Josephat Mashehe

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?

Kilimanjaro climbs typically can cost between $2,000 and $6,000, with prices ranging from low-cost budget operators to major Western tourist agencies overcharging for outsourced excursions. Any trip operator has a number of unavoidable fixed costs, so if a climb looks too affordable, you need to consider why.

Consider cheap prices, and ask yourself, where is the operator cutting costs, and how will that affect your safety on the mountain. The usual area to skimp on costs is the payment of staff, by not paying a proper wage and providing little to no equipment. This doesn’t help the climber in the long run and could even be a fatal mistake.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is the experience of a lifetime that tops bucket lists of people from all over the world. So here you are: You are thinking of climbing Kilimanjaro and you wondering about the price tag of it all. Let’s break the ice and start off with the following: You can realize your dreams for about 5000 USD. Happy? Okay, let’s move on. 5000 USD equals 4400 EUR or about 4000 GBP. If you don’t think that is a lot of money, then you either make too much money or you know that climbing Kilimanjaro could be even a lot more expensive. Correct. If everyone would be paid a Western salary and there wouldn’t be as much competition, then Kilimanjaro is definitely the most affordable one. 

High park fees and logistical costs mean there is no such thing as a cheap Kilimanjaro climb. The best way to keep down costs is to form or join a group of four or more like-minded hikers, and to stick to the Marangu Route, which is more popular and busy than the other options, but also less logistically complicated.

How Much Does Kilimanjaro Guide Cost?

The total climbing Kilimanjaro guide cost is usually significantly more than the travel package numbers that you see on travel/adventure tour websites.

The first thing you will notice when researching operators is the huge variance in price.

Why is this? The tour operator has numerous expenses involved in taking a client up the mountain:

• Park fees per climber
• Equipment
• Safety equipment
• Guide’s salaries & equipment
• Porter’s salaries & equipment
• Food and drink
• Length of the climb

Cost of climbing Kilimanjaro

The effort of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is higher than for most other types of travel. The preparation takes time. The ascent is physically and psychologically challenging. And the cost of an ascent exceeds that of most other vacation. In particular, most people are unaware of the actual financial effort and the individual costs of such a trip. In fact, however, general statements can only be made about part of the costs. Another part depends heavily on individual needs and the traveler’s prior experience.

The Real Costs of Climbing Kilimanjaro in detail

Most tourists organize their ascent before departure. You can also spontaneously book on the spot, however, which is not recommended due to the oftentimes lacking preparation and availability. The hike must be accompanied by a TANAPA (Tanzania National Parks Authority) Guide. An ascent on your own is not possible. A typical ascent takes five to seven days and an all-inclusive package usually costs between 1,700 and 3,000 USD. The wide range results from the different durations and types of tours as well as the respective services provided by and characteristics of the organizer. In rare cases, you can find organizers who also offer an ascent for less money. Due to the oftentimes bad conditions and low payment of the accompanying team, however, this is not recommended.

In the following you will find an overview of the individual cost items and the 

approximate costs per person.

 

1) Tour operator: ca. 2,400 USD (range ca. 1,700 USD to 3,000 USD)

Prices also really depend on the number of days your climb takes or the route you choose. Later on, you will read that the conservation and the hut fees are calculated per day. Fast climbers can be done within 5 days, but it’s recommended to spend as much time on your climb as possible. This eliminates the chances of Altitude Sickness and makes success more likely. Prices for your Kilimanjaro ascent vary between 1500 USD / 1320 EUR / 1180 GBP and 2400 USD / 2100 EUR / 1900 GBP. This includes transfers from the airport to your accommodation, camping gear, park fees, camping fees, rescue fees, salary, meals and guides, and porters. 

2) Equipment: ca. 600 USD (range ca. 200 USD to 2,000 USD
 

Costs depending on your existing equipment as well as completeness and quality of the desired assortment.

