Kilimanjaro - Machame Route & Zanzibar Adventure - 12 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the physical rating for this tour, and what are the main physical challenges?

  This tour has a physical rating of 5, indicating it is very challenging. The trek up Kilimanjaro is not technical but requires significant mental and physical preparation due to the high altitude. Uhuru Peak is at an extreme altitude of 5,895m, higher than Everest Base Camp. Climbers should be prepared for potential mild altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, light-headedness, nausea, and loss of appetite. Preparing with regular aerobic exercises like cycling, running, or swimming is highly recommended.

• What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation includes 6 nights in simple hotels and 5 nights of full-service alpine camping. In Moshi, the starting hotel offers amenities like internet, laundry, and a garden bar. On the mountain, designated campsites are basic with no electricity or shower facilities, and basic long-drop latrines. Porters provide tents (with insect nets) and mattresses. In Zanzibar, you'll stay in standard, twin-share accommodation in Stone Town and on the beach. Note that beach resort location in Zanzibar is subject to change.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 11 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners. All meals are provided while trekking on Mt. Kilimanjaro, usually consisting of high-energy foods like pasta, potatoes, meats, and stews. Drinking water on Kilimanjaro is purified mountain water, but bottled water before and after the trek is at your own expense. When meals are not included at hotels, you will be advised of local dining options. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can be accommodated if specified prior to arrival.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  For the Kilimanjaro portion, you will have a certified mountain guide (CEO), an assistant guide (for groups over one person), a cook, and a team of porters. Guides are trained in mountain skills, first aid, and flora/fauna. For the Zanzibar portion, a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and local guides will provide information, suggestions, and introduce you to local culture.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 12 travellers, with an average group size of 10.

• Are international and local flights included in the tour price?

  International flights are generally not included in the price of the tour. However, all local flights, such as the scenic flight from Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar, are included unless otherwise noted. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and provided before departure.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include a Lalasalama Spa & Beauty Aromatherapy Massage in Moshi, Christ Church Cathedral & Old Slave Market visit, Stone Town Walking Tour, and Sultan's Palace Museum visit in Stone Town. In Jambiani, you can enjoy swimming, a Swahili Cultural Tour, or snorkeling. Scuba diving is available in Nungwi, and a Jozani Forest Tour is another option.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip, and what should it cover?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover at minimum medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage. For Kilimanjaro, ensure your policy covers helicopter rescues at elevations up to 6,000 meters.

• What currency should I use, and what should I know about exchanging money?

  The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). US dollars, British Pounds, and Euros can be exchanged locally, with large US$ notes (e.g., $50, $100) often getting better rates. Please note that US dollar notes older than 2006 are not accepted. ATMs are available in major centers but can be unreliable. Credit cards are accepted in major cities but may incur a 5-10% fee. It is best to bring a combination of foreign currency (USD for visas) and debit/credit cards. Travelers' cheques are not recommended.

• What are the tipping guidelines for the tour staff?

  Tipping is expected and appreciated. For Kilimanjaro, it is customary to tip the entire crew (Lead Guide, Assistant Guide, Cook, Porters) upon completion of the climb. A guideline is 10% of the trek's total cost per person, or $150-200 USD per climber for a 5-7 day trek. Individual daily guidelines are $10-15 USD for the CEO/Chief Guide, $8-10 USD for an Assistant Guide, $7-10 USD for the Cook, and $6-8 USD per porter. In Zanzibar, suggested tips are $5 USD per day for the CEO and driver, $2-5 USD per day for supply crew, and $1 USD per couple of hours for local guides. Restaurant servers typically receive 10% of the bill.

• Are there any age restrictions for joining this tour?

  Travellers must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above may join the tour if accompanied by a guardian who is over 21 years old.

• What are the rules regarding illegal drugs and ethical conduct on the tour?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and contravene local laws, putting the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also completely contrary to the tour operator's philosophy. Group leaders have the authority to expel any member found possessing drugs or utilizing the services of paid sex workers.

• What are the luggage restrictions for the Kilimanjaro trek?

  For the Kilimanjaro trek, your larger pack (preferably a duffle bag carried by porters) should not exceed 15kg and be within dimensions of 30cm (height) x 30cm (width) x 60cm (length). You will also carry a smaller day-pack (5kg) with your essentials. Secure luggage storage is available at the Moshi hotel while you climb.

• What is the Moshi Women's Cooperative?

  After descending from Kilimanjaro, you will meet the mamas of the Moshi Women’s Cooperative, a project supported by the tour operator. They will welcome and congratulate you on your climb, presenting you with a gift and a certificate. This is a 'G for Good Moment' activity, contributing to the local community.

• What are the health considerations regarding Yellow Fever and Malaria for this trip?

  A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if travelling from a Yellow Fever endemic country, and may be required even if transiting through an airport in an endemic country for more than 12 hours. Malaria is present in some regions; it is recommended to speak to your doctor about preventative medication and use insect repellent. Always check the most up-to-date health advisories.