Machame Route
We offer seven (7) days of Machame route experience to Mount Kilimanjaro. Machame Route is also known as the “Whiskey Route”.
It is a more difficult route compared to Marangu’s route. The Machame route only offers camping accommodations suitable for camping lovers.
The route takes a minimum of six days but seven days is recommended for better acclimatization.
The trek begins at Machame Gate 1800 m (South-West) of the mountain and ends at Mweka Gate (South-East) of the mountainside.
If you book this route, expect to see an amazing view of the Shira Plateau, visit Shira cave, hike Barranco Wall, and cross the Lava Tower.
Scope
- Duration: 9 days
- Route: Machame
- Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro 5895 meters
- Activities: Hiking
- Enjoy charming and friendly team soon after arrival at the Airport and drop off at the hotel
- Enjoy the short ride from the airport to the hotel depending on arrival time, you can experience the semi-arid environment before reaching the beautiful city of Arusha.
- Expect to meet the Blessing safaris Team for tour briefing and other arrangements
- A beautiful start of the day with a heavy breakfast and a hot shower at the hotel
- Expect to travel with not only a mountains guide but also a friendly and knowledgeable climbing crew includes porters and cooks
- The Machame route is the busiest route on the mountain, expect to meet many people at the gate. The route is very scenic, with amazing views. You will pass through different zones of the mountain. On your way to the gate, you will pass the first zone known as Cultivation Zone where the villagers grow coffee, Bananas, Potatoes, Maize, and vegetables. Your climb starts at the rain forest where you can see one of the endemic plants of Kilimanjaro which are known as Impatiens kilimanjari or Elephant trunk. Every zone support different species of plants, expect to see famous plants and trees on Kilimanjaro some of them are Old Man’s Beard, Lobelia Deckenii, Dendrosenecio kilimanjari, Stoebe Kilimandscharica, Red Hot Poker, and Protea Kilimandscharica
- Expect to cross different climatic zone. This adds spices to your climb, the scree and glacial create a magnificent experience while climbing.
- What about delicious foods? Delicious and healthy meals served on time, on every camp and in between camps you have time to break for picnic lunch. Yum Yum !
- Camping experience. From day one to the last day of your climb we will use tents for accommodation
- Expect to sing JAMBO Africa Song! The very common Mount Kili Climbing Anthem. After conquering the peak of Africa
- Expect to collect your certificates at Mweka gate. Bravo! You have Made it to 5895 Meters above sea level.
- Expect direct communication with the ground team for tour monitoring but also in case of any emergency. Your safety is our priority.
- Return to Arusha for overnight and long shower after a long rally of climbing the Mountain.. Get some massage service could send you to heaven.
- Departure day, have one on one with Blessing Safaris team, for tour review and feedback exchange. Airport transfer or other arrangements with the Blessing Safaris.
- The first day of Machame Route is longer, expect to walk 11 km
- Expect to see endemic plant (impatiens Kilimanjari) in the rain forest of Kilimanjaro
- It is possible to climb for a minimum of six days and a maximum of seven days
- Expect to visit Shira cave.
- Expect to meet people from the Lemosho route at the junction near the Lava tower
- Expect a high number of people from the third day.
- It is the best choice for climbers who want the real experience of Kilimanjaro.
First-day experience on Mount Kilimanjaro
Imagine waking up early in the morning. Enjoy breakfast while waiting for your team at the hotel. Ready for your Kilimanjaro adventure!.
