FAQ About Kilimanjaro Climb in Tanzania

Are you planning a Kilimanjaro climbing adventure? Those who do take it seriously, usually have many questions about safety, organization of Kilimanjaro climb, what to pack and bring for Kilimanjaro climbing adventure.

Here is short Kilimanjaro FAQ,  frequently asked questions from people that  email me and would like to know about Kilimanjaro trek in details. I compiled the questions and one of my friends, a guide to Kilimanjaro trekking expeditions, kindly answered the questions.

Probably some answers differ between the companies, but in general this FAQ should serve you as an orientation on what to expect from Kilimanjaro trekking and how to prepare logistically.

When selecting a serious Kilimanjaro company keep in mind the medical examination of your pressure and temperature should be a standard as well as explanation and prevention of attitude sickness. The most demanding clients can hire a portable toilet:)

Climbing Kilimanjaro – Questions Answered

Is there age limitation for Kilimanjaro climb? What is the maximum, what is the minimum age?

The minimum age for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is 8 years below that you will require a special permit from our government with your doctors certificate and parents affidavit, there is no maximum age limit set for Kilimanjaro Climbers the record shows 86 years old lady have made it to the top recently.

Can children go to Kilimanjaro?

Yes as stated in previous question.

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during dry season from June 15th to 30th October and Nov 25th to Feb 25, the rest of the dates are rain season only experienced and fit climbers are climbing during this time but even non challenging climbers who are attempting the climb during this time the success rate is higher 98% than the dry season which is 91%.

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Briefing before the Kilimanjaro climb –  how it looks like?

Briefing starts with introduction of guide (s) to clients , we will go through climbing itinerary for each day of climb, sho you the routes on the map,  tell a little bit  about camping and camps,   we will check your climbing equipment and make sure you have all necessary gear for Kilimanjaro climb, if anything missing you will have a chance to rent it.

Then we discuss your meal preferences for the tour,  if you have special requests, vegetarian, etc.. After that we discuss attitude sickness, first aid instructions and we measure you blood pressure, body temperature to make sure all is ok.

Can I book full moon climb to Kilimanjaro?

Yes you can book full moon climb to Kilimanjaro. For full moon the exact right date is essential.

Can I climb Kilimanjaro without hiring guides and tours…?

Not possible. Kilimanjaro NP regulations require for each person to book an organised tour with all necessary climbing guides and assistance staff.

What documents do I need for Kilimanjaro climb?

Passport for registration Kilimanjaro park entrance station.

How fit should I be to conquer Kilimanjaro and which route I should take and why?

Anyone can climb Kilimanjaro. It depends on your fitness and health. The so called camping routes are more recommended on climbing Kilimanjaro (Lemosho, Machame, Shira, Rongai, Umbwe), the reason is its higher success rate.

Where will we sleep during climb to Kilimanjaro?

During Kilimanjaro Climb if you’re doing the Marangu Route (Cocacola) you will sleep in the Huts, there there are public toilets with running water and it’s clean and hygienic. If you will be doing the camping route you will sleep in the mountain camping tents where you will have to have a sleeping bag and sleeping mats.

All have clean toilets. If you prefer private toilet, it can be arranged for additional cost.

What meals are provided during the Kilimanjaro climb?

Both,vegetarian and Non Vegetarian Meals, according to clients request all our meals are continental dishes subject to fresh market availability, and are well cooked up the mountain with our professional Mountain cook and water will be provided to you on daily basis up the mountain 3 little daily its fresh boiled water from Kilimanjaro.

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What should I pack for Kilimanjaro climb?

These are items you need to park for Kilimanjaro climb:

  • Sun block
  • Personal Medication in case of chronic diseases
  • Towel, Soap, toothpaste, Toothbrush
  •  Trekking poles
  •  Fleece Jacket
  •  Lip balm with UV protection
  • Small bag packs for your daily necessities
  • Sleeping Bag -15C
  • Water proof and Wind block trousers
  • Thermal underwear preferred 2 pairs
  • Warm ski pants -15c
  • Water Camel with capacity of holding 3 litters a 13
  • Head Lamp
  • Trekking socks
  •  Balaclava for wind protection during final summit
  • Light trekking gloves
  •  Gaiters for protection against dust and snow
  • T-shits or Long sleeve shirts (4- 5 pcs)
  •  Water proof hiking boots
  • Rain poncho a water proof covering for your backpack
  • Duffel Bag for your belong which will be carried by your porters
  •  Gloves designed for 15c for the ascent to the summit
  •  Wind breaker jacket for the final Jacket

Is it possible to rent clothing and equipment / gear rental for Kilimanjaro Climb?

Gear and equipment rental is possible, but must be requested at the time of booking.

  • Trekking poles -$ 10 per trip
  • Fleece Jacket – $ 10 per trip
  •  Sleeping Bag -15C – $ 25 per trip
  •  Water proof and Wind block trousers $ 15 per trip
  •  Thermal underwear preferred 2 pair $ 10
  •  Warm ski pants -15c
  •  Water Camel with capacity of holding 3 litters a – $ 5 per trip
  •  Head Lamp $ 10 per trip
  •  Trekking socks – $ 3 per trip
  •  Balaclava for wind protection during final summit $ 10 per trip
  •  Light trekking gloves $ 10 per trip
  •  Gaiters for protection against dust and snow – $10 per trip
  •  Water proof hiking boots $ 25 per trip • Rain poncho a water proof covering for your backpack $15 per trip
  • Duffel Bag for your belong which will be carried by your porters $ 25 per trip
  • Gloves designed for 15c for the ascent to the summit $ 10 per trip
  •  Wind breaker jacket for the final Jacket $ 10 per trip

Please note prices are for your orientation only.

Are oxygen cans included in Kilimanjaro climbs?

Please note oxygen cans are not included in the price of Kilimanjaro tour. If you wish to have it, oxygen cans can be rented for additional cost, but let us know upon booking.

I have usual travel/ health insurance. Do I need additional insurance, like evacuation insurance for Kilimanjaro climb?

All clients must have travel and health insurance in order to go on the climbing tour. Additional emergency and evacuation insurance is not included in the price. You can buy and pay online AMREF Flying Doctors emergency evacuation plans online on http://www.flydoc.org

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Is there network signal on the way to Kilimanjaro and on the Uhuru peak?

Yes there is network available on the way to Kilimanjaro specially at the campsites and huts while on the Uhuru peak there is no network. Signal all the way is weak and the best network provider is Vodacom when the signal works or Kenyan Safaricom.

How much time will I spend on the Kilimanjaro Uhuru summit?

Note the air is thin here, the usual time clients spend on the Uhuru peak is between 15 to maximum 30 minutes. It also depends on the weather conditions. You can read more  here: how it looks like to climb Kilimanjaro

Ready to summit Kilimanjaro soon?  Check Kilimanjaro Trekking online!

What can I do to reduce potential attitude sickness?

The best way to reduce attitude sickness is walking with your pace (Polepole which means easy) and follow the guide instructions when and where to take a break, eat and also drink as much water as you can – minimum of 3 litres a  day.

What happens in the event of emergency?

There is a special medical crew run by Kilimanjaro National park, they will assist in emergency situations and if required they will take you to the nearest Hospital.

Should I bring extra cash and why?

You should have some cash with you for the tips and any other personal expenditure prior to the park.

What is expected tip for the Kilimanjaro crew?

  • Expected TIP to Kilimanjaro guide per day in USD – $20.00
  • Expected TIP to KILIMANJARO ASSISTANT GUIDE per day in USD – $15.00
  • Expected TIP to Kilimanjaro COOK per day in USD – $12.00
  • Expected TIP to Kilimanjaro WAITER per day in USD – $10.00
  • Expected TIP to Kilimanjaro Porters per day in USD – $10.00

How many crew members are on Kilimanjaro climb?

The size of Kilimanjaro crew depends on how many people in the group. For one person climbing, usually a 6 team members are taking care of:

  • 1 Chief mountain guide
  • 1 cook
  • 1 waiter
  • 1 tent person
  • 2 porters

The size of crew is growing accordingly with the number of people on tour, two clients get additionally to above 1 assistant guide and 4 porters, while crew members for three climbers totals in 12 crew members, the bigger the group the  more assistant guides, waiters, cooks, porters and tent people etc.