness probable as the altitude increases.

The Lemosho route is also famous for the forests you will go through before you summit the peak of Kilimanjaro. The route is around 70 km or 42 miles. It joins with the Machame route. And, it is not likely for you to take more than 7 to 8 days at maximum if you trek continually, given the fact that you are not suffering from any respiratory diseases or accidents along the way, which is a lot less likely in this route.

How hard is the Lemosho route, though? Well, the answer to this is quite simple. The Lemosho route is probably the easiest route to Kilimanjaro. The longer route serves for better acclimatization. One of the downsides for many travelers, whatsoever, might be that they have to go up to the Barranco Wall, and the mountain only gets steeper and steeper until summited.

3. Shira Route: 3,414 M (11,200 Ft) At Morum Barrier

The Shira route has always been compared to the Lemosho route. But a major difference between these two is that the Shira route is a far less advanced version of the Lemosho route. While the Lemosho route makes it easier for travelers to get proper acclimatization, the Shira route makes it impossible to get better acclimatization, with the summit ending at six days. Most travelers tend to suffer the most on this route. Moreover, the Shira route starts higher from the west at Morum Barrier. In comparison to other easier routes, including the Lemosho route, the Shira route requires you to get used to the changing altitudes much quicker due to the high altitude it begins its route with. It would not be wrong to call the Lemosho route a more developed version of the Shira route, though.

4. Machame Route: 1,640 M (5,380 Ft) At Machame Gate

After the Lemosho route, the Machame route is the easiest route a traveler can take. One of the pros of the Machame route is that it does not take long to climb the mountain and be able to summit it, even for beginners. Though inexperienced backpackers might not have the easiest time climbing the mountain, the Machame route at Machame Gate is probably one of the best for proper acclimatization. The length of this route is 62 km or 37 miles. And since the route is short, it will take around six days to trek through this route. Beginners are recommended to start from the Machame route.

5. Marangu Route: 1,843 M (6,047 Ft) At Marangu Gate

Marangu route approaches the peak of Kilimanjaro from the southeast. This route is probably the easiest as it is also the shortest taking only 5-6 days. The time taken to summit through this route is just around five days. Whatsoever, the benefit might also become a back draw for many as this route will lessen the chances of acclimatization for people. Speaking of the length, the route is 72 kilometers (45 miles) long. Sadly, this route has only a 50% success rate which is quite low considering the success rates of routes like Lemosho. This is mostly due to the lack of time travelers get to adjust their respiration as the altitude changes quickly and fast.

6. Rongai Route: 1,950 M (6,398 Ft) At Rongai Gate

When you take the Rongai route, you climb the mountain from the northeastern side. The success rate of climbing from the Rongai route is 80% which is quite impressive. And it will take travelers about 6 to 7 days at most to climb the mountain through this route. You also get to experience the wilderness of Kilimanjaro through the Rongai route.

7. Umbwe Route: 1,800 M (5,906 Ft) At Umbwe Gate

The Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. But, this does not play any significance in the summit’s success. Travelers will likely suffer from oxygen problems and hardships on the Umbwe route. The Umbwe route is probably one of the riskiest, mostly because it takes only five days. The shortness contributes to bad acclimatization and hence higher risks of suffering from health mishaps. Among all the other elevation gains of Mount Kilimanjaro, this is the most dangerous.

KILIMANJARO WEATHER FORECAST

Mount Kilimanjaro’s weather is highly variable due to its elevation and location near the equator. The mountain experiences a range of climates, from tropical at the base to arctic conditions at the summit. The lower slopes are warm and humid, while the higher altitudes are cold and dry. Rainfall is most common during the two rainy seasons, from March to May and November to December. The best times to climb are during the dry seasons, from June to October and January to February. Temperatures at the summit can drop below freezing, especially at night.

At the base of the mountain, the weather is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). As climbers ascend, the temperature decreases and the weather becomes colder and more challenging.

On the lower slopes, climbers might experience a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). As they climb higher, they enter the alpine zone where temperatures drop even further. In the alpine zone, temperatures can range from -10°C to 10°C (14°F to 50°F).

As climbers reach the summit, the weather conditions become extremely harsh. The summit area is characterized by freezing temperatures, strong winds, and low oxygen levels. Temperatures at the summit can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F) or even lower, especially during the night.

Mt Kilimanjaro is Big. If fact, it is so big, that it changes the climate around itself and has it’s own weather  system. Mt Kilimanjaro, in terms of weather, is a huge huge obstruction to the trade winds that bring along with it, precipitation. When moisture laden winds encounter an obstruction, there are two ways they can go – around the obstruction or over it. It is usually a combination of both. Mt Kilimanjaro, however, is so big that it forces these winds to go higher, which results in them cooling. These form the basis of rain or snow on and around the mountain. These patterns are studied in detail by scientists and, interestingly, paragliders.

Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro

The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during its two dry seasons, January to mid-March and June to October. During these periods, the weather is generally more predictable and the risk of rainfall is lower, making the climb less challenging. However, it’s important to note that the mountain can be climbed at any time of the year, and weather can be unpredictable at high altitudes.

HOW FIT DO YOU NEED TO BE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?

Climbing Kilimanjaro is graded strenuous and you should be in good physical fitness and have experience of multi-day trekking or walking trips prior to undertaking a Kilimanjaro climb. Most days involve 4 – 7 hours of walking at altitude and the summit day is very strenuous with most people walking for between 14 – 18 hours. Even for fit people, the effects of altitude can make the climb very tough.

The most challenging day of your Kilimanjaro Climb, regardless of which Kilimanjaro route you choose, will be the summit day. Because the time for acclimatisation is limited most people will suffer from mild Acute Mountain Sickness and this combined with a very long day of walking will make it one of the toughest days of your life.The trails on Kilimanjaro are generally clear and well maintained, although they can be slippery lower down and, you will be walking over shale closer to the summit.

The Barranco Wall on the Machame and Lemosho routes involves an easy scramble for 1.5 hours and the final climb to the summit is on loose scree and rock and can be snowy/icy. The climb is a hike so no specialist climbing skills are necessary. You must have done extensive hill-walking or aerobic exercise in the run-up to your Kilimanjaro Climb. If you do not currently enjoy a good level of fitness it may take many months of training to reach a suitable level of fitness to enjoy the walk. It is important to start slowly and gradually increase your fitness. Try to exercise for between 30 and 45 minutes three times per week (walking, running, cycling or swimming) and go for long walks on the weekends which should include some hills. A good local gym will be able to draw up a fitness program for you on request.

You must consult your doctor prior to embarking on a fitness program or this trip if your answer is YES to any of the following questions:

• Has your doctor ever told you that you have a heart condition?
• Have you had any pains in your chest or heart?
• Do you frequently lose your balance, feel faint or have spells of severe dizziness?
• Has your doctor has ever said that your blood pressure is too high?
• Do you have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse by a change in your physical activity?
• Are you taking any prescription medications, such as those for heart problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes?
• Do you know of any other reason why you should not engage in physical activity?
• Are you pregnant?

What’s The Best Training For The Kilimanjaro Plan?

You should do at least 6-8 weeks of training before embarking on your Kilimanjaro trek. The best type of training is long-distance mountain trail walking. If you can’t get out into the mountains though, then aerobic gym workouts (running, cross-training, swimming, etc.), that combine some strength work (especially leg workouts) are a good bet. See our detailed Kilimanjaro training guide.

