When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
Kilimanjaro is best climbed when the weather is dry. There are two rainy seasons in Tanzania, the long rainy season is from mid-March to early June. The short rainy season is from November to early December. Therefore, the best times to climb Kilimanjaro are mid-December to early-March, and mid-June to end of October.
If I climb during the dry season, do I need rain gear?
Most probably, it can rain and snow all year round. The base of the mountain is in the rainforest. A quality waterproof jacket and pants is an absolute must.
How cold does it get on the mountain?
In general, expect to sleep in temperatures as low as 20F (-6.667°C) and to hike in temperatures as low as -20F (-28.89°C). It can be even colder therefor get prepared to be on the safe side!
What is the best way to increase my chance of making it to the top, during the trip?
Avoiding altitude sickness is key. Do this by walking slowly. Drink lots of water and eat enough food. Go on all optional acclimatization hikes. Consider taking Diamox if needed. Also prevent other illnesses by disinfecting your hands after every time you use the bathroom and before any meals.
What gear do I need for my climb?
There is a variety of technical clothing and equipment you will need for your climb. A detailed gear list is; a) A light rain coat. b) Cross trainers. C) Shorts & T-shirts. D) Sun hat. E) Woolen beanie. F) Stockings G) A water bottle F) Summit gear & equipment’s H) Study leather or Thermal boots. I) Ventex or Gortex jacket & pants. J) Fleece pants. K) 2/3 pair Gortex gloves L) Long jones. O) UV-sunglasses & head torch. P) Thermal flask. Q) Rack sack/duffel bag. R) A 10 rated sleeping bag. S) A sleeping matt. T) Towel &wash cloth U) Tooth /paste & brush. V) Hair brush/ comb & soap. W) Cameras & film and extra batteries/chargers.
How much of my gear can my porter carry for me?
The weight limit is 20 Kgs per porter including his own. The sleeping bag is included in the limit. Porters will carry your duffel bag in a waterproof bag.
How much should my day pack weigh?
Try to keep it under 10 Kgs to avoid loss of energy as you climb.
How should I dress for Kilimanjaro?
You should follow the layering principle when you dress. Layering is a systematic, logical approach to wearing multiple layers of clothing. The layers you will have should be, base layer, mid layer, and outer shell.
How do I use the bathroom on the mountain?
At each campsite, we set up a private toilet tent, which contains a plastic toilet. Each campsite also has public "long drop" toilets. If you need to use the bathroom on the trail, find a spot behind a tree or rock. We recommend bringing pee bottles so that you do not have to leave your tent multiple times during the night to urinate.
How do I shower on the mountain?
You don't. You can use wet wipes if you like to towel off. We also provide wash bins with soap for you to wash your hands and face.
What safety measures are taken by the staff?
Our guides are highly experienced to manage altitude sickness, which is the biggest obstacle on the mountain. They are certified Wilderness First Responders. They conduct twice daily health checks to measure your oxygen saturation and pulse. A rescue plan is in place in the event of an emergency. Bottled oxygen, a portable stretcher, and a first aid kit is carried on every climb.
What happens if someone in my group needs to descend? Does the entire party also have to descend?
No. We bring multiple guides on every climb so that when a climber needs to descend, it does not affect the rest of the party.
If I have to descend early, are the additional nights at the hotel covered?
Additional hotel stays are not covered and must be paid as extras.
What do I need to enter Tanzania?
You will need a passport that is valid for at least six more months. You will also need a flight card which you will receive on the plane. Finally, you need a Tanzanian visa and yellow fever Immunization certificate.
Can I obtain my visa at the airport?
USA, Canadian, British and most European citizens can obtain their visas upon arrival at Kilimanjaro National Airport. The cost is $100 for USA passport holders and $50 for others. If you are a citizen of a different country, please check with your embassy whether you can obtain a visa upon arrival.