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How to Choose Your Route

Thinking which route is yours? Explore our in-depth comparison of the main Kilimanjaro climbing routes. We hope this will make it easier for you to pick the perfect one!

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5 DAYS MARANGU ROUTE PACKAGE
from $2,090

5 DAYS MARANGU ROUTE PACKAGE

Known as the "Coca-Cola" route, Marangu approaches Kilimanjaro from the southeast of the Mountain

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7 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE PACKAGE
from $2,690

7 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE PACKAGE

Machame route, also known as the Whisky route, has become very popular

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9 DAYS NORTHERN CIRCUIT ROUTE
from $3,290

9 DAYS NORTHERN CIRCUIT ROUTE

The Northern Circuit is the newest route up Kilimanjaro and also the longest

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6 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE PACKAGE
from $2,390

6 DAYS MACHAME ROUTE PACKAGE

Machame route, also known as the Whisky route, has become very popular

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7 DAYS RONGAI ROUTE PACKAGE
from $2,690

7 DAYS RONGAI ROUTE PACKAGE

The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to Kenya

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6 DAYS MARANGU ROUTE PACKAGE
from $2,290

6 DAYS MARANGU ROUTE PACKAGE

Known as the "Coca-Cola" route, Marangu approaches Kilimanjaro from the southeast of the Mountain

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8 DAYS LEMOSHO ROUTE PACKAGE
from $2,990

8 DAYS LEMOSHO ROUTE PACKAGE

This route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west. It offers a chance to visit Shira Plateau

