The Complete Guide: How Much Does it Cost to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Embarking on a journey to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, is a dream for many adventure enthusiasts. But before you lace up your boots and start packing, one question looms large: How much does it actually cost to climb this majestic mountain? Fear not, for we have crafted the ultimate guide that will unravel all the mysteries behind the expenses involved in this once-in-a-lifetime expedition. From permits and gear rentals to accommodation and transportation, we will shed light on every aspect of the financial side of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Whether you are a budget-conscious traveller or willing to splurge for a more luxurious experience, this comprehensive guide will equip you with all the necessary information to plan your ascent and make an informed decision about the cost of conquering this iconic peak. So, grab your hiking boots and get ready to unlock the secrets of Mount Kilimanjaro’s price tag.

Factors that Affect the Cost of Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an adventure that requires careful planning and budgeting. Several factors can influence the overall cost of your expedition. Let’s delve into the key factors that affect the cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Permits and Fees

Before setting foot on Mount Kilimanjaro, securing permits and paying fees is a crucial step. The Tanzanian government requires climbers to obtain permits, and the cost depends on various factors such as the route chosen, the duration of the climb, and the number of days spent on the mountain. Additionally, there are conservation fees, camping fees, and rescue fees. It is essential to understand these costs to accurately calculate the total expenses.

Accommodation Options on Mount Kilimanjaro

During your climb, you’ll need a place to rest and recharge each night. Mount Kilimanjaro offers different accommodation options, each with varying costs. From basic tents to luxurious lodges, you can choose the level of comfort that suits your budget. It’s important to consider factors such as amenities, proximity to the starting point, and the overall experience when deciding on the type of accommodation.

Equipment and Gear Needed for Climbing

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro requires proper equipment and gear to ensure safety and comfort. Depending on your personal preferences and needs, you may choose to rent or purchase certain items. Items like hiking boots, sleeping bags, and clothing are essential and can significantly impact your budget. We’ll explore the necessary gear and provide insights on where to rent or buy them at reasonable prices.

Hiring a Guide and Porter Services

While climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is possible without a guide, it is highly recommended to hire one for safety and navigation purposes. Guides are knowledgeable about the mountain’s terrain, weather conditions, and can assist in case of emergencies. Porter services are also available to carry your equipment, food, and other essentials, allowing you to focus on the climb. We’ll discuss the costs associated with hiring a guide and porter services and the benefits they bring to your expedition.

Food and Water Provisions

Proper nutrition and hydration are vital during your climb. Most climbing packages include food and water provisions, but the quality and variety may differ. We’ll explore the different meal options available on Mount Kilimanjaro, including the cost of special dietary requirements. Additionally, we’ll provide tips on staying hydrated and the importance of water purification methods.

Travel Expenses to and from Mount Kilimanjaro

Getting to Mount Kilimanjaro involves travel expenses, including flights, airport transfers, and transportation to the starting point of your climb. Depending on your location and preferences, these costs can vary significantly. We’ll discuss different travel options, tips for finding affordable flights, and the pros and cons of various transportation methods.

Additional Costs and Optional Extras

Apart from the essential expenses, there are additional costs and optional extras to consider. These may include travel insurance, visa fees, tipping guides and porters, and optional activities such as wildlife safaris or cultural tours. We’ll delve into these additional costs, helping you understand what to expect and how to budget accordingly.

How Much to Climb Kilimanjaro

Budgeting Tips for Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Now that we’ve covered the various factors that affect the cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, let’s delve into some budgeting tips to help you plan your expedition effectively.

1. Research and compare prices: Take the time to research different tour operators, accommodation options, and gear rental providers. Comparing prices will give you an idea of the average costs and allow you to make informed decisions.

2. Choose the right climbing route: Each route has its own costs, duration, and difficulty level. Consider your fitness level, preferences, and budget when selecting a route. Some routes may require additional permits or have higher accommodation costs.

3. Travel with a group: Sharing the costs with a group of fellow climbers can significantly reduce your expenses. Consider joining a group tour or finding like-minded individuals to split the costs of guides, accommodation, and transportation.

4. Pack smartly: Carrying unnecessary items can increase the weight of your backpack, potentially leading to additional porter fees. Pack only the essentials and opt for lightweight gear whenever possible.

5. Book in advance: Booking your climb well in advance can help you secure better rates and availability. Last-minute bookings may come with higher prices and limited options.

