About Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain. A free-standing mountain in the world and one of the continent’s magnificent sights at 5895m. Kilimanjaro has three volcanic peaks such as Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira.
The name itself “Kilimanjaro” is a mystery wreathed in clouds. It might mean the Mountain of Light, the Mountain of Greatness, or the Mountain of Caravans.
Origin of the name
The local people, the Wachagga, don’t even have a name for the whole massif only Kipoo (now known as Kibo). The familiar snowy peak that stands imperious, overseer of the continent. The summit of Africa.
Kilimanjaro, by any name, is a metaphor for the compelling beauty of East Africa. When you see it, you understand why. Not only the highest peak in Africa but also the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Rising from the surrounding coastal scrubland. elevation around 900 meters to an imperious 5,895 meters (19,336 feet).
Above the rolling hills and plateaux of northern Tanzania rises the snowy peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro, its slopes and glaciers shimmering above the rising clouds.
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro is located near the town of Moshi and is a protected area. Regulated for climbers to enjoy without leaving a trace of their presence.
Mount Kilimanjaro Ecosystems
The mountain’s ecosystems are beautiful and diverse. On the lowland slopes, much of the mountain is farmland, with coffee, banana, cassava, and maize. These crops are grown for subsistence and commercial farming.
A few larger coffee farms still exist on the lower slopes. Much of the land outside the national park is divided into small plots.
Inside the park, thick lowland forest covers the lower altitudes. Breaks into alpine meadows once the air begins to thin.
Near the peak, the landscape is harsh and barren, with rocks and ice. The predominant feature above is a breathtaking African view.
Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing
Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing is the highlight of most visitors’ experiences in Tanzania. Few mountains can claim the grandeur of the Amboseli National Park in Kenya. The Rift Valley and the Masaai Steppe belong to Kilimanjaro.
Hiking on the rooftop of Africa is the adventure of a lifetime. Everyone can climb to the peak whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trekker.
Mount Kilimanjaro Highest Points?
Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s great achievements. For those, who successfully reach the Uhuru Point (5895m) the actual summit. But if you reach Gillman’s Point (5685m) on the lip of the crater you will have to earn the climbing certificates.
Why Mount Kilimanjaro Is A Climatic Journey?
But there is so much more to Mount Kilimanjaro climbing than her summit. The ascent of the slopes is a virtual climatic world tour, from the tropics to the Arctic.
Before you cross the national park boundary (at the 2,700m). The cultivated foot slopes give way to lush montane forests. This area is inhabited by wild animals and primates.
To the higher altitude lies the moorland zone. Which is covered by giant heather and obelias. Above 4,000m, a surreal alpine desert supports little life other than a few hardy mosses and lichen.
To the top, the last vestigial vegetation gives way to a winter wonderland of ice and snow. The magnificent beauty of the roof of Africa
Kilimanjaro Climbing Popular Packages
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5 Days Marangu Route + 2 Days Hotel StayFrom US $1,6505 Days5 Days Marangu Route + 2 Days Hotel Stay
Kilimanjaro -
6 Days Machame Route+ 2 Days Hotel StayFrom US $2,0806 Days6 Days Machame Route+ 2 Days Hotel Stay
Kilimanjaro -
7 Days Lemosho Route +2 Days Hotel StayFrom US $2,2007 Days7 Days Lemosho Route +2 Days Hotel Stay
Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Information
Besides the excitement and the beauty of hiking these giant mountains in Tanzania. Every success is accompanied by unexpected challenges, and for climbing Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is one of the major threats once it comes to climbers. Since safety is our priority we have prepared a list of common altitude sickness which may happen. We invite you to spend time to learn more.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
It is the negative health effect of high altitude, caused by rapid exposure to low amounts of oxygen at high elevation. People who climb high mountains might experience the early symptoms of Altitude Sickness. Our guides are well-trained, they are Certified Wilderness First Responder WFR. If you experience any symptoms mentioned below, please inform your guides as soon as possible.