Expect to reach the first camp (Machame Camp) in the late afternoon or evening. After arriving at the camp you will find all the tents are well-pitched by our team.
| Day | Starting Camp | Altitude | Finish Camp | Altitude | Time | Distance |
| 1 | Machame Gate | 1800m | Machame Camp | 2650m | 5hrs | 11km |
| 2 | Machame Camp | 2835m | Shira Cave Camp | 3750m | 6hrs | 5km |
| 3 | Shira Cave Camp | 3750m | Lava tower camp | 4600m | 4hrs | 7km |
| Lava Tower | 4600m | Barranco Camp | 3900m | 2hrs | 3km | |
| 4 | Barranco Camp | 3900m | Karanga Camp | 3995m | 4hrs | 6km |
| 5 | Karanga Camp | 3995m | Barafu Camp | 4673m | 4hrs | 4km |
| 6 | Barafu Camp | 4673m | Uhuru Peak | 5895m | 7hrs | 5km |
| Uhuru peak | 5895m | Mweka Camp | 3100m | 7hrs | 12km | |
| 7 | Mweka Camp | 3100m | Mweka Gate | 1640m | 3hrs | 10km |
7 Days Machame Itinerary
Meet your driver at Kilimanjaro International Airport and drive to your hotel in Arusha for lunch/dinner and relaxation after the long flight. Depending on your program, your mountain guide will meet you in the hotel for briefing and equipment checking.
Accommodation standards
- Standard: Tulia Hotel & Spa
- Luxury: Gran Melia
You will be picked up from your hotel in Arusha to Machame Gate. After completing the necessary registration formalities at the gate, spend your time taking photos and changing your clothes if necessary while waiting for the climbing permit. After obtaining the permit, your adventure starts from the rainforest where you might see Blue Monkeys, Hartlaub’s Turaco, and Impatiens Kilimanjari. Stop for lunch halfway to fuel up for the remaining hours of hiking to the camp. After arriving at Machame camp, you will be welcomed by our friendly team, the waiter will provide you with hot water for washing up, tea/coffee with popcorn to regain your energy while waiting for your first dinner on Kilimanjaro Mountain.
- Hiking time: 5hours Hiking distance 11 km
Wake up earlier in the morning for your first breakfast on the mountain, start your second day leaving the rainforest, and ascend through heather and open moorland. Experience walking over the rocky ridge on the Shira Plateau until you reach the highest point of the day, from there you can see the campsite below. After registration at the camp, you will be supplied with hot water for washing, cups of tea/coffee with popcorn, and start the very short walk to Shira cave before dinner time.
- Hiking time: 6hours Hiking distance 5 km
The morning after your heavy breakfast, start your day walking to Barranco Camp through the lava tower. Leave the camp and walk slowly until you reach the junction connecting people from the Lemosho route a few hours before arriving at the lava tower 4600 m camp where you can take your lunch. The Lava Tower is a volcanic rock which was formed by volcanic activity many years ago, this is an acclimatization point for people going overnight at Barranco Camp. After lunch at the lava tower, descend to Barranco camp for dinner and overnight.
- Hiking time and distance from Shira Cave to lava tower: 4hours, 7 km
- Hiking time and distance from lava tower to Barranco camp: 2 hours, 3 km
Wake up early in the morning after breakfast, start hiking the Barranco wall which is also known as breakfast. The Barranco Wall is somehow a technical part of the whole trek where you experience hugging and kissing some rocks. After one hour, we reach the top of the Barranco wall where we take a short break before continuing with our journey to Karanga Camp for Lunch, dinner, and overnight.
- Hiking time: 4hours Hiking distance 6km
Wake up in the morning for breakfast and be prepared to leave the camp. Today the next camp is not far, the trail is also less steep. After arriving at Barafu Camp, check in and spend your time resting until dinner time. Today you will get your dinner earlier to give yourself enough time for rest. Your guides will meet for a summit briefing before you go to sleep. Carefully listen and follow the advice from your guides for a successful summit.
