Tanzania: Kilimanjaro's Lemosho Route & Serengeti Safari - 16 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  This trip features taking the scenic Lemosho Route, Kilimanjaro's most beautiful path to the summit, camping on the mountain under clear skies, standing at Uhuru Peak at sunrise, roaming the iconic Serengeti in search of wildebeest and prowling lions, descending into Ngorongoro Crater, and spotting towering termite mounds and elephant herds in Tarangire National Park.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 5. Although Kilimanjaro is not a technical mountain climb, it is a major challenge due to the rigor of altitude. It is essential to be mentally and physically prepared before starting, with regular hikes and aerobic exercises recommended.

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

  Accommodation includes 6 nights in hotels, 7 nights of full-service alpine camping on the mountain, and 2 nights in comfortable tented camps with en suite facilities. While camping on Kilimanjaro, tents are two-person dome tents with mattresses and insect nets. Campsites are basic, without electricity or showers, and use basic long drop latrines. Purified mountain water is provided after the first day, but no water facilities are available at Barafu Camp the night before summiting.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 15 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 11 dinners. All meals on the mountain will be prepared by your group's cook.

• What transportation will be used during the trip?

  Transportation includes private minibuses, trekking on Kilimanjaro, 4x4 safari vehicles (7-seater Land Cruisers with sliding windows and pop-up roofs for wildlife viewing), and other private vehicles. Be aware that travel can involve long drives and sometimes poor road conditions.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  For the Kilimanjaro portion of the itinerary, the group will be accompanied by a certified mountain guide, a local representative, a cook, and porters. For the safari portion, a CEO (Chief Experience Officer), certified safari guides/drivers, and local guides will accompany the group.

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

  The maximum group size for this tour is 14 travelers, with an average group size of 10.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  This tour is designed for shared accommodation and does not involve a single supplement for solo travelers. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• What are the age requirements for this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Are international flights included in the trip price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should contact your booking agent for details regarding specific combo tours or flight information.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of travel insurance covering medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation with a minimum coverage of USD200,000.

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

  It is recommended to contact your physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure for up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever endemic country. Malaria is present in some regions, and preventative medication and insect repellent are recommended. Potential health issues include altitude sickness (Uhuru Peak is at extreme altitude), hypothermia, and eye issues for contact lens wearers. A basic first-aid kit is advisable.

• What is the local currency, and how should I manage money, credit cards, and exchanges?

  The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). US Dollars (notes newer than 2006), British Pounds, and Euros can be exchanged. ATMs are available in major centers but can be unreliable. Visa/Plus system cards are most widely accepted, and it's recommended to carry both Visa and Mastercard. Credit cards are accepted in major cities but not widely, often with a 5-10% fee. It's best to carry a combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards.

• Is tipping expected on this trip, and if so, what are the guidelines?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program, serving as an appreciation for exceptional service. Suggested guidelines per person are: CEO: $5 USD (per day), Driver: $5 USD (per day), Supply crew: $2-5 USD (per day), Local guides: $1 USD (per couple of hours), Hotel porters: $1 USD, Restaurant/café servers: 10% of the bill.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include the Lala Salama Spa & Beauty Aromatherapy Massage in Moshi, the Lake Manyara Morning Safari Drive, and the Serengeti Balloon Safari.

• What is the Moshi Women’s Cooperative?

  The Moshi Women’s Cooperative is a project supported by the tour operator. You will meet the mamas of this cooperative for a climbing ceremony after descending Kilimanjaro, receiving a gift and certificate. You will also enjoy an included stop at the cooperative en route to Arusha to learn about their work and possibly purchase souvenirs.

• What rules should I be aware of before joining the trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also contrary to the tour's philosophy. Group leaders have the right to expel any member for these reasons.

• What are the general safety and security guidelines for this trip?

  It's recommended to check your government's travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leave valuable jewelry at home, and use hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is recommended. Your group leader may amend the itinerary for safety. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities. In cities, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis at night. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide, and swimming/snorkeling is at your own risk.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as LGBTQ+. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for resources and using tools like Equaldex for specific country information.

• Can I get my own room on this tour?

  If you have booked the "My Own Room" option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry service is provided at the start/end hotel in Moshi. The readiness of clothes depends on the weather, as they are sun-dried.