3) Tips: ca. 200 USD (range ca. 100 USD to 300 USD)

An integral part of any Kilimanjaro climb is the tipping ceremony. Porters get a salary, but because it is very common to tip staff after a climb. This will make a positive lasting difference in the households on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro. Some estimates: 6-day climb: Expect to tip anything between EUR 125 – 170 or USD 140 – 190 7-day climb: Expect to tip anything between EUR 170 – 200 or USD 190 – 225 8-day climb: Expect to tip anything between EUR 190 – 230 or USD 220 – 265 9-day climb: Expect to tip anything between EUR 215 – 260 or USD 245-295 

4) Preparation/Precaution: ca. 150 USD (range ca. 50 USD to 200 USD)

Tanzanian visa

Most trekkers need a visa to enter Tanzania. You can either organise a visa with your local Tanzanian embassy or purchase a visa on arrival in Kilimanjaro. We suggest getting a visa before you depart as it means you can avoid the queues at Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Budget $50 (£30). For some reason, US citizens have to pay $100.
 

Vaccinations and medications

Tanzania is a malaria area as well. The risk of contracting malaria is relatively low on the mountain as mosquitoes are not found at high altitude (over 1,800 meters). You will be spending most of your trip above this altitude but will be at risk before and after your hike.

Taking malaria tablets is really up to you. There is a cost associated with the medication that can be quite high. Either way, we recommend taking all common-sense precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes - i.e. wear Deet repellent, wear light clothes that cover your arms and legs, stay indoors before dawn and after dusk.

If you plan to go on safari after your trek then we recommend taking malaria tablets.

Some trekkers may also need a Yellow Fever vaccination card when entering Tanzania (you only need this if you're travelling from a county that has high yellow fever transmission citizens of UK, US, Europe, Canada, Australia and many others don't need a YF vaccination). Costs for Yellow Fever vaccinations vary but can be as much as $100.

In addition to Yellow Fever, you may want to get a HEP-A vaccination and a Polio Tetanus-Diphtheria booster.
 

5) Flight/Transport: ca. 900 USD (range ca. 600 USD to 1,300 USD)

Travel to/from the airport and return flight to Tanzania (Economy-Class)

The cost of getting to Kilimanjaro

Depending on where you are flying from you might have a journey that involves two connections. Most climbers from America, Canada, UK and Europe fly to Amsterdam first and then catch a connecting flight on KLM direct to Kilimanjaro.

For those flying from within Africa or from Australia, it is easier to fly to Nairobi or Addis Ababa and then catch a connecting flight (typically Precision Air - not sure how Precise they are, Ha!) to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Those coming from Asia or the Middle East may want to look at Turkish Airlines that fly direct to Kilimanjaro with KLM from Istanbul.

The Short Answer on Costs

The total Kilimanjaro Guide cost of the trip is thus approximately 4,350 USD on average per person (range ca. 2,800 USD to 6,900 USD).

Note:  Kilimanjaro National Park Fees alone account for 50-70% of the trek cost.

The cost of a tour varies depending on what type of operator you choose, whether you join an open group or go privately, which route you take and the number of days on the mountain..

Accommodation in Moshi or Arusha

For a hotel in Moshi or Arusha, you can expect to pay between 40 USD and 60 USD for a double room. For a little bit less than that you can enjoy a single room. This is based on a standard 3-star hotel that covers all the basics and comes with lockers, aircon, mosquito nets and security. Because the entire area sees a lot of tourists, you can expect a decent level of comfort. Of course, there are more affordable and more expensive options available. Both Moshi and Arusha have a few backpackers options as well as high-end luxury hotels. 
 

The costs shown are based on the actual costs of hiking Kilimanjaro, all-inclusive. The costs for safaris, beach vacation, travel insurance and other costs as well as personal expenses for souvenirs need to be added depending on the individual travel program.

Too many stories abound of operators who take money, then suddenly at the last minute, there are a lot of “extras” to pay.

Disreputable operators have been known to charge clients for an 8-day trip only for them to find out it’s 7 days, and the extra money somehow disappears.

Choosing an operator is not as simple as who is the “best”. It is who is the best for you.

Everyone has different standards and expectations. However, keep in mind that getting to the summit is the goal, but getting down alive is non-negotiable.

