Safari in Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro is waiting for you
Fulfill your dream of climbing Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest point and the highest free-standing mountain in the world at an impressive 5,895 meters above sea level.
Located in northern Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is a majestic peak that stands as Africa’s tallest mountain. Its towering presence, with snow-capped summits and diverse ecosystems, makes it a remarkable destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. Kilimanjaro offers a unique blend of challenges and breathtaking views, attracting visitors from around the world. Whether you’re aiming to summit or enjoy its surrounding landscapes, Mount Kilimanjaro pairs perfectly with a variety of safari adventures across East Africa.
When is the best time to go?
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Getting There
Kilimanjaro, with its size and high altitude, stretches through several climate zones due to the great variation in altitude on the mountain. This means that the vegetation and climate fluctuate between tropical savanna, rainforest and heathland, before transitioning to alpine desert and glacial landscape.
- Temperature
Since most of the climb takes place at high altitude, it can get really cold with temperatures as low as -25 degrees Celsius. When the sun is out, however, it can get very warm, up to 25 degrees Celsius. The temperature can vary greatly during the same day on the mountain, depending on the weather.
- Rainfall
From January to March, the sun is often out in the morning and afternoon. June to August usually offers clearer and cooler weather. September and October can be milder, creating cloud cover below the tree line, but with clear visibility at higher elevations. During November and December, the weather can vary.
Kilimanjaro trips
Explore the majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro, where towering peaks meet diverse landscapes and a sense of adventure. From challenging treks to breathtaking views at the summit, every step offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Our Best Kilimanjaro Tips
Imagine after days of hiking, finally seeing the sunrise over the horizon, with the crater rim of Kilimanjaro within reach. The feeling of standing at the summit, looking out over the clouds, and breathing in the fresh air at Africa’s highest point is something you’ll never forget. Climbing Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable adventure, and sharing this experience with loved ones and the expert guides who help you along the way makes it even more special.
The Machame Route: Pole Pole on the Way to the Summit
“Pole Pole,” meaning “slow, slow” in Swahili, is the pace you’ll follow during your Kilimanjaro trek. The Machame Route, which we highly recommend, is a seven-day journey that gives you extra time to acclimatize. Starting at Machame Gate (1,800 meters above sea level), you’ll gradually increase altitude each day. The key phrase on Kilimanjaro is “Walk high, sleep low,” helping your body adjust to the elevation as you make your way to the summit.
After the Hike in Zanzibar
After an intense week on the mountain, you might want to unwind and recharge. We recommend extending your trip with a few days on the stunning island of Zanzibar. Relax on white-sand beaches, enjoy the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in delicious food and drinks. Many of our recommended accommodations also offer spa services—perfect for a massage after conquering Africa’s highest peak.
Zanzibar also offers plenty of activities if you feel like exploring more—try a spice safari, go snorkeling, or visit the historic Stone Town to learn about the island’s rich culture and heritage.
Safari: The Complete Africa Experience
If you’re still craving more adventure after your Kilimanjaro climb, consider adding a few days on safari. Going on safari is an incredible experience, offering the chance to see wild animals in their natural habitat. We recommend visiting Tarangire National Park, known for its stunning scenery, large elephant herds, and iconic baobab trees—perfect for an unforgettable safari experience.
What is the Cheapest Way to Climb Kilimanjaro?
Climbing Kilimanjaro does come with a cost since Tanzanian authorities require climbers to have a guide and an organized tour. However, there are ways to save:
Choose a shorter route: Opting for a shorter route, like the Marangu Route, can lower your costs.
Join a group trip: Group trips are a great way to reduce costs while also meeting other adventure enthusiasts. Check out our group trips here.
Travel during the low season: Visiting during less popular times can often reduce costs while still offering favorable weather conditions.
Reach out to us for more details on affordable Kilimanjaro trips!
Hiking routes on Kilimanjaro
The Machame route
The Machame route is one of the most popular routes on Kilimanjaro. This is because there is a good chance of acclimatization during the hike, which increases the chances of reaching the summit.
The hike is steep and tough with long days. To embark on the Machamerutten you should be adventurous and in good physical shape. Since the hike is up and down a lot, the natural acclimatization to the altitude is good. Six days is the minimum for the Machamerutten but we recommend seven days for the best possible acclimatization which reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
On day three, you go to Lava Tower at 4,600 meters above sea level to see how the altitude affects you. Then you go back down to the campsite at a lower altitude – walk high and sleep low is the method to apply when climbing high mountains.
The Machamer route boasts scenic views and beautiful, varied landscapes. You often walk above the clouds with a fantastic view of its little sister Mount Meru outside Arusha. With each passing day you also see Uhuru Peak approaching.
The Marangu route
The Rongia Route is the only route that ascends Kilimanjaro along the mountain’s northeastern slopes, near the border with Kenya. The Rongia Route is one of the least used routes, meaning you will see few other tourists on the way up.
The route is a good option for those who climb the mountain during the rainy season, as the northern side of the mountain generally sees less rainfall. On the way down Kilimanjaro, you take the Marangurutte. You need at least six days to complete the entire stage, but seven days are recommended for the Rongia route. An extra day allows you to take shorter hikes up, and then go back down to the campsite, which is good for acclimatization to higher altitudes.