• What should I do if I have problems upon arrival?

  If you experience any problems or cannot commence your trip as scheduled, refer to the emergency contact details provided in your dossier. If you have a pre-booked transfer and are not met within 30 minutes of clearing customs, take a taxi to your starting hotel and seek a refund for the transfer cost from your travel agent upon return.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the trip?

  For airport transfer issues at Kilimanjaro International Airport, contact Musaddiq: +255 754 400 141 or +255 787 400 142 (from outside Tanzania) or 0754 400 141 or 0787 400 142 (from within Tanzania). For other dire needs, contact the local office at +254 727 208 832. If unable to reach the local office, you can call their sales team: Toll-free North America: 1 888 800 4100; UK: 0344 272 0000; Germany: 0800 365 1000; Australia: 1 300 796 618; New Zealand: 0800 333 307; Other regions: +1 416 260 0999.

• Do I need to pay a departure tax?

  A departure tax of USD40 may be required, which might already be included in your international air ticket.

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  This tour offers a unique combination of adventure and wildlife. Highlights include trekking the Lemosho Route on Kilimanjaro to reach Uhuru Peak, witnessing breathtaking sunrises from Africa's highest point, and enjoying full-day wildlife safaris in the iconic Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park, where you can spot diverse wildlife like wildebeest, lions, and large elephant herds.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 5, indicating it is a challenging trip. Climbing Kilimanjaro requires significant physical and mental preparation, and regular hikes and aerobic exercises are recommended to strengthen your cardiovascular system before departure.

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

  Accommodation on this tour includes 6 nights in hotels, 7 nights of full-service alpine camping on Mount Kilimanjaro, and 2 nights in comfortable tented camps with en-suite facilities during the safari portion. While on Kilimanjaro, campsites are basic with no electricity or showers, and basic latrine facilities. Warm water for washing is provided daily, and all camping equipment, except your sleeping bag and pillow, is supplied.

• What meals are included in the tour?

  The tour includes 15 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 11 dinners.

• What type of transportation is used on this trip?

  Transportation on this tour involves private minibuses, trekking during the Kilimanjaro climb, and private 7-seat 4x4 Land cruiser safari vehicles specially designed for wildlife viewing with sliding windows and pop-up roofs during the safari components. Private vehicles are also used for other transfers.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 14 travelers, with an average group size of 10.

• Will I have my own room if I'm a solo traveler?

  Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. If you have booked the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Are there any specific age requirements for this tour?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on this tour. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• What currency should I bring, and how do I handle money during the trip?

  The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). US Dollars, British Pounds, and Euros are also easy to exchange. Please note that US Dollar notes older than 2006 are not accepted in Africa. For visas at borders, you will need to pay in USD cash. We do not recommend bringing Travellers' cheques. Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards, while Mastercard/Cirrus cards are harder to use. Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns but are not widely accepted, and a 5-10% fee usually applies. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best, and you should have access to at least an additional USD $200 as an emergency fund.

• Is tipping customary on this tour?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program, serving as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service. As a guideline, per person, per day amounts are: CEO $5 USD, Driver $5 USD, Supply crew $2-5 USD. For local guides, $1 USD per couple of hours. For restaurant/café servers, 10% of the bill is customary.

• Are there any included community support initiatives on this tour?

  Yes, the tour includes a G for Good Moment visit to the Moshi Women's Cooperative and a G for Good Moment visit and lunch at the Mto wa Mbu Community. These initiatives are supported by the tour operator and provide opportunities to learn about and engage with local communities.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  For the Kilimanjaro portion of the itinerary, the group will be accompanied by a certified mountain guide, a local representative, a cook, and porters. For the safari portion, a CEO (Chief Experience Officer), certified safari guides/drivers, and local guides will accompany the group.

• What are the health considerations for this trip, especially regarding Kilimanjaro and altitude sickness?

  It is highly recommended to consult your family physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure for up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if traveling from or transiting through Yellow Fever endemic countries (Kenya and Uganda require it for all travelers regardless of origin). Malaria is present in some regions, so speak to your doctor about preventative medication and use insect repellent. Kilimanjaro is a major challenge; physical and mental preparation is essential. During the trek, mild altitude sickness symptoms like headaