Frequently Asked Questions

Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, the Marangu route is a classic trek on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the oldest, most well established route. Many favor the Marangu route because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope. It is also the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style accommodations. The minimum days required for this route is five, although the probability of successfully reaching the top in that time period is quite low. Spending an extra acclimatization day on the mountain is highly recommended when climbing Kilimanjaro using the Marangu route.

However, despite its immense popularity, we avoid leading climbs on the Marangu route. The route has the least scenic variety of all the routes because the ascent and descent are done on the same path and it is the most crowded route for that reason. Marangu is favored only during the rainy season, where the hut accommodations are preferred over wet ground, or for those who only have five days to climb Kilimanjaro (which we do not recommend anyhow). Otherwise, the Marangu route is a poor choice.

What Gear Do I Need to Bring?

Technical Clothing

• 1 – Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood
• 1 – Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down
• 1 – Soft Jacket, fleece or soft-shell
• 2 – Long Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
• 1 – Short Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
• 1 – Waterproof Pants, breathable (side-zipper recommended)
• 2 – Hiking Pants (convertible to shorts recommended)
• 1 – Fleece Pants
• 1 – Shorts (optional)
• 1 – Long Underwear (moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
• 3 – Underwear, briefs (moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
• 2 – Sport Bra (women)

Head wear

• 1 – Brimmed Hat, for sun protection
• 1 – Knit Hat, for warmth
• 1 – Balaclava, for face coverage (optional)
• 1 – Bandana (optional)

Hand wear

• 1 – Gloves, warm (waterproof recommended)
• 1 – Glove Liners, thin, synthetic, worn under gloves for added warmth (optional)

Footwear

• 1 – Hiking Boots, warm, waterproof, broken-in, with spare laces
• 1 – Gym Shoes, to wear at camp (optional)
• 3 – Socks, thick, wool or synthetic
• 3 – Sock Liners, tight, thin, synthetic, worn under socks to prevent blisters (optional)
• 1 – Gaiters, waterproof (optional)

Accessories

• 1 – Sunglasses or Goggles
• 1 – Backpack Cover, waterproof (optional)
• 1 – Poncho, during rainy season (optional)
• 1 – Water Bottle (Nalgene, 32 oz. recommended)
• 1 – Water Bladder, Camelbak type (recommended)
• 1 – Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (optional)
• 1 – Pee Bottle, to avoid leaving tent at night (recommended)

Stuff Sacks or Plastic Bags, various sizes, to keep gear dry and separate

Equipment

1 – Sleeping Bag, warm, four seasons 1 – Sleeping Bag Liner, for added warmth (optional) 1 – Trekking Poles (recommended) 1 – Head lamp, with extra batteries 1 – Duffel bag, for porters to carry your equipment 1 – Daypack, for you to carry your personal gear

Other

• Toiletries
• Prescriptions
• Sunscreen
• Lip Balm
• Insect Repellent, containing DEET
• First Aid Kit
• Hand Sanitizer
• Toilet Paper
• Wet Wipes (recommended)
• Snacks, light-weight, high calorie, high energy (optional)
• Pencil and Notebook, miniature, for trip log (optional)
• Camera, with extra batteries (optional)

Paperwork

• Trip Receipt
• Passport
• Visa (available at JRO)
• Immunization Papers
• Insurance Documents

What is the Weather on Kilimanjaro...!?

The short answer is that the temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro range from hot to bitter cold. The journey from the gate to the peak is like traveling from the equator to Antarctica in a matter of days. This is because the routes to the Uhuru peak cross different ecological zones. Mount Kilimanjaro has five major ecological zones, each approximately 3,280 feet (1,000 m) in altitude. Each zone is subject to a corresponding decrease in rainfall, temperature and life as the altitude increases.