What Is The Minimum Age To Climb Kilimanjaro?

The minimum age to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is 10 years old, as set by the Kilimanjaro National Park. However, many tour operators recommend that climbers be at least 12 to 14 years old due to the physical demands and potential health risks associated with high-altitude trekking. Ultimately, the decision is dependent on the child’s physical fitness, mental maturity, and previous hiking experience.

How Long Does It Take To Climb Kilimanjaro?

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro typically takes between five to nine days, depending on the route chosen. The journey involves trekking through five different climatic zones, with the final ascent often starting around midnight to reach the summit by dawn. Adequate time is needed for acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness. The quick descent usually takes one to two days.

Available Routes

Route distance, number of days, marangu route, 64 km (40 miles), umbwe route, 37 km (23 miles), rongai route, 65 km (23 miles), machame route, 49 km (30 miles), lemosho route, 66 km (35 miles), northern circuit, shira route, 56 km (33 miles).

If you are looking for a short-lasting adventure in the mountain the Marangu and Umbe routes are the best options, with an average expedition of 5 days, Your conquest of the Kilimanjaro mountain will be complete within the 5 days. However, if you are not an experienced mountaineer or you haven’t done high-altitude trekking, both of these routes can be a bit too much for you.

Only for mountaineers enthusiasts who have recently climbed a high-altitude mountain and are with the element of the pre-acclimatization process. These short routes with relatively quicker ascend and descend won’t put much toll on their body as it used to acclimatization process.

Both Marangu and Umbwe are quick-paced routes with short periods to get accustomed to the acclimatization process. Thus, if you are relatively new to climbing and don’t share many experiences with similar high-altitude adventures, it will be better if you stick with the longer routes with enough period to adapt to the significant elevation of the mountain.

On the other hand, the Rongai, Machame, Lemosho, Northern Circuit, and Shira routes are the longer alternative routes lasting from 6 to 9 days. These five routes give enough time for the climbers to get accustomed to the acclimatization process. So if you are new to trekking and climbing adventures, taking these longer alternatives will increase the chances for successful scaling of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Is It Hard To Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is considered a challenging feat, but it does not require any technical climbing skills or special equipment, making it accessible to non-professional climbers. The main difficulties come from the high altitude, which can cause altitude sickness, and the physical endurance required for the long trek. The success rate varies depending on the route and the climber’s physical condition, but proper preparation, acclimatization, and a good guide can significantly increase the chances of reaching the summit.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS PREVENTION ON MOUNT KILIMANJARO

Altitude sickness prevention on Mount Kilimanjaro involves a combination of proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco. Climbers are advised to ascend slowly, allowing their bodies to adjust to the decreasing oxygen levels. Medications like Acetazolamide can also be used to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. It’s crucial to listen to your body and not push beyond your limits. If symptoms of altitude sickness occur, it’s important to descend immediately to a lower altitude.

ALTITUDE ZONES

High altitude: 2400m to 4200m.

This zone covers the majority of all treks, except the first half day on some of the lower starting routes. Here you can expect to be seriously impacted by the effects of altitude in terms of workload and stamina and you may start to feel mild symptoms of sickness such as headaches and nausea.

Very high altitude: 4200m to 5400m

This zone covers the night before the summit attempt on all routes and, on better routes, one or two acclimatization hikes on earlier days. Here the effects of altitude are starting to become more acute, walking at anything other than a snail’s pace is quickly tiring. Most people will now be experiencing adverse symptoms unless they are taking supplementary oxygen. Some people cannot handle this altitude at all and need to be removed from the mountain.

Extreme altitude: above 5400m

The levels commonly known as “the death zone” cover much of the summit attempt, with Uhuru Peak at 5895m. At these altitudes your body is operating below its respiratory equilibrium and is unavoidably deteriorating, if you stayed up here too long without additional oxygen you would die. You are making a run for the summit to get down before you succumb to the adverse effects. If you have supplementary oxygen then you can take your time and will be more likely to appreciate what’s going on around you.

TYPES OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

There are three different types of altitude sickness. The first is the most common and can often be managed without recourse to evacuation from the mountain. The other two are much more serious and tend to lead to immediate removal to lower altitudes

During a trek on Kilimanjaro, it is likely that more than 75% of trekkers will experience at least some form of mild altitude sickness caused by a failure of the body to adapt quickly enough to the reduced level of oxygen in the air at increased altitudes.

This type of altitude sickness is known as altoxia. This term is used almost exclusively on Kilimanjaro since this is the only commonly trekked mountain where these extreme altitudes are encountered so quickly.

Altoxia is most commonly experienced on the summit approach, but can also occur earlier in a trek, especially during day hikes to higher altitudes, in which case it should recede as the trek overnights at a lower altitude.

Altoxia can have many different symptoms, the most common being headaches, light-headedness, nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, and mild swelling of the face, ankles, and fingers. These symptoms can be rather unpleasant, add a new dimension to the adversity faced by trekkers, and can take the shine off the experience. However, in this mild form, altoxia does not generally have serious consequences and normally disappears within 48 hours.

Aspirin is recommended for headaches because it also thins the blood, improving circulation and oxygen delivery to the body. Strong painkillers are not recommended as they can suppress respiration.

The symptoms of altoxia are commonly relieved or even eliminated by the use of an ALTOX Personal Oxygen System or by taking Diamox, more on these methods below.

One unusual but not usually so serious a problem is Cheynes Stokes Breathing, which involves waking up at night gasping for breath. Trekkers should not panic about this, it is simply because the slow breathing at rest is not able to pull in enough oxygen from the thin air. A period of panting should restore you to normality.

ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

If the symptoms of altoxia become persistent or severe, then there is a danger of acute mountain sickness developing. This is much more severe and must be treated by immediate removal to lower altitudes. There are two distinct forms of this sickness …

HAPE: High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema: “Water On The Lungs”

High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema is characterized, by breathlessness at rest, a very high pulse, a crackling sound in the chest, and the coughing of pink fluid (sputum). This condition is rapidly fatal unless the patient experiences immediate descent. There are no drugs to cure the condition and no possibility of re-ascent following an episode.

HACE: High Altitude Cerebral Oedema: “Swelling Of The Brain”

High Altitude Cerebral Oedema is a combination of two or more of the following: Very severe headache, severe loss of balance, mental confusion, and repeated vomiting. This condition is rapidly fatal unless the casualty experiences immediate descent. There are no drugs to cure the condition and no possibility of re-ascent following an episode.

Treatment Of HAPE And HAPE

Trekkers should not be too scared by all this talk, but it is essential to understand that if you push on up the mountain or remain at the same altitude with HAPE or HACE then you will probably die. People do. The only correct resolution is immediate descent.

Our guides are all very experienced in dealing with the problems of altitude. They will be constantly monitoring you for symptoms.

It may be necessary for you to descend to a lower altitude until you recover or even to abandon the trek in the interests of safety. The decision of the guide in such situations is final.

AVOIDING ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can be avoided by taking several precautions. Gradual ascent is key, allowing your body time to acclimatize to the decreased oxygen levels at higher altitudes. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and eating a high-carbohydrate diet can also help. It’s also recommended to take rest days during your ascent, and medication like Acetazolamide can be used for prevention. If symptoms of altitude sickness such as headache, dizziness, or shortness of breath occur, it’s crucial to descend to a lower altitude immediately.