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  • What is climbing Kilimanjaro really like?
    We have put together a short documentary to show you what it's really like climbing incredible Mount Kilimanjaro. Feel the summit to the roof of Africa at 5,895 m (19,341 ft) above sea level. No matter where you are in the planning stages, it’s an extremely useful watch as you: Meet the mountain crew who make this magnificent once-in-a-lifetime experience possible Watch the team trek through five unique ecosystems! And find out what it really takes to conquer one of the world’s greatest natural wonders
  • Is Kilimanjaro a technical mountain?
    Kilimanjaro requires no technical climbing experience nor climbing equipment. This makes it the most accessible of the Seven Summits in many ways. Any decently fit person can summit the mountain. That said, for most people, it will be one of the most difficult things they ever do in their lives! As we discuss in Kilimanjaro vs Everest Base Camp, it's even harder in our opinion than trekking to Everest Base Camp!
  • How many days early should I arrive?
    We recommend arriving one day early (what we refer to as “arrival day”). This will give you time to relax, meet your fellow trekkers, and get a proper briefing before the climb starts. More importantly, if there's any delay to your flight or your luggage goes AWOL, there's enough wiggle room so that this delay doesn't derail your climb. Seriously – this extra day really is a good idea, especially with post-pandemic airlines being in a little bit of a pickle right now. All that said, we understand that travelling to Kilimanjaro can be a challenge. So we'll accommodate your arrival time as best we can (for example, if you only arrive late at night the day before the climb starts, we'll still be there to collect you!).
  • What kind of food is prepared?
    You'll be provided with locally sourced, healthy and nutritious meals cooked fresh every day by your cook and his assistant. Our menus have been carefully designed to ensure the food is delicious, easy to digest, and provides plenty of energy. Expect fresh vegetable, fruits, meat, nuts and snacks along the way, as well as clean water throughout. The primary carbohydrates of the meals are rice, potatoes and pasta, as well as some meat. Fresh fruit and vegetables accompany every meal. Most meals will also have a selection of hot drinks like instant coffee, tea and hot chocolate. You may want to bring some supplementary comfort foods, such as candy, gum, chocolate, health bars and powdered energy drinks.
  • Can you cater for special diets?
    Any special requests regarding your menu? No worries. We can accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets as well as gluten-free diets. For those with special diets, please contact us to discuss.
  • How do I shower?
    This is an outdoor adventure trip in the African wild. There are no showers on the mountain. Warm water will be supplied in a bowl and you will be able to wash your face and hands. For the rest you can bring wet wipes. At each campsite, we set up a private toilet tent which contains a plastic toilet. There are also simple, hole-in-the-ground public toilets (usually very dirty and not recommended). If you need to use the bathroom on the trail, you'll find a spot behind a tree or rock. But you'll need to have a little baggie for putting used toilet paper in that you then carry to camp and dispose of in a bin. Ladies may consider bringing along a urinary device like a Shewee which lets you pee standing up. An antimicrobial pee cloth like a Kula Cloth is also a good idea.
  • What equipment and clothing do I need?
    In our detailed Kilimanjaro packing list we identify a variety of mountaineering clothing and gear you need for your climb.
  • What is the climate like?
    Due to the great elevation gain on a Kilimanjaro climb, you will experience all kinds of weather, from 30° C (86° F) on the plains surrounding Kilimanjaro all the way down to -7 to -29° C (20° to -20° F) at the summit. So ensure you are prepared and bring the right clothing! You can learn more in Mount Kilimanjaro climate.
  • What is accommodation like?
    On the day before the trek (arrival day) and the day after the trek (departure day), we stay in a comfortable hotel. It has lovely views as well as lovely rooms and facilities to match. During the climb, you sleep in three-person, four-season dome-style mountain tents, two people per tent. If you'd like a tent of your own, you'll need to pay a single-person supplement. Our tents are modern and have an outer flysheet and large vestibules where you can store your equipment during the night.
  • How many people are in a typical group?
    On our Kilimanjaro climbs, we aim to build groups of 5 to 10 fellow travellers, with 15 people usually being the limit. Africology groups are typically made up of sociable people from around the world looking to share an unforgettable adventure with you.
  • Can I join a group as a single climber?
    Yes, we love it when solo travellers to sign up for a trip with us! We'll put you in a group and your fellow travellers will soon become your new friends. There's little that's more bonding than being 'stuck' with each other for a week on a mountain in Africa! If you'd like your own tent, you'll need to pay a single supplement of US$100. Or we'll try to put you with another person in a tent if you wish and there's someone available to share with you in your climb group.
  • How do I prepare physically for Kilimanjaro?
    Don't underestimate how tough Kilimanjaro is. Too many people do, and don't make it to the top! Depending on your current fitness, we suggest that you start your physical training at least two or three months prior to the climb. Remember, the fitter you are, the more enjoyable the whole experience will be for you.
  • How much luggage can I bring?
    You should limit your duffel bag to 15 kg (31 lb) when full, as this will ease the burden on the porters. Baggage should be of the round, squashy type rather than a hard suitcase. Note that luggage restrictions on domestic flights are often 15 to 20 kg (33 to 44 lb) per person, so be mindful when packing your bags. For your own backpack that you carry each day, try to keep it under 7 kg (15 lb) for your own benefit.
  • What staff supports us on the mountain?
    Your Kilimanjaro guides and porters are your greatest asset on the mountain. Quality guides and porters make for a wonderful time on the mountain. Each of our experienced guides is licensed by the Kilimanjaro National Park, trained in acute mountain sickness (AMS) as well as basic mountain first aid, and speaks fluent English. Typically, each of our groups has one guide per two climbers, and each climber has three porters. Porters carry all gear, tents, cooking supplies and water. You will come to respect these guys greatly by the end of Day 1 of your climb – each porter carries about 20 kg (44 lb) of kit on their back up the mountain!
  • What safety measures do you have?
    Our guides are highly experienced to manage altitude sickness, which is the biggest obstacle on the mountain. They also have an intimate knowledge of the network of shortcuts to escort climbers to safety, and they're trained to react quickly and calmly under any circumstances. We cover each of the things to consider about Kilimanjaro safety in-depth in How we keep you safe on Kilimanjaro. Please, remember that the purpose of this article is not to scare you, but to keep you well informed. At Africology Safari&Climbing, our top priority is your safety. We want you to know how to climb Kilimanjaro and how to do it in the safest way possible. It is safe to climb Kilimanjaro, but only when you are educated on the risks. It's a challenge, but that's what it's all about, right!?
  • What if I need to descend early?
    Some climbers may fall short of reaching the summit. But even for those who never reach the top, the climb is almost always still an incredible and rewarding experience. When one or more people in the group decide (in conjunction with their guide's advice) they cannot continue on the ascent, they're escorted to the most convenient campsite and wait for the others to return. Note that nobody fit and healthy enough to make a go for the summit will be denied the chance because of the condition of another climber! We always have enough guides on every climb to ensure all climbers are accompanied, even if the group must temporarily split up.
  • Is climbing Kilimanjaro safe?
