Question 1

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

Accepted Answer

It is possible to climb Mount Kilimanjaro all year round; however the months outside of the rainy seasons are more desirable. The best months are from December to March, and July to October. The finest weather is usually at the beginning of the year from January to March, which are typically the warmest and driest months of the year.

Question 2

Which is the best route for me?

Accepted Answer

There are six routes used to climb Kilimanjaro and one for descent only (Mweka route), each has its own characteristics and offers a different perspective and challenge. The longer the route the better acclimitizaion and chance of summit.
 
While some routes such as Marangu and Umbwe can be done in 5 days, most people prefer Machame or Lemosho, which as a result can also be more crowded.
 
The other three routes which are Shira, Lemosho and Rongai are less used routes but having beautiful scenic as you trek.
 
Lemosho and Shira routes approach Kibo from the West while Rongai route approaches from the North near Kenya. These three routes can be completed in 6-8 days and allows a chance to have acclimatization which increases chance of reaching the Uhuru Peak.

Question 3

How fit do I need to be to climb Kilimanjaro?

Accepted Answer

Most people will tell you that mental strength is almost as important as physical strength.  The mountain is not technical and the slopes are generally slow and gradual.  The slower the pace the better chance of acclimitization.  Most people of average active levels accomplish this trek successfully.  As always consult your medical professional for advice.

Question 4

How far will I climb each day?

Accepted Answer

On average you will walk between 3 and 6 miles per day, apart from the summit night when you will walk up to 15 miles. You will usually start your days trekking around 8 a.m and walk for between 4 and 8 hours per day (longer on summit night).

Question 5

What clothing and equipment will I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

You do not require any technical equipment on Mount Kilimanjaro; however you will experience changing weather conditions and be exposed to temperatures ranging from +30 degrees to -25 degrees, so it's important to prepare accordingly including a weather rated sleeping bag.
 
There is a limit to the weight that the porters can carry and your bag must be a maximum of 20Kg. You will also have a rucksack that will contain your basic kit for a days walking.
 
We will send you a detailed packing list, any items you do not have or wish to purchase can easily be hired here locally.  These items are excellent quality all imported from Europe, N America and Australia with lots of sizes and options to choose from.

Question 6

What are meals like on the mountain?

Accepted Answer

You will be provided with 3 delicious meals a day and various snacks to keep your energy levels high.  We always get raving feedback from clients on how amazed they are what can be prepared.  Delicous hot meals and soups to keep you warm and hydrated.  Everything is stored and cleaned properly and a resupply of fresh fruit, veg and meat and sent up throughout your trek.

Question 7

Is the water safe to drink on the mountain?

Accepted Answer

On your first day of waling you will pour bottled water into your reusable water bottle as disponsable water bottles are not allowed on the mountain.
 
While the water on the mountain is prefectly safe to drink, your crew will boil and treat it for you and ensure you have enough for each day's climb.  Staying hydrated is the most important so we ask each climber be prepared with a minimum of 3L of water each day.

Question 8

Will I need travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

We always strongly recommend visitors organize traveler's insurance.  Some policies require you to disclose your climb.  We can offer supplemental medical air evacuation insurance for $20 per person in the event of a extreme and unlikely need.

Question 9

How big will our crew be?

Accepted Answer

The crew consists of a mountain guide, assistant guides, a cook as well as a team of porters.

Normally this means about 3-4 porters per person depending on weight, a cook and guide and assistant guide.

Clients are expected to carry their own day pack.
 
The final number of porters climbing will be determined by the weight being carried for the group.

Question 10

What are tipping best practices?

Accepted Answer

Tipping the crew after a climb is normally part of the experience, particularly as the team tries very hard to make the climb memorable and successful. This is all at the clients’ discretion; however, we suggest that a group tips each crew member individually.
 
Climbers should try and obtain lower denomination notes prior to the climb.
 
Tips should be distributed openly and with explanation. We suggest they are distributed on the evening of the last dinner while on the mountain.
 
Responsible travel industry rates begin at:
Mountain Guide – US$ 10 – 15 per day
Assistant Guide – US$ 6 – 10 per day
Cook – US$ 6 – 10 per day
Porters – US$ 2 -6 per day

A lottery can be held to give the crew other presents such as clothes and equipment. Clients can also donate any unwanted items to porters or leave them with us and we can donate them to the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) on your behalf. This is a project that advocates on the welfare of porters and loans mountain climbing clothing items to porters and mountain crew.

Question 11

How can we support responsible local organizations?

Accepted Answer

Post climb you can complete KPAP’s online Kili Post-Climb Survey, on www.hec.org/club/postclimbsurvey.htm. This survey helps KPAP to independently monitor how porters are treated on climbs and keep companies in check.
 
This is smal grass roots local organization who works dilligently to monitor conditions of the porters on the mountain you can also donate to them online at https://kiliporters.org/donate-now/

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