Planning a last minute trip?
Only individuals in exemplary physical condition (with high endurance and good leg strength) should consider planning a Kilimanjaro trek 3 months or closer to departure. You should also already own worn-in hiking boots that are waterproof, warm, and reach up over your ankles.
If those things describe you, then you can continue with your planning, keeping the following 10 things in mind during your last-minute preparations:
- Booking Forms
You’ll have to take a couple of minutes to fill out some simple booking forms to join the trip. Just fax/e-mail the completed forms to us, along with a copy of the issuing page of your passport, and we will begin the process of securing space for you on the trip. - Final Payment
The other guests on the trip will have already paid their final invoices, so you will need to send us your bank check, money order or wire transfer within 48 hours of returning the booking forms. - Valid Passport
Is your passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date? If not, you’ll need to renew your passport immediately. You can do this for a fee at most US Post Offices. - Tanzania Visa
You’ll need a Tanzania tourist visa, and we’ll provide you with all those instructions. If you are booking within 60 days of the trek, you can get your visa upon arrival at the airport in Tanzania for $100 (USD). - No Required Vaccinations
There are no medical requirements for entry into Tanzania directly from Europe or North America, but the vast majority of our guests get anti-malarial pills and a yellow fever vaccination.Talk to your travel doctor about what immunizations or medications might be appropriate for you, as well as to discuss high-altitude trekking. If you’re not sure where to find a travel doctor, most major hospitals have a travel clinic. - Travel Insurance
We do recommend that all our guests purchase travel insurance, and we can confidently recommend Travel Guard.We’ve had great feedback from our guests about their services, and include their brochure in our information packet to you. To have a preliminary look at their coverage options, go to Travel Guard. - Packing List/Preparation
Once your trip is confirmed, your predeparture consultant will send you a detailed packing list and preparation guide, so don’t worry about what to bring. Please read these materials closely; the right gear (and the right attitude) are essential to making it up Kili successfully! - Gear
Kilimanjaro trekkers are limited to one 33-pound duffel bag (26 lb on Machame Route treks), plus a daypack to hold essentials like water, sunscreen, extra layers, etc. This must include all the gear you’ll need on your trek, recommended layers for different climate zones on the mountains, and all personal products. Please read your packing list closely and make sure you’re bringing all the recommended items.If you do not have most of this gear, you can find it online at our trekking store.You can also rent (in advance) a number of items from us, including sleeping bags, pads, trekking poles, outer-wear, etc. - Flights
Please call us to discuss options for international flights to Tanzania. Ask us about our competitive Business Class fares. A copy of the issuing page of your passport is required for us to book airline reservations. - Money
All of your major expenses are covered while on Kilimanjaro. Tipping your trekking guides and staff is optional and is not included. Tipping suggestions vary by trip, but your predeparture consultant will help you with those estimates.Credit cards are only accepted in larger hotels/shops, so you will also want to bring some cash for souvenirs, bar beverages, phone calls, etc. US Dollars are accepted everywhere, and smaller bills are always appreciated. Your predeparture booklet will give you more specific information.