Look for an agent whose ethos matches your own. Whom you feel comfortable with.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is not cheap. Expecting luxury on a budget-price is not going to happen. Do your research and ask lots of questions!

Marangu route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is the oldest, most well established route on Kilimanjaro. This is the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory-style accommodations instead of camping. There are 60 bunk beds each at Mandara and Kibo Huts, and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut.  Although you have a bed and mattress, you will need to bring a sleeping bag. The huts have communal dining rooms and basic bathroom facilities, ranging from flushing toilets and running water at the lower huts to long drop toilets and bucket water at Kibo Hut. 

 

The route follows charming trails through woods and rainforest. The landscape then opens up into a vast stretch of heath, where the gigantic senecio plants come into view. As you walk, you can admire the view of the serrated peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. We have included an acclimatization day to give you the chance to get used to the altitude. You can also use this day to visit Mawenzi Tarn Hut or Zebra Rocks. The heath landscape gradually gives way to the stretch of alpine desert that links Mawenzi and Kibo. On your way to the summit, you will pass Gilman’s Point, where you can stop to enjoy the view before the final ascent from the east. The descent takes you down the south-eastern side, where you can see Kilimanjaro from a number of vantage points.

This means that Marangu route is busy and if you are traveling alone you can easily join in with another group for company. It is a more moderate ascent making it less difficult to climb than the others. Porters carry all of your equipment and supplies, and a cook prepares all your meals. It is also known as the Coca Cola route.  is the oldest established Kilimanjaro route, following Hans Meyer’s groundbreaking path closely up and down Kilimanjaro. The German geologist Meyer was the first to climb Kilimanjaro in 1889, accompanied by the Austrian climber Ludwig Purtscheller and the local guide Yohani Kinyala Lauwo.

 

The Marangu Route can be completed in 5 or 6 days Marangu route , but the 6-day variation is recommended for better acclimatization. The route approaches the mountain from the southeast, and the ascent and descent are along the same path. This makes the route less scenic and more crowded than the other routes.

 

So you probably have a lot of questions, like "When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?" "Which route  should I choose?" How difficult is Kilimanjaro? " "How long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? "What are the routes on Kilimanjaro and how do I choose one? "Climbing Kilimanjaro is an event in your life that will live with you for ever. It is a journey of the soul through some of the most beautiful scenery. It does not require any technical expertise, but does require lots of determination. So if you are committed, landing on this page is a good place to start. Just 3 degrees south of the equator in Tanzania, Africa, and shrouded in mystery, the name Kilimanjaro has varying interpretations, from "Mountain of Greatness" to "Mountain of Caravans." There is a word in Swahili, ' kilima' which means top of the hill and an additional claim is that it comes from the word "kilemakyaro" which, in the Chagga language, means "impossible journey". Some argue that the word ' njaro' refers to a demon of the cold. But whatever the meaning, the image of Mount Kilimanjaro is that of a large looming mountain, situated on the equator, yet covered in ice.

Mount Kilimanjaro Climb

The Mount Kilimanjaro climb has attracted experienced and non-experienced trekkers from all over the world. The beauty of the climb is that it is possible to reach the summit without technical mountaineering equipment. Rising in absolute isolation, at 5,895m, Kilimanjaro is one of the highest walkable summits on the planet. For many, it represents the ultimate once-in-a-lifetime personal challenge – an arduous but highly rewarding 6 to 8 day trek up to Uhuru Point (the actual summit) or to Gillman’s Point (on the lip of the crater).

MOUNT KILIMANJARO CLIMB

Whether it is your first time trekking or you’ve climbed many peaks, we have several Kilimanjaro routes to offer. Selecting the appropriate route for you will maximize your enjoyment and chance of success. We will be with you every step of the way.

There are six main climbing Kilimanjaro routes on Kilimanjaro. However, we only offer the Lemosho, Northern Circuit, Machame, and Marangu routes. We believe these are the best routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Furthermore, we recommend taking the longer routes as they will give you the highest chance of successfully summiting.