    That said, Kilimanjaro is a safe climb if you travel with a good tour operator and you follow one of the routes we recommend. We'll be honest and say that a risk is always there on the big mountains. And Kilimanjaro is no different. The most common issue climbers face on Kilimanjaro is altitude sickness. This comes about when you ascend the mountain too quickly, not giving your body enough time to acclimatize. Our local guides and staff are trained to keep you safe and have the ability to treat climbers who become ill or injured. Your health and well-being really are our top priority on every Kilimanjaro climb. It takes a team for anyone to reach Kilimanjaro – you simply can't get there on your own!
  • What is altitude sickness?
    Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a negative health effect of high altitude. The percentage of oxygen in the atmosphere at sea level is about 21%. As you climb higher up the mountain, the percentage remains the same but the number of oxygen molecules per breath is reduced. At 3,600 m (12,000 feet) above seal level, there are roughly 40% fewer oxygen molecules per breath. The body therefore finds it hard to adapt and function as normal with less oxygen. Altitude sickness is caused by a failure of the body to adapt quickly enough to these lower levels of oxygen. Often climbers make the mistake of going too high (altitude) too quickly (rate of ascent). But don’t worry, it's perfectly normal to get altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro. It's therefore more than likely that you'll experience some form of altitude sickness when climbing Kilimanjaro. More than 75% of Kilimanjaro climbers experience at least some form of mild mountain sickness when above 3,000 m. Note that age, sex or physical fitness have no effect on your likelihood of getting altitude sickness. And just because you haven’t had it before, doesn’t mean you won’t develop it on another trip. This is why we always advise clients to take as many precautions against developing AMS as possible.
  • Do I need to bring any medicine?
    Tanzania has a moderate risk for malaria. Malaria occurs in all areas below 1,800 m (5,900 ft) and we recommend that you take precautions against malaria prior to the commencement of your trip. When heading to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro , you want to take precautions against malaria and altitude sickness. Avoiding altitude sickness is also key. Here are our top tips for avoiding the dreaded altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro: Go on all optional acclimatisation hikes before your Kili climb. Choose a longer route that gives you more time to acclimatise. Walk slowly. Pole, pole, as Tanzanians always say. Slowly, slowly. Drink lots of water, as this mitigates the effects of altitude sickness. Consider taking a preventative altitude sickness medicine like Diamox. Your doctor will prescribe this. Prevent other possible illnesses by disinfecting your hands every time after you use the bathroom as well as before any meals.
  • What if I get injured or sick on the climb?
    All climbers pay a rescue fee to the Kilimanjaro National Park (included in our package price). If you cannot continue the climb because you get injured or sick, the guides and porters will gladly assist you on the way down. There is no extra charge for coming down and being taken back to the lodge early, but we will not be able to refund you for the days you missed on the mountain. Moreover, we ask all of our travellers to purchase a special adventure travel insurance that covers any possible medical expenses and evacuation costs – just to be safe!
  • Is there an internet connection on Kilimanjaro?
    As of August 2022, you can connect to the internet up until almost 4,000 m above sea level on Marangu route only! Other route you can use your personal internet in some camps. Whether or not you wish to WhatsApp, Instagram your trip and so on is up to you. For many, the chance to disconnect from the world while on a Kilimanjaro climb is part of the adventure's appeal. That said, the new high-speed internet available on the mountain offers certain safety benefits, and we like that those who wish – mountain crew included – can stay in touch with their families when on their climbs if they wish.
  • Should I get a Tanzanian tourist visa in advance?
    Citizens of the EU and USA can acquire entry visas at international airports in Tanzania as well as other border crossings. It is also possible to apply for the visa online through the Tanzania immigration website. Visa costs: generally USD 50 (USD 100 for citizens of the USA)
  • Which Tanzanian airport should I choose for my arrival?
    There are 3 International Airports in Tanzania: Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro. If you’re coming from Nairobi you will contact us to arrange pick up at the border.
  • Which international carriers fly to Tanzania?
    If your comfort during what could be a rather lengthy flight with either tight connections or long layovers outweighs cost considerations, then we recommend. Turkish, Emirates, Fly Dubai, KLM, Ethiopian are among the airlines with regular flights to Tanzania.
  • Is the water safe in Tanzania?
    Yes, all the hotels our company offers provide safe water. Taking showers and brushing your teeth is never a problem and the water is actually potable. However, we still recommend that you only drink bottled water, which is always available at hotels and shops
  • Who will meet me upon my arrival in Tanzania and what to do if I arrive at night?
    One of our drivers will meet you with a sign bearing your/your group’s name at your airport of arrival regardless of the time of day
  • What can I expect from the food in Tanzanian hotels? Will I find familiar dishes on the menus?
    All tourist hotels adapt their menus to suit European tastes, while also including some local dishes. You should have no problems when it comes to food so long as you make your dietary preferences (vegetarian, allergic, etc.) clear to your Tour Manager when booking
  • Is Tanzania safe for tourists?
    Tanzania is absolutely safe for tourists. Tourism provides a large part of the country’s foreign income and the local authorities take matters of security very seriously. Moreover, Tanzania is one of the most politically stable countries in the region and Tanzanians are very friendly as a people. This said, some criminality does exist, just as it does everywhere else. We, therefore, recommend that you exercise common sense and follow the rules below: Avoid the dangerous parts of any town- these are mentioned in most books and your guide will be happy to point them out. Do not leave your belongings unattended. When planning to take photos in towns, it is best to bring along a guide. This is not so much in the interests of safety, but, rather to facilitate communication with the locals, who are – for cultural reasons – not always happy about being photographed and often do not speak English. After dark it is best to avoid walking. Instead, use taxis for all your travel within town. These are best organized by your tour operator or hotel reception.
  • What is the currency in Tanzania? Can I pay in foreign currencies?
    The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling, You can also make cash payments in US$. Just keep in mind that notes issued before 2003 may not be accepted or accepted at a lower rate of exchange. You may also change Euros and some other major currencies, though preference is given to US$ and the rate of exchange for other currencies may not be favorable
  • How can I avoid contracting such tropical diseases as malaria, yellow fever, etc? What vaccinations do I need before travelling to Tanzania?
    There have been no recorded cases of yellow fever in the country’s tourist regions (most of the country actually) in the last twenty years. However, when planning to visit the less-visited parts, it may be recommended that you get yellow fever vaccination two weeks before your planned travel date. This vaccination is effective for ten years. You may read more about Tanzania vaccination requirements in our article. The problem of malaria in Tanzania is greatly exaggerated. Not all species of mosquito carry malaria to begin with, and contracting malaria is unlikely in most parts of the country. However, if planning on visiting more remote parts of the country, we would recommend that you read our article about malaria prevention
  • Which is the Official Language of Tanzania?
    There are two Tanzania Official Languages mainly – English and Swahili, but the Tanzania National Language is Swahili. There are over 120 Tanzania Languages equivalent to the total number of tribes in the country. Maasai is another important language of the majority of the population of Tanzania which is the Maasai tribe

