Kilimanjaro Climb FAQs
We create unforgettable travel experiences across Tanzania—from climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to exploring world-class safaris and relaxing on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches.
How fit do I have to be?
Many texts state that Kilimanjaro is “easily accessible”. However, you should not underestimate this mountain. There are no technical mountaineering skills required, but general fitness is necessary. However, the biggest problem for climbers is the effects of high altitude, which seem to be unrelated to fitness, age, or gender.
It is a good idea to start some physical training prior to the trek, which might include aerobic cross training and hiking to familiarise your body with the rigors of the trek. The fitter you are, the easier the climb will be for you. Determination and will power is another important factor.
Please use the main menu on the left to browse through our section “Resources>Health information for Kilimanjaro climbers”.
Do I need experience to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
No, you don’t need mountaineering or technical climbing experience. Kilimanjaro is a trek, not a technical climb. On most routes you walk the whole way, with no ropes, crampons, or ice axes needed.
How difficult is the climb?
It is physically demanding due to altitude, but achievable with proper acclimatization and support.
How many days does it take?
Most climbs take between 5 and 9 days depending on the route.
What about medical supplies and emergencies during my stay in Tanzania?
If you have any particular medical problem please consult with your doctor before you come to Tanzania as to the medication that you should bring on your trip. This also applies to your own personal first aid kit.
Again we can provide you with a suggested list for your personal first aid kit. All trips will have a basic first-aid kit but it will not contain any prescription drugs. There are limited medical supplies in Tanzania and they are mostly found in the capital Daressalaam only. You will not be able to purchase them in the countryside when on the trip.
There are western Doctors who provide medical services to travelers. These professionals can be contacted in the case of an emergency or for a general inquiry.
Make sure that you have travel health care insurance.
We recommend Global Rescue as a trusted insurance agency
What currency should I carry with me?
The official currency of Tanzania is the Shilling. Smaller amounts of money are usually paid in Shilling, whereas larger amounts of money are paid in US$. In September 2009 1 US$ was worth approximately 1,320 Shillings. Money can be exchanged at the Bureaux de Change which can be found at any larger town and in the airports. Make sure that they change your money at the rate which is written in front of the bureau.
Travelers from the US are advised to bring US$ in currency; make sure that the bills you bring are dated 2003 or later, as currency dated earlier may be rejected by currency exchange places. Also, we at ZARA won’t accept US$ bills that have been issued before 2003. You will get a better exchange rate for 50 and 100 dollar bills than for smaller bills. There are several banks where you can use ATMs. Visa card is the most widely accepted credit card.
Travelers from Europe are advised to bring Euros (or British Pounds, Swiss Francs). They can be changed to Shillings at all Bureaux de Change and you save the costs for changing twice – first from Euro to Dollar at your country of origin, and then from Dollar to Shilling in Tanzania. You can use international credit cards, preferably a VISA card, at the ATMs of most banks. At Barclay’s bank (Moshi, Arusha, Zanzibar, Dar es salaam) it is even possible to use your EC debit card.
Only hotels, restaurants and tourist shops of higher category accept international credit cards; when paying small amounts in US$ rather than Shilling, in most cases you get a worse exchange rate. Local shops accept Shillings only.
What support is provided?
You’ll have guides, porters, and cooks who handle logistics, meals, and safety throughout the trek.
What is the success rate?
Success depends on the route and duration. Longer routes generally have higher success rates.
What is the accommodation like?
For safaris, you can choose the standard of accommodation. The cheapest and simplest option is basic camping.
Of better standard are the ZARA properties (Springlands Hotel, Highview Hotel, Tanzania Wildcamps) and the Wildlife lodges, which are 3-star category. These hotels are clean and comfortable. The tents at the Wildcamps have en-suite toilets and hot showers.
The ZARA properties provide the best value for money in Tanzania and provide reasonable class European service.
If you expect 5-star luxury accommodation, it is best for you to choose luxury lodges.
What luggage should I pack?
It is important to keep luggage to the barest minimum when on trek, as this will ease the burden of the drivers, vehicles and porters. Baggage should be of the round squashy type rather than hard suitcases that are difficult to fit into jeeps. Try to use something that is both lockable and waterproof as luggage can often end up sitting on the roof of the vehicle.
It is a good idea to bring another smaller bag so that unwanted clothes can be kept in it at the hotel when you go on a trek. This also helps to keep city clothes clean and free from dust. You should also bring a small day pack which can be carried while hiking or riding or can be readily accessible when you are traveling in the vehicles on long drives.
On camping trips, all equipment will be provided except for a 4-season sleeping bag. You do not need to provide any other camping gear; only personal belongings. See our Kilimanjaro packing list and Safari packing list.
It should be noted that the luggage limit per person on domestic flights is 15-20 kg per person (checked-in and hand luggage).
On your inbound flight, don’t check in items that you absolutely need (such as medicines), as it is not uncommon that checked-in luggage gets misdirected and arrives in Tanzania a couple of days after you. It is better to have such items in your hand luggage.
Travel & Booking FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Tanzania?
Most travelers require a visa, which can often be obtained on arrival or online.
Do you offer airport transfers?
Yes, transfers are included in most packages.
Can I combine safari, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar?
Yes, we specialize in creating seamless combination itineraries.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept bank transfers and other secure payment options.
When should I book my trip?
We recommend booking at least 2–6 months in advance, especially for peak seasons.
