Frequently asked questions

You can climb all year, but the driest months are January to mid-March and June to October. January and February are warmer; July to September is the busiest period. April, May and November are the rainy seasons: trails are quieter and greener, but expect wet days. The northern Rongai route is the driest option in the rainy season.

You do not need climbing experience, but you should be comfortable hiking 5 to 7 hours a day for several days in a row. Regular walking, hiking with a backpack, running or cycling in the months before your trip makes the climb far more enjoyable. The hardest part is the summit night, which is long, cold and at high altitude.

Altitude affects everyone differently and fitness does not protect you. The best prevention is time: choose a longer itinerary, walk slowly ("pole pole"), drink 3 to 4 litres of water a day and tell your guide about any symptoms. Our guides check your oxygen saturation and pulse every day and will always put your safety before the summit. Talk to your doctor about medication such as acetazolamide.

For most people we recommend Lemosho (8 days) or Machame (7 days) for the scenery and acclimatisation. Choose Marangu if you prefer sleeping in huts, Rongai for a quieter climb or during the rainy season, and the Northern Circuit if you want the highest chance of success. Tell us about yourself and we will advise you.

Plan for the number of days on the mountain plus a night before and after in Moshi or Arusha. Longer itineraries have noticeably higher success rates, so if you can spare an extra day on the mountain, take it.

Layering is key: temperatures range from 25 °C in the rainforest to −15 °C on the summit. You will need broken-in waterproof hiking boots, thermal base layers, a fleece, a down jacket, a waterproof shell, warm gloves and hat, a headlamp, a 4-season sleeping bag and a daypack. Porters carry your main bag (up to 15 kg). We send a full packing list when you book.

Tipping the crew is customary on Kilimanjaro and an important part of their income. Tips are given at the end of the climb, usually in a small ceremony. We provide guidelines per crew member when you book so you can plan for it.

Most nationalities need a visa for Tanzania, which you can apply for online (e-visa) before travelling. A yellow fever certificate is required if you arrive from, or transit through, a country with yellow fever risk. Check the latest official requirements for your nationality and see a travel clinic well before departure.

Yes. Your insurance must cover trekking up to 6,000 m, including emergency evacuation and medical treatment. Please send us your policy details before the climb.

Both. You can climb privately (alone or with your own group) on any date you choose, or join one of our group departures to share the experience and the cost.

Send us an enquiry with your preferred route, group and dates. We reply personally with advice and a detailed quote. Once you are happy with the plan, we confirm your dates with a deposit.