WHICH IS THE BEST ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?


There are 7 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. After making the decision to climb Kilimanjaro, you’ll need to choose your route.


  1. Lemosho Route

  2. Machame Route (“Whiskey” Route)

  3. Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola” Route)

  4. Northern Circuit Route

  5. Rongai Route

  6. Shira Route

  7. Umbwe Route

*You can find the quick overview of the routes here.


The one question we are asked more often than any other is “which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro”. And the answer depends on what you want. Here are our winners:


–> Highest success rate and overall the best route –> The most scenic –> The most quiet –> The most challenging –> Acclimatization –> Difficalty of the summit night –> How busy the route is –> Accommodation –> Safety –> The highest summit success rate


HIGHEST SUCCESS RATE AND OVERALL THE BEST ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO


If you want the highest chance of summiting, the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Lemosho route and Machame route over 7 or 8 days – excellent acclimatization and an easier summit night make these winners by a long way. And as reaching the top is the most important thing for most of our climbers we make this our overall winners as best route to climb Kilimanjaro.


THE MOST SCENIC ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO


The Lemosho route approaching from the West wins hands down for the best views with spectacular vistas in all directions.


THE MOST QUIET ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO


If keeping away from the crowds is your top priority the Rongai route has to be your choice as the best route for your Kilimanjaro climb. But be warned the success rate is lower.


THE MOST CHALLENGING ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO


If you are looking for an adventure and a really unique wilderness experience, the crater camp option is the best route for you to climb Kilimanjaro – less than 1 % of climbers get to do this and all our climbers who do it rave about it.


ACCLIMATIZATION ON KILIMANJARO


When climbing to altitude the golden rule is walk high and sleep low. Following this rule minimizes the risk of altitude sickness and improves your chance of summiting. The best routes to climb Kilimanjaro for acclimatization are the Machame and Lemosho routes as these naturally allow you to walk high and sleep low.


DIFFICALTY OF THE SUMMIT NIGHT


The toughest summit nights are on the Rongai route and the Marangu route: they reach the crater rim of Kilimanjaro on the North, opposite Uhuru Peak and more than 2 hours from the summit itself.


The best routes to climb Kilimanjaro to avoid this are the Machame and Lemosho routes as they reach the crater at Stellar point less than an hour’s walk from the summit. An extra hour on what is already a very long day is often the straw that breaks the camel’s back.


HOW BUSY THE ROUTE IS


The amount of climbers on the mountain varies a lot depending on the season and on the day of the week but even taking this into account if you want to have the mountain more to yourself the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Rongai route. This route starts in the North and is used by a lot less climbers than the very popular southern routes.


ACCOMMODATION ON THE CLIMB


The only route that you do not have to camp on is the Marangu route. So if you if you want to escape sleeping in tents, this is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you. Be warned though the huts are very basic and noisy.


KILIMANJARO ROUTES SAFETY


We consider all of the routes except the Arrow Point route to be relatively safe if walked sensibly. We do not offer climbs on the Arrow Point route as the risk of falling rock is unmanageable. This is definitely not the best route to climb Kilimanjaro.


THE HIGHEST SUMMIT SUCCESS RATE


As a result of the better acclimatization offered and the easier summit night the best route to climb Kilimanjaro in terms of summit success rate is the 9 Day Northern Circuit route, Lemosho route over 8 days followed by the Machame route over 7 days.


WHICH IS THE BEST ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?


There are 7 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. After making the decision to climb Kilimanjaro, you’ll need to choose your route.


  1. Lemosho Route

  2. Machame Route (“Whiskey” Route)

  3. Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola” Route)

  4. Northern Circuit Route

  5. Rongai Route

  6. Shira Route

  7. Umbwe Route

*You can find the quick overview of the routes here.


The one question we are asked more often than any other is “which is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro”. And the answer depends on what you want. Here are our winners:


–> Highest success rate and overall the best route –> The most scenic –> The most quiet –> The most challenging –> Acclimatization –> Difficalty of the summit night –> How busy the route is –> Accommodation –> Safety –> The highest summit success rate


HIGHEST SUCCESS RATE AND OVERALL THE BEST ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO


If you want the highest chance of summiting, the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Lemosho route and Machame route over 7 or 8 days – excellent acclimatization and an easier summit night make these winners by a long way. And as reaching the top is the most important thing for most of our climbers we make this our overall winners as best route to climb Kilimanjaro.


THE MOST SCENIC ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO


The Lemosho route approaching from the West wins hands down for the best views with spectacular vistas in all directions.