6. Be realistic about your budget: While it’s important to stick to your budget, remember that climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Sacrificing safety and comfort solely for the sake of cost may detract from the overall enjoyment of the climb.

Conclusion

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an adventure that requires careful planning and budgeting. By considering the factors that affect the cost and following the budgeting tips provided, you can embark on this incredible journey with confidence. Remember, the cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not just a monetary value; it’s an investment in a unique experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. So, lace up your boots, prepare your budget, and get ready to conquer the roof of Africa!

Quelle est la difficulté ?

Gravir le Kilimanjaro n’est pas une marche dans un parc, comme plusieurs personnes l’imagine…Même si ce n’est pas une ascension difficile, vous devez tout de même avoir une bonne condition physique et être en bonne santé. La principale difficulté est que vous grimpez jour après jour en altitude indépendamment de la route choisie. Donc, ne sous-estimer jamais la difficulté de votre ascension future.

Quel est le meilleur temps ?

Pour avoir grimper le Kili à 2 reprises…Je préfère les mois de septembre et octobre….Il pleut moins et c’est moins achalandé.

Quelle route choisir?

Comme je le disais précédemment, et pour y être allé à 2 reprises… ma route préférée est RONGAI ! C’est la 2 ième route la plus facile après Marangu et c’est moins achalandé !

Advantages:

Camping.- les sites de camping sont exclusifs et tranquilles.

Route en pleine nature.- la piste est peu achalandée et très sélect..

Paysages uniques.- Procurant des vues extraordinaires sur la végétation jusqu’à l’Amboseli et le Tsavo. Une ascension agréable.- Chaque jour vous procure des longues marches agréables afin de vous permettre une meilleure acclimatation.

À mon avis, après avoir fait affaire ,la première fois, avec un Tour opérateur de chez nous au Canada …

Et la seconde fois, directement en passant par un Tour opérateur LOCAL à ARUSHA, M.FLORENT IPANANGA , Président de SNOW AFRICA ADVENTURE et sa fabuleuse équipe.

Ce fut une expérience fantastique, beaucoup plus abordable en terme de prix et rapide d’accès…  Faire affaire avec un Tour opérateur local , vous permet d’éliminer les intermédiaires et faire vos réservations plus rapidement….

Je vous recommande SNOW AFRICA ADVENTURE !

Florent Ipananga Dir.

Pourquoi SNOW AFRICA ADVENTURE ?

N’ayez craintes, vous ne serez jamais laisser seuls en Tanzanie!

Vous serez considéré non seulement comme une simple invité , mais aussi comme un membre de la famille SAA…

Du proprio au porteurs, vous rencontrerez une équipe fantastique… La plupart des membres de l’équipe sont dans l’industrie de plus plus de 20 ans… Comme je l’ai vécu… Vous ressentirez l’hospitalité Africaine, que ce soit pour un Safari privé, pour un trek du Kili , du Mont Meru, un Safari au Ngorongoro, ou des vacances à Zanzibar,

LE SERVICE est TOP NOTCH..comme qu’on dit par chez nous…

Le Message de Florent!

En utilisant nos services, soyez assurés d’une expérience dont vous vous souviendrez toute votre vie… En faisant affaire avec un Tour opérateur local, vous supportez l’industrie locale…. Je vous promets que vous ne regretterez pas de nous avoir choisi… Je crois , que si vous y mettez les efforts voulus,

RIEN N’EST IMPOSSIBLE!

VOUS ARRIVEREZ EN TANZANIE en tant qu’invité et nous quitterez comme un membre de la famille….

À BIENTÔT !

Snow Africa Adventures has been guiding intrepid adrenaline junkies, bucket list-completers and generic over-achievers up those peaks and down again since 2012 when the business was founded by owner Florent Zachary Ipananga.

Indeed, when it comes to climbing the slopes of a horizon dominating mountain like Mount Kilimanjaro, experience counts for everything. Florent spent twelve years working as a mountain and safari guide for various companies and shaping what would become a reliable and thrilling adventure offering.

SAFARIS

All of Florent’s staff are employed locally and offer their unique experience and understanding of their country and the endless range of things to see.  From single day trips, to 12 day itineraries Snow Africa Adventure applies local knowledge, passion and experience to ensure that clients get a multi-layered and wholly satisfying experience. Provided at reasonable rates as well, the safaris can offer a number of unique features based on location, style of vehicle and desired experiences.

