Kilimanjaro Trekking: Private Guided Kilimanjaro Trekking Tours
Kilimanjaro trekking involves climbing Africa’s highest peak, the world’s tallest freestanding mountain, by choosing one of several distinct routes, with the main challenge being the high altitude. For success and safety, choosing a longer route (7-8 days) that promotes acclimatisation, such as the Lemosho or Machame routes, is crucial. Physical preparation is important, but proper altitude acclimatisation is key, and the best trekking seasons are during the dry months of December to March and June to October.
The majority of climbers seek our classic adventures. The amalgamation of exceptional luxury and stringent safety requirements renders our classic Kilimanjaro hikes pleasurable and unforgettable. This is the most favoured choice among our clientele.
This climbing package encompasses all essentials required for the expedition, including our seasoned mountain teams, premium group gear, and meals crafted by a dietitian. Our safety measures remain consistent throughout all hiking excursions; only guides possessing Wilderness First Responder certification are designated to lead a group. Additional safety precautions comprise an inventory of oxygen cylinders, comprehensive medical kits, and mandatory medical examinations (twice daily).
The advancement of each hiking group is monitored using a GPS gadget. You may disseminate the link to your family and friends, who will be able to observe your development in real-time.
Prior to and following the trip, you will reside in a quality hotel featuring attentive personnel, hot water, dependable Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
Luxury Kilimanjaro Trekking Tours
Luxury Kilimanjaro trekking tours offer higher comfort levels on the mountain, including quality gear, gourmet food, more staff, and potentially features like private bathrooms and hot showers.
Luxury Kilimanjaro Trekking Tours Questions Every Climber Asks. Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro with Kabira Safaris and Tours Africa – the Best Kilimanjaro trekking tour Operator in Tanzania. This page is about the guide on Kilimanjaro trekking including; trekking costs, and guided Kilimanjaro trekking tours – Be delighted to touch the roof of Africa.
The guided Kilimanjaro climbing tours – Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is the highest on the African continent. For many visitors to Africa, climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. The climb takes in muddy rainforests, unique high-altitude plants, and alpine meadows before finally arriving at the glacier-coated summit. Standing tall above the savannahs of East Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro (5,896m/19,343ft) is an icon of Africa.
Africa’s highest mountain is the most challenging to climb with the success rate of reaching the summit at only 60%. The mountain is not only the highest in Africa but also one of the Great “7 summits” mountains on each of the seven continents, and perhaps the highest free-standing mountain in the world. The majestic Mount Kilimanjaro has a great height of about 5895 meters
Guided Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour Packages
We strive to provide you with the best combination of affordable costs and high-quality in our all-inclusive Kilimanjaro climb packages. Although our Kilimanjaro trekking rates aren’t the lowest, we think they’re the greatest.
Also, the lowest operator companies’ Kilimanjaro treks are usually more expensive than you expect them to be when you compare what we provide with theirs. The Kilimanjaro Trekking Services Co.
Below you will see our Kilimanjaro trek rates. For information on private and customised climbs, including pricing, please get in touch with us. You can pay us with any major credit card or bank transfer, and we’re glad to take both US dollars and Euros.
5 Days Marangu Route Climbing
The 5-day Marangu route for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro involves a 5-day itinerary to reach the summit and descend, making it the shortest way to climb the mountain on this route. It includes huts for accommodation, but the condensed schedule offers limited acclimatization time and is more physically demanding. The typical itinerary involves trekking to Mandara Huts, then Horombo Huts, Kibo Hut, the summit of Uhuru Peak, and finally descending back to Marangu Gate.
7 Days Machame Route Climbing
The 7 Days Machame Route, or “Whiskey Route,” is a popular and highly recommended itinerary for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its scenic beauty, varied terrain, and excellent “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization strategy. This route offers a gradual ascent through rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa’s highest point. The 7-day duration provides an extra day for acclimatization, increasing the chances of a safe and successful summit.
7 Days Rongai Route Climbing
The 7 Days Rongai Route is a Kilimanjaro climb known for being less crowded, starting on the northern, drier slopes near Kenya, and offering a gradual, wilderness experience with a higher summit success rate due to an extra acclimatization day at Mawenzi Tarn compared to the 6-day version. Trekkers enjoy unique flora and fauna, cross the alpine desert between Mawenzi and Kibo, and experience the challenging summit night before descending via the Marangu Route.
5 Days Marangu Route Climbing
The 5-day Marangu route for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro involves a 5-day itinerary to reach the summit and descend, making it the shortest way to climb the mountain on this route. It includes huts for accommodation, but the condensed schedule offers limited acclimatization time and is more physically demanding. The typical itinerary involves trekking to Mandara Huts, then Horombo Huts, Kibo Hut, the summit of Uhuru Peak, and finally descending back to Marangu Gate.
