Frequently Asked Questions
The time required varies greatly by route. The majority of climbers take 6 to 10 days. More days generally gives your body more time to acclimatize and greatly increases your chance of success.
What language is spoken there?
Swahili language is widely spoken in Tanzania, as well as in Kenya, Uganda, Eastern Zaire and Rwanda. Your guide will speak excellent English as well as Swahili and usually also a native language. Some porters know English while others may have just picked up a few words here and there.
Are there any age limitations?
An active young teenager of 13 years can reach the top as can a fit 65 years old as long as adequate preparation takes place before hand. If you’re looking to break the record, the oldest person ever to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro was 87 years old.
Can I combine the climb with a safari?
Absolutely. East Africa has some of the world’s most wonderful safaris to offer. You can very easily do a mult-day safari before or after your climb. Contact us and we can organise your trip the way you want.
Can you do large groups?
Yes. African stork tours and safaris is fully outfitted to lead trips as large as 25-30 people. Contact us and we can make special arrangements around your groups preferences.
Do I need a visa to come to Tanzania?
Yes, you need a visa to enter the country. You may obtain one prior to coming, through your Local Tanzanian embassy or you may purchase a visa upon arrival at the Kilimanjaro International airport for US $ 50 and people holding a US passport need to pay $100.You must have a valid passport with you.
Do I need my own traveler’s insurance?
It is suggested that clients have their own traveler`s insurance. There is rescue on Mt. Kilimanjaro, but if does not include medical services or transportation if required to your home. We do everything we can to ensure your safety and health, but we cannot be held responsible.
How do we deal with rain during the climb?
Good rain gear is a must for the climb including waterproof paints/jacket. We provide modern rugged mountaineering tents equipped with outer flysheets and large enough to comfortably sleep four people with their gear safely inside.Also you can check it the equipment list and you can know which equipment your are suppose to bring before you start trekking.Please see the answer to the question “What do I need to bring”.For a list of recommended equipment.
How fit do I need to be?
You do not need climbing experience to successfully ascend Kilimanjaro Mountain. A strenuous hike fits the description better than a technical climb. Being in good physical condition greatly increases your chance of success.
How many miles do we hike per day?
The number of hours you hike each day varies from 3 hours (minimum) 8 hours (maximum) depending on the intensity of the slope and difficulty of the climb. The various routes are anywhere from 55 to 70 miles.
What is the weather like on Kilimanjaro?
The average temperature at the foot of the mountain is 25o to 30oC. On the summit, it can range from ~ 12o to 10oC but is usually below freezing at 3000m (above the tree line). The day temperatures range from 5o to 15oC and then cool off significantly at night. As you work your way up the mountain, you will traverse through many different climates that vary in temperature and precipitation. Light rain is fairly consistent in the lower rainforest section while the upper parts of the mountain often experience passing snowstorms.
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania formerly called Tanganyika,and is located in northern of Tanzania, Eastern Africa.
What about transportation to and from the airport?
It is suggested that you arrange for transportation into Moshi before arriving in Tanzania. Most international flights arrive into Kilimanjaro International Airport at night. It is not always possible, nor is it advised to find a taxi upon arrival if you have not previously made arrangements. You may arrange for transportation through African Stork Tours and Safaris, and our reliable guide will meet you at the airport and accompany you in comfortable transportation directly to your Moshi Hotel.
What abut altitude sickness?
Oxygen thins as you climb. Most begin to notice this above 3500m. Every individual reacts differently to this change and unfortunately, altitude sickness is impossible to predict. Our guides, however, have years of experience understanding the difference between fatigue and altitude sickness. They will take the necessary precautions at the first signs of altitude sickness, which usually means a timely descent to lower altitude.
What are the health issues in traveling to East Africa?
In preparation for the trip, you should consider getting yellow fever vaccination required to enter country. Please consult with your doctor or visit the CDC website (www.cdc.gov) for more information.
What do I need to bring?
You will need a medium sized backpack (say 2500 to 3500 cubic inches) that can hold multiple layers of clothing. Porters carry the majority of your packs, tents, food and equipment. . In your day pack you will carry rain gear, a head lamp, water, a packed lunch, snacks, sun screen, a camera, and your personal items. For gear, you will need to bring wet-weather clothing, layered cold weather clothing, a good pair of waterproof boots, a sleeping bag and pad, hiking gators, a head lamp, and personal care items. Tents are provided. We boil and provide safe water for your use.See preparation list for more information.
What do we eat?
You will be served three complete meals each day. Maintaining a good diet is crucial to keeping your energy up. Here is a sample of day’s meals on the mountain.
Breakfast: Milk,Pancake,Scrambled eggs, toast, cucumber and tomato, fruits, coffee,drinking Chocolate,Milo, tea, cocoa.
Lunch:Fried chicken, a Sandwich, fruits, a boiled egg, a candy bar,cake, and juice. Afternoon Snack:Groundnuts, hot tea, popcorn and cookies
Dinner:Spaghetti, soup, salad, chicken with rice/pasta, vegetables, potatoes and fruit for dessert.
What if I don’t make it to the summit?
Some climbers may fall short of Uhuru Peak, but not at the expense of their overall experience. There are many wonders on Kilimanjaro, and the experience is rewarding even for those who never reach the top. If one or more members of a group cannot continue ( either by self-recommendation or recommendation from a guide), they are escorted quickly and calmly to the most convenient campsite, which is often down the mountain.
What is the best time of the year to climb?
Climate does not very greatly between seasons on Kilimanjaro, making it a great climb year-round. The most popular moths to climb are July, August, December and January. If you would rather avoid the crowds, we run trips and highly recommend other months are May, June and September.
Which airport do I fly into?
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is about a 45-minute drive to Moshi.