- Nausea & dizziness
- Headache
- Poor appetite
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Vomiting
- Poor sleeping
High Altitude Cerebral Oedema (HACE)
Caused by brain swelling, it is very dangerous and can kill very quickly if not treated as soon as possible. Normally HACE symptoms tend to set in at nighttime.
Symptoms of HACE
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe headache
- Increase of clumsiness
- Loss of coordination example ataxia
- Loss of memory
- Coma
High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE)
Caused by fluid collecting in the lungs, it is very dangerous and can kill very quickly if not treated as soon as possible. It happens due to the fast ascending to a higher altitude. If your guide advises you to descend, please do it immediately even if taking medicine because it is the only reliable cure.
Symptoms of HAPE
- Trouble breathing even when resting
- Coughing
- Very tight chest
- Suffocation/feeling tired
- Froth in saliva or spit
- Blood in saliva
- Confusion, hallucination, and irrational behavior
Prevention of altitude sickness
- Ascend slowly (pole-pole)
- Drink well, 3-4 liters of water per day
- Eat well and regularly
- Sleep well, give yourself time to rest
- Wear proper warm gears (Make sure you are warm enough)
- Avoid wet boots, gloves, & socks
The weather of Kilimanjaro is very unpredictable however it is better to know the common weather of the mountain before you decide to book your tour. The dry season is a good time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro because you will enjoy nature and a good view.
The dry season is from the beginning of December through the beginning of March, and from late June through the end of October, June to December.
The peak season is from August to September and the heavy rainy season is from the end of March to the middle of May
Tanzania is the safest country in Africa, Tanzanians are very friendly. There is no history of dangerous animals on Kilimanjaro. Kilimanjaro’s trails are always busy, there are hundreds of people climbing all routes every day. Every group is accompanied by guides, the security is also reliable at the campsite, there are armed rangers at every camp to ensure your safety during climbing. Only climbers to Mount Meru will be escorted by the armed rangers due to the presence of the wild animals inside the Mountain. No need to fear about your health, we provide healthy food. Our guides are well-trained and certified in First Aid, we always carry the first aid kit and oxygen cylinders for emergencies. The rescue is also available on the mountain at all camps. In case of any serious emergence, we can arrange for a helicopter rescue
Conservation fees per day (all routes)
(a) US$70 of or above the age of 16 years
(b) US$20 between the age of 5 and 15 years
Public Campsite Fee per Night
(a) US$50 of or above the age of 16 years
(b) US$10 between the age of 5 and 15 years
Hut Fee
(a) US$60 per night (of or above the age of 16 years)
(b) US$20 per night (between the age of 5 and 15 years)
Rescue Fee
-US$20 per person per trip
Crew Fee
US$2 per person per trip
Crater camping fee
US$100
Mawenzi peak climbing
US$750 (it is technical climbing)
Paragliding on Kilimanjaro
(a) Pilot fee US$500
(b) Passenger fee $250
Cycling on Kilimanjaro National Park
US$50
Video Shooting per group of 2-20 people (This is for recording own art eg music or movies)
(a) Park US$100
(b) TANAPA HQ US$50
All fees above exclude VAT 18%
Wearing the right kind of gear for the summit is very important. Try to cover your body with many layers to avoid coldness during the summit. Avoid wearing wet clothes, wear fresh and dry clothes for the summit night especially the inner layers to make sure you are always warm. Remember to cover your Cell Phone, Camera, spare batteries, and water bottles to avoid freezing. Turn ON your headlight, walk slowly, stay behind your guide all time. Avoid frequent stops because it will make you feel cold and tired. Don’t forget to bring your walking poles, your poles are very important for both ascending and descending. Remember to set the right size before you leave the base camp because might freeze and get stuck. Remember to drink plenty of water at the beginning, your water might freeze as you climb higher. Try to blowback the camelback tube from time to time after drinking to avoid water freezing.
We remind you to bring quality personal climbing gear for your Kilimanjaro climbing. Proper layering is necessary to keep you dry, warm, and comfortable. Before packing, make sure your gear selection depends on the weather of the season you plan to climb; however, the weather on Kilimanjaro is unpredictable. Mid-March, May and early June is the long rainy season, while November to early December is the short rainy season. Make sure your outermost layer must be warm and made of waterproof materials to protect you against rain, wind and snow.