- Hiking time: 4hours Hiking distance 4km
Today you wake up early around 11 pm for summit preparation and breakfast. Unlike other days your breakfast will be very early and light. After breakfast, we start our summit journey around 12.00. Don’t rush, enjoy your special night. The summit night is always challenging but if you respect the mountain and follow the advice from your guides it will be easy. At some point, you can feel exhausted but never give up, try to push yourself slowly while drinking frequently. It is advised to drink a lot of water at the beginning before freezing. Stop at Stella Point 5,756 m for hot drinks and photos. It takes us 1 hour from Stella point to Uhuru Peak where we celebrate conquering the peak of Africa and enjoying the beautiful sunrise, crater view, and glaciers. After taking many photos at the top of Africa, we return to the base camp for breakfast, short rest, and lunch before we descend to Mweka Camp 3100 m. Enjoy your last dinner and your last night in Kilimanjaro. Hopefully, you will get a better night’s sleep due to physical exhaustion.
- Hiking time and distance from barafu to Stella point: 6 hours, 4 km
- Hiking time and distance from Stela point to Uhuru Peak: 1hours 1 km
- Hiking time and distance from Uhuru Peak to Barafu camp: 3hours, 5 km
- Hiking time and distance from Barafu camp to Mweka Camp: 4hours,7.5 km
- Hiking time and distance from Mweka camp to Mweka gate: 3hours, 10 km
Accommodation standards
- Standard: Tulia Hotel & Spa
- Luxury: Gran Melia Arusha
This tour ends after breakfast in the hotel, our driver will collect you from the hotel at the arranged time to take you to airport. However, it is possible to extend your trip to Tanzania to visit Arusha National Park, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater or you may decide to visit cultural Tourism programs near Arusha before your departure time to Airport.
Costs & Inclusions
Standard Climbing Price
| Pax | 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax+ |
| Price | $2,920 | $2,450 | $2,300 | $2,230 |
- Airport Transfers (we pick up you on arrival day, and we take you back after the climb)
- Accommodation in Arusha at Tulia Hotel & Spa (two nights, bed and breakfast)
- Transfers from Hotel to Machame gate and from Mweka gate to the hotel
- Quality Sleeping tents shared by 2 clients
- Mess tents, Crew tents, Table, Chairs, eating utensils, cooking equipment.
- Sleeping Mats
- Clean, purified drinking water
- All meals while on the Mountain
- Kilimanjaro entrance fees/conservation fees
- Kilimanjaro Camping fees
- Rescue Fees and all taxes.
- Salaries for Porters, Cook, and Guides
- Oxygen Cylinder
- Oxygen Saturation Meter
- First Aid Kit
- Flying Doctors Emergency Service (before or after the climb)
- International and local airfare
- Local transportation before and after the climb
- Personal expenses example: Laundry, beverages, etc.
- Lunch and Dinner at Tulia Hotel & Spa
- Tips for the mountain crew
- Private Toilet and hot shower tent
- Yellow fever vaccinations, Covid 19 test
- Passport and Visa
- Travelers Insurance ( recommended insurance cover up to 6000 meters )
- Tips for the mountain crew
- Helicopter Evacuation Cost in high Altitude (Kilimanjaro SAR)
- Optional tours not mentioned in this itinerary
Costs & Inclusions
Luxury Climbing Price
| Pax | 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax+ |
| Price | $5500 | $4,100 | $4,000 | $3,700 |
- Airport Transfers (we pick up you on arrival day, and we take you back after the climb)
- Full board accommodation in a 5-star hotel (Gran Melia ) for two nights.
- Transfers from Hotel to Machame gate and from Mweka gate to the hotel
- Quality sleeping bag -18 °C
- Walking Poles
- Highest quality sleeping tents with enough space to walk in, shared by 2 clients
- Full space mess tent with luxury chairs and table
- Bed with 3-inch foam pad and pillow
- Clean, purified drinking water
- All meals while on the Mountain
- Kilimanjaro entrance fees/conservation fees
- Kilimanjaro Camping fees
- Rescue Fees and all taxes.
