Kilimanjaro - Marangu Route & Zanzibar Adventure - 11 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You will stay in simple hotels for 6 nights and non-heated wooden A-frame mountain huts for 4 nights during the Kilimanjaro trek. In Zanzibar, accommodation will be in standard, twin-share hotels in Stone Town and on the beach.

• What meals are included in the tour?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners. All meals while trekking on Kilimanjaro are included and consist of high-energy foods. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can be accommodated if specified in advance.

• What is the maximum and average group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 12 travelers, and the average group size is 10.

• Are there any age restrictions for this trip?

  The minimum age for unaccompanied travelers is 18. Minors traveling with a guardian (over 21 years old) must be at least 12 years old.

• What is the physical rating of this tour and what level of fitness is required?

  This tour has a physical rating of 5, indicating it is challenging. While Kilimanjaro is not a technical climb, it is a major challenge due to altitude. It's essential to be mentally and physically prepared, with regular hikes and aerobic exercises recommended to strengthen the cardiovascular system.

• What should I know about altitude sickness during the Kilimanjaro trek?

  Mild altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, light-headedness, nausea, and loss of appetite are common. If severe symptoms occur, you must descend immediately. Medications may be used to prevent or treat symptoms, but consult your doctor. Do not ignore signs of altitude sickness.

• Is drinking water provided during the Kilimanjaro trek?

  On day 2, you should bring bottled water. Beyond that, purified (filtered) mountain water will be provided daily by guides who will replenish your reusable bottles/thermos flasks. Plastic or disposable bottles are not allowed on the mountain.

• Who will be leading and supporting the group during the tour?

  For the Kilimanjaro portion, you will be led by a certified mountain guide (CEO), an assistant guide (for groups over one person), a cook, and a team of porters. In Zanzibar, a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and local guides will lead the group.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex. If you book the "My Own Room" option, you will receive a single room only for the Zanzibar portion, not in Moshi or on Kilimanjaro.

• What is the tipping policy for guides and support staff?

  Tipping is expected but not compulsory, serving as appreciation for exceptional service. Guidelines suggest 10% of the trek cost (e.g., $150-200 USD per climber) for the Kilimanjaro crew, presented collectively. For Zanzibar, suggested daily tips are $5 USD for the CEO and driver, $2-5 USD for supply crew, and $1 USD (per couple of hours) for local guides. Restaurant/café servers typically receive 10% of the bill.

• Are there any specific health considerations or vaccinations required for this trip?

  It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if traveling from a Yellow Fever endemic country. Malaria is present, so prophylaxis and insect repellent are recommended. Consult your family physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure for up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations. A medical questionnaire signed by a physician is required for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions.

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

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD 200,000. It's strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage. Crucially, verify that it covers helicopter rescues at elevations up to 6,000 meters for the Kilimanjaro trek.

• What is included in the tour price besides accommodation and meals?

  The tour includes a 5-day guided group trek up Mt Kilimanjaro's Marangu Route with local guides, cooks, and porters, all necessary permits and fees, a visit to the Moshi Women's Cooperative, a scenic flight from Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar, an orientation walk in Stone Town, a spice plantation guided tour, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include a Lala Salama Spa & Beauty Aromatherapy Massage in Moshi, tours of Christ Church Cathedral & Old Slave Market, Stone Town Walking Tour, and Sultan's Palace Museum in Stone Town, as well as swimming, Swahili Cultural Tours, snorkeling in Jambiani, Jozani Forest Tour, and scuba diving in Nungwi. These activities incur extra costs.

• Are there facilities for luggage storage during the Kilimanjaro trek?

  Yes, secure luggage and valuables storage facilities are available at your Moshi hotel while you climb Kilimanjaro.

• Are laundry facilities available during the tour?

  Hand washing facilities are available at campsites. Your hotels in Moshi and Zanzibar (after the climb) also offer laundry service for a fee. It is recommended to use biodegradable soap for hand washing.

• What general safety and security advice is provided for this trip?

  Travelers should check their government's travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leave expensive jewelry at home. Safety deposit boxes are available at many hotels. Group leaders can amend itineraries for safety. During free time, exercise good judgment for optional activities. In cities, travel in small groups and use taxis at night. Avoid photographing police stations, airports, military, or government buildings. Swimming and other water activities are at your own risk unless accompanied by a guide.

• What should I know about electricity on the tour?

  The power supply in Tanzania is nominally 240VAC, 50hz. Variable voltage, spikes, and sporadic, unexpected power cuts of varying duration can be expected. Mountain huts generally have no electricity, so headlamps are essential. Public campsites on some trips may not guarantee electricity for medical machines.

• What is the local currency and what is the best way to handle money?

  The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). US dollars (notes newer than 2006) are the easiest foreign currency to exchange, though British Pounds and Euros may also be accepted. ATMs are available in major centers but can be unreliable. Credit cards are accepted in major cities with a 5-10% fee but are not widely accepted elsewhere. It is recommended to carry a combination of foreign currency cash and debit/credit cards, and to have an emergency fund of at least USD $200. Do not bring traveler's cheques.

• How does this tour support local communities?

  The tour includes a visit to the Moshi Women's Cooperative, a project supported by the tour operator. The tour operator partners with Planeterra International Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting local communities to tourism benefits by supporting community-owned businesses, empowering women, and protecting the environment. Travelers can donate $1/day to Planeterra.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for my trip?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements. It is your responsibility to have correct travel documentation. As of October 1st, 2024, Zanzibar will require mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) for all travelers.