DURATION
13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
7 DAY KILIMANJARO CLIMB
3 DAY WILDLIFE SAFARI
MAASAI EXPERIENCE
REQUIREMENTS
MODERATE FITNESS LEVELS
TOTAL PRICE / DEPOSIT
$3970 / $1000
🏆
TYPE
SUMMIT CLIMBING
WILDLIFE OBSERVATION
Our Kilimanjaro Expedition includes a 3 day safari, an acclimating day in a natural hot spring, interacting with the Maasai tribe in the Ngonrongoro crater, and of course climbing the Kilimanjaro.
When you land we’ll drive you to the hotel where you’ll be staying, there you can relax by the pool and prepare for the start of the expedition.
To get to the Kilimanjaro summit we’ll take the Machame (or Whiskey) route which is a uniquely scenic route that begins in the lush rainforest of Kilimanjaro, and transitions to the volcanic plug and icefield where you’ll witness stunning views. Then we’ll start the challenging ascend to the highest free-standing peak in Africa and the 4th highest of the 7 summits, Uhuru Peak, at 5,895 meters above sea level.
Once rewarded by the feat and the views, we’ll head back down and begin a more relaxing 3 day safari where you’ll experience wild Tanzania.
Food and lodging is provided during the whole trip. You can read more about it in the appropriate tab.
❂ Day 1
We will greet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transport you to your accommodation in Moshi, situated on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro.
The remainder of the day is for relaxing by the pool and acclimating.
❂ Day 2
Escape the city to explore a lush and serene oasis with natural hot springs. There you’ll be able to swim, rope swing and dive, do some birdwatching as many species inhabit the surroundings or simply relax and enjoy the surroundings.
❂ Day 3
Start of the Kilimanjaro climb. We’ll begin in the thriving Kilimanjaro rainforest and ascend to the machame camp at 9350 feet (2850m) of altitude. We’ll spend the night and acclimate to the lower levels of oxygen.
❂ Day 4
We’ll resume the ascent by traversing small valleys and a steep rocky ridge. We’ll stop at a camp that offers breathtaking views of Mount Meru (a stratovolcano that’s the fifth-highest peak of Africa), the Shira Plateau (where you might see wildlife), and Uhuru Peak (our destination, the highest peak in Africa).
❂ Day 5
We’ll leave for the Lava Tower (that can be climbed too), have lunch there and head for our camp near the Barranco wall, close to the alpine desert.
❂ Day 6
In the morning we will climb the famous Barranco wall, which doesn’t require particular skills but you’ll be using all four of your limbs. We’ll then cross ridges and valleys to Karanga campsite.
❂ Day 7
We will trek up to the Barafu ridge which is our last stop before the peak. We will enjoy a high altitude early dinner at 17:00 and rest until midnight, when we’ll leave for the summit of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak.
❂ Day 8
Our goal is to climb before dawn so that we can be at Kimbo peak shortly before or after sunrise. We will reach Stella Point first and have views of the crater and glaciers. Then we’ll reach Uhuru Peak and complete the Kilimanjaro climb. We’ll then descend back all the way down to the rainforest where we’ll spend the night.
❂ Day 9
We will end the descent of Kilimanjaro expedition on that day by going through the rainforest. We’ll drive to the hotel and celebrate your accomplishment.
❂ Day 10
Time for another bucket list experience: hop on a safari to Lake Manyara National Park, one of the areas with the highest wildlife biomass in Africa. Then spend the night in a beautiful cottage with views on the Ngorongoro forest and organic farm.
❂ Day 11
The safari continues in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO world heritage site, where live 25000 large animals. Of course you’ll have the chance to meet the ancestral inhabitants of the area, the Maasai.
❂ Day 12
For the third safari day we’ll go to Tarangire National Park, famous for it’s large herds (thousands) of prey animals migrating. This park is also the dream destination for bird enthusiasts.
❂ Day 13
The expedition ends. We will drive you to the airport, or if you want to enjoy more we’ll be happy to help.
FOOD
Food during the expedition is carefully curated to showcase local cuisine and flavors while also having options for those that want to stick to western cuisine.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Any special diet can be accommodated.
For the Kilimanjaro climb you might want some extra snacks to keep your energy levels high. In that case we recommend food that doesn’t require preparation that you can eat on the go like dried meat, dried fruits, trail mix, bars. You can bring them from home or buy them in Moshi before we leave.
LODGING
After a long flight to Tanzania we’ll bring you to our base for the expedition which includes a pool, restaurant, outdoor bar, spa, in short, anything that can help you relax. After spending the night in your private comfortable room imagine waking up to the views of the Kilimanjaro. You’ll also appreciate the hospitality and peacefulness of the lodge before enjoying the delicious food.
During the Kilimanjaro guided climb tents are provided. Tent size is 3 people and will be shared by 2. Solo tents can also be requested.