THE MOST QUIET ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO


If keeping away from the crowds is your top priority the Rongai route has to be your choice as the best route for your Kilimanjaro climb. But be warned the success rate is lower.


THE MOST CHALLENGING ROUTE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO


If you are looking for an adventure and a really unique wilderness experience, the crater camp option is the best route for you to climb Kilimanjaro – less than 1 % of climbers get to do this and all our climbers who do it rave about it.


ACCLIMATIZATION ON KILIMANJARO


When climbing to altitude the golden rule is walk high and sleep low. Following this rule minimizes the risk of altitude sickness and improves your chance of summiting. The best routes to climb Kilimanjaro for acclimatization are the Machame and Lemosho routes as these naturally allow you to walk high and sleep low.


DIFFICALTY OF THE SUMMIT NIGHT


The toughest summit nights are on the Rongai route and the Marangu route: they reach the crater rim of Kilimanjaro on the North, opposite Uhuru Peak and more than 2 hours from the summit itself.


The best routes to climb Kilimanjaro to avoid this are the Machame and Lemosho routes as they reach the crater at Stellar point less than an hour’s walk from the summit. An extra hour on what is already a very long day is often the straw that breaks the camel’s back.


HOW BUSY THE ROUTE IS


The amount of climbers on the mountain varies a lot depending on the season and on the day of the week but even taking this into account if you want to have the mountain more to yourself the best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Rongai route. This route starts in the North and is used by a lot less climbers than the very popular southern routes.


ACCOMMODATION ON THE CLIMB


The only route that you do not have to camp on is the Marangu route. So if you if you want to escape sleeping in tents, this is the best route to climb Kilimanjaro for you. Be warned though the huts are very basic and noisy.


KILIMANJARO ROUTES SAFETY


We consider all of the routes except the Arrow Point route to be relatively safe if walked sensibly. We do not offer climbs on the Arrow Point route as the risk of falling rock is unmanageable. This is definitely not the best route to climb Kilimanjaro.


THE HIGHEST SUMMIT SUCCESS RATE


As a result of the better acclimatization offered and the easier summit night the best route to climb Kilimanjaro in terms of summit success rate is the 9 Day Northern Circuit route, Lemosho route over 8 days followed by the Machame route over 7 days.