Moshi, the gateway town from which our climbs are organized, is located just south of the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. At 2,667 feet (900 m) above sea level, the town is located in the lowest, warmest ecological zone. Average temperature, humidity and precipitation figures for Moshi are reflected in the following table.

as shown, January and February are the warmest months, April and May are the wettest months, June and July are the coolest months, and August and September are the driest months. These generalities about the weather in Moshi hold true for Mount Kilimanjaro as well. Due to its proximity to the equator, Mount Kilimanjaro does not experience wide temperature changes from season to season. Instead, the temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro are determined more so by the altitude and time of day. At the beginning of the climb, at the base of the mountain, the average temperature is around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 27 degrees Celsius). From there, the temperatures will decrease as you move through Mount Kilimanjaro’s ecological zones. At the summit, Uhuru Point, the night time temperatures can range between 20 and -20 degrees Fahrenheit (-7 to -29 degrees Celsius). Due to Mount Kilimanjaro’s great height, the mountain creates its own weather. It is extremely variable and impossible to predict. Therefore, regardless of when you climb, you should always be prepared for wet days and cold nights.

TIPS::

The most common mistake that climbers make is that they over pack and bring way too much gear.

Be selective in what you take with you. Please note that our porters are limited to carrying 33 lbs (15 kg) of your personal belongings. Everything the porters will carry for you between campsites should be placed into the duffel bag, including the sleeping bag, but it is OK to pack the sleeping bag separately if necessary. If you rent a sleeping bag from us, note that the bag weighs 5 lbs 6 oz. and this weight does count against the 33 lb limit. Our porters will place your duffel bag and sleeping bag into a large, sturdy, waterproof bag with a roll-top closure. If you have excess weight, you will be required to hire an additional porter. It is rare to require an extra porter and should happen only in special cases, such as for carrying extensive photography equipment. You are expected to bring everything you need, though we do rent warm sleeping bags and trekking poles on location. All extra luggage, items you will not use on your climb, such safari clothing, gear and equipment, can also be safely stored at the hotel. Checked luggage on airplanes can get lost or delayed on the way to Tanzania. You should prepare for this possibility by wearing or carrying on the items that are essential to your Kilimanjaro climb.

While most clothing, gear and equipment can be replaced in Tanzania prior to your climb, there are some things that you should not replace. Ultimate Kilimanjaro recommends that you wear one complete hiking outfit on the plane, including a long sleeve shirt, hiking pants, underwear, socks, and hiking boots. In your carry on baggage, you should bring your backpack, waterproof jacket and pants, insulated jacket, fleece pants, snacks, toiletries, medications, camera and all paperwork. Airline regulations do not allow you to carry trekking poles on the plane. Make sure you do wear/carry your hiking boots; wearing a different pair of boots on your climb will likely cause blistering. If your baggage is lost or delayed, please notify us immediately upon your arrival so we can assist you in assembling the necessary gear. We will take you to local, independently owned rental gear shops in Moshi. Note that these shops generally carry second-hand items that may not be up to Western standards. Ultimate Kilimanjaro cannot guarantee the fit, quality or functionality of items found in local shops. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to carry on the most important pieces of gear as noted above. We will make reasonable attempts to deliver delayed luggage to you on the mountain. All additional expenses that are incurred by us while resolving lost or delayed luggage problems must be reimbursed locally.

There is virtually zero risk of exposure to Ebola while in Tanzania. As the map illustrates, the outbreak is many thousands of miles away. Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with an infected persons body fluids. Infected people are not contagious during the incubation period, and only become contagious with the onset of symptoms. Therefore people who are most at risk are health care workers and families of infected people, not tourists. While we understand your concern and care for your safety, it is safe to continue with your Kilimanjaro plans until further notice. We will monitor the situation very closely and notify our clients of any changes. If any confirmed cases of Ebola arise in Tanzania, we will allow clients to reschedule their climb without any penalty for up to a full year later. Therefore, you can book with confidence!

Learn more about Ebola

Can you book airfares?

We can help book your international and local flights to Tanzania. Contact us for flight information and prices.

Can I get a visa in Tanzania?

Yes, you can get a visa at major airports and at border crossings, but try to get one ahead of time to make your entry into the country as easy as possible.

Do you customize a tour?

