focuses on improving the working conditions of porters on Kilimanjaro and in Nepal.
- National park entrance, camping, and rescue fees.
- All meals, snacks, and drinking water (vegetarian and vegan options available)
- Guides, cook, and porter salaries and fees.
- Transport to and from the national park gate.
- Equipment including tents, sleeping mattresses, tables, chairs and kitchen tents (Machame and Lemosho routes only).
- Combination trek/safari packages include transport to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Please note that prices do not include gratuities or soda or alcohol purchases.
Q. What is the best time of year to climb Kilimanjaro?
A. Although you can climb Kilimanjaro at any time, it is generally believed that the best months to climb are September and October. It tends to be drier during these months and there are fewer tourists in Tanzania. It is advised to try to avoid climbing during Tanzania’s rainy season of March, April and May.
Q. What is the best route to climb?
A. We recommend the camping routes of Machame, Lemosho and Shira. The western camping routes are more scenic than the eastern routes and usually have better weather. For fitter climbers, the Western Breach, an alternate route to the summit may be taken from the Machame route.
Q: How should I physically prepare for my climb?
A: Kilimanjaro is considered by many to be the easiest high mountain to climb. However, the altitude of 5,895 meters (19,340 feet) is still extremely high and proper preparation is essential. It is helpful to engage in aerobic exercise a few times a week for two months prior to the climb. Also, it is absolutely essential that you understand the causes and symptoms of altitude sickness before beginning the trek.
Q. What are the signs of altitude sickness?
A. Almost everyone will experience some form of altitude sickness while hiking Kilimanjaro. Although the symptoms are easily treatable with rest and hydration, more serious symptoms can sometimes develop.
Q. What happens if someone has to descend because of altitude sickness?
A. You will always hike with several guides/assistant guides. If someone is too sick to continue, they will descend with an assistant guide.
Q: How much experience do the guides have climbing Kilimanjaro?
A: Our guides have many years of experience on Kilmanjaro. Our most experienced guide has climbed Kilimanjaro more than 200 times (18 years) while our most junior guide has climbed about 50 times (5 years). Be sure to listen to your guide’s advice while on the mountain and remember to go slowly! If you hike slowly, you increase your chances of reaching the top as your body has more chance to acclimatize.
Q. How far do we hike each day?
A. On most days, you will hike about 10 km (6.2 miles). In order to adjust to the change in elevation, you will be hiking the day’s distance at a slow pace.
Q. Why do we make the final ascent to Uhuru at midnight?
A. The final ascent to Uhuru is made at night because of the weather patterns on Kilimanjaro. Clouds begin to roll in almost every day at 10 am. If you summit during the day, you run the risk of being caught in snow, hail or rainstorms. The midnight trek to the summit is designed to ensure your safety. You will also have the best views from the top at dawn.
Q. What kind of gear do I need?
A detailed packing list will be furnished once reservations are confirmed.
Q. What will the porters carry and what will I carry on the climb?
A. Porters will carry most of your luggage. You will carry a small day pack that contains your drinking water, rain gear, camera and lunch.
Q: Do Duma guides carry first aid kits?
A: Guides carry first aid kits that contain bandages, over the counter medicines, and some emergency supplies. Please make sure that you bring your prescription medicines.
Q. Is it possible to buy energy snacks in Tanzania?
A. You cannot get energy snacks or drinks in Tanzania so you should bring a supply with you. Gel energy snacks are extremely useful for the summit day.
Q. What is happening to Kilimanjaro’s icecap?
A. According to the United Nations Environment Program, Kilimanjaro’s icecap receded 55% between 1962 and 2000. The mountain has lost 82% of its icecap since it was first surveyed in 1912. The glaciers are vanishing due to regional warming, most likely caused by global warming.