  • What is climbing Kilimanjaro really like?
    We have put together a short documentary to show you what it's really like climbing incredible Mount Kilimanjaro. Feel the summit to the roof of Africa at 5,895 m (19,341 ft) above sea level. No matter where you are in the planning stages, it’s an extremely useful watch as you: Meet the mountain crew who make this magnificent once-in-a-lifetime experience possible Watch the team trek through five unique ecosystems! And find out what it really takes to conquer one of the world’s greatest natural wonders
  • Is Kilimanjaro a technical mountain?
    Kilimanjaro requires no technical climbing experience nor climbing equipment. This makes it the most accessible of the Seven Summits in many ways. Any decently fit person can summit the mountain. That said, for most people, it will be one of the most difficult things they ever do in their lives! As we discuss in Kilimanjaro vs Everest Base Camp, it's even harder in our opinion than trekking to Everest Base Camp!
  • How many days early should I arrive?
    We recommend arriving one day early (what we refer to as “arrival day”). This will give you time to relax, meet your fellow trekkers, and get a proper briefing before the climb starts. More importantly, if there's any delay to your flight or your luggage goes AWOL, there's enough wiggle room so that this delay doesn't derail your climb. Seriously – this extra day really is a good idea, especially with post-pandemic airlines being in a little bit of a pickle right now. All that said, we understand that travelling to Kilimanjaro can be a challenge. So we'll accommodate your arrival time as best we can (for example, if you only arrive late at night the day before the climb starts, we'll still be there to collect you!).
  • What kind of food is prepared?
    You'll be provided with locally sourced, healthy and nutritious meals cooked fresh every day by your cook and his assistant. Our menus have been carefully designed to ensure the food is delicious, easy to digest, and provides plenty of energy. Expect fresh vegetable, fruits, meat, nuts and snacks along the way, as well as clean water throughout. The primary carbohydrates of the meals are rice, potatoes and pasta, as well as some meat. Fresh fruit and vegetables accompany every meal. Most meals will also have a selection of hot drinks like instant coffee, tea and hot chocolate. You may want to bring some supplementary comfort foods, such as candy, gum, chocolate, health bars and powdered energy drinks.
  • Can you cater for special diets?
    Any special requests regarding your menu? No worries. We can accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets as well as gluten-free diets. For those with special diets, please contact us to discuss.
  • How do I shower?
    This is an outdoor adventure trip in the African wild. There are no showers on the mountain. Warm water will be supplied in a bowl and you will be able to wash your face and hands. For the rest you can bring wet wipes. At each campsite, we set up a private toilet tent which contains a plastic toilet. There are also simple, hole-in-the-ground public toilets (usually very dirty and not recommended). If you need to use the bathroom on the trail, you'll find a spot behind a tree or rock. But you'll need to have a little baggie for putting used toilet paper in that you then carry to camp and dispose of in a bin. Ladies may consider bringing along a urinary device like a Shewee which lets you pee standing up. An antimicrobial pee cloth like a Kula Cloth is also a good idea.
  • What equipment and clothing do I need?
    In our detailed Kilimanjaro packing list we identify a variety of mountaineering clothing and gear you need for your climb.
  • What is the climate like?
    Due to the great elevation gain on a Kilimanjaro climb, you will experience all kinds of weather, from 30° C (86° F) on the plains surrounding Kilimanjaro all the way down to -7 to -29° C (20° to -20° F) at the summit. So ensure you are prepared and bring the right clothing! You can learn more in Mount Kilimanjaro climate.
  • What is accommodation like?
    On the day before the trek (arrival day) and the day after the trek (departure day), we stay in a comfortable hotel. It has lovely views as well as lovely rooms and facilities to match. During the climb, you sleep in three-person, four-season dome-style mountain tents, two people per tent. If you'd like a tent of your own, you'll need to pay a single-person supplement. Our tents are modern and have an outer flysheet and large vestibules where you can store your equipment during the night.
  • How many people are in a typical group?
    On our Kilimanjaro climbs, we aim to build groups of 5 to 10 fellow travellers, with 15 people usually being the limit. Africology groups are typically made up of sociable people from around the world looking to share an unforgettable adventure with you.
  • Can I join a group as a single climber?
    Yes, we love it when solo travellers to sign up for a trip with us! We'll put you in a group and your fellow travellers will soon become your new friends. There's little that's more bonding than being 'stuck' with each other for a week on a mountain in Africa! If you'd like your own tent, you'll need to pay a single supplement of US$100. Or we'll try to put you with another person in a tent if you wish and there's someone available to share with you in your climb group.
  • How do I prepare physically for Kilimanjaro?
    Don't underestimate how tough Kilimanjaro is. Too many people do, and don't make it to the top! Depending on your current fitness, we suggest that you start your physical training at least two or three months prior to the climb. Remember, the fitter you are, the more enjoyable the whole experience will be for you.
  • How much luggage can I bring?
    You should limit your duffel bag to 15 kg (31 lb) when full, as this will ease the burden on the porters. Baggage should be of the round, squashy type rather than a hard suitcase. Note that luggage restrictions on domestic flights are often 15 to 20 kg (33 to 44 lb) per person, so be mindful when packing your bags. For your own backpack that you carry each day, try to keep it under 7 kg (15 lb) for your own benefit.
  • What staff supports us on the mountain?
    Your Kilimanjaro guides and porters are your greatest asset on the mountain. Quality guides and porters make for a wonderful time on the mountain. Each of our experienced guides is licensed by the Kilimanjaro National Park, trained in acute mountain sickness (AMS) as well as basic mountain first aid, and speaks fluent English. Typically, each of our groups has one guide per two climbers, and each climber has three porters. Porters carry all gear, tents, cooking supplies and water. You will come to respect these guys greatly by the end of Day 1 of your climb – each porter carries about 20 kg (44 lb) of kit on their back up the mountain!
  • What safety measures do you have?
    Our guides are highly experienced to manage altitude sickness, which is the biggest obstacle on the mountain. They also have an intimate knowledge of the network of shortcuts to escort climbers to safety, and they're trained to react quickly and calmly under any circumstances. We cover each of the things to consider about Kilimanjaro safety in-depth in How we keep you safe on Kilimanjaro. Please, remember that the purpose of this article is not to scare you, but to keep you well informed. At Africology Safari&Climbing, our top priority is your safety. We want you to know how to climb Kilimanjaro and how to do it in the safest way possible. It is safe to climb Kilimanjaro, but only when you are educated on the risks. It's a challenge, but that's what it's all about, right!?
  • What if I need to descend early?
    Some climbers may fall short of reaching the summit. But even for those who never reach the top, the climb is almost always still an incredible and rewarding experience. When one or more people in the group decide (in conjunction with their guide's advice) they cannot continue on the ascent, they're escorted to the most convenient campsite and wait for the others to return. Note that nobody fit and healthy enough to make a go for the summit will be denied the chance because of the condition of another climber! We always have enough guides on every climb to ensure all climbers are accompanied, even if the group must temporarily split up.
  • Is climbing Kilimanjaro safe?