The climb is very gradual all the way up, with a relatively gentle gradient. The really steep sections don’t come until you reach the summit area. The north side of Kilimanjaro lacks the variety that the treks in the west offer. Here you get more privacy and a wilderness feel.
The Rongai route
Paje and Jambiani are located on the east coast and offer a lovely mix of local traditions and foreigners who have settled in the village, giving the area its own unique charm and character.
This area is home to several of our lovely budget-friendly hotels.
Many of our excursions start in Jambiani, so there is plenty of fun to do here if you need a break from the sun and swimming. Like the rest of Zanzibar’s east coast, this part of the island is affected by large differences between high and low tides.
Jambiani and Paje offer a great balance between relaxation and adventure. Whether you want to enjoy beautiful beaches, explore local culture or participate in water sports, this village has something for everyone. It is a destination that allows you to experience the genuine charm and natural beauty of Zanzibar.
The Lemosho route
The Lemosho Route runs slowly from the western ridge of Kilimanjaro. The route is one of the newer ones, and also one of the more beautiful. At first you will meet few other mountaineers and the hike is relatively undisturbed. But after a while the Lemosho Route merges with the Machamer Route and when the routes meet there are significantly more hikers and porters on the trail.
Six days is the minimum, but the recommended climb via Lemosho is eight days. This makes the Lemosho route one of the longer routes up Kilimanjaro. However, when it comes to acclimatization to the altitude, this is only a positive. Like the Machame route, you pass Lava Tower at around 4600 meters to see how you handle the altitude.
Northern Circuit
The Northern Circuit is one of the less visited hiking trails up Kilimanjaro. It starts from Machamegate and follows the same path as the Machame Route initially. After Lava Tower, day three, the trails split and the Northern Circuit continues west around the mountain to get around and finally climb the peak from the north side of the mountain.
The recommended number of days on the Northern Circuit is eight days, making it one of the longest routes on Kilimanjaro.
By walking slowly every day, drinking plenty of water, and walking high and sleeping low, the chances of reaching the summit increase as the body is given a better chance to acclimatize to the high altitude.
On that trail there is the possibility of sleeping in small “huts” on some days, but most commonly it is with tents.
Information about Kilimanjaro
Food on Kilimanjaro
During your days on Kilimanjaro, breakfast, lunch and dinner are included – along with water, coffee, tea and hot chocolate. In addition to food and drinks, we recommend that you bring your own snacks to eat during the hike or when resting in the tent. These can include sweets, energy bars and powdered energy/sports drinks.
You get the water from the mountain’s various springs and it is made drinkable with purification tablets. You can only get water at the campsites, so it is important to make sure to carry enough with you when you hike. The recommended amount is three liters per day.
A chef who prepares your meals will accompany you throughout the hike. At high altitudes, your appetite may decrease, but it is important to eat properly throughout the hike. Cooked, good food at every meal should therefore not be underestimated. The food that you eat on the mountain, and is included, contains easily digestible carbohydrates with a lot of energy. The primary carbohydrates of the meals are potatoes, rice and pasta. Meat can be served, but not in large quantities because it is not particularly easy to digest at high altitudes.
If you have special dietary requirements in the form of allergies, gluten-free, lactose-free, vegan/vegetarian, etc., it is important to notify us. The food will be adapted to your needs as best as possible. However, please note that not all food is available in Tanzania. In such cases, you may have to bring something specific from home, which the chef will then cook for you.
Accommodation on Kilimanjaro
Those who climb Kilimanjaro via the Marangurutten will stay overnight in huts along the way. For the other routes, namely Machame, Lemosho, Northern Circuit and Rongai, the overnight stay will be in three-person tents. You will sleep in nice, fresh, modern tents. For treks where you will be camping, you do not need to be out as far in advance to book as you do if you want a place in a hut. You can therefore be more spontaneous with your travel booking. But with this said, it is always good to be out in good time so that you have time to check vaccinations, have time to train a little and prepare yourself mentally for the tough challenge.
You don’t have to worry about the quality of the tents, they are warm, waterproof and spacious. The tents are very well constructed to cope with Kilimanjaro’s tough conditions with rainfall, very cold temperatures and an overall extremely variable climate. During a week-long Kilimanjaro trip you can experience all sorts of weather and weather changes. In a three-man tent there is plenty of room for two people plus equipment. You can get both a sleeping mat and a sleeping bag on site in Tanzania or bring your own from home if you prefer.
Equipment on Kilimanjaro
You are responsible for bringing and packing your own equipment when you climb Kilimanjaro, with the exception of tents, food and kitchen equipment, which are provided by the organizer. Porters will carry your heaviest luggage up and down the mountain. Therefore, you should pack in soft bags, such as a large backpack or sports bag. This luggage may not exceed 15 kilos unless very special reasons are stated. In that case, you will be responsible for and pay for an extra porter.