Yes, just let us know what’s in your mind and we will put all together for you!

Can we leave excess luggage behind while on safari or Kilimanjaro?

Extra luggage can be stored in a locked storage room at your Moshi hotel at no charge. Valuables should be left in a safe deposit box at your hotel in Moshi ($1/day)

I am a solo (single) traveler, how can I join your tour?

We can add solo travelers to a group, or we can arrange a private trip for you. Kindly contact us for available group to join.

Do you accommodate people with dietary restrictions?

Vegetarian and other special diets can be accommodated. Please let us know ahead of time. Protein options may be minimal on a vegetarian diet, so you may want to bring protein supplements.

How soon do I have to book your tour?

We recommend booking your trip as soon as possible. Lodges and tented camps on safari are booked quickly, so we need to reserve those before they fill up. However, sometimes we do have space last minute as well.

What immunizations / shots are required?

Talk to your doctor about

• Malaria
• Yellow fever
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus
• Polio
• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
• Meningococcal Meningitis (Africa/Asia)

How much money do I need?

Budget a minimum of $200/person for tips for Kilimanjaro, $25-30/day for expenses and tips on safari, and $20/day for other expenses in Arusha/Moshi.

Do your Tanzania trips include any transfer for those arriving in Nairobi, Kenya?

No, but we can schedule transfer from Nairobi either by land or air for an additional charge.

What is there to do in Moshi? Is it safe to walk around on my own?

It is safe to walk around the main area of town during the day with valuables well hidden, but it not advised to be walk around at night for your own safety.

Can I get to Zanzibar after my safari/trek? Can you arrange that?

We can book your flights to Zanzibar from Kilimanjaro and your Zanzibar hotels.

Can I use a credit card to pay for my trip?

All payment s by wire transfer to our account.

TANZANIA SAFARIS

When is the best time to go?

Tanzania is great to visit any time of year. Most people avoid the rainy months of April, May, and November. Some people like to go during peak migration season.

What is the migration?

The migration in East Africa is world-renowned. Millions of wildebeests participate in the migration through Tanzania and Kenya. Hundreds of thousands of zebra join them. Although lions and other carnivores do not migrate with the grazing animals, they feast on them when their paths cross.

When is the best time to see the migration?

The best time to see the migration in Tanzania is often January-March and June-August. In the Kenya, it is often best September-October. These are also the most popular times to go, so you will need to book well in advance. You will see an abundance of wildlife all year round.

What’s the food like on the safari?

Lodges and tented camps serve breakfast and dinner, typically buffet-style. Lunches are often a box lunch eaten while on your game drive.

What type of vehicles do you provide?

We use 4 or 7 passenger 4-wheel-drive Land Cruisers, all with viewing roofs for the safaris.

Are the guides on safari certified?

They are licensed, trained, friendly, and have years of experience!

Can we buy extra bottles of water along the safari?

You can buy any drinks along your way to the safari. There will be mini-markets in town.

KILIMANJARO CLIMBING

When should I go?

Kilimanjaro is climbable all year round. The best months to climb are December-March, and September-October, which are the warmest and driest months. The next best are June to August, but they are colder. July, August, and September are the busiest months. Summiting on or soon after a full moon is very beautiful and helps illuminate the landscape without using headlamps. However, it is also very bright for sleeping and stars are not as visible.

What is the weather like on Mt. Kilimanjaro?

Temperatures range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius at the foot of the mountain and -15 to -20 degrees Celsius on top plus wind chill. Lower down, it can be wet and humid, but higher up, there can be snow. Rain and snow may be encountered any time of the year

How difficult is it to climb Kilimanjaro?

It requires no technical climbing experience, and any moderately fit person can summit the mountain. However, for most people, it is the most difficult thing they have ever done.

Which route should I take?

Your decision will depend on where you want to sleep and the hiking distance each day and number of days of each route. On the Marangu Route, you sleep in huts with simple beds, while on all the other routes, you sleep in tents. There are two main routes on the mountain: the Marangu and Machame. You may also want to consider the Rongai Route as it is far less traveled. The Lemosho Route is a good choice if you want a longer route (8+ days). None of these routes are technical.