“Some clients are looking for an adventure that takes them out of their day to day lives,” Florent says, “Others want to feel the grass against their legs and hear the animals nearby and many more are looking to get those perfect photographs for the adventure album.”

As such, the safaris have a significant “wow factor’‘ and take place mainly in the Northern Circuit which include the national parks of  Tarangire, Serengeti, Lake Manyara, Arusha, Kilimanjaro National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.

“We have  4×4 and open roof vehicles and Land Cruisers,” Florent adds, “These are very useful for the photography safaris which we expect to grow significantly in 2021. Fortunately for any aspiring wildlife photographers, the ten years’ worth of experience from our guides can help them get those perfect images.”

ACCOMMODATION

Ensuring that the accommodation contributes to the overall safari experience, the itineraries offer a mixture of hotels and tented camps. Each of these locations offer something different but all keep to a reliable standard of comfort.

“We aim to ensure that the hospitality part of the safaris is as strong an experience as the safari itself,” Florent explains, “So we update our accommodations as often as we update our safaris and pay close attention to our guest’s feedback.”

COVID PRECAUTIONS

“It is the responsibility for businesses like ours to set a high standard when it comes to protecting our team and our guests from concerns like Coronavirus,” Florent declares. And they take every precaution including checking temperatures, washing hands, social distancing, wearing masks and providing easily accessible hand sanitiser in each vehicle.

Interestingly, Florent reveals that thanks to a steady flow of travellers coming from France and Russia to East Africa, some safari and hospitality businesses have been taking bookings since October 2020. With some hotels in Zanzibar showing 95% capacity, companies like Snow Africa Adventures have been under pressure to ensure that their PPE measures have been perfect.

“It is simply a new requirement,  and if you tick the right boxes and follow the right procedures for guests everyone can enjoy their safaris,” he says, “The new normal for our industry will be determined by our actions this year and thinking ahead like this is how we continue to offer the best service.”

Snow Africa Adventures is a proud member of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) and International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC).

According to Florent, of the 600 local tour companies there are a only handful of local Kilimanjaro outfits who are committed to treating their mountain crews, including guides, chefs and porters to above industry standards. Paying good wages, providing good sleeping quarters and at least three square meals a day. The majority of crews in the industry survive of tips from clients. KPAP members pay crew wages instead of tips.

“As many families are directly reliant on tours during the Covid crisis they were unable to support themselves last year,” Florent reveals, “We worked with past clients to raise funds to purchase food stuffs for our crew to support their families during this difficult time.”

Article by Donnie Rus

With an elevation of 5895m, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain of Africa. Every year more than 50, 000 people attempts for the summit, but among them only 70-75% get success. May be you have done trekking successful in the other peaks of the world, but climb Kilimanjaro on your own is not possible as you are going to face five climatic zones in your trekking. Other reasons are time for acclimatization, altitude sickness, etc.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro after 1991, without the registered and licensed guide is quite impossible, as the regulations set by the government of Tanzania and Kilimanjaro National park authority.

Not only guides, a successful trekking also needs the chefs, porters and other staff members for camping, to carry your useful luggage, to make coffee and food for you, to instruct you about the route, etc.

Roles of guides & porters

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro may not require any specific technical skills, but a little ignorance like what to do and what not to do may ruin your trekking. Apart from the rules and regulations set for the trekkers, Climbing Kilimanjaro without a guide may worsen your condition as there is no one to help you. Guide simply instruct as they want to save your energy for the summit.

A guide also manages to settle the camps and put everything in perfect place. In case of altitude sickness or any severe case, all the settlements and works are actually done by the guides.
By Tanzania law; you should have at least one Guide, one Cook and 3-4 Porters before starting for the trekking to Mt. Kilimanjaro. To carry all required luggage and to support you on the way, you need support staffs and porters with you.
Porters carry all the gears like clothing gears, hiking gears, camping gears and helps to settle your camp, even helps in cooking.

Role of Tour operators

A tour operator can only provide you a registered and licensed trekking guide. Other roles of tour operators are to make your plan for trekking or safari. It starts pick you up from the airport to the leaving you at the airport after the trekking.

A tour operator is known as the “face” of services and facilities that you will receive in your trekking.

