Kilimanjaro – Machame Route & Serengeti Adventure - 13 Days

Frequently asked questions

• How physically demanding is the Kilimanjaro trek?

  The Kilimanjaro climb is rated as a 5 (challenging) and requires significant mental and physical preparation. It involves hiking to nearly 6,000 meters above sea level, which is higher than Everest Base Camp, and you should expect to experience some mild altitude sickness symptoms. Regular aerobic exercise and hikes are recommended for preparation.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  The tour includes stays in simple hotels for 3 nights, full-service alpine camping for 5 nights during the Kilimanjaro trek, and full-service camping for 4 nights during the safari. While on the mountain, tents are provided by porters with mattresses, but without electricity or shower facilities. Safari campsites vary, with some having warm showers and electricity (Lake Manyara area) and others being more basic with long-drop latrines and no electricity (Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater rim).

• What kind of meals are included, and how is drinking water handled?

  The tour includes 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 9 dinners. All meals on the mountain are provided and consist of high-energy foods. Safari meals are prepared from fresh local produce. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can be accommodated if specified in advance. During the Kilimanjaro trek, drinking water is collected from mountain streams and purified by guides; you can also use your own purification tablets for peace of mind. Bottled water before and after the trek is at your own expense.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 12 travelers, with an average of 10. Please note that the Kilimanjaro portion of this adventure has no minimum passenger requirements, meaning some components might have fewer participants.

• Who will be leading and supporting the tour?

  For the Kilimanjaro trek, you'll have an experienced certified mountain guide, an assistant guide (for groups over one person), a cook, and a team of porters (typically 2-3 porters per traveler). For the safari portion, you'll be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), accompanied by an expert driver/guide and a camp cook. All guides are licensed, trained in mountain guiding skills, first aid, and emergency response, and are knowledgeable about the region and wildlife.

• What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the safari?

  You will explore world-renowned wildlife parks like Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater in pursuit of Africa's 'big five' (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo), as well as phenomenal birdlife, tree-climbing lions, giraffes, and hippos. The tour uses agile 4x4s to get you close to the wildlife.

• Is tipping expected on this tour?

  Yes, tipping is an expected and highly appreciated component of your tour program, especially for the Mt. Kilimanjaro trek, and serves as an important source of income for local tourism staff. Guidelines are provided for safari staff (CEO, driver, supply crew, local guides, restaurant servers) and a detailed guideline for the Kilimanjaro crew (Lead Guide, Assistant Guide, Cooks, Porters). It is customary to present tips collectively in an envelope to the Lead Guide on the mountain.

• Are there any optional activities available to enhance the experience?

  Yes, optional activities include the Lala Salama Spa & Beauty Aromatherapy Massage in Moshi and a Serengeti Balloon Safari in Serengeti National Park. These can be pre-booked or arranged through your GCO or travel agent.

• What currency should I bring, and can I use credit cards?

  The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). US dollars (notes newer than 2006) are the easiest foreign currency to exchange, but British Pounds and Euros are also accepted. Visa/Plus debit cards are most widely accepted, and carrying both Visa and Mastercard is recommended. Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns but often incur a 5%-10% fee and are not widely accepted in rural areas. It's advisable to carry a combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards, and always have an emergency fund of at least USD $200.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of travel insurance, which must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD $200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. For the Kilimanjaro trek, ensure your policy covers helicopter rescues at altitudes up to nearly 6,000 meters above sea level. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and luggage loss coverage are also strongly recommended.

• What are the age requirements for this trip?

  Travelers must be at least 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above may travel if accompanied by a guardian who is over 21 years old. The maximum age for this tour is 100.

• How does this tour support local communities?

  The tour includes 'G for Good Moments' such as visits to the Moshi Women's Cooperative and the Clean Cookstove Project in Mto wa Mbu. These initiatives, supported by the tour operator's Planeterra Foundation, connect local communities to tourism benefits by developing small community-owned businesses, empowering women, and providing employment opportunities. The tour operator covers all operating costs of Planeterra, so 100% of donations go directly to these projects.

• What should I know about altitude sickness on Mt. Kilimanjaro?

  During the trek, it's likely all climbers will experience some mild altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, light-headedness, nausea, or loss of appetite, as Uhuru Peak is above 5,400m (extreme altitude). Guides monitor symptoms closely, and in severe cases, immediate descent is necessary. Consult your doctor about medication to manage altitude sickness before the trip.

• What kind of vehicles are used for the safari?

  The safari portion uses private 5- or 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicles. If there is a large group, two vehicles will be used. Be aware that roads can be un-sealed and dusty, especially in wildlife parks. Vehicles are regularly serviced, but breakdowns can occur; drivers are trained mechanics to handle such situations quickly. Speed governors are set to 80kph for safety, and seatbelts are mandatory.

• Can I get my laundry done during the trip?

  Hand washing facilities are available at campsites, and biodegradable soap is recommended. For more extensive cleaning, your hotels in Moshi and Arusha offer laundry services for a fee. It's advisable to submit laundry promptly upon arrival to ensure it's ready by the next morning.

• What important documents should I bring?

  You are required to bring a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity), flight information (printouts may be needed at the border), insurance information (with photocopies), tour vouchers, and any necessary visas or vaccination certificates (with photocopies). It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct travel documentation.