How long does it take to reach the summit?

It will depend on the route you pick and your pace. It can take from 4-8 hours to reach the summit from the high camp.

How do I cope with change of altitude?

Always remember to maintain a slow, steady pace from beginning to end. Going slowly allows the body to acclimatize while hiking. Those who start out too quickly will have troubles higher up the mountain as the body will be overexerted. This still holds true if you are spending and extra day on the mountain. Drink lots of water and get lots of sleep.

What shots should I get?

Talk to your doctor about getting

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Typhoid
• Yellow fever
• Tetanus
• Polio
• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
• Meningococcal Meningitis (Africa/Asia)

Can children climb Kilimanjaro?

The minimum age set by the National park Authorities for summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro is 12 years old. However, younger children can attempt the summit with special permission. Younger children can also trek on the mountain without reaching the summit.

How big will my group be?

Groups are limited to 10 people, but they are typcally around 5 people. We will combine groups up to this limit if they are starting the same route on the same day. However, we can also arrange for private groups at no extra cost. We will try to add single travelers to a group if at all possible, but we cannot guarantee it. We can also accommodate large groups of any size.

How many guides, and porters and cooks do we get?

Expect 1 guide per 2 hikers, 1 assistant guide per 3 hikers, and 1 cook per 8 hikers. Porters as follows:

• 2 porters per hiker on the 5-day Marangu Route and Mt. Meru (minimum of 4 porters)
• 3 porters per hiker on a 6 or 7-day trek (minimum of 5 porters)
• 4 porters per hiker on the 8-day Lemosho Route (minimum of porters)
• Sometimes extra porters are required based on the weight of the luggage.

Are the guides trained in first aid and altitude sickness?

Kilimanjaro guides are trained in acute mountain sickness (AMS) and basic mountain first aid. However, they are not doctors or paramedics. Climbers are responsible for bringing their own first aid kit and medical supplies.

Are the guides licensed / certified?

Kilimanjaro guides are trained and certified by the Kilimanjaro National Park. They start out as porters and work their way up to assistant guide. When they are ready (after about 2-4 years), they go through the national park certification process.

Do guides carry cell phones or radios on the mountain?

Yes, all guides carry cell phones, but reception on the mountain can be spotty.

What kind of tents do you provide?

Our tents are 3-person 4-season dome-style mountain tents, two people each.

Will there be oxygen for our group on the trek?

Oximeters are included on all treks at no charge. Oxygen is available for $30/group.

Will there be a hyperbaric pressure bag for our group?

We can provide hyperbaric bag for $120/group.

What happens if we one of us gets ill and has to return earlier? Is there an extra charge or is our money returned in case of illness or injury?

All climbers pay a rescue fee to the Kilimanjaro National Park (included in the price). If a client cannot walk because they are injured or sick, the guides, assistant guides, and porters will assist this climber down. There is no extra charge for coming down and taken back to the hotel, but you will not get money back for the mountain days you missed, and you will be responsible for medical assistance and extra hotel nights. We highly recommend travel insurance to cover any medical expenses and further evacuation.

What additional costs can I expect when I travel with you?

Extra expenses include:

• Tips for guides and porters
• Rental equipment (sleeping bags, hiking poles, etc.)
• Lunches, dinners and drinks at your hotel in Moshi/Arusha.
• Any personal expenses (visas, airport taxes, etc.).

What kind of accommodation is available during climbing?

On the Marangu Route, the first two huts sleep four people each, and the last hut is dorm-style with bunk beds. While on the other routes, you sleep in 3-person 4-season dome-style mountain tents, two people each.

Do you have luggage (weight/size/number) limitations on your climbs?

The one pack that the porters carry for you is limited to 15 kg (35 pounds). Overweight or extra luggage will require an extra porter at $20/day plus tips.

Who prepares the food on the mountain?

Your trekking party will be supplied with a cook to prepare your meals in a safe and hygienic manner.