Snow Africa is an official registered and licensed tour operator with affordable trekking packages for Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Meru and Ol Doinyo Lengai.

Available routes

There are six routes with their own specializations and the number of days they take to reach at Uhuru peak. These six routes are, Lemosho Route, Machame Route or “Whisky Route”, Marangu Route or “Coca-Cola Route”, Shira route, Rongai Route, and Umbwe Route.

Lemosho route is the longest route with a high acclimatization profile where as Umbwe route is the shortest, steepest and most challenging route.

Marangu route is famous for its hut accommodations whereas the Rongai route is the only north east suitable route for all seasons. Shira route is longer route in North-west side of Mountain. This route not popular for trekking because Rescue team from Kilimanjaro National Park use it to rescue sick people from Shira campsite.

Climbing Kilimanjaro without a guide may be a courageous decision for one, but, in practically, it is the most stupid decision ever taken in his/her lifelong. If you have enough experience in trekking and want to climb Kilimanjaro on your own, what is the big problem to hire tour guide and porters having poor economic condition?

Snow Africa Adventure is providing different packages for safaris and trekking as to meet the demand of every customer’s choice and taste. Our trekking guides, porters and other staffs are well-educated, dedicated, experienced, friendly and professional to handle any kind of adverse conditions. To discuss your trekking plan with us, visit @ https://snowafricaadventure.com/

Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest peak of Africa and largest free Standing Mountain in the world. It also records the highest altitude level on the top which makes everyone think, is it really possible to Climb Kilimanjaro with Asthma?

You just need to understand which type of Asthma you are suffering and how hard it is to climb Mount Kilimanjaro for you. Once you know the answer, you are half prepared and can start planning accordingly to Climb Kilimanjaro with Asthma.

Here are few things to prepare before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro:

High Altitude and Asthma:

You will face five ecological zones in different altitudes which results the adverse climatic conditions on high altitude. The lower oxygen level and cold dry Air can dry the mucus membranes, lining the lungs and it may turn to allergy symptoms. If your Asthma is stable you will have a little effect while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

 So covering your respiratory parts thoroughly would be a good idea. You can Climb Kilimanjaro with Asthma, if you get the clearance certificate of fitness from your doctor after the medical check-up. Avoid the laborious exercises on high altitude. Keep your inhaler warm and rub it for two minutes with your palms before inhaling on the high altitude. Keep asthma and cold medicines with you. Make sure to have sufficient drinking water.

If your Asthma is severe, then you should talk to a doctor and have proper medications before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

However, anyone who is facing Altitude sickness should remember that Asthma will not increase your Altitude sickness. These both are completely different.

Follow these steps to manage Asthma while on High Altitude:

• Always carry prescribed Asthma rescue medications.
• Keep the inhaler in warm places.
• Wear a mask over mouth and nose to warm cold air.
• Stay calm and relaxed.

See how your body reacts to higher elevations:

If you are planning to Climb Kilimanjaro with Asthma, you should check how your body reacts to higher elevations. The higher you go, more is the difficulty to breathe. The body reacts to breathe more and attempts to take more oxygen. However, if you are still less on oxygen you may limit yourself from climbing further.

You need to check your normal breath by your near high elevation point. Observe the breathing and your heart bit on a high altitude point. Consult your doctor and do some cardiovascular and breathing exercise to improve your condition for a successful Climb Kilimanjaro with Asthma.

The altitude sickness is another challenge:

You have understood how hard it is to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro with Asthma. But, there is one more thing which is a major threat for Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is altitude sickness.

You are on high altitude and your body is struggling to get enough oxygen, this is the first symptom of Altitude sickness. The other symptoms of Altitude sickness while Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro are:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Lack of sleep
• High heart rate
• Nausea

If you are facing these symptoms, it’s better to stop and take rest before starting again. Drinking more water is advisable.

The more severe symptoms of Altitude sickness are:

• Trouble breathing while you are on rest
• Tightening of chest
• Coughing
• Vomiting
• Not able to walk
• Pale or blue skin.

If the symptoms on the top show these, then you will need to go to a lower altitude and get a check up before starting again.  