7 Days Shira Route Route Climbing
The 7 Days Shira Route is a popular itinerary for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This route begins on the western side of the mountain, high on the Shira Plateau, offering a scenic but challenging start due to the high altitude of the trailhead. The route traverses the plateau and then joins the Southern Circuit, including the famous Barranco Wall, before making its way to the summit at Uhuru Peak. The itinerary culminates with a descent via the Mweka Camp.
8 Days Lemosho Route Climbing
The 8-day Lemosho Route is a popular and scenic trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its high summit success rate due to a gradual ascent and excellent acclimatization over eight days. The route begins on the western side of the mountain, passing through diverse landscapes including rainforests and the Shira Plateau, offering beautiful views and fewer crowds before joining the Southern Circuit for the final ascent to the summit and descent.
6 Days Machame Route Climbing
The 6-day Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is a popular and scenic trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a challenging but rewarding experience with a good “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization profile, varied terrains, and breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau and southern ice fields. The itinerary includes camping in tents, traversing diverse ecological zones from rainforest to alpine desert, and a midnight summit push to Uhuru Peak. While the 6-day option is more challenging than the 7-day itinerary, it is still well-suited for fit individuals with some hiking experience.
6 Days Marangu Route Climbing
The 6 Days Marangu Route is a popular, hut-based trek up Mount Kilimanjaro that offers a comfortable, tent-free experience and a gentle incline through diverse ecological zones, significantly increasing acclimatization and summit success compared to shorter Marangu itineraries. The extended trek includes an extra day for acclimatization at Horombo Hut, providing time for a day hike and further adjustment to the altitude. This 6-day version offers a high success rate for reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro.
7 Days Lemosho Route Climbing
The 7-Day Lemosho Route is a popular, scenic, and relatively gradual ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering better acclimatization and a higher success rate compared to shorter routes. The route begins on the western side of the mountain, passing through lush rainforests, the expansive Shira Plateau, and alpine deserts before merging with the Machame Route to reach the summit at Uhuru Peak. While the initial days are less crowded, the final summit night and the ascent from Barranco to Barafu remain challenging.
How to get to Mount. Kilimanjaro Peak
To reach the Mount Kilimanjaro summit, fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Tanzania, arrange transportation to a nearby hub like Moshi or Arusha, and then embark on a guided trek via one of the mountain’s main routes, such as the popular Machame or Lemosho routes, which typically take 5-9 days. The journey involves a gradual ascent to allow for altitude acclimatization and a final push to the summit, Uhuru Peak.
Step 1: Fly into Tanzania
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): This is the most direct and convenient airport for accessing Mount Kilimanjaro.
Airlines: Many international airlines fly to JRO, often routing through Europe (e.g., KLM, Swiss International Air Lines) or Western Asia (e.g., Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines).
Alternatives: You can also fly into Nairobi, Kenya (NBO), and then take a connection to JRO or travel by road.
Step 2: Reach a Base Town
Moshi or Arusha: After landing at JRO, take pre-arranged transportation or a local bus to Moshi or Arusha, the main towns for Kilimanjaro treks.
Accommodation: You’ll likely need to stay in these towns the night before and after your climb.
What I Wish I Knew Before Climbing Kilimanjaro (What to Expect)
Kilimanjaro’s primary appeal is that it can be ascended without requiring mountaineering expertise. One may serve as a secretary, farmer, tenth-grade student, retiree, or professional runner. Regardless of your identity, no mountain climbing equipment or prior expertise is required to reach the peak of Africa’s highest mountain. Equipped with quality hiking boots and resolve, you can reach the summit.
However, this does not imply that ascending this remarkable natural marvel would be effortless. The ascent is arduous, frequently hindered by challenging weather conditions and irregular terrain, while remaining vulnerable to the elements. We tell you that the sensation of accomplishment and the vista from the summit will justify all the effort expended. In the interim, this is what to anticipate throughout the process.
Can you do a Safari in Kilimanjaro?
A safari to Kilimanjaro is very possible and a must include in your bucket list when planning to visit Tanzania. Kilimanjaro is not only the highest mountain in Africa but it’s also the largest free-standing mountain in the world – rising nearly six vertical kilometres from the surrounding plains – making a Mount Kilimanjaro safari a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Climbing the mountain is truly amazing and very possible.