What about drinking water?

The porters will purify water for you at each camp.

Can we buy drinking water/ soda on the Kilimanjaro?

You will be able to buy any drinks before getting to the gate at local mini-markets in town. Sometimes there are drinks available at the lower camps, but that service is unreliable and expensive.

Can we bring something for the porters?

Donations are easier to take with you when you travel to Tanzania rather than mailing them after you get back from your trip. Porters welcome old hiking boots, warm clothing, and cash donations.

Is it better to do a safari first….then the trek? Or do the trek first?

Most people start with the trek and end with the safari, so they get done with the hardest part of their trip and are able to relax on their safari. However, we can accommodate either order.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safari Tours..

Tanzania is great to visit any time of year. Most people avoid the rainy months of April, May, and November. Some people like to go during peak migration season.

Can I get a visa in Tanzania? open

Yes, you can get a visa at major airports and at border crossings, but try to get one ahead of time to make your entry into the country as easy as possible

Do you customize a tour?

Yes, just let us know what’s in your mind and we will put all together for you..!

Can we leave excess luggage behind while on safari or Kilimanjaro?

Extra luggage can be stored in a locked storage room at your Moshi hotel at no charge. Valuables should be left in a safe deposit box at your hotel in Moshi ($1/day)

Will I have a chance to interact with the local people of Tanzania?

Feel free to interact with your safari guide and Kilimanjaro guides and porters! There are other unique ways to meet local people.

• -Visit the outdoor markets in Moshi and Arusha
• -Donate or volunteer to local school, orphanage, or non-profit in Tanzania.
• -Visit a Maasai village
• -Visit the Bushman tribe at Lake Eyasi

I am a solo (single) traveler, how can I join your tour?

We can add solo travelers to a group, or we can arrange a private trip for you.

Do you accommodate people with dietary restrictions?

Vegetarian and other special diets can be accommodated. Please let us know ahead of time. Protein options may be minimal on a vegetarian diet, so you may want to bring protein supplements.

How soon do I have to book your tour?

We recommend booking your trip as soon as possible. Lodges and tented camps on safari are booked quickly, so we need to reserve those before they fill up. However, sometimes we do have space last minute as well.

What immunizations / shots are required?

• Talk to your doctor about Malaria
• Yellow fever
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus
• Polio
• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
• Meningococcal Meningitis (Africa/Asia)

How much money do I need?

Budget a minimum of $200/person for tips for Kilimanjaro, $25-30/day for expenses and tips on safari, and $20/day for other expenses in Moshi.

Do your Tanzania trips include any transfer for those arriving in Nairobi, Kenya?

No, but we can schedule transfer from Nairobi either by land or air for an additional charge.

What is there to do in Moshi? Is it safe to walk around on my own?

It is safe to walk around the main area of town during the day with valuables well hidden, but it not advised to be walk around at night for your own safety.

Can I get to Zanzibar after my safari/trek? Can you arrange that?

We can book your flights to Zanzibar from Kilimanjaro and your Zanzibar hotels.

What is the migration?

The migration in East Africa is world-renowned. Millions of wildebeests participate in the migration through Tanzania and Kenya. Hundreds of thousands of zebra join them. Although lions and other carnivores do not migrate with the grazing animals, they feast on them when their paths cross.

When is the best time to see the migration?

The best time to see the migration in Tanzania is often January-March and June-August. In the Kenya, it is often best September-October. These are also the most popular times to go, so you will need to book well in advance. You will see an abundance of wildlife all year round.

What’s the food like on the safari?

Lodges and tented camps serve breakfast and dinner, typically buffet-style. Lunches are often a box lunch eaten while on your game drive.

What type of vehicles do you provide?

We use 4 or 7 passenger, 4-wheel-drive Land Cruisers, all with viewing roofs for the safaris.

Are the guides on safari certified?

They are licensed, trained, friendly, and have years of experience!

Can we buy extra bottles of water along the safari?

You can buy any drinks along your way to the safari. There will be mini-markets in town.