- Salaries for Porters, Cook, and Guides
- Oxygen Saturation Meter
- First Aid Kit
- Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC)
- Private Toilet and hot shower tent
- Lunch and Dinner at Mount Meru Hotel in Arusha
- Flying Doctors Emergency Service (before or after the climb)
- Local transportation before and after the climb
- International and local airfare
- Yellow fever vaccinations, Covid 19 test
- Passport and Visa
- Travelers Insurance ( recommended insurance cover up to 6000 meters )
- Tips for the mountain crew
- Helicopter Evacuation Cost in high Altitude (Kilimanjaro SAR)
- Optional tours not mentioned in this itinerary
Booking Process
HOW TO MAKE PAYMENTS
| BRANCH NAME | NEW ARUSHA MARKET |
|---|---|
| BANK NAME | NMB BANK PLC |
| SWIFT CODE | NMIBTZTZ |
| ACCOUNT NAME | BLESSING SAFARIS LIMITED |
| ACCOUNT NUMBER | 42710042425 |
| CURRENCY TYPE | USD |
We accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express
If you decide to use this mode of payment, a 3.9% bank surcharge has to be added on top of the original amount. The 3.9% charge does not come from Blessing Safaris Limited, it is a bank surcharge for credit card transactions
Sometimes the gateways or your bank may request additional documents to approve the transaction, bear in mind that it is for your financial safety.
You can pay through Pesapal (PCi DSS & PCi PTS compliance)
When you make a booking, you will be supplied with an unpaid invoice showing the amount you have to pay and the company bank account details and after payment, you will receive the paid invoice. This will act as payment evidence.
Kilimanjaro Travel Information
VISA
Foreign eligible visitors traveling to Tanzania for Tourism purposes must have a visa to travel to and between Tanzania and Zanzibar. Applicants can obtain a visa by completing a straightforward and simple online visa application. Citizens from eligible countries are required to complete an online application form to receive the approved visa for Tanzania and Zanzibar.
Any foreigner seeking to enter the United Republic of Tanzania is subject to the following entry requirements:
- A passport or Travel Document which is valid for not less than six months;
- A Residence Permit or a Pass or his name is endorsed upon the same;
- A valid Visa (where applicable) from any Tanzania Mission abroad or on arrival at any designated entry points. Visa issuing centers.
About Visa
A visa is a permission granted to a foreigner to enter and remain in the United Republic of Tanzania for a specific period. A visa is issued to a visitor who intends to enter into Tanzania for the purpose of visit, tourism, leisure, holiday, business, health treatment, attending a conference, or any other related activities recognized by the Laws of the country.
Types of Visa:
Single Entry VISA (ORDINARY VISA)
This Visa is issued for a single entry to a visitor for a period not exceeding three months for holidays, visiting, leisure, health treatment, studies, or any other activity legally recognized by the Law.
An application of Ordinary Visa should be accompanied with the following;
- Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page);
- Return ticket of the flight (not mandatory);
- Duly filled in the declaration form
- 50 USD visa fee.
Multiple Entry VISA
This visa may be issued to foreign visitors who come for Official visits, Government Missions, family reunion, or any other circumstances as may be determined by the Office of the Commissioner-General of Immigration, which calls for frequent visits to the United Republic of Tanzania. These are like Directors of Companies registered in Tanzania who do not reside in the country, Spouse or member of a family (Family reunion), Bilateral Agreement Representatives, Private or Government Consultants, etc.
The maximum validity of this Visa is twelve months. However, the holder of the Multiple Visa cannot stay in the country for 12 consecutive months. They are required to leave the country at most every three months.
Caution: The Multiple Visa is not intended for those visitors coming on business purposes such as those described under the Business Visa category.
NB: American nationals who wish to visit Tanzania for tourism or holiday purposes, they are required to apply for this type of Visa.
An application of Multiple Entry Visa should be accompanied with the following;
- Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page);
- 100 USD Visa fee;
- Valid passport or national ID of the person to be visited in Tanzania (host) OR;
- A covering letter of the host Institution detailing the reasons and frequency of Visits OR;
- Attached Certificate of the marriage of a spouse and a passport/national ID, if the applicant comes to visit a spouse OR;
- Any proof that justifies that a visitor is required to visit the United Republic of Tanzania frequently.