Climbing Kilimanjaro Cost, Prices
A trek up Kilimanjaro typically costs $2,000 to $7,000+ USD for the tour package itself, but the total cost can reach $5,000 or more, depending on the operator, itinerary, and included services. Key factors influencing cost include the choice of operator (mid-range, or luxury), route length, and services provided, such as meals, equipment, and guide expertise. Important additional costs to factor in are international flights, visas, travel insurance, personal gear, and tips for your crew, which can add hundreds or even thousands to the total price.
Is Climbing Kilimanjaro worth it
Climbing Kilimanjaro is widely considered a worthwhile, breathtaking, and life-changing experience due to its status as one of the “Seven Summits,” spectacular views, diverse scenery, and the sense of accomplishment, but it requires thorough preparation, awareness of risks like altitude sickness, and a substantial financial and time commitment. The decision ultimately depends on individual motivation, physical fitness, and a willingness to embrace the challenges, as some people find the high cost, potential pain, and the mental and physical strain to be significant drawbacks.
Kilimanjaro Packing list
The items you carry for your Kilimanjaro ascent are crucial for your well-being and the overall success of your expedition. We have compiled an exhaustive inventory of items to pack, along with their rationale. Utilise this as a checklist for the planning and packing of your Kilimanjaro expedition.
During a Kilimanjaro ascent, one begins in a warm and humid rainforest and swiftly transitions into an icy realm of glaciers. This necessitates the packing of trekking equipment suitable for various conditions.
Compiling a Kilimanjaro packing list may appear to be an intimidating endeavour. We have simplified the process by creating a comprehensive packing guide for your convenience. If you pack all items on our list, you can be confident that you will be adequately prepared for your Kilimanjaro ascent. Arrange a call with us, and we will assist you with any enquiries you may possess.
What is the safest Kilimanjaro route
The biggest risk comes from conditions related to altitude, so all routes with good acclimatisation profiles are safe.
But the most important thing is how professional your guides are and how well your trip is organised as a whole. At Kilimanjaro Trekking Services Co., all of our guides have a lot of experience, have been trained as Wilderness First Responders, and carry full medical kits and air tanks with them. We have more oxygen systems than every other provider put together. Every day, your hosts will do two health checks and make sure to treat any signs of altitude sickness. They will know how to set up the best first aid and escape plan in case something more serious happens, which is not likely.
Many people have died in rockfalls, which make the Western Breach the only route that is thought to be truly dangerous. As late as October 2023, the Kilimanjaro Trekking Services Co. team found the body of a climber who had died while trying to complete this route alone or with a different guide. Because of this, we highly advise most trekkers not to attempt the Western Breach.
Which Kilimanjaro routes should beginners avoid
Budget trip operators often advertise the 5-day Marangu route and the 6-day Machame route as the best ways to see Kilimanjaro. These changes to the routes need fewer climbers and supplies, and the park fees are also cheaper. Because of this, they can be sold at lower prices, which many people like.
Getting used to these routes, on the other hand, is going to be very hard. Both skip an important day in the middle of the trip that is needed to get used to higher elevations over time. As a result, hikers reach higher peaks without having enough time to rest and get used to the altitude.
Which is the Best Climbing Kilimanjaro Routes
To choose the perfect Kilimanjaro route, consider your fitness level, trekking experience, time available, and desired scenery and success rate. For beginners or those seeking comfort, Marangu or Rongai are good options, with Rongai also recommended for rainy seasons. For a balanced challenge with beautiful views, consider Machame or Lemosho. For the highest summit success rates, choose the longer Northern Circuit or Lemosho routes. The Umbwe route is for experienced climbers seeking the ultimate challenge.
Are you looking for the smoothest acclimatisation profile and the highest success rate
That being said, the Lemosho 7- and 8-day routes might be the best way for you to climb Kilimanjaro. Still, as we already said, 7-day plans on most routes would be good for getting used to the altitude and have a high success rate.
Best routes for summit success rate and acclimatisation:
Kilimanjaro Base Camp and Campsites by Route
Camps on Kilimanjaro are established resting points at different elevations along various trekking routes, with common camps including Machame Camp, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, and Barafu Camp on the popular Machame Route, and Mweka Camp as a final descent point. High-altitude camps like Kibo Hut, School Huts Camp, Kosovo Camp, and Crater Camp are used closer to the summit for acclimatization and the summit attempt. Camp facilities typically include tents for sleeping, dining domes, and facilities for staff and porters.
Do you want to sleep in tents or huts
Are you excited to get a good night’s sleep outside? Or would you rather have the safety and protection of a hut? The Marangu is the only route with huts that are set up like dorms. If that’s what makes Marangu the best choice for you, then you’ve already made up your mind!