Summary Facts for Tanzania

• Capital City: Dodoma
• Total Area: 943,000 sq km.
• Population: 40 million people
• Languages : English and Swahili.
• Religions: Christians 40% to 45%, Moslems 35% to 40%, traditional beliefs are also important.
• Government: Republic.
• Independence Date: 9th of December 1961.
• Agriculture: Coffee, Tea, Cotton, sisal, cloves.
• Climate: Tropical

The United Republic of Tanzania is a nation in central East Africa bordered by Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, and Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique to the south. The country’s eastern borders lie on the Indian Ocean. The United Republic of Tanzania is a unitary republic composed of 26 mikoa (regions). The current head of state is President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, elected in 2005. Since 1996, the official capital of Tanzania has been Dodoma, where parliament and some government offices are located. Between independence and 1996 the major coastal city of Dar es Salaam had been the country’s political capital. Today Dar es Salaam remains the principal commercial city of Tanzania and the de-facto seat of most government institutions. It is the major seaport for the country and its landlocked neighbours. The name Tanzania is a portmanteau of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. The two states united in 1964 to form the United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, which later the same year was renamed the United Republic of Tanzania.

Credit cards

Credit cards are only accepted by the major airline companies and by most of the bigger hotels and lodges. Do not rely on credit cards as a source of cash while in Tanzania. In some cases a surcharge will be added to credit card payments. We suggest that you take sufficient cash and use the credit card as a back-up only. Travellers checks are accepted at most banks and some hotels, however a surcharge normally apply to exchange travellers checks into cash. Please note many shops / hotels don’t accept travellers checks.

Climate

There are two seasons of rain in Tanzania: the long rainy period (monsoon) which runs from late March until June and a short rainy period, which runs from November until mid January. The long rains fall in heavy downpours, often accompanied by violent storms. The short rains tend to be much less severe.

Currency

The Tanzanian Shilling is the local currency, but travellers checks and cash in US$ are recommended. The current exchange rate is approximately Tsh 1500 = US$ 1. It is possible to change foreign currency at any Bureaux de Chance, which generally gives better rates than hotels and most banks. If you bring US $ cash or receive US $, please make sure the bank notes are in good condition with no cuts or damage and that the bank notes are not older than 2004. Make use of the currency converter to check the exchange rate.

Duty free

The following is duty free:

• 250g of tobacco
• 50 cigars
• 200 cigarettes
• One litre of wine
• 0.25 litres of perfume

Electricity

The local electricity supply is 220 volts, 50 cycles ac. You will need to supply your own international standard adapter for your electrical appliances.

About Malaria

Malaria occurs below 1800 meters and you should use the recommended prophylactics. Please consult your doctor about these. Woman using oral contraceptives should consult their physicians before using prophylactics. The best way to prevent contracting Malaria is to try and avoid mosquito bites by using an effect insect repellent, by sleeping under mosquito nets and to wear proper clothing after sunset. Meningitis can be present during the dry seasons.

Recommended Immunisations

As a sensible precaution we recommend that you consider getting at least some of the following recommended immunisations:

• Hepatitis A & B
• Typhoid
• Cholera
• Tetanus (lockjaw)

Please check with your local travel clinic for the latest recommendations.

Immigration & customs

An onward ticket and sufficient funds are required when entering Tanzania. Tanzanian people are friendly and will always offer a helping hand.

Insurance

It is strongly advised to take out travel insurance which should cover baggage as well as personal accident and medical insurance and specifically covering your Kilimanjaro expedition.

Language

The official languages are Ki-Swahili and English. There are more than 120 tribal vernaculars.

Religion

Mainly Christian, Muslim and Traditional beliefs. Please keep in mind that you are entering a different country with strong religious customs.

Security

As with any other town, walking alone at night is not advisable, and it is preferable to use taxis which are available at most hotels. Do not leave cash or valuables in your hotel room and use a safe deposit box. Make use of a safe deposit box to keep your belongings safe, and do not leave anything of value lying around in your hotel room.