High water intake

A fluid intake of 4 to 5 effects per day is recommended. Fluid intake improves circulation and most other bodily functions, but does not increase fluid leakage from the body. Thirst should not be an indicator of proper fluid intake, if your urine is clear then you are drinking enough.

The pace at which you walk is a critical factor on all routes. Unless there is a very steep uphill section your breathing rate should be the same as if you were walking down a street. If you cannot hold a conversation you are walking too fast. Breathing through the nose for the first 2 days of the trek will limit the pace. Walk softly, allowing your knees to gently cushion each pace. “Pole pole” (slowly slowly) is the phrase that will echo around your head as it is repeated to you by the yourliter guides.

Walk high sleep low

If you have enough energy and are not feeling the acclimatization of altitude, then you might take an afternoon stroll further up the mountain before descending to sleep. All our routes already include these recommended acclimatization walks whenever possible.

Personal Oxygen Systems

An ALTOX Personal Oxygen System is a set of equipment that provides a low-dosage, oxygen supply to a trekker on the mountain. Whereas drugs such as Diamox allow you to push your body harder in a high altitude environment, an ALTOX Personal Oxygen System serves to lower the effective altitude, causing your body to have to work less hard. It is therefore much safer and more predictable. All trekkers using an ALTOX Personal Oxygen System should experience considerable relief from the symptoms of extreme altitude, have greater energy, and experience less of the mental haziness that can impair the summit experience, massively increasing the overall levels of enjoyment of the trek. Trekkers using these systems increase their chances of reaching the Crater Rim by 4% and going on to the summit by a remarkable 7%.

Around 37% of all our trekkers now use ALTOX Personal Oxygen Systems, the number rising to 63% on the shorter 5 and 6-night routes. Of course, the additional cost is a considerable factor for some trekkers, so if you choose not to take oxygen then we are more than happy to support you in that decision. Whilst there can indeed be an initial feeling on the part of trekkers that using an oxygen system might be a little over the top, once on the mountain and starting to suffer the first mild symptoms of altoxia, these concerns quickly fade and the vast majority of trekkers are delighted that they have decided to go with oxygen.

On the summit attempt itself, we had anticipated that trekkers from other groups may view those using oxygen rather disparagingly, but in reality, the dynamic seems to be rather different. Everyone without oxygen suffers to such an extent on those nighttime summit pitches that they all want to know why on earth no one told them that they should be using oxygen. As one of our head guides put it: “If we had a little stall renting oxygen kits out at the high camps everyone would have one, no matter what the price!

It is very important to note that we cannot guarantee the availability of ALTOX Personal Oxygen Systems. In peak season we sometimes do not have enough systems to meet demand; the economics make it impossible for us to stock in sufficient numbers. It is therefore essential that you book as far in advance as possible to maximize your chances.

The ALTOX equipment

An ALTOX Personal Oxygen System works by supplying oxygen directly into the nostrils through a small plastic tube, or nasal cannula, connected to a small oxygen cylinder carried in a backpack. The clever part of the system is the controller, or pulse dose meter, which detects when the user is commencing an inward breath and delivers a small and precise dose of oxygen during the first part of the intake, ensuring that the valuable oxygen reaches the deepest parts of the lungs. This method of dosing makes it possible for each oxygen cylinder to last for 7 to 10 hours, rather than the usual 40 to 50 minutes.

ALTOX Personal Oxygen Systems are serious bits of kit, with a proven track record in extreme environments. They have been used since 2007 by American, British, and other armed services, on successful ascents of Mount Everest, by Chinook helicopter pilots and crews during high-altitude special forces deployments, by extreme altitude skydivers and para-gliders, by pilots of unpressurized light aircraft and by pilots of military aircraft in the event of pressurization systems failure.

Each ALTOX Personal Oxygen System comprises …

2 x lightweight oxygen cylinders 1 x regulator 1 x pulse dose meter 1 x inline flow indicator 1 x tubing with nasal cannula

The kit that we provide contains two oxygen cylinders, each weighing 3kg or 6.6lbs. The first cylinder is usually used partly during a practice session during the middle part of a trek and on the evening of the summit attempt. The second cylinder is usually then used for the summit attempt itself. If you are not acclimatising well on the first few days of the trek you can also use some of the oxygen whilst resting at the lower camps to ease your acclimatisation. The kits are carried by the porters on all days when they are being used.

ALTITUDE DRUGS

Altitude drugs, also known as altitude sickness medications, are used to prevent or treat the symptoms of altitude sickness. This condition can occur when someone ascends to high altitudes too quickly. The most common altitude drug is Acetazolamide (Diamox), which works by increasing the amount of bicarbonate excreted in the urine, thus making the blood more acidic and stimulating breathing, improving oxygenation. Other drugs like Dexamethasone and Nifedipine are also used to treat severe cases of altitude sickness. These medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

What are Emergency Oxygen Systems?

Emergency Oxygen Systems are simply cylinders of compressed oxygen that can be used by trekkers who are starting to show symptoms of altitude sickness and need to be removed from the mountain. They are not used to keep trekkers on the mountain, but only in the event of evacuation.

Emergency Oxygen Systems should not be confused with ALTOX Personal Oxygen Systems. An ALTOX Personal Oxygen System is designed to provide oxygen at low dosages to assist a trekker in continuing their Kilimanjaro climb. An Emergency Oxygen System provides full-flow oxygen to a trekker suffering from acute symptoms as part of their evacuation from the mountain. ALTOX Personal Oxygen Systems can easily be converted for use as Emergency Oxygen Systems by bypassing the pulse dose meter. Still, Emergency Oxygen Systems cannot be converted into ALTOX Personal Oxygen Systems.

Are Emergency Oxygen Systems needed?

For many years we did not carry Emergency Oxygen Systems as part of our standard kit on the mountain, although we have always been able to provide them as an optional paid extra. The main pressure to carry these systems comes from the fact that some of the large charity outfits have started to take them as standard, largely because they have much more mixed clients, some of whom are not particularly well suited to the rigors of the mountain. Some of our competitors have followed suit and now offer emergency oxygen systems as standard. But we continue to advocate that Emergency Oxygen Systems are not essential. Since starting our Kilimanjaro operations in 1999 we have never encountered a situation where one was needed. In all cases, the best and most expedient solution to altitude sickness is early detection and removal to lower altitudes.

Deaths On Mt.Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is the highest peak in Africa and a popular destination for climbers around the world. Despite its popularity, it can be a dangerous endeavor, with an estimated 3-7 climbers dying each year. The primary causes of death are altitude sickness, falls, and hypothermia. The exact number of deaths is difficult to determine due to the lack of a centralized reporting system. Despite the risks, thousands of climbers attempt the trek each year, drawn by the mountain’s beauty and the challenge it presents.

Have People Died On Mt. Kilimanjaro?

Yes, people have died on Mount Kilimanjaro. Despite being considered a “walk-up” mountain, Kilimanjaro is not without its dangers. Altitude sickness is the most common cause of death, but other risks include hypothermia, falls, and other medical conditions. The exact number of deaths is not known, but estimates suggest an average of 3-7 deaths per year among climbers.

