Kilimanjaro FAQs
What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?Mt. Kilimanjaro can be summited every day of the year, however we do not recommend climbing during the rainy seasons, which are from mid-March until the end of April and late October through November.
Can I rent gear for my Kilimanjaro climb?Of course. Samba Treks can rent you sleeping bags, parkas, gaiters, trekking poles, etc. Just send us your list of needs in your e-mail, and we will reserve these items for you and have them ready upon arrival.
What will I carry on my Kilimanjaro climb?The only items you need to carry in your daypack are the things you will use throughout the day while you are trekking, such as rain gear, snacks, fleece, gloves, sunscreen, and your camera. Your porter will carry everything else. Click here for a complete Kilimanjaro packing list. We have also included a Kilimanjaro packing list for women.
What safety equipment is needed to climb Kilimanjaro?Many Kilimanjaro climbing companies advertise themselves as being the best because they offer more safety equipment than the other companies. Items such as portable oxygen and altitude bags are cumbersome for the porters to carry, and they are not necessary on Kilimanjaro, as the best treatment for altitude related illness is to descend immediately. These safety devices slow the descent time, thus placing the climber in even more danger. Our Kilimanjaro mountain guides are trained to recognize the various symptoms of altitude sickness, and they will monitor each climber very closely along the way. Portable stretchers are available for each group to use, and evacuation fees are included in your total cost. The nearest hospital, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, is conveniently located in Moshi. While reaching the summit is our goal, safety will always come first. If you desire portable oxygen, we will be happy to accommodate you and add it to your climbing package.
What vaccinations are needed to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro?For current Health information for Travels to Tanzania, visit the Center for Disease Control website.
What can I do with items I do not wish to bring on my Mt. Kilimanjaro climb?Our hotel will be happy to store your extra belongings in a locked room. However, it is advised that you keep your passport with you at all times while you are climbing Kilimanjaro.
Kilimanjaro FitnessKilimanjaro will challenge you both mentally and physically. You must be in excellent physical condition to safely and successfully reach the summit. You should be able to hike with your daypack for 4-6 hours, on various types of terrain, over the course of several days. If weather does not permit you to hike outside, most treadmills have a hill setting. Click here for a comprehensive Kilimanjaro training plan.
Do I need altitude medication to climb Kilimanjaro?While climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, the symptoms of altitude sickness can appear in all climbers , regardless of their age and/or fitness level. Do to this uncertainty, most climbers choose to use Diamox (Acetazolamide), a medication which can decrease headache, tiredness, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath that may occur when climbing to high altitudes. Side effects include a tingling sensation in fingertips and on the face, and frequent urination. Your doctor will be able to give you advice concerning altitude medications during your Mt. Kilimanjaro climb.
With the current Ebola crisis, can I still climb Kilimanjaro?We have compiled the latest information about the Ebola virus, so that you can make an informed decision. Visit our blog at http://kilimanjarotrekking.wordpress.com/2014/10/14/with-the-current-ebola-crisis-should-i-still-climb-kilimanjaro/
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Do we need to purify our own water on the Mt. Kilimanjaro climb?You should drink bottled water while you are in Tanzania, but during the climb, our Mt. Kilimanjaro climbing staff will provide you with plenty of purified drinking water. You do not need to bring filtering systems or purification tablets.
Do I need travelers insurance to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro?Due to unforeseen circumstances, we recommend purchasing your own travel insurance. Standard travel insurance provides coverage for:
Do I need a Visa to enter Tanzania?Yes. A Visa is required to enter Tanzania. It costs $100 for US citizens and $50 for others. You can easily purchase your Visa in the airport upon arrival, but you must pay in cash.
What will we eat during the climb?
Our trained Mt. Kilimanjaro chef will prepare
meals specifically designed to provide the proper caloric intake,
carbohydrates, and proteins necessary for each day of rigorous trekking.
Special dietary needs will be accommodated upon request.
Sample Kilimanjaro climb menu Breakfast Tea, coffee, hot chocolate Toast with jam or peanut butter Eggs Breakfast meat Fruit Lunch Juice Bread or pancakes with jam/peanut butter Various sandwiches Hard boiled egg Fruit Dinner Tea, coffee, hot chocolate Soup Chicken Bread or pancakes Potatoes, rice or pasta Fresh fruits and/or vegetables Afternoon Snacks: Popcorn, peanuts, cookies What is included in my Kilimanjaro climb with Samba Treks?
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