    That said, Kilimanjaro is a safe climb if you travel with a good tour operator and you follow one of the routes we recommend. We'll be honest and say that a risk is always there on the big mountains. And Kilimanjaro is no different. The most common issue climbers face on Kilimanjaro is altitude sickness. This comes about when you ascend the mountain too quickly, not giving your body enough time to acclimatize. Our local guides and staff are trained to keep you safe and have the ability to treat climbers who become ill or injured. Your health and well-being really are our top priority on every Kilimanjaro climb. It takes a team for anyone to reach Kilimanjaro – you simply can't get there on your own!
  • What is altitude sickness?
    Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a negative health effect of high altitude. The percentage of oxygen in the atmosphere at sea level is about 21%. As you climb higher up the mountain, the percentage remains the same but the number of oxygen molecules per breath is reduced. At 3,600 m (12,000 feet) above seal level, there are roughly 40% fewer oxygen molecules per breath. The body therefore finds it hard to adapt and function as normal with less oxygen. Altitude sickness is caused by a failure of the body to adapt quickly enough to these lower levels of oxygen. Often climbers make the mistake of going too high (altitude) too quickly (rate of ascent). But don’t worry, it's perfectly normal to get altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro. It's therefore more than likely that you'll experience some form of altitude sickness when climbing Kilimanjaro. More than 75% of Kilimanjaro climbers experience at least some form of mild mountain sickness when above 3,000 m. Note that age, sex or physical fitness have no effect on your likelihood of getting altitude sickness. And just because you haven’t had it before, doesn’t mean you won’t develop it on another trip. This is why we always advise clients to take as many precautions against developing AMS as possible.
  • Do I need to bring any medicine?
    Tanzania has a moderate risk for malaria. Malaria occurs in all areas below 1,800 m (5,900 ft) and we recommend that you take precautions against malaria prior to the commencement of your trip. When heading to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro , you want to take precautions against malaria and altitude sickness. Avoiding altitude sickness is also key. Here are our top tips for avoiding the dreaded altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro: Go on all optional acclimatisation hikes before your Kili climb. Choose a longer route that gives you more time to acclimatise. Walk slowly. Pole, pole, as Tanzanians always say. Slowly, slowly. Drink lots of water, as this mitigates the effects of altitude sickness. Consider taking a preventative altitude sickness medicine like Diamox. Your doctor will prescribe this. Prevent other possible illnesses by disinfecting your hands every time after you use the bathroom as well as before any meals.
  • What if I get injured or sick on the climb?
    All climbers pay a rescue fee to the Kilimanjaro National Park (included in our package price). If you cannot continue the climb because you get injured or sick, the guides and porters will gladly assist you on the way down. There is no extra charge for coming down and being taken back to the lodge early, but we will not be able to refund you for the days you missed on the mountain. Moreover, we ask all of our travellers to purchase a special adventure travel insurance that covers any possible medical expenses and evacuation costs – just to be safe!
  • Is there an internet connection on Kilimanjaro?
    As of August 2022, you can connect to the internet up until almost 4,000 m above sea level on Marangu route only! Other route you can use your personal internet in some camps. Whether or not you wish to WhatsApp, Instagram your trip and so on is up to you. For many, the chance to disconnect from the world while on a Kilimanjaro climb is part of the adventure's appeal. That said, the new high-speed internet available on the mountain offers certain safety benefits, and we like that those who wish – mountain crew included – can stay in touch with their families when on their climbs if they wish.
  • Should I get a Tanzanian tourist visa in advance?
    Citizens of the EU and USA can acquire entry visas at international airports in Tanzania as well as other border crossings. It is also possible to apply for the visa online through the Tanzania immigration website. Visa costs: generally USD 50 (USD 100 for citizens of the USA)
  • Which Tanzanian airport should I choose for my arrival?
    There are 3 International Airports in Tanzania: Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro. If you’re coming from Nairobi you will contact us to arrange pick up at the border.
  • Which international carriers fly to Tanzania?
    If your comfort during what could be a rather lengthy flight with either tight connections or long layovers outweighs cost considerations, then we recommend. Turkish, Emirates, Fly Dubai, KLM, Ethiopian are among the airlines with regular flights to Tanzania.
  • Is the water safe in Tanzania?
    Yes, all the hotels our company offers provide safe water. Taking showers and brushing your teeth is never a problem and the water is actually potable. However, we still recommend that you only drink bottled water, which is always available at hotels and shops
  • Who will meet me upon my arrival in Tanzania and what to do if I arrive at night?
    One of our drivers will meet you with a sign bearing your/your group’s name at your airport of arrival regardless of the time of day
  • What can I expect from the food in Tanzanian hotels? Will I find familiar dishes on the menus?
    All tourist hotels adapt their menus to suit European tastes, while also including some local dishes. You should have no problems when it comes to food so long as you make your dietary preferences (vegetarian, allergic, etc.) clear to your Tour Manager when booking
  • Is Tanzania safe for tourists?
    Tanzania is absolutely safe for tourists. Tourism provides a large part of the country’s foreign income and the local authorities take matters of security very seriously. Moreover, Tanzania is one of the most politically stable countries in the region and Tanzanians are very friendly as a people. This said, some criminality does exist, just as it does everywhere else. We, therefore, recommend that you exercise common sense and follow the rules below: Avoid the dangerous parts of any town- these are mentioned in most books and your guide will be happy to point them out. Do not leave your belongings unattended. When planning to take photos in towns, it is best to bring along a guide. This is not so much in the interests of safety, but, rather to facilitate communication with the locals, who are – for cultural reasons – not always happy about being photographed and often do not speak English. After dark it is best to avoid walking. Instead, use taxis for all your travel within town. These are best organized by your tour operator or hotel reception.
  • What is the currency in Tanzania? Can I pay in foreign currencies?
    The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling, You can also make cash payments in US$. Just keep in mind that notes issued before 2003 may not be accepted or accepted at a lower rate of exchange. You may also change Euros and some other major currencies, though preference is given to US$ and the rate of exchange for other currencies may not be favorable
  • How can I avoid contracting such tropical diseases as malaria, yellow fever, etc? What vaccinations do I need before travelling to Tanzania?
    There have been no recorded cases of yellow fever in the country’s tourist regions (most of the country actually) in the last twenty years. However, when planning to visit the less-visited parts, it may be recommended that you get yellow fever vaccination two weeks before your planned travel date. This vaccination is effective for ten years. You may read more about Tanzania vaccination requirements in our article. The problem of malaria in Tanzania is greatly exaggerated. Not all species of mosquito carry malaria to begin with, and contracting malaria is unlikely in most parts of the country. However, if planning on visiting more remote parts of the country, we would recommend that you read our article about malaria prevention
  • Which is the Official Language of Tanzania?
    There are two Tanzania Official Languages mainly – English and Swahili, but the Tanzania National Language is Swahili. There are over 120 Tanzania Languages equivalent to the total number of tribes in the country. Maasai is another important language of the majority of the population of Tanzania which is the Maasai tribe
01. Lemosho Route