You might not think it would be easy to sleep in a tent, but it is. Our custom-made Kabira Safaris tents are made to keep you warm, comfortable and dry, so you can sleep well in the mountains. Thousands of customers tell us every year that sleeping in a cosy four-season sleeping bag on top of a thick cushion makes them feel good.
Tents are also a great way to get closer to nature, while huts can get crowded at times. There are big dining tents and toilet/shower tents at Kabira camps on Mount Kilimanjaro. If you book a private portable toilet/shower, there are also toilet/shower tents.
Routes that offer hut accommodation:
Routes that offer comfortable tents:
How to Acclimatise Safely on Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro has something for everyone, from experienced hikers to those who have never been before. Trekkers who are used to higher elevations may want to look at Machame 6 or Umbwe 6 as shorter, 5–6 day route. These routes require a stronger base and a well-thought-out plan for getting used to the altitude, but experienced climbers will enjoy the faster pace and variety of scenery.
Best routes for beginners:
Routes for trekkers with experience and/or prior acclimatization:
Are you planning to climb Kilimanjaro during the rainy season
Do you want to climb Kilimanjaro when it’s raining? Then Rongai and Marangu are great choices. It doesn’t rain as much in the north of Rongai, and the huts in Marangu are safe and comfortable. Choose your adventure, bring rain gear, and get ready for an amazing trip up Kilimanjaro!
Best Kilimanjaro routes for the rainy seasons:
Breathtaking View From Kilimanjaro
Want to see all of Kilimanjaro’s beauty? Think about the Shira route, the Machame route, or the Umbwe route. The western and southern trails go through all climate zones, so you can see how beautiful it is when the landscape changes from lush rain forests to famous glaciers. Unique plants, such as Kilimanjaro Giant Groundsels, and a wide range of scenery can only be found on that side of Mount Kilimanjaro. Kilimanjaro’s southern slopes get a lot more rain than its northern slopes, which means that there is a wider range of plants there. This is a big part of the reason these roads are more beautiful.
Rongai and the Northern Circuit, which are in the north, don’t have as much beautiful scenery.
It is important to remember that Marangu is different from other ways because the route goes up and down the mountain is the same. Even though this feature gives you beautiful views, it may limit the variety of scenery you see. In addition, the shared route makes Marangu more crowded because groups going up and down meet along the way.
Most scenic routes:
How much time and funds are available for your trip
You might want to choose a shorter route like Machame 6 or Marangu 5 if you are short on time and want to save money. But keep in mind that quicker routes are much harder and have lower success rates for reaching the top. Because of this, we highly suggest that you look at 7-day plans if you haven’t done much trekking or acclimatisation before.
We also have special luxury trips that are even more comfortable and have better service in every way. The premium plan includes stays in fancy hotels before and after the climb, large walk-in tents, gourmet meals with lots of choices, bottled water, camping beds, high-quality sleeping bags, portable toilets, satellite phones, and a bigger climbing crew. Get in touch with our Kilimanjaro pros if you want to know more.
If you are good enough to have a long vacation, you might want to add a wildlife safari to your Kilimanjaro trip. On the other hand, you could spend a few days on Zanzibar or one of the other beautiful Indian Ocean islands. In this way, you can fully enjoy everything that the amazing country of Tanzania has to offer!
Do you want to include unique experiences like camping in the crater
If you want a truly unique Kilimanjaro climbing experience, think about sleeping in a crater. The 9–10-day plans that Kilimanjaro Trekking Services Co. offers include the amazing chance to camp in the crater of Kibo, which is the highest of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanoes. Picture spending the night in a 5750-meter-deep hole formed by an old volcano, with the Milky Way shining brightly above you. Every year, less than 100 travellers out of more than 40,000 get to do that. A trip that includes camping in a crater usually lasts between 9 and 10 days. Our professionals will be happy to help you plan a trip that fits your needs.
Routes to climb Kilimanjaro that can include crater camping:
Are you interested in extreme sports like paragliding, technical climbing, or mountain biking
Mount Kilimanjaro is appealing not only to hikers but also to people who like extreme sports. You can now go on a special expedition along the Kilema route if you like mountain riding. This is a one-of-a-kind mountain bike trail on Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest freestanding mountain!
You can fly over the “roof of Africa” in a glider, climb tricky peaks like Mawenzi, or hold a big sports event on the mountain. Just let us know what you want. The Kilimanjaro Trekking Services Co. was hired by Red Bull, Wings of Kilimanjaro, Nimsdai, and many others to put together a number of high-profile events. In this case, the route chosen is different for each job.