Causes Of Death On Mt. Kilimanjaro

Deaths on Mt. Kilimanjaro are relatively rare, but when they do occur, they are most commonly caused by altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). This condition can lead to potentially fatal complications such as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Other causes of death include hypothermia, falls, and underlying health conditions that can be exacerbated by the extreme conditions on the mountain.

Kilimanjaro Death Zone

The Kilimanjaro Death Zone refers to the area above 8,000 feet on Mount Kilimanjaro where the oxygen levels are significantly lower, making it difficult for humans to survive for extended periods. The reduced oxygen and pressure can lead to altitude sickness, hypothermia, and other life-threatening conditions. Despite the risks, many climbers attempt to reach the summit each year, with some unfortunately succumbing to the harsh conditions of the Death Zone.

How Safe Is It To Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is generally considered safe, especially when compared to other high-altitude climbs. However, it is not without risks. The most common danger is altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening if not managed properly. Other risks include hypothermia, falls, and injuries from rock slides. It is highly recommended to climb with a reputable guide service, stay properly hydrated, and acclimatize to the altitude gradually to mitigate these risks. Despite these precautions, the climb should only be undertaken by individuals who are physically fit and well-prepared.

How To Avoid Death In Mount Kilimanjaro?

To avoid death on Mount Kilimanjaro, it’s crucial to prepare adequately before the climb. This includes physical training, proper acclimatization to high altitudes, and ensuring you’re in good health before the trip. It’s also important to have the right gear, stay hydrated, eat well, and follow the guidance of experienced guides. Recognizing and promptly addressing symptoms of altitude sickness can be life-saving. Lastly, always inform someone about your climbing plans and expected return date.

BOOK YOUR KILIMANJARO CLIMB AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE

Lead Time and Peak Seasons: The usual lead time for booking a trek on Mount Kilimanjaro is 2-4 months. However, for peak season treks (Dec, Jan, Feb, Jul, Aug, and Sep), it’s recommended to book even further ahead, as popular months tend to fill up quickly.

Getting Started: Initiate the booking process by having a conversation with the trek organizers through LiveChat or phone. This discussion will help you decide if the trek is right for you. After this initial chat, you’ll receive a detailed quotation via email.

Securing Your Spot: To confirm your participation, a 30% deposit of the total tour price (around 600-700 USD) is required. Payment can be made via wire transfer or cash.

Timing: It’s advisable to book your trip 3-6 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during high seasons (June to the end of October, December to February).

• Flexible Flight Tickets: Given the unpredictability of international treks, consider booking flexible flight tickets that can be rescheduled if needed.
• Alternative Flying Options: If flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport are costly, you can explore alternative routes, like flying to Nairobi and taking a bus to Moshi. Ensure to factor in visa costs for both Kenya and Tanzania.
• Applying for a Visa: Obtaining a Tanzanian visa is straightforward through the  E-Visa Immigration Online portal . You can also obtain a visa upon arrival.

Private Expeditions: The treks are organized as private expeditions for you and your travel partner(s). If you wish, you can create your own group with friends.

Flexibility in Itinerary: Private treks allow for itinerary customization. The itinerary can be adjusted to suit your preferences and stamina, making the experience more tailored to your needs.

Cultural Differences: Traveling to a different part of the world comes with cultural differences. It’s important to be prepared for varying standards and embrace the contrasts in culture, driving, accommodations, and more. Local guides are well-trained but may have different standards from Western leaders.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB AND TANZANIA SAFARIS

The Kilimanjaro climb and safari package is a popular tourist package that offers a thrilling adventure in Tanzania. It typically includes a guided climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, followed by a wildlife safari in the Serengeti National Park or other nearby reserves. The package often includes accommodation, meals, park fees, and transportation, providing a comprehensive experience of both the stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife of East Africa.

What Are The Best Kilimanjaro Guidebooks?

There are all very interesting and useful books and guidebooks that have been written on Mount Kilimanjaro. The following books should give you a feel for what the trip will be like. Your local library is also a good resource.

• Stedman, Henry, Kilimanjaro: The Trekking Guide to Africa’s Highest Mountain, 4th edition. Trailblazer Publications.
• Ridgeway, Rick, The Shadow of Kilimanjaro, On Foot Across East Africa. Henry Holt Publishers.
• Salkeld, Audrey and David Breashears, Kilimanjaro: Mountain at the Crossroads. National Geographic Society.
• Withers, Martin B., and David Hosking, Wildlife of East Africa. Princeton University Press.
• Stevenson, Terry, and John Fanshawe, The Birds of East Africa: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Princeton Field Guides, 2002.

As for the other resources :

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Website : This is likely the official website of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, where you can find detailed information about the park, its history, geography, various routes, permits, regulations, and more. It’s a valuable resource for anyone planning a visit to the park.

Kilimanjaro National Park –  UNESCO World Heritage Centre : This indicates that Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition signifies its outstanding cultural or natural value to humanity.

Acute Mountain Sickness –  MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia : Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a condition that can affect individuals at high altitudes, including those climbing Kilimanjaro. This medical encyclopedia provides information about the symptoms, prevention, and treatment of AMS, which is important for climbers to be aware of.

KPAP – Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project[  KPAP ]is a nonprofit organization, that assists porters of the climbing companies that voluntarily collaborate with their Partner for Responsible Travel Program. To understand the reason why they exist or what they are trying to achieve, it is essential to know about the Porters of Kilimanjaro and their lives.

TANZANIA VACCINATIONS

Tanzania is still a developing nation and as such there is still a lot to be done for Public Health. What this means for you, dear traveler, is a pre-emptive strike against pathogens and germs that threaten to mess with your health and your holiday.

The best way by far is to visit your doctor about six weeks before your trip and ask them about the inoculations and vaccinations required for Tanzania . This ensures that you will get the latest information about the health conditions there and be prepared for it! Briefly, these are the vaccinations you should worry about:

• Yellow Fever: especially important if you are coming from an area where the disease is endemic or commonly found. These include large swathes of Africa and South America. Plan because even if your flight is transiting such a country, you will have to show your yellow fever certificate, without which you will not be able to enter the country. The yellow fever vaccination and certificate cost about  $100 in the USA. This varies widely from place to place and is dependent on whether you have insurance. If you have insurance, the same shot can cost between $10 to $40 and may range from $120 to $300 if you do not have insurance. The same vaccine costs about  £50 in the UK to about €40 in Germany. It is important to note that Yellow fever is the only disease that requires proof of vaccination from travelers as a condition for entry to certain countries. But the silver lining is that, as of 2016, the immunization lasts for your lifetime and you do not require a booster dose at any time.
• Typhoid: Usually occurs when you consume contaminated food or water. If you get typhoid, you will feel drained of energy and have headaches and diarrhea. The vaccination for Typhoid provides immunity for up to three years.
• Hepatitis A: Spread by contaminated water. The vaccine is usually combined with the one for Typhoid. Immunity lasts for a year unless a booster dose is taken, which extends it for up to twenty years.
• Tetanus: Highly recommended for Tanzania! This vaccine is usually given as a part of the DPT vaccine, which also covers Diphtheria and Whooping Cough. Most children are vaccinated against this. Do check with your doctor if you need a booster dose.
• Polio: One of the most commonly administered vaccines in childhood, there is a high probability that you have already been vaccinated against this. Immunization lasts for life.
• Meningitis: A vaccination lasts about 5 years, so if you haven’t had a shot in the last 5 years, get one before your trip.
• Rabies: Highly recommended if you plan to take a safari, or interact with animals in general. 