Duration: 7 – 8 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Excellent
Traffic: Medium

As a newer route, it is more remote and arguably more beautiful, but a bit longer and slightly more expensive. It starts on the Western side of the mountain at the Londorossi Gate which is a further drive from town, and was introduced as an alternative to the Shira route. After beautiful forests and moorlands it crosses the Shira Plateau on day 3 to connect with the Machame Route at Lava Tower and down towards Barranco Valley via the Southern Circuit. You may be lucky enough to see buffalo, elephant and other game. Because this route can be done over a longer period of time for acclimatization, it has a higher success rate of summit.
02. Machame Route

Duration: 6 – 7 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Excellent
Traffic: High

The Machame route, also known as the Whisky Route is one of the most scenic and recommended routes on Kilimanjaro. This is a popular route with paths through magnificent forests to gain a ridge leading through the moorland zones to the Shira Plateau. It then traverses beneath the glaciated precipices of the Southern Ice fields to join the Barafu Route to the summit. Because it can be done over longer periods and the incline is more manageable it has a much higher success rate of summit.
03. Marangu Route

Duration: 5 – 6 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Good
Traffic: High

Marangu Route, commonly known as the Coca Cola route is more popular because it can be done in fewer days and has permanent sleep huts at the campsites. Summit night from Kibo Hut is steep and passes Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak. It is a shorter route with a steeper incline and less time for acclimatization it tends to have a lower summit success rate. This is the only route where the ascent and descent route is shared, thus creating more traffic.
04. Northern circuit

Difficulty: Medium

Distance: 98 km / 61 miles

Duration: 9 days

Success rate: High

The Northern Circuit route is the longest and newest of the seven established Kilimanjaro routes. It's one of the best routes because of its great acclimatization profile, high summit success rate, stunning views, and comparatively relaxed pace. It's also much less crowded than the other Kilimanjaro routes. Simply put, it's one of the best ways to experience the roof of Africa.
05. Rongai Route

Duration: 5 – 6 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Very good
Traffic: Low

Less crowded because of its remote location the route offers trekkers a unique wilderness experience where it is possible to see large wildlife like antelope, elephant and buffalo. As there is typically less moisture on this side of the mountain you are less likely to encounter rain and have more unclouded views of the peak. While it is flatter, it does not give the climb high sleep low option and therefore recommended to select more days for acclimatization. The Rongai route is one of the easier routes up Kilimanjaro. Rongai is the only route to approach Kilimanjaro from the north and the descent is via the Marangu Route. Summit night from Kibo Hut is steep and follows the same path taken by the Marangu route which passes Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak. There are several variations; the one described is a longer route taking in Mawenzi Tarn.
06. Shira Route

Duration: 6 – 8 days
Difficulty: High
Scenery: Excellent
Traffic: Medium

Very similar to Lemosho route, however it starts at 3,600 meters and is therefore not ideal for trekkers who have little or no experience of high altitude trekking. On the first day you begin at Shira Gate to Simba Camp before joining the Lemosho Route on day two at Shira Camp 2. The high starting point is however a major negative for this route as many experience altitude sickness from day one without enough time to acclimatize. The route over the Shira Plateau has several possible variations. After Shira Camp 2 the route joins the Machame Route via Lava Tower, and then descends to the Barranco Camp via the Southern Circuit. Ascent to Uhuru Peak is made via Barafu Camp and up the southern slopes of Kibo. The route is seldom used by other trekkers and so your initial two days on the mountain are less crowded than on most other routes.
07. Umbwe Route

Duration: 6 – 7 days
Difficulty: Very High
Scenery: Very good
Traffic: Very low

This route is the steepest with the shortest and most direct routes to the Southern Glaciers, Western Breach and Uhuru Peak. It is probably the most scenic, non-technical route on Kilimanjaro. However it is quite taxing, primarily due to the relatively fast ascent to higher altitude, but the rewards are plentiful. Very steep route best suited to experienced trekkers.
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