In addition to the above-mentioned four routes, we do offer private climbs on all major routes on the mountain. No other parties or persons are added to private climbs. The persons in your party are the only ones on the climb.

KILIMANJARO ROUTE OVERVIEW

THE MACHAME ROUTE
The Machame route is challenging but the rewards are great.This is probably the most beautiful route up Kilimanjaro. From late afternoon sunsets at Shira, to the misty revelations of Kibo at the great Barranco Wall, the Machame route offers the adventurous hiker a stunning scenic “slide show” over 6 days.
Level:Intermediate

Nights:Camping in a tent
Total hiking distance: Approximately 100 kms
All your equipment and supplies are portered and a cook prepares all your meals. Accommodation on the Machame route offers strictly tents only. This makes Machame (also referred to as the “Whiskey route”) better suited to the slightly more adventurous hiker, rewarding him with a scenic splendour such as not seen.
 

THE MARANGU ROUTE
Marangu Route known as the “Coca-Cola” route, approaches Kilimanjaro from the southeast. 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 and direct path.
Level: Beginner

Nights:Sleeping in permanent huts
Total hiking distance:Approximately 96 kms
Marangu is the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style accommodations. There are 60 bunk beds each at Mandara and Kibo Huts, and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut. Climbers are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags are still required. The huts have communal dining halls and basic washrooms. All your equipment and supplies are portered and a cook prepares all your meals.

 

MARANGU ROUTE OR MACHAME ROUTE?

Marangu Route is followed by ninety per cent of all climbers. It has a well-defined path, which has been well set out and where most obstacles have been modified to make them ‘climber friendly’. Despite the human traffic (it can be fun to mingle with climbers from all over the world), this is a very scenic route with good views of Mawenzi and excellent prospects for viewing wildlife.
Level:Beginner

Nights:Sleeping in permanent huts
Machame Route – One day longer on trek, climbing a natural, rather than man made path, the Machame Route is a more demanding but much quieter and scenic route up the mountain. Overnights are spent camping in tents which are carried and pitched by the accompanying porters. Because this route is more taxing it is recommended that trekkers should be physically fit and with the additional day on trek to assist with acclimatization.
Level:Intermediate

Nights:Camping in a tent

 

Lemosho Route

This is a more relaxed route. It is suitable for 8 days for acclimation and it has a good balance in the height of the camp sites. The view is really charming while passing through forests. 

Machame Route

It is the most popular route and the busiest among all. In terms of popularity, it has taken over the Marangu Route. 

Northern Circuit

This route is for mountain lovers and those who are solitude seekers. It is a 9 day climb. Although visitors can take the route in only 8 days, 9 days is more relaxed. It is already a hard thing to come by on Mount Kilimanjaro Tanzania, but this is a welcome bonus to the Northern Circuit route. 

Rongai Route

This is the best rongai route for climbing the mountain in 6 days. It begins the ascent up the northern side of the mountain. In terms of scenery and summit success, it is unparalleled. 

There is flexibility in this route as well. One can add an extra day for acclimatization and increasing the success chance of climbing.

 

THE BEST TIME FOR A MOUNT KILIMANJARO CLIMB

As the mountain is situated close to the equator, the area does not experience extreme weather conditions; however they are grouped as dry or wet seasons. There are climbers trekking up Kilimanjaro all year round, though most prefer the dryer months, avoiding the rainfall and mud. The long rains generally begin from the end of March through to the end of May, and the short rains are during November. A greater number of climbers prefer to climb during December through to March and from June to October.
December to February is the warmest and clearest time to visit, with July to September being colder but also dry. It is wet in the rainforest from end of March to end May and during November.
Summiting on a full moon – when Kibo and its magnificent glaciers are lit up by the moonlight, it makes for an absolutely spectacular view. Your journey towards the top of Kilimanjaro is lit up without using a head torch which is why some trekkers choose to climb so that their summit attempt coincides with the night of the full moon.
 

What is the cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Climb ?

