Is the thought of planning a Kilimanjaro climb seem exhausting?
It’s not as hard as it may seem. Below we outline 7 easy steps to climbing Kilimanjaro.
Step 1 – Choose a time of year to go
Step 2 – Choose a route
Step 3 – Book a climb
Step 4 – Book a flight
Step 5 – Prepare for your climb
Step 6 – Travel to Tanzania
Step 7 – Climb Kilimanjaro
STEP 1: Choose the Time to Go
BEST
- January
- February
- July
- August
- September
- October
GOOD
- June
- December
The best months to visit are during Tanzania’s dry seasons. Climbing during these times mean you have the best weather and ideal trekking conditions. Shoulder seasons are possible options if you don’t mind some rain and snow. The rainy seasons should be avoided.
OK
- March
BAD
- April
- May
- November
STEP 2: Choose a Route
There are six main climbing routes on Kilimanjaro. However, we specialize on the camping routes of Lemosho, Northern Circuit, Machame and Rongai. We offer both group climbs and private climbs.
Private or Group Climb Routes
10-Day Lemosho Private or Group
9-Day Machame Private or Group
11-Day Northern Circuit Private or Group
8-Day Rongai Private or Group
SUMMIT SUCCESS RATE
The success rate greatly depends on your ability to acclimate to the high altitude. Spending more days on the mountain gives your body more time to get used to the low oxygen environment. We recommend the longer routes for the best chance of reaching the summit.
STEP 3: Book a Climb
Once you’ve chosen your dates and route, submit a booking form request and we will send a detailed itinerary and quote. Complete the form and send it to us to confirm your spots.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
- The price depends on the route, number of people on your trip, and whether it is a group or private climb.
- Airfare from the United States ranges from $1,500-$3,000 depending on the time of year, location, and airlines.
- Tipping is customary for the mountain staff. Budget approximately $300 per person.
- A Tanzanian Visa is $100 for US citizens and $50 for European citizens.
STEP 4: Book a Flight
Once you receive a trip confirmation email, you can book your flights.
From the USA
- Fly KLM/Delta to Amsterdam to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- Fly Ethiopian Air from Washington D.C. to Addis Abada to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
From Europe
- Fly KLM to Amsterdam to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- See more options here
STEP 5: Prepare to Climb Kilimanjaro
- Gather your gear; follow our packing list
- Train for your climb for 8-12 weeks
- Obtain a valid passport and Tanzanian visa
- Get the recommended vaccinations and prescription medicines
- Purchase travel insurance
STEP 6: Travel to Tanzania
- Plan for possible flight delays and lost or delayed luggage
- Carry on your important gear
- Arrive a day early to get over jet lag
- Rest and recover from the long flight
- Attend trip briefing
- Participate in pre-climb health check
STEP 7: Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
- Hike at a slow pace
- Drink 4-5 liters of water a day
- Eat even if you are not hungry
- Protect yourself from the sun, rain and cold
- Listen to the guides
- If you feel very sick, it’s time to turn around
- Enjoy the journey
