Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano, and it is considered the highest mountain in Africa. It is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park and a major hiking and climbing destination. There are many travelers around the world who dream of hiking this mountain. If you are one of them, you’re in the right place. Our guide will help you plan your trip to Mount Kilimanjaro. We will give you tips on the best routes, the costs, how to book an expedition, and everything you need for a memorable experience.
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro Located?
You can find Mount Kilimanjaro in northeastern Tanzania, which is a country in East Africa. It lies near the border with Kenya, within Kilimanjaro National Park. It is part of the Kilimanjaro Region and stands close to the town of Moshi. Being the highest peak in Africa, it is a significant landmark and a popular destination for hikers and adventurers from around the world.
Different Ways to Get to Kilimanjaro
There are several ways to get to Mount Kilimanjaro. Here are some of them:
- Flying to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Most travelers choose to fly directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport. It is located about 40 kilometers from Moshi and 50 kilometers from Arusha. Several international airlines offer flights to JRO. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where many climbing tours begin.
- Flying to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya
Another way to get to Kilimanjaro is by flying into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. From Nairobi, you can take a connecting flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport or travel by bus. The bust journey from Nairobi to Moshi takes about 6-8 hours and provides a scenic view of the countryside. This might be a more affordable option, but it requires more travel time.
- Flying to Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Some travelers may also choose to fly into Dar es Salaam, which is the largest city in Tanzania. From there, you may take a domestic flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport. You may also take a long-distance bus to Moshi or Arusha, which takes about 8 to 10 hours. This option allows you to explore another major city in Tanzania before heading to Kilimanjaro.
- Taking a Bus from Major Tanzanian Cities
If you are coming from Tanzania, you may reach Kilimanjaro by bus from major cities like Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, or Arusha. This is a cost-effective way to travel. The journey may take 8 to 12 hours, depending on your starting point. It is a great way to see the country and experience local travel.
- Hiring a Private Car or Taxi
If you are searching for a more comfortable and flexible travel option, you can hire a private car or taxi from any major city in Tanzania. However, this is more expensive but offers more convenience and the ability to travel at your own pace. It is also useful if you have a lot of luggage or prefer a direct route.
- Arranging a Tour Operator Pickup
There are tour operators that offer package deals that include transportation from the airport to your hotel and to the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. This is a convenient option as it ensures all your travel arrangements are taken care of, allowing you to focus on your climb. Most tour operators have well-maintained vehicles and experienced drivers familiar with the routes.
These various options offer flexibility and convenience for travelers heading to Mount Kilimanjaro. Each of them caters to different budgets and preferences.
What Routes Are There on Kilimanjaro?
There are different routes to choose from when you hike Kilimanjaro. Each of them offers a unique experience. They cater to different preferences and skill levels. Here are the 3 most popular routes you can choose from:
Marangu Route
The Marangu Route is also referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route.” It is one of the most popular and oldest routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is also the only route that offers hut accommodation instead of camping. This makes it a preferred choice for travelers looking for more comfort.
The route begins at Marangu Gate and takes about 5 to 6 days to complete. This route is considered easier because of its gradual slope and direct path. However, shorter durations may lead to lower success rates due to inadequate acclimatization. In this path, the scenery includes rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. It ends with the stunning summit at Uhuru Peak.
Machame Route
The Machame Route is also known as the “Whiskey Route.” It is favored by those who are looking for scenic beauty and challenging trek. This route requires camping, adding to your adventure. When you choose this route, it usually takes 6 to 7 days to finish. It offers better acclimatization because of its longer duration and a practice called “climb high, sleep low.”
The route starts at Machame Gate and winds through different landscapes, including lush rainforests, moorlands, and rocky ridges before you reach the icy slopes of the summit. A lot of trekkers choose this route due to its varied scenery and higher success rates.
Lemosho Route
This is probably the most beautiful route on Kilimanjaro. The Lemosho Route is celebrated for its stunning views and low traffic. It starts from the western side of the mountain at Londorossi Gate and takes about 7 to 8 days to complete. The route offers excellent acclimatization opportunities with its longer itinerary. This increases the chance of reaching the summit. In this route, you will pass through untouched rainforests, scenic moorlands, and the Shira Plateau before merging with the Machame Route at Barranco Camp. The Lemosho Route provides a balanced combination of beautiful scenery, fewer crowds, and a higher success rate.
Cost of Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro
The cost of hiking Mount Kilimanjaro varies depending on several factors, such as the route chosen, the length of the trek, the level of service provided, and the tour operator. Here’s an example breakdown of the main costs involved:
Tour Operator Fees
- Budget Operators: $1,500 – $2,500 per person. These operators offer basic services and fewer amenities.
- Mid-Range Operators: $2,500 – $4,000 per person. These operators provide a good balance of cost and quality, including better food, equipment, and more experienced guides.
- Luxury Operators: $4,000 – $7,000+ per person. These operators offer high-end services, including premium tents, better meals, portable toilets, and additional staff for comfort.
Park Fees
Park fees are set by the Tanzanian government and are usually included in the tour operator’s price:
- Conservation Fees: $70 per person per day.
- Camping Fees: $50 per person per night (for camping routes).
- Hut Fees: $60 per person per night (for Marangu Route).
- Rescue Fees: $20 per person per trek.
- Crater Camp Fees: $100 per person per night (if you camp in the crater).
Additional Costs
- Flights: $800 – $1,500 for international flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or nearby airports.
- Visa: $50 – $100, depending on nationality.
- Travel Insurance: $100 – $200. Make sure it covers high-altitude trekking and potential evacuation.
- Tips: $200 – $300 per person for the crew, which includes guides, porters, and cooks. It is customary to tip around 10-15% of the total trek cost.
- Gear: $200 – $500 for any necessary gear you may need to purchase or rent (e.g., hiking boots, sleeping bags, trekking poles).
Optional Costs
- Pre- and Post-Trek Accommodation: $100 – $200 per night in Moshi or Arusha.
- Additional Excursions: Prices vary for activities like safaris, cultural tours, or beach extensions in Zanzibar.
Total Estimated Cost
Taking into account all these factors, the total cost of hiking Mount Kilimanjaro can range from approximately $2,800 to over $8,000 per person. This includes the tour operator fees, park fees, flights, visa, insurance, tips, gear, and any optional costs. However, touring the mountain through an operator, excluding all of the other optional costs, may range from $2000 to $2500 per person. It’s important to choose a reputable tour operator that ensures safety, ethical treatment of porters, and quality service to make your trek a memorable and safe experience.
With Whom to Book an Expedition
If you are searching for a tour operator to book your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure, one of the best we can recommend is Altezza Travel. They offer high-quality tours around Tanzania, including climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. They are made up of avid travelers who have spent lots of time exploring the National Parks of Tanzania. They have certified and well-trained wildlife guides. They also have group tours every 2-3 days. Therefore, if you are aiming to hike Mount Kilimanjaro or dreaming of exploring the African Safari, Altezza Travel is a great tour operator to choose.
Final Thoughts
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging but rewarding adventure. You can make this journey an unforgettable experience with the right preparation, choosing a suitable route, and understanding the costs involved. Whichever route you choose, reaching the summit of Africa’s highest peak is an achievement that will stay with you forever. Plan well, stay safe, and enjoy the adventure!