There are two options to consider about climbing Kilimanjaro, to go on a fixed departure climb with a group of people, or to have a private climb. 

The fixed departure price starts at around $2500 per person. Private climbs vary depending on the number of climbers and also the route taken. A private climb for a group of more than 2 will have better value.  

How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?

The time taken to climb the mountain depends on the route. The fastest climber can take 4 nights. However, most people take 6-8 nights depending on the route and also depending on the flexibility. 

 

MOUNT KILIMANJARO CLIMB TRAINING
 

Although you do not require any special mountaineering training for the climb, we would highly recommend you to do your own training prior to the trek. You will be hiking for anything between 5 to 9 days, so your body needs to be prepared for that. All in all body fitness is essential and prepare you mentally as well. On certain routes clients find the climb towards Kibo fairly undemanding, however for most, the difficulty begins from the base of Kibo towards the top due to the steepness and the altitude. We would recommend you to start your training in advance, rather than going for long runs or walks a week before your Kilimanjaro climb. Getting fit will make it more enjoyable!

After securing your booking with us, you’ll receive a comprehensive document, to guide you through the steps of purchasing the correct equipment and an essential check-list in preparing for your climb. We also provide a complete and quality rental service on all the equipment required on the mountain, as a sensible alternative to purchasing.

Here’s a sample of your daily menu on Kilimanjaro Mount Climb 

Bed Tea – tea or coffee served to your tent door in the morning (a real treat).

Breakfast – consists of seasonal fresh fruit, porridge, cooked eggs, sausage, bacon and toast.

Energy snacks are provided for the daily walk such as biscuits, bananas, and chocolate bars. Bringing your own snacks can often be a treat especially when trekking at higher altitudes. Be sure to bring some of your favourite treats for summit night as these will be a welcome boost in so many ways.

Lunch – either a packed lunch on longer days or, more usually, a hot lunch served in specifically set up lunch camp. A hot lunch typically consists of soup, bread or pancakes, cheese, tuna, jam, peanut butter, pasta salad and cake.

Afternoon tea – served in late afternoon. It is an opportunity to drink lots of hot drinks and snack on peanuts or popcorn.

Dinner – the main meal of the day usually consists of three courses; starter: soup and bread / main: rice, potatoes or pasta with fish, meat or vegetables / dessert: usually fruit.

Do you have a yearning for Kilimanjaro adventure? 

Many people like you do. In fact, over 35,000 people each year attempt to summit Kilimanjaro. Why should you be one of those people?

Of those 35,000, many do not make the summit. The most important factor in making the summit is selecting a reputable operator. Many people only see the cost of the climb and go with budget operators. This is not only the wrong way to choose your guide service, it is also unsafe. Despite it being a walkable mountain, Kilimanjaro is not easy and preparation is imperative.

Our guides and porters have been climbing Kilimanjaro for many years. Some have made the summit over 300 times. When you climb with us, we send a team with you that is not only experienced but also friendly and skilled at their job. They want you to have the best experience you can possibly have. They work extremely hard to make sure that your adventure far exceeds anything you could have imagined.

WHY MOUNT KILIMANJARO CLIMB?

 First of all, Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the seven summits. The seven summits are the tallest summits on each of the seven continents. Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest point on the continent of Africa. It is also the tallest freestanding mountain in the world.

Furthermore, of the seven summits, it is the easiest to trek to the top. Mountaineering skills are not required.

Additionally, while you are in Tanzania, you must visit its amazing Tanzania safari parks. Try to schedule enough time for the Ngorongoro Crater and the magnificent Serengeti.

Getting Kilimanjaro Airport There:

The trip begins with pick-up at Kilimanjaro International Airport, located between Arusha and Moshi. The most convenient flight is KLM direct from Amsterdam, but other connections may be made through Nairobi, with a short flight to Kilimanjaro. The leader will provide guidance for travel plans once you are approved for the trip. Please do not make nonrefundable travel arrangements until notified to do so by the trip leader.

You must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into Tanzania. A Tanzania visa is also required, and details on how you apply for that will be provided once you are approved for the trip.