There are major 3 types of High Altitude sickness:

• Acute Mountain Sickness
• High Altitude Pulmonary Edema [HAPE]
• High Altitude Cerebral Edema [HACE]

Some tips to Climb Kilimanjaro with Asthma:

• Take your time while climbing on higher altitude to acclimatize yourself.
• Sleep at low altitude, the lower elevation lets your body to rest and recover while you sleep.
• Keep yourself hydrated
• Go slow, the slow pace while climbing Kilimanjaro makes it a win-win situation.
• Wear a warm and puffy jacket which keeps you hot in higher altitudes.
• Choose the longer route for perfect acclimatization.
• Maintain your fitness level, it is recommended to try few smaller hikes before attempting Kili.
• Don’t forget to carry your medications, especially the inhaler.
• It is advisable to get adequate trekking insurance that covers Asthma.
• Carry an Asthma attack card and share it with your operators, so that they will know what to do while you suffer an attack.

If you have the determination to summit the highest peak, you will be able to succeed it even with Asthma. Many people have also made it without having legs & hands. You will just need to follow some practices which can be helpful for you while Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. However, there are evacuation teams on the top in case of any emergency; they will be able to take care of your safety.

Happy and Safe Climbing!  

However, there is no justified reason for this migration. But many speculations suggest that the main reason was the climate conditions and dense forests in Asia, which these 700 lbs species find suitable to hide in and hunt easily. By the way, it is the justice of Mother Nature, that these kings of the jungle, Tiger and Lion, do not share the same dynasty.

Serengeti is one of the greatest wilderness areas in the world; it supports the abundance of animals. This amazing place is often considered as a haven for wildlife. You can expect excellent sighting of predators like lion, cheetah, and leopards most of the time. Other predators include wild dogs & spotted hyenas, crocodiles, many felines and canine species, also give you the raw taste of nature.

What are the animals you get to see?

You can see abundant wildlife in Serengeti National Park as it supports a magnificent diversity. The ecosystem of Serengeti is vast and has two major vegetations, Woodland and Grassland.

Apart from the big cats like Lions, Cheetahs & Leopards, you can also get to see various wild cats like Serval, caracal, African golden cat along some ruthless canines like hyenas and African wild dogs, etc.

The spectacular great wildebeest migration is also a major highlight of Serengeti. The other herbivore includes zebra, Gazelle, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino, Giraffe, Hippos, Dik Dik and many more antelope Species are definitely a treat to watch over here.

Apart from this the park also has its Nile crocodiles which are one of the apex predators. The variety of primates will make your visit completely fun-filled.

The major predators in Serengeti

Serengeti is home for almost all the predators of wild except the biggest cat species. The main predators which replace tigers in Serengeti are Lion, Cheetah, and Leopard.  Apart from these big guns there some small-sized predators who mostly hunt in groups or pack. The major predators feed on the herbivores and small predators mostly feed on the cubs and smaller animals. You can also get to see many predator & scavenger birds like secretary birds, Marabou stork, Martial eagle, white-headed vultures and many more. The sighting of apex predator reptiles is also great fun to catch-up with.

Can tigers really survive in the Grasslands?

There are many speculations which suggest that tigers will find it difficult to survive in Africa. However, you can find some in the zoo. The main things which will not help for tigers in Serengeti are their black stripes. They may find it difficult to get blend in the grass completely which their rivals do with ease. It becomes more essential to get escape from the eyes of the prey, as the stealth hunting technique is a kind of bread & butter for any cat.

Moreover, the tigers are solitary hunters and Lions are pride hunters. This makes a big difference in hunting techniques. The tigers may not be able to win the Lions and as they both hunt for the same food, it would have been difficult for tigers in Serengeti to survive. In this context, we can say that the lion can save its cubs from other predators as they are in pride and the tiger being a solitary hunter, may not be able to save their cubs.

Another point suggests that the tigers found the Asian climate more suitable for them. The dense forest in Asia made it easy for tigers to hide and hunt. But remember these all are speculations, which may or may not have a valid point.

In the year 2003, two tiger cubs were introduced to South Africa by an ex-fashion executive from Beijing and her husband. They were the founders of Save China’s Tigers Foundation. These founders purchased large hectares of land in South Africa for the breeding project to re-wild them in the continent before leaving for China. But, they were criticized as several of the cubs died.

Asia and Africa have completely different eco-system. Hence we may never know if the Tigers in Africa can survive for a longer time or not. However, you can find few tigers in African zoos and other protected areas. But certainly, there are no tigers in Tanzania.