Rain Geers
Poncho, Waterproof Jackets, Waterproof trousers, Rucksack rain cover, Waterproof gaiters
Warm Clothing
Body covering:
Underwear, Fleece jackets, Down jackets, Fleece trousers, Hiking pants, Shorts, T-shirts, Fleece shirts
Head, neck & face Covering:
Buff ,Balaclava,Mask,Hat
Hands covering
Fleece gloves, Waterproof mittens
Feet covering:
Pairs of wool socks, Gaiters, Waterproof hiking boots, Sneakers
Other important Equipment and accessories
Sleeping bag, Sunglass, Sun cream, Sun hat, Headlamp, Trekking Poles, Water bottle, Camel bag, Camera and spare battery, Powerbank, Towel, Backpack for day hiking use, Duffle bag/kit bag for porters to carry your staffs, Snacks for high energy and calorie gain, Passport, Visa
Careful packing
- Make sure all your gears are warm and lite, don’t pack jeans, avoid cotton as cotton material traps moisture, and also avoid overweight packing.
- Pack your bags the night before your trek, don’t wait until the morning to avoid rushing.
- Don’t pack anything that shouldn’t be there, you may leave unwanted staff for the mountain at your hotel or feel free to leave at our office.
- If necessary to pack your laptop, keep in mind that there is no electricity on the mountain.
- If possible avoid packing delicate stuff
- Pack all important documents and everything you think you will need to use on the way before getting to the camp. Example: Camera, Phone, sun cream, hut, passport, sunglasses, poncho, etc.
Health and Hygiene tips
- Remember to keep your hands clean every time before eating to avoid stomach problems which can cause dehydration
- Before using medication like Acetazolamide or Diamox and others, it is important to take advice from your doctor
- Be prepared for altitude sickness even if it doesn’t often happen, do a general health check-up before you come to Kilimanjaro.
- If you feel abnormal, please tell your guides.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol on the mountain
- Avoid ascending further when you realize the symptoms of altitude sickness
Listen to your guides
We advise listening and follow the instructions from your guides. All our guides have long-time guiding experience, they are well-trained and licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park. Our guides are very friendly and knowledgeable and they will take you to the top safely.
Trash-in trash-out
Avoid littering the trail, collect all rubbish in your bag until you reach the camp
Climb slowly (Pole-pole)
Avoid rushing, save your energy for the Summit night. Hike slowly, enjoy your holiday, and the beauty of Kilimanjaro
Prepare for your trek
Remember to prepare for your trek, make sure you apply for your Visa on time, book for your flight after getting your Visa verification. Pack all travel documents and trekking gears. Train your body by doing small physical exercises like running and biking to keep your body fit.
There are no hotels or lodges on the mountain. Climbers to the Marangu route (Kilimanjaro) and Mount Meru sleep in hut accommodation based on shared rooms with double-decker beds. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner will be served at mess rooms available in every camp in Marangu and Mount Meru. All rooms are installed with a solar system however the power may not be sufficient for charging your cell phones. Both Marangu and Mount Meru have flash toilets except at the base camp.
Climbers through other routes using tents. Porters are always fast, they get to the camp earlier and set up your tents. Every group has camping managers who make sure all tents are well-pitched. We use new quality mountain tents for sleeping. Every tent shared by two (2) clients, we also carry quality mercy tents, kitchen tents, and crew tents.
Toilets are available at all camps in the mountains. In case you don’t want to use public toilets, you can request a private toilet from us.
Travel insurance is very crucial once it comes to travel around the world, for any traveler. Getting travel insurance in Tanzania made easy through third parties companies which are dealing specifically with evacuation in case of any emergency during your tour, we do not sale it but we will be happy to recommend reliable compressive travel insurance that covers things like emergency helicopter rescue, medical evacuations expense it will be assisted protection tour to cover personal injury, repatriation expenses, and any kind of possibility illness will be covered. Having good travel insurance guarantees peace of mind while traveling, safety comes first.
As any other endeavor challenges are part of the journey, you may experience congestion while arriving or you may experience network outage in most of the areas while on safari. Bear in mind that there are challenges which we can control as human beings but in case of natural disasters that we do not wish to happen if we are supposed to stop your tour, immediate actions are necessary to save a life.
This comes not actually from the company side but has something to do with yourself, you may wish to support locals by buying souvenirs or you may arrange some extra tours around the city or tipping to your team. Is the best way to acknowledge others as one of the best practices in life. Feel comfortable to discuss with your tour planner anytime
Climate. Tanzania climate is tropical and there are two rain seasons the longer being March through May and the shorter between October and November. The dry season lasts from July through October with clear sky and sunshine the whole day. The weather is suitable for beach vacations. The coastal area is normally hot and humid.
Visa: Coming to Tanzania has been made easy for visitors. It is easy to obtain a Tanzanian visa and there are three ways to obtain it: You can get a visa from a Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission from your country or upon arrival at the port of entry or you can apply online via Tanzania Immigration site, that is, the airport or at the border port. The above procedure applies to North American and European citizens. For more details about visas please contact the nearest Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission in your area.
Tanzania’s International Airports: Tanzania has two international airports, one outside the commercial capital Dar es Salaam (airport code: DAR) and the other near Arusha (and Mount Kilimanjaro) called Kilimanjaro International Airport (airport code: JRO). Charter flights and some international operators fly directly to Zanzibar Island (airport code: ZNZ)
Getting to Tanzania: If you’re planning to visit Northern Tanzania, the best airport to arrive at is Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA). KLM has daily flights from Amsterdam. Ethiopian and Kenya Airways / Precision Air also fly into KIA.
If you’re planning to visit Zanzibar, southern and western Tanzania, it is ideal to fly to the capital city of Dar es Salaam. European carriers that fly into Dar es Salaam include British Airways, KLM and Swissair(which share codes with Delta). There are long-distance bus services between Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
Attractions: The country has a lot to offer educationally, historically, for leisure and adventures. These adventures are safaris (game) driving in the National Parks like Serengeti, Manyara, and Tarangire to see wildlife, historical sites such as museums, landscapes, mountains, beaches, lakes, rivers, and culture.
Social life: The country has more than 120 tribes. Each tribe has its own vernacular. Although there are many languages “Swahili” was adopted as the national language in 1961 right after independence. The language has spread and is being used in the neighboring countries of Uganda, Kenya, and Central Africa. English is the second official language of the nation. You will find that Tanzanians are very welcoming and friendly.
Political system: Tanzania is perhaps the leading country on the continent of Africa for its political stability, peace, and tranquility. The political system is multi-party and the government is democratic. Political and religious conflicts are resolved through dialogue. In short, religious and tribal conflicts are very rare in this country because every citizen is free to worship as he/she pleases provided that one does not violate the law of the land
Currency: The national currency of Tanzania is the “shilling” (Tshs). Exchange rates vary and are subject to change anytime. Credit cards such as Euro-card, American Express, Master Card, Access, and Visa are accepted by most tourists’ hotels, carving shops, bureau de change, and banks. Also, Traveler’s Cheques in sterling pounds and US dollars are acceptable.
Religions: Because of its historical diversity Tanzania is a land of various religions. Nevertheless, the major religions are Christianity, Islam, Hindu, and African Traditional Religions. On the east coast – Dar es salaam, Bagamoyo, Zanzibar, and Tanga – the dominant religions are Islam and Hindu. This is due to the advent of Arabs and Eastern Indians which led to the spread of the two religions. The mainland is dominantly Christian and this is since European colonists, like Arabs, spread the Christian religion to the indigenous people.
Infrastructure & Accessibility: Major roads are paved and accessible throughout the year. Side roads and those around and within the National Parks are muddy and rough. For this reason, a 4WD car is required for safaris. Four-wheel cars include Toyota Land Cruisers, Land Rovers, and Toyota Hiace 4WD. These are the cars commonly used. The railway is also used in the eastern, southern, central, and western parts of the country.
Time: The time zone is GMT + 3 and the electricity is 220 – 240 V AC, 50 Hz.
Expect to drink pure water from the mountain during your trek, we will refill your water bottles every day at all camps. The water is very clean and treated. You will get hot water for washing up every day in the morning and evening.
We carry enough food to eat every day on the mountain. The food we carry is for our clients and everyone on our team. Our cooks are very professional, they will make sure that you get quality and delicious food on time. Enjoy three meals per day, feel at home away from home.
After the confirmation of the booking, we will send you the menu to be aware of your meal from the first day to the last day of the trek, we are always open for discussion about what you want to be included in the menu. For any suggestions about the food during your trek, don’t hesitate to discuss it with your guides and cooks.
After the end of your tour, your supporting team expects to be paid the tips. YES, it is very appreciated! When and how do you pay your tips?
1: You can pay tips after the last meal on the mountain
– You may pay it personally in separate envelopes given by us before the beginning of the tour
-You may hand over the envelopes to the head guide who will then help you to distribute them to everyone.
2: You can pay tips at the hotel after the end of your trek
In case you don’t want to carry money on the mountain, you may leave it at the hotel/bank then you pay your supporting team at the hotel soon after descending
3: You can pay for your package together with tips
For those who wish to receive the invoice for the whole package (include tips), It is possible to don’t hesitate to tell us.
The following is the tipping amount in USD per person per day.
$20 per guide, per day.
$15 per cook, per day.
$10 per porter per day.
NB: The tipping cost will be shared by the whole group, as the company we appreciate you’re generosity. Bear in mind that the shared guidelines do not restrict any clients to contribute more.
Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing FAQ
Although more than 200 languages and dialects are spoken throughout Africa, this presents no problem as English is spoken throughout East and Southern Africa. Apart from English, all our professional guides are multilingual so we get you covered
Mount Kilimanjaro located between 2°50′-3°10’S and 37°00′-37°40’E in Tanzania. Tanzania is an East African country situated South of the Equator, It is well known for its vast wilderness areas like Serengeti. The country got independent since1961 it was known as Tanganyika before. In 1964 Tanganyika and Zanzibar joined together as a sovereign state and formed Tanzania.
Depending on the route, you can climb Mount Kilimanjaro from 5 to 8 days.
- Marangu route takes 5 to 6 days
- Umbwe route takes 6 days
- Rongai route takes 6 days
- Machame route takes 6 to 7 days
- Lemosho route takes 7 to 8 days
Depending on the route, you can climb Mount Kilimanjaro from 5 to 8 days.
It is recommended to take the long days on any route you decide to use for better acclimatization. The faster you climb to a high altitude, the more likely you will get acute mountain sickness so take your time and enjoy nature.
Due to its popularity, many people have climbed and many still plan to climb Mount Kilimanjaro every year. Standing to the highest point in Africa is the real adventure! It is one of the trips you will never forget in your life. It is estimated that more than 30,000 people climb Kilimanjaro every year.
- It is advised to spend more days on Kilimanjaro for a high probability of summit success since you will get enough time for acclimatization. The following are the success rate figures according to Kilimanjaro National Park.
- The summits success rate for all climbers through all routes 45% The summits success rate for all climbers through all 5 days routes 27%
- The summits success rate for all climbers through all 6 days routes 44%
- The summits success rate for all climbers through all 7 days routes 64%
- The summits success rate for all climbers through all 8 day routes 85%
The distance differs from one camp to another, it also depends on the route and your pace. Expect to walk less or more than 5 hours per day. Your guide will set you a comfortable pace so that you enjoy your holiday.
The weather on Mount Kilimanjaro is unpredictable, sometimes cold, sometimes hot, sometimes rain, sometimes wind, sometimes snow, etc. It is advised to be well equipped and to be ready for any kind of weather at any time. The weather also depends on zones, sometimes the temperature is up to 27 Fahrenheit at the base of the mountain but decreases as you go high to the different zones. At Uhuru peak, the temperature goes down to -20F
It depends on your current situation at Uhuru Peak, however, it is not recommended to spend a long time at Uhuru peak due to a very high altitude and too much cold. 10 minutes or less is enough to take some photos and descend quickly as soon as possible. It is better to follow advice from your guide