- Return ticket of the flight (not mandatory);
Gratis VISA
This visa may be issued for a single entry or multiple entries to a holder of diplomatic, services or official passport or Travel Document of recognized International Organization who is on official duty and their Dependents. It can also be issued to a holder of the ordinary passport or Travel document as it may be directed by the Commissioner-General of Immigration and Commissioner of Immigration Zanzibar.
Transit VISA
This Visa may be issued to foreign nationals to transit through to another destination outside the United Republic for a period not exceeding seven days. The applicant of this visa may be required to provide proof of a Visa of the destination country and/or Onward flight ticket.
An application of Multiple Entry Visa should be accompanied with the following;
- Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page);
- 30 USD visa fee.
- An entry visa or onward ticket to the intended country of destination;
Business VISA
This visa may be issued to those expatriates who wish to come for short-term assignments which in any way do not exceed 90 days. It may be issued to such foreign expatriates to allow them to enter in the United Republic of Tanzania for the following purposes;
To conduct special assignments such as fixing/repairing machines or running short-term training, etc.
To conduct professional roles such as auditing accounts etc.
To conduct lawful business according to the laws of the country.
Business visas will be issued at the Immigration Headquarters, Dar Es Salaam, the Immigration Head Office, Zanzibar, Entry Points, and Tanzanian Consular Offices abroad.
An application for a Multiple Entry Visa should be accompanied by the following;
- Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page);
- Return ticket of the flight;
- 250 USD visa fee.
- A work contract or any proof of the work/assignment to be performed within a period not exceeding three months; or
Student VISA
This visa may be issued for a single entry or multiple entries to a holder of diplomatic, services or official passport or Travel Document of recognized International Organization who is on official duty and their Dependents. It can also be issued to a holder of the ordinary passport or Travel document as it may be directed by the Commissioner-General of Immigration and Commissioner of Immigration Zanzibar.
An application of Multiple Entry Visa should be accompanied with the following;
- Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page);
- 50 USD, 250 USD, or 550 USD Visa fee depending on the category and duration.
- Covering letter from the host institution/college where the foreign student will be hosted, the letter must detail the course/field and duration of the program to be attended
Referral Cases
There are some countries in which their nationals require special clearance from the Commissioner General of Immigration or the Commissioner of Immigration (Zanzibar) before issuance of the Visa. These countries fall under the Referral Visa Category.
Applicants whose nationals fall under this category are not advised to book flight tickets or make payments for any reservations in Tanzania before they get approval for their Visa. Applicants of Referral Visa are advised to apply at least two months before their date of travel.
Visa Application for Referral Cases
There are two modalities of application for Referral Visa Applicants. The first one, which is recommended, is for applicants to seek permission clearance first, through their host in Tanzania. In this case, the host submits the request letter detailing the reasons and duration of stay of the visitor, to the Commissioner-General of immigration, or the commissioner of Zanzibar, if the applicant wishes to visit Zanzibar. In this modality, the applicant while applying Online will attach his photo (passport size), Passport/Travel Document (biographic data page), and a permission letter granted. His application will be processed within five working days
The second option is for the applicant to apply directly online by attaching the following attachments while making an application:
- Applicant Passport size photo;
- Applicant Valid copy of Passport (biographic data page);
- Covering letter from a legally registered Institution/ Company if the visit is official or covering letter from an individual who knows the applicant if the trip is personal, the letter must detail the purpose of visit and duration of stay of the prospective visitor;
- 50 USD Visa fee
- This application will be processed within two months.
Note: Stateless persons and Refugees who hold Vienna Convention documents are also required to obtain a referral visa before coming to the United Republic of Tanzania.
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.
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.
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.
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%
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
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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