During the safari you’ll stay in a gorgeous lodge overlooking the Ngorongoro forest. You’ll be able to bathe in the swimming pool and explore the lodge’s own organic farm.
Getting to the Kilimanjaro Expedition
We will pick you up at JRO (Mount Kilimanjaro) airport in Tanzania.
You will most likely transfer in Nairobi, or in Amsterdam.
Time zone in Mount Kilimanjaro is UTC/GMT+3
NYC +7 hours
LA +10 hours
Tanzania Visa information
Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months.
Most passports (USA, Europe, Australia) need a visa to enter Tanzania (check list of countries not required to apply for a visa here)
You can get an eVisa (50 USD) on the official Tanzania immigration website. The ordinary / single entry visa is valid for 90 days.
We recommend applying for the visa 6 months prior to the expedition.
Food Safety
Unless specified otherwise avoid drinking tap water. Bottled or purified water will be provided.
Be wary of shellfish, iced drinks or ice cream. Fruits and salads should be washed with purified water.
Electricity
In Tanzania the plug types are G and D while voltage is 230 volts and frequency is 50 hertz. Adapters are required if you come from any other country than the UK, Malaysia, or South Africa.
Currency & Tipping
The Tanzanian shilling is the official currency but US dollars are also commonly accepted. ATMs are available close to our base in Moshi and during the safari.
If you wish to use the local currency we recommend converting in small amounts as it is complicated to convert back to USD.
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in the tourism industry.
It is common to tip about 10USD per group and per day for local guides / cooks / drivers.
Porters and housekeepers are usually tipped a couple of USD.
Weather
In October we’ll be at the end of the dry season, when the temperature is still warm (61°F-87°F / 16°C-30°C) with a little wind. It is the best time for safaris and to climb the Kilimanjaro as the vegetation will allow for better wildlife sightings and the trails will have less tourists.
Rains can occur but they do not last long enough to have to change plans.
Dealing with altitude sickness
Altitude sickness can develop when you rapidly rise to a high altitude (8,000 feet / 2,400 meters) because of lowered oxygen levels.
Our expedition is designed to maximise the acclimatisation period so you can successfully climb to the Kilimanjaro summit. However, you might still feel some symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, exhaustion). In that case, let us know and we will take a break. Some medicine can also be helpful for prevention (acetazolamide) and treatment (dexamethazone) but best is to take the time to acclimate, even prior to the expedition by spending time in altitude.
KILIMANJARO EXPEDITION RECOMMENDED GEAR AND PACKING LIST
Our Kilimanjaro packing list is customized for our Kilimanjaro expedition. It takes into account factors such as seasonality, trip duration, activities, weather, etc. We take pride in recommending the best gear from experience and while you might click on affiliate links our goal is not to monetise at all cost. If you have a question or need recommendations feel free to reach us by email.
❂ Main Bag
A large bag to carry all your gear to your base and back home. We recommend the Patagonia Black Hole 100L Duffel. It’s a bit pricey but durable and light-weight.
❂ Backpack
You’re going to climb Africa’s highest summit during 8 days. Make sure your backpack is comfortable, lightweight and convenient. We recommend the Osprey Mutant 38.
❂ Sleeping Bag
You can rent a sleeping bag in town for around $30 USD but if you want to have the comfort of your own we recommend the Western Mountaineering MegaLite.
❂ Sleeping Pad
Sleeping pads aren’t always a necessity but they’re highly recommended on the Kilimanjaro especially at higher altitudes where the floor is cold and uncomfortable. The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm is the best on the market.
❂ Trekking Poles (optional)
If you want a little help during your climb trekking or walking poles are a great way to limit fatigue and pain. We recommend the Black Diamond Alpine FLZ.
❂ Headlamp
The final ascent of the Kilimanjaro starts at midnight and we’ll hike multiple hours in the dark. We recommend the Black Diamond Storm headlamp. Always bring extra batteries to be safe.
❂ Sunglasses
Sunglasses are required to protect your eyes on the glacier. They need to have polarised lenses. The best glasses will be light, sturdy and allow for the most coverage. We recommend the Julbo Explorers.
❂ Clothes
1 Beanie, 1 bucket hat, 1-2 neck warmer, 1 balaclava, 2 base layers, 3-5 tops, 1 light warm layer, 1 thick warm layer, 1 insulated jacket, 1 waterproof jacket, 1 pair of wind gloves, 1 pair of snow gloves, underwear and socks, 1 pair of shorts, 1-2 hiking trousers, 1-2 warm trousers, 1 pair of long johns, 1 waterproof trouser, 1 pair of hiking boots, 1 pair of casual shoes, swimwear.
❂ Pharmaceuticals
- basic first aid kit (for blisters, cuts, etc)
- painkillers (for headaches)
- malaria tabs
❂ Toiletries
- wet wipes
- toilet paper
- soap
- toothpaste and toothbrush
❂ Miscellaneous
- insect repellant
- powerbank
- ear plugs
- snacks
- hand sanitizer
- water filter / purification tabs
- hand/foot warmers
Personal travel insurance is required for the Kilimanjaro expedition.