CLIMBING KILIMANJARO WITH A LOCAL GUIDE

Climbing Kilimanjaro with a local guide is an adventurous and enriching experience. The local guides, being well-acquainted with the terrain and weather conditions, provide invaluable assistance and insights throughout the journey. They lead climbers through various routes, each offering unique landscapes and challenges. These guides are also trained in emergency procedures and altitude sickness management, ensuring the safety of climbers. Moreover, their knowledge of local flora, fauna, and culture enhances the overall trekking experience, making the climb not just a physical challenge, but also a cultural immersion and learning opportunity.

Getting Kilimanjaro International Airport

The trip begins with pick-up at Kilimanjaro International Airport, located between Arusha and Moshi. The most convenient flight is KLM direct from Amsterdam, but other connections may be made through Nairobi, with a short flight to Kilimanjaro. The leader will guide travel plans once you are approved for the trip. Please do not make nonrefundable travel arrangements until notified to do so by the trip leader.

You must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into Tanzania. A Tanzania visa is also required, and details on how you apply for that will be provided once you are approved for the trip.

Climb Kilimanjaro with the Experts | Local Guides Provided | Low Deposits - Book Now.

Choosing the right Best Kilimanjaro guide companies is equally important as selecting the individual guide. With the above experience, we have selected the best Kilimanjaro guide for our daily company operation. Initially Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Authority trains and certifies these guides. In most cases, these guides are the former Mount Kilimanjaro porters who had served in Kilimanjaro for not less than 4-5 years and thereafter attended the Kilimanjaro guide course. It is against the park regulations and dangerous to trek Kilimanjaro without a certified guide.

Climbing Kilimanjaro Exclusive Packages

Climbing kilimanjaro packages by routes, mount kilimanjaro paragliding, mount kilimanjaro marangu route, kilimanjaro crater camp, mount kilimanjaro machame route, kilimanjaro ash pit hike, mount kilimanjaro lemosho route, kilimanjaro base camp hike, mount kilimanjaro rongai route, visiting  kilimanjaro without climbing , mount kilimanjaro northern circuit route.

• Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Discover things to do and plan a trip to kilimanjaro, tanzania with a local guide.

View all 1 reviews

Popular Kilimanjaro Tour Guides

Greetings! I'm a seasoned Tanzania Guide known as Jackson. I specialize in crafting immersive experiences that blend wildlife safaris, cultural insights, and breathtaking landscapes. What sets me apart is my deep local knowledge, personalized itineraries, and a commitment to sustainable tourism. Join me for a unique journey that goes beyond the ordinary.                                                                                                                                  

His name is Peter, the local Tour Guide & Operator in Tanzania, born and raised on the slope of our Majestic Mount Kilimanjaro at 1400m. He was a porter on Mt Kilimanjaro for more than 6 years before keeping some money and go back to college and trained to be a qualified tour guide. After working with other companies for 10 years, he decided to get into the field and run safaris and trekking tours himself. In 2014, he found his guide team with his comrade porters all from the brotherhood. Their dream was to provide ordinary people with the life-changing opportunity to climb the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. By booking to them you support the life of local communities directly; they will take you there not to send you there! We offer advanced Yoga Retreat Kilimanjaro Climbing, Wildlife Safari, Day Trips, and Beach Holiday. It is our pleasure to welcome you to our country Tanzania, the country of Mt Kilimanjaro, the African highest point and the world’s highest free-standing mountain, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar Island.                                                                                                                                  

Ashumu Laizer, commonly known as Alpha, is a professional Authentic local Maasai Tour guide and based in Moshi, Tanzania. I have built a unique reputation by organizing Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru trekking, Wildlife Safaris, Zanzibar Beach Holidays, Cultural tours and day trips. I speak fluent English, German and Swahili language. I am are local Tanzanian guide who is also a leader of team of local guides in Tanzania with skills, knowledge and well-trained about treks, safaris and people which they will share with you throughout your adventures in Tanzania.                                                                                                                                  

Mussa is a dedicated, passionate young Tanzanian, with more than 13 years experience of successfully leading wildlife safaris and mountain climbing expeditions around Africa. He is fluent in both English and Swahili and has ensured that all of his clients have an exceptional travel experience in Tanzania.                                                                                                                                  

Hi my name is John, I'm a Mountain guide at MT Kilimanjaro with experiences of leading as a guide for eight years                                                                                                                                  

Shelukindo A.

A tour guide and tour organizer in korogwe, tanga and tanzania at large. with experience of more than 10years in the industry organizing and guiding visitors to wildlife areas, mountain trekking and culture in both rural and urban areas. have been guiding visitors to different parts of tanzania and so i am ready to help you plan, host and guide you around tanzania check with me for more information.                                                                                                                                  .

My name is Sele and I am Mount Kilimanjaro guide and I have enough experience for 11 years. I would like to all travellers to explore the beauty of Tanzania. Tanzania has much to offers you from breathtaking of Mountain Kilimanjaro to Serengeti migrations to witness more than millions of wildebeest and zebra move to finds new grass.                                                                                                                                  

Hello Global Travellers, Karibu Tanzania; My name is Frazier and I am a local tour expert with profound experience and abundant exposure. I am also a chief Guide and a leader of over 18 Local Guides in Tanzania and Zanzibar, We can cover everywhere in Adventures of Tanzania. I connect global travellers to Tanzania Cultures, Mount Kilimanjaro climbing, Serengeti - Ngorongoro Safaris, Selous, Mikumi, Zanzibar Archipelago Beach excursions, and all other tour activities in Tanzania. I have been living and working in the Kilimanjaro, Arusha, Zanzibar, Dar-es-salaam, Morogoro, and Tanga regions of Tanzania. I have hosted many guests from all over the world and helped them experience the best Tanzania offers. If you need proper advice on Tanzania excursions, safety and a successful experience with Kilimanjaro climbing, Zanzibar or great migration Serengeti Safari; I am more than happy to assist you!                                                                                                                                  

New kilimanjaro tour guides.

Born and raised in a small village in Moshi, Kilimanjaro -Tanzania. I know much about my people’s culture and history. Living close to major tourism attractions and national parks has made me knowledgeable about nature and surroundings. I lead a team of professional guides for mountain and safari who have got years of experience working with people from all over the world. We are ready to show you the beauty of our country. We warmly welcome you to Tanzania for your lifetime adventure. Karibu sana !                                                                                                                                  

Popular kilimanjaro private tours.

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing 5 Days Marangu Route

Known as the "coca-cola" route, the marangu route is a classic trek on mount kilimanjaro. it is the oldest, most well-established route. many favour the marangu route because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, due to its more gradual slope. it is also the only route that offers sleeping huts with dormitory-style accommodation. there are 60 bunk beds at both mandara and kibo huts, and 120 bunk beds at horombo hut. book your kilimanjaro trek with best kilimanjaro local guide.

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing 6 days Lemosho Route

The lemosho route is typically completed in 6 days. this is a great option if you want a longer trek for acclimatization. it connects with the machame route at shira 2 camp. as professional mountain guide this in my preferred route due to its ideal balance of low crowds, beautiful scenery and a high summit success rate, due to the nature of the route itself has beautiful landscape which it allow you to do acclimatization every da through this your body is going to update with the environment aro.

Maasai Village Visit & Chemka Hot Springs in Tanzania

Come with us and visit a real maasai village. unlike many other maasai villages in the area, which have been built only for tourist purposes, kambi ya chooka is an authentic village founded by local maasai. we start early in the morning and are accompanied by our english-speaking guide. the road takes us through beautiful landscapes: african bushland where we see dried-up river beds, baobab and acacia trees, and sugar cane plantations..

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing in Tanzania Full-Day Trip for Everyone

You will meet your guide at 07:00 am, drive to the kilimanjaro national park gate (about 1 hour), register and at 8:30 am commence your 1 day kilimanjaro hike for 6-7 hours depends on your pace, at 17:00 drops you at the hotel and say goodbye to your guide..

6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing In Tanzania via Machame Route

The machame route (one of kilimanjaro best route), also known as the "whiskey" route, is the most popular route on kilimanjaro. machame’s draw is in its scenic beauty. however, the trail is considered difficult, steep and challenging, particularly due to its shorter itinerary. therefore this route is better suited for more adventurous folks or those with some high altitude, hiking or backpacking experience. climb kilimanjaro safely and successfully with us by choosing one of the best kilimanjaro.

Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro 7 Days via Machame Route

Machame route is a camping popular route which is located at machame village and it’s also highly successful route for summit with impressive scenery. it’s a route which as known as a whiskey route..

Family Tour to Materuni Waterfalls and Coffee Tour in Tanzania

You will be picked up in moshi in the morning, by our english-speaking guide, who will drive you to materuni village. upon arrival, you will register at the village office and your trip can begin. first you will visit the waterfalls, which are around a 40 minute walk away. on the way, your guide will inform you about the culture of the chagga, village life and explain the surrounding fauna and flora. the views are truly breathtaking, and with some luck you will see the summit of mt kilimanjaro..

African Wildlife Safaris in Tanzania

Tarangire is a beautiful area stretching southeast of lake manyara around the tarangire river. tarangire has one of the highest concentrations of wildlife than any national parks in the countries. large herds of zebras, wildebeests, elephants, elands, lesser kudus, gazelles, giraffes, waterbucks, impalas and in some occasions leopards and rhinos can be seen all year round. tarangire is also a part of an extended ecosystem where animals roam freely., new kilimanjaro private tours.

Experience the Wonders of Tanzania: A 3-Day Safari Adventure

Embark on a thrilling 3-day tanzania safari to tarangire, lake manyara, and ngorongoro crater. witness diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes in the heart of africa's wilderness. book now for an unforgettable adventure.

Trekking/Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro 8 Day’s via Lemosho Route

Trekking/climbing mt kilimanjaro 8 days via lemosho route which is western route. it will helps to get used to the environment and altitudes. climbing 8 day's via lemosho route will give you certainty of to reach at the top summit of the (uhuru peak) compared with those climber's who takes the short route..

Trekking/Camping Mount Kilimanjaro 6 Days Via Marangu Route

Marangu route it’s a trail which is located at marangu villages. it’s route is also known as the coca-cola route because it is widely considered to be the easiest route. this is not very accurate as its short time frame does not favor acclimatization. the highlight about the path is mainly its sleeping arrangement, where climbers sleep in huts and the trail has a gradual slope to the peak. the route is almost as scenic as other routes but since the ascent and descent are done on the same path.

8 Days Marangu Route Climbing Kilimanjaro (6 Days on mountain)

Marangu route is popular route which is the first route route on mount kilimanjaro before other routes. marangu route known as coca cola route because it's easiest route than other routes on mount kilimanjaro. and at the hut the quests use the bed and big mattress for sleeping in the rooms..

4 Days Tanzania Wildlife Safari (Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater)

Experience the magic of tanzania's diverse wildlife on our exclusive 4-day safari adventure. from the vast plains of the serengeti to the breathtaking beauty of ngorongoro crater, immerse yourself in the wonders of africa. our expert guides will lead you on unforgettable game drives, where you'll have the chance to encounter lions, elephants, zebras, and more in their natural habitat. join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the wild..

CLIMB MOUNT KILIMANJARO MARANGU ROUTE 3 DAYS

On this trip, you will hike on the marangu route with one night at mandara hut and towards horombo hut before returning to mandara for lunch and then hiking back. you will not reach the summit. all short treks are offered on a private basis, and you can start on any day of the year. the short treks are geared for people who like to hike but reaching the summit isn’t a “must do”, and allow one to experience the excitement of hiking on the highest peak on the african continent..

CLIMB MOUNT KILIMANJARO RONGAI ROUTE 6 DAYS

This route located eastern side of the mountain and it begins just south of the kenya-tanzania border through farmland and forest to several other climate zones, adding interest to the trek. there are magnificent views over the kenyan plains and genuine possibilities for wildlife viewing. this route normally takes 5 days (or 6 days)..

CLIMB MOUNT KILIMANJARO MARANGU ROUTE 6 DAYS

Marangu route which is also known as the coca cola route is the least expensive route to the summit. this is also the only route with the comforts of sleeping huts at every camp site with solar lights and comfortable beds. the huts are communal, and the bunks have a sponge mattress and pillow. there are 60 beds at both mandara and kibo huts and 120 beds at horombo hut. bathrooms and running water are available at the two lower huts., kilimanjaro tour reviews.

Christina H.

Day Tour Around Moshi Tanzania

“ Moshi Tour ”

My first day in Moshi and I was looking for a tour of the city. I found Peter online, and booked on a whim. I’m SO glad I did! It was like walking around town with a friend. He showed me everything I wanted to see and beyond. He met me at my hotel, and dropped me off there at the end. I felt safe with him, and like I was among friends in the beautiful Moshi city. Two highlights were the old railway station and Blue Zebra! If you are looking for a tour, definitely take a chance a go with Peter! Also, he’s a Kilimanjaro guide and it was fun to talk to him ahead of time about my big climb!

Dear Christina, Thanks very much for sharing your experience with Tanzania Local Tour Guide with other travelers. Thank you so much for the right choice you’ve made to select and support our truly local tour Guide in Tanzania as the best tour operator of your lifetime experience adventure in our beautiful country Tanzania, the land of Mt Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti. Was a great moment we had together in my town, Moshi the gateway to our majestic Mt Kilimanjaro. Walking and staying around Moshi town before conquering Mt Kilimanjaro was the best choice. We hope one day you will come back, to visit other attractions available in our lovely country Tanzania. Our guides are excellent knowledge and experience in Kilimanjaro climbing, wildlife animals’ flora, and fauna, not only but also, we are very skillful in geography, history, and culture. We request you recommend our service to your co-workers and friends, Welcome back to Tanzania, we would be so happy to see you again. Your traveling to our country makes our life one more step forward. Many Thanks, Peter.

Kilimanjaro Private Tour Guide

The best tours and activities.

With a real local of your choice

The option to personalize your tour

Just contact your favorite local

Only private tours!

So no group tours with strangers

Connect with a Kilimanjaro Local Guide

Read reviews and chat with the best local tour guides in kilimanjaro. get a free itinerary and plan your private tour today..

Book a customizable Kilimanjaro Private Tour

Browse kilimanjaro tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite kilimanjaro tour., related kilimanjaro tour guide pages.

Adventures at altitude: an expert guide to hiking Kilimanjaro

W hen Sami Christensen reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro around 7 a.m. four years ago, she says she was exhilarated, exhausted, and overcome by how difficult the previous five days had been.

“It was honestly one of the most challenging things that I have ever done in my life, both physically and mentally,” she recalls.

Christensen lives in Colorado’s high country and is used to both high altitude and frequent long distance trekking. She’d spent months preparing for the expedition and though she wouldn’t admit it until later, she didn’t think she would struggle nearly as much as she did. It was, however, worth the pain.

“Watching the sun rise as we reached Uhuru Peak is something that will stick with me forever.”

Christensen joins the 30,000 or so hikers who ascend the world’s second tallest mountain each year, a staggering number compared to the mere 800 who climb the highest. The sheer volume of people who climb Kilimanjaro is a testament to how different the experience is to Everest. 

Kilimanjaro is one of the few Seven Summits that is accessible to trekkers who possess only basic hiking skills and no mountaineering experience, making it a personal goal for many people who wouldn’t think of donning crampons and heading to the Himalayas, but it still requires intensive training and detailed preparation.

In this article, we speak to mountain guide Justin Mtui , whose adventure travel company specializes in Kilimanjaro hikes to find out the whys and hows of climbing Kilimanjaro. 

Is Climbing Kilimanjaro Worth It?

If you’ve read the book Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer, you might have been left with the strong impression that climbing Everest isn’t exactly the majestic experience that photographers make it seem. Like Krakauer, most climbers admit their time on the summit was brief and unrewarding, with many finding it hard to recall the details of the final push.

At 19,341 ft (5,895 m) above sea level, Kilimanjaro is a full 10,000 ft lower than Everest. That’s not to say that the mountain, which stands in Tanzania near the Kenyan Border in East Africa, is easy, but the lower altitude allows hikers to have a much richer and more rewarding experience that they’ll actually remember, and cherish.

“Kilimanjaro is not just a mountain; it's an iconic African adventure that combines nature, culture, and personal growth,” explains Mtui, who has over 300 Kilimanjaro climbs under his belt.

“As you ascend, you'll encounter diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, and finally, the snow-capped summit. The views are truly awe-inspiring.”

On certain routes, you may have incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, with the possibility of spotting elephants and buffalos, while Mtui also points out that climbing Kilimanjaro can be an opportunity to give back to local communities. Many tour operators engage in responsible tourism and support local projects, which allows trekkers to have a positive impact on the region. You will also learn about the rich culture and traditions of the Chagga people of Tanzania.

“It's an opportunity to challenge yourself, be inspired by the beauty of the natural world, and connect with the people and places that make the journey unique.”

How hard is it to climb Kilimanjaro?

Depending on your route, you can expect to have to hike around 30 or 40 miles to summit Kilimanjaro and gain anywhere from 8,000 to 14,000 ft on your journey. A typical climb will take between five and nine days in total, so needless to say, it will test your physical and mental toughness, even if you’re relatively active like Christensen.

In addition to fitness, Mtui cites two common challenges in climbing Kilimanjaro: altitude and weather.

“Climbing Kilimanjaro is a physically demanding endeavor, and the high altitude can make it even more challenging.”

Even if you live at 8,000 ft and frequently recreate at higher elevations, like Christensen, you won’t be fully prepared for the dizzying heights of Kilimanjaro and proper acclimatization is essential to minimize the risk of altitude sickness . 

As for the weather, though you might not be expecting the freezing conditions and avalanche risk you’d expect in the Himalayas – Christensen recalls summiting dressed as she might for a fall hike in Colorado , wearing a softshell jacket and hiking pants – the weather extremes can be uniquely challenging.

“Weather conditions on Kilimanjaro can be unpredictable and harsh. The temperatures can vary from extremely hot to very cold, and the weather can change rapidly. Dealing with extreme temperatures and weather fluctuations can be a challenge,” says Mtui.

Mount Kilimanjaro is close to the equator, so it doesn’t experience major temperature changes from season to season, but temperatures fluctuate according to the altitude and time of day. Temperatures at the base are typically between 70 to 80 degrees while the summit, Uhuru Peak, lies in the arctic zone where night time temperatures can range between 20 and -20 degrees. Though you might not need the technical snow gear required for Everest, the variation can be difficult to adjust to.

How much hiking experience do you need for Kilimanjaro?

Mtui explains that one of the aspects that makes Kilimanjaro so accessible to different ability and experience levels is that there are so many different routes to the top. 

“Kilimanjaro is often considered a trek rather than a technical climb, and it's achievable for individuals with various levels of hiking experience.”

Beginner trekkers will find easier routes like the Marangu Route or Rongai Route are suitable for those with limited hiking experience. For routes like the Machame Route or Lemosho Route, which involve longer and steeper ascents, it's beneficial to have some prior hiking or trekking experience. If you plan to take more challenging and less traveled routes like the Umbwe or Western Breach routes, or if you want to do it in a shorter period of time, having significant hiking and high-altitude trekking experience is advisable. 

How to prepare for your Kilimanjaro hike

Once you’ve chosen your route, obtained your Tanzanian tourist visa, received your vaccinations and booked your trip – something Mtui stresses you do through a reputable tour operator or trekking company that will help with permits, logistics, and local support – it’s time to get in shape.

“Start a fitness regimen several months in advance. Focus on cardio exercises like hiking, running, or cycling to improve your cardiovascular endurance. Incorporate strength training exercises, especially for your legs and core,” advises Mtui.

Though there are aspects of your training that can be done in a gym, such as strength conditioning, Mtui recommends you also practice walking or hiking with a loaded daypack – known as “ rucking ” – to simulate the weight you'll carry on the mountain.

If possible, acclimatize to higher altitudes before your Kilimanjaro climb by spending time at elevations above 10,000 ft. If you’re in the US, that means heading out west: Alaska, Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, California, Montana, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Arizona, Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico all have high altitude zones where you can train in the month before your trip.

Once you arrive in Tanzania, you’ll want to give yourself a few days during which you should get adequate sleep to ensure you're well-rested, enjoy a healthy diet and stay hydrated in the days before your climb.

“By following these steps and being well-prepared, you can increase your chances of having a successful and enjoyable Kilimanjaro trek. Remember that safety and acclimatization are paramount, so listen to your body and your guides throughout the journey.”

What do you need for hiking Kilimanjaro?

Your tour guide will supply you with a detailed kit list for your trip, but here are some of the basics you’ll need:

• Hiking layers
• Warm sleeping bag
• A sturdy backpack
• Comfortable hiking boots
• First aid kit
• Travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellations, and travel delays

Mtui recommends renting equipment like sleeping bags and trekking poles to save on luggage space. If you’re bringing your own, read our article on flying with camping gear to successfully transport your kit.