Plastic bags (except zip-lock bags) are now banned in Tanzania. In Kilimanjaro National Park, recyclable plastic bottles are also banned due to littering. Therefore, use other containers for water, such as hydration systems and bottles made of hard plastic, aluminum or stainless steel. You should be able to carry at least three liters of water each day.
Tip
Tipping is customary in Tanzania and is a meaningful way to show appreciation for good service. While tipping is not mandatory, it is expected, especially after a successful Kilimanjaro climb or safari.
Kilimanjaro Climbs: Recommended tip is approximately $350 USD per climber, given to the lead guide after your return to Moshi.
Safari Guide: $10–15 USD per person per day, typically given at the end of your trip.
Accommodation Staff: Most hotels and lodges have a tip box at reception. We suggest $1–5 USD per room per night.
Mountain Safety
Your safety is our top priority. While all our climbs are carefully planned with experienced, certified guides and support teams, it’s important to be prepared.
Guides are trained in first aid and maintain constant communication with our Moshi support team.
If a climber needs to descend early, one of the guides will accompany them. Any additional accommodation expenses are the climber’s responsibility.
Campsites have first aid teams, and Flying Doctors emergency evacuation insurance is included.
All participants must have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
General Safety in Tanzania
In urban areas such as Arusha and Dar es Salaam:
Be vigilant, especially at night.
Avoid walking alone after dark.
Book taxis through hotels or reputable services.
During safaris or at remote camps:
Always notify camp staff or a guard before walking outside the lodge or tent. Wildlife may be nearby.
We plan all our trips with safety in mind and avoid regions under travel advisories.
Kilimanjaro Climate
Kilimanjaro spans five climate zones, ranging from tropical rainforest to arctic summit. Expect:
Rainforest (1,200–2,700 m) – humid and lush
Heath and Moorland (2,700–3,500 m) – cooler with shrubs and unique flora
Alpine Desert (3,500–5,000 m) – dry, cold, and barren
Arctic Summit Zone (5,000 m+) – freezing, often snowy
Temperatures can drop to -25°C (-13°F) near the summit. Weather varies by season:
January–March: Clear mornings, warmer conditions
June–August: Cooler and drier
September–October: Mild with clear skies at altitude
April–May: Heavy rains—best to avoid climbing during this season
Tanzania Climate Overview
Tanzania offers a tropical climate:
Coastal areas: Hot and humid year-round
Highlands: Cooler evenings and mornings
Rainy seasons:
April–May: Long rains – lush landscapes but frequent downpours
November: Short rains – brief afternoon showers
Dry season (July–October) is ideal for safaris and trekking, with cooler nights. December–March tends to be the warmest period.
Your Kilimanjaro Team
Every climber is supported by a professional crew:
Lead guide (certified and highly experienced)
Assistant guides
Chef
Porters
All team members are licensed and trained to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the expedition.
Meals on the Mountain
We provide three hearty meals a day, designed to meet the energy demands of high-altitude trekking.
Sample Daily Menu:
Morning: Wake-up tea or coffee served in your tent
Breakfast: Eggs, sausage, toast, porridge, fruit, coffee, tea
Dinner: Soup starter, main dish (chicken, vegetables, potatoes/rice)
Special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.
Water
On Day 1, each climber receives 3 liters of drinking water.
For the rest of the trek, water is sourced from mountain streams, then boiled and filtered to ensure it is safe to drink.
Hydration is key—drink plenty throughout your climb.
Accommodation
Depending on your route:
Camping Routes: You’ll stay in sturdy three-person tents (shared by two people)
Marangu Route: Features mountain huts
Before and after the trek, you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel in Moshi with amenities for rest and recovery.
Useful Travel Information
Language: Swahili and English are widely spoken.
Time Zone: GMT +3
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); USD is widely accepted (bring smaller denominations).
ATMs are available at major airports and cities like Arusha, Moshi, and Zanzibar.
Many hotels accept credit cards, but remote lodges may have limited connectivity—cash is recommended.
Electricity: Type G sockets (UK-style). In remote areas, charging stations may be limited to specific hours due to generator or solar power use.
Passport Requirements:
Valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates
Minimum of 2 blank pages
Visa: Available on arrival for $50 USD or via Tanzania’s official e-visa portal
Preparations for Climbing Kilimanjaro
Train with hikes and cardio workouts several weeks or months in advance
Practice walking with a backpack on uneven terrain or inclines
Understand that altitude affects everyone differently—even the fit
Being mentally prepared is as important as being physically ready
Zanzibar Infrastructure Tax
If you’re heading to Zanzibar post-climb:
An infrastructure tax of $3–5 USD per person per night applies and is payable directly to your hotel at check-in.
Accommodations in Kilimanjaro
Skilled guides, good food and good tents are incredibly important when climbing Kilimanjaro. When climbing Kilimajaro you can stay in a cabin or in a tent, depending on which route you take. On our trips you wake up at your best, regardless.
Tent Kilimanjaro
Cabins Kilimanjaro
For those who want to know more
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and one of the world’s most iconic trekking destinations. With its snow-capped summit, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable views, Kilimanjaro offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Ready to start planning your own safari experience?