Travel insurance can cover anything from trip cancellation to delays, medical expenses, or evacuation.
Here’s how to pick a travel insurance for the Kilimanjaro expedition:
- Make sure the policy includes the medical expenditures you need (most likely doctor’s visits, hospital stays, and prescription medicines)
- Make sure the policy covers unexpected events (most likely baggage loss, damage, flight cancellation, etc)
- Before you buy, compare insurance from several providers. You may compare policies by going online or calling several companies.
- Purchase travel insurance as soon as you plan your flight. The earlier you purchase travel insurance, the better. This is due to the fact that some policies include a waiting period during which you are not protected.
- Once you’ve purchased travel insurance, make a copy.
The best travel insurance ultimately depends on you. Here are our recommendations based on general reviews:
John Hancock Travel
Allianz Travel Insurance
Berkshire Hathaway Travel
❂ Payments & Refunds
Price must be payed in full if booking 90 days or less before the start of the expedition.
If you want to secure your booking 91 days or more before the expedition you can choose to pay full price or pay the deposit first and the rest on day 90 at the latest.
Full payments are refundable if you cancel the trip before the 90 days that precede the expedition.
Deposits are not refundable.
❂ Our Responsibilities
We aim to give you the best possible experience.
This is why price includes our guide, lodge accommodation, food, park entrance fees, activities, local guides, cooks and porters, transportation, extra equipment and more.
At anytime during the expedition you can communicate with us if you have questions or need something handled.
It is also our responsibility to get you to the summit safely but know being successful in climbing to the top is not a guarantee.
❂ Participant Responsibilities
- Understand the Kilimanjaro expedition is a risky trip. It is possible to die while attempting the ascent (3-10 deaths per year (0.03%)).
- Be cordial towards all members of the expedition and show respect for local customs, values and traditions in the areas we travel.
- Follow the Leave No Trace principles
If a participant in the expedition is physically, technically or psychologically unprepared, unable to participate in the expedition or for any other reason may jeopardize the safety, health or well-being of any participant or group as a whole, we may, at any time and at our discretion, dismiss the Participant from the expedition.
Dismissed participants will not receive refunds or credits and will be financially responsible for all additional costs.
Our itineraries are fully customizable allowing you to choose your preferred level of adventure and pick your activities.
All diets can be accommodated on site.
If you wish to only join part of the expedition or looking for a custom expedition let us know through the form below and we’ll make it happen.
Mt Kilimanjaro Expedition
Climb & Safari
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. It is located in Tanzania and can be climbed all year round. The hike to the top is challenging but rewarding and offers great views of the surrounding environment. It is, for good reason, one of the world’s most popular trekking destinations but Mount Kilimanjaro and its environment are much more than a peak to climb: take advantage of your time in the region to observe the wildlife on a safari and connect with the traditional tribes which have ancestral knowledge to share.
Why join the Kilimanjaro Expedition with us?
☑ Highly skilled, knowledgeable and experienced adventure guides
☑ Expertly planned itineraries to optimize time, safety, success and adventure experiences
☑ 7/7 customer support and assistance
☑ Small group sizes for an intimate adventure travel experience
☑ Access to high quality equipment and gear
☑ Committed to promote environmental conservation and cultural preservation
☑ Cultural immersion opportunities with indigenous groups
☑ Carefully curated food and dining experiences, showcasing local cuisine and flavors
☑ Inclusive package that covers it all, ensuring a stress-free trip so you can focus on the present experience
☑ Committed to create everlasting memories and life-changing experiences
Mount Kilimanjaro Trek & Safari
Adventure Travel for Women
The Mount Kilimanjaro expedition is a great option for female travelers and solo female travelers.
One of the main concerns as a solo female traveler is safety. When you climb Kilimanjaro as part of our small group expedition, you will be accompanied by a team of experienced guides and porters who will ensure your safety. Being with other travelers with similar interests will also make your experience more enjoyable and less lonely.
We have a strict policy regarding the respect and well-being of our expedition participants and we will not hesitate to dismiss anyone disrespectful of boundaries.
Climbing Kilimanjaro as part of a group expedition you also receive support from fellow travelers and guides. It is a great feeling to have people around you who encourage you and help you when you feel tired or discouraged.
Climbing Kilimanjaro as part of a group expedition is perfect for solo female travelers looking for an unforgettable adventure. You will be safely supported and have the opportunity to learn about new cultures and challenge yourself.
Your Impact
At Terra Ventura we actively support tradition and local communities. Joining the Kilimanjaro Expedition generates employment and income for local residents. It also helps preserve local culture and traditions. Which is why we travel in the first place.
Our Kilimanjaro expedition also has a positive impact on the environment. By visiting national parks and reserves, we help protect those areas from deforestation and poaching. It also helps raise awareness about the importance of nature conservation.