• How to pack for an active vacation without checking a bag

Five Programs Paving the Way for Gender Equality Worldwide

Around the globe, teams of women are taking on traditionally male-dominated roles

Laura Kiniry

Travel Correspondent

When Oren Blindell, a sales team leader for Exodus Adventure Travels , set out to climb Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro on a group excursion in 2022, she knew that this particular expedition would be extremely special. That’s because senior guide Lucia Kivoi would be leading the trip. Born in Arusha, the capital of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, Kivoi had earned the nickname “Lioness” for becoming one of the first female porters—and, later, guides—escorting small groups to the summit of 19,341-foot-tall Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Only a decade earlier, it was virtually unheard of to have a woman working on Kilimanjaro’s slopes. But Kivoi was changing the narrative—and challenging gender norms, promoting gender equality and empowering women in the process.

“I’d been wanting to climb Kilimanjaro for a long time,” says Blindell. “But when my friend Jess and I found out we could book a female-led departure, we jumped at the chance. To see women, who make up only 18 percent of the whole staff of Kilimanjaro, bringing teams up the mountain? That just really inspired and appealed to us.”

With an estimated 30,000 to 50,000 people climbing Mount Kilimanjaro annually, there’s a real need for guides and porters. “Mount Kilimanjaro has always been a traditionally male-dominated place,” says Rochelle Turner, head of sustainability and community at Exodus Adventure Travels. “While local men were working on the mountains, the women were at home, having babies and looking after their families.” Yet, today, many of these women are unmarried single mothers and widows who are running their households on their own and struggling to stay afloat, since female economic opportunities in Tanzania are still extremely limited. Becoming a porter or guide on Kilimanjaro can provide them a stable source of income in an environment that’s right in their own backyard.

In 2020, the Exodus Travels Foundation —a separate entity from Exodus Adventure Travels that offers financial support for community building and grassroots initiatives worldwide—launched its Mountain Lioness Scholarship . As one of the first female-only programs of its kind in Tanzania, the initiative provides intensive three-week training sessions for local women who want to obtain their guide license. It’s even named after Kivoi, who’d been pivotal in garnering acceptance for Kilimanjaro’s female porters.

“Over the years, women have come to realize that they can do things as well as, and sometimes better, than men,” says Turner. “Being a guide on Mount Kilimanjaro is not only a job, but it’s one that’s quite prestigious.”

To date, 28 Tanzanian women have completed the program to become fully certified, Turner says. Taught by expert instructors from the College of African Wildlife Management in Mweka, a village on the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro, the women take five crucial modules over the course of their training: first aid, outdoor emergency care and wilderness rescue; mountain ecology; mammal identification; and tour guiding techniques. “Obtaining their guide license gives women power within their communities,” says Turner, “and allows them to earn some money, which means that their children can then go to school, and they can also support their families—all of which is really, really important.”

When women first started out on the mountain, they faced plenty of negative comments from male guides and porters who thought that the women weren’t strong enough, or that guiding is only for men. “But they’re now starting to see that a lot of trips are of women climbers who are specifically asking for women guides to be a part of the trip,” Turner says.

It’s just one of the reasons that programs like the Mountain Lioness Scholarship are so important. “We need to make sure that finances and resources are going toward these women organizations that are at the forefront of advancing gender equality,” says Jemimah Njuki , chief of women’s economic empowerment for U.N. Women , a United Nations entity focused on empowering women, “in order to change these stereotypes and norms.” According to Njuki, this also requires engaging men and boys at the community level, and having them become champions for gender equality.

To help ensure that the women have a better chance of becoming fully employed when they finish their guide training, the Mountain Lioness Program tends to select local women who’ve previously served as porters or were already somehow engaged in the Kilimanjaro mountaineering community and aligned with a specific company. Tour companies Tanzania Horizon Safaris and Alpinistas Adventures both offer female-guided trips. Exodus Travels Foundation has also introduced a supplemental program called “Becoming Even Better,” which offers additional language and cultural integration training (for example, learning the ways in which a British traveler might behave differently from a Japanese traveler on the mountain) to women who’ve already completed their three-week guide course.

Of the 28 women who completed the Mountain Lioness Scholarship program, Turner estimates that around 19 or so are now guiding on Kilimanjaro. Some graduates have moved on to other places—for instance, one of the women is now working with a resort in Zanzibar—but they’re still using the skills that they learned on the mountain and in the course. Some women have been unable to work because they’ve gotten pregnant, fallen ill or had to look after relatives. But their training still isn’t for naught.

“When we invest in women, we are investing in half of humanity,” says Njuki.

Here are four more programs and organizations challenging traditional stereotypes and the roles of women worldwide.

The Power of Mama, Borneo

Borneo’s first all-female firefighter team has been helping to restore local peatlands, protecting wildlife (including endangered orangutans) and empowering local women since 2022. Most of the women hail from the Indonesian part of the island’s Ketapang District, and they range in age from 19 to 60. During the dry season, this volunteer group patrols the region’s fire-prone areas regularly, while in the rainy season they focus more on community outreach, educating local farmers about alternatives to slash-and-burn agriculture, which can lead to widespread fires.

The Power of Mama is a community-led initiative that’s a project of the Yayasan International Animal Rescue Indonesia (YIARI), the Indonesian affiliate of the environmental nonprofit International Animal Rescue.

Chobe Angels, Botswana

Chobe National Park may have Africa’s highest concentration of elephants, but these days it’s also known for being home to the continent’s first all-women team of safari guides, the renowned Chobe Angels. The group of approximately 20 women runs the show at Botswana’s Chobe Game Lodge , leading game drives, identifying flora and fauna, and getting guests out into the heart of the African bush.

Ikiama Nukuri, Ecuador

“The main role of Indigenous women in the Amazon has historically been to take care of the family,” says Isabela Morelli, digital communications manager at Pachamama Alliance , the nonprofit responsible for the development of the health program Ikiama Nukuri . “What we do is reinforce the midwifery practices that these women have been practicing for centuries, carrying over ancestral medicine and midwifery practices, but always creating a bridge toward modern medicine.” In turn, the women take on a strong leadership role within their communities.

Ecuador’s Achuar and Shuar populations reside in some of the country’s most remote and hard-to-access rainforest. Ikiama Nukuri provides the women of these communities with the knowledge to ensure not only safe birthing but also the general health and well-being of their people. “We train them in basic nutrition,” says Morelli, “because malnourishment is a big program in the Amazon. There’s a lack of access to clean water and basic, balanced diets.”

More recently, Ikiama Nukuri has even begun offering men’s leadership workshops, to talk about domestic and gender-based violence. “We want to bring men more into the narrative,” says Morelli, “since this is a feminist project program, and males are part of the larger picture.”

Queensland Indigenous Womens Ranger Network, Australia

As one of the first Indigenous women rangers in Queensland, Australia, Larissa Hale established the Queensland Indigenous Womens Ranger Network in 2018 as a place for women rangers to connect, provide support and advice, and exchange ideas.

The program—co-designed by Indigenous women, government and nongovernment agencies, land councils, and other stakeholders—has trained over 60 women interested in becoming rangers, teaching them new approaches to conservation through shared knowledge and storytelling.

Get the latest Travel & Culture stories in your inbox.

Laura Kiniry | READ MORE

Laura Kiniry is a San Francisco-based freelance writer specializing in food, drink, and travel. She contributes to a variety of outlets including American Way , O-The Oprah Magazine , BBC.com , and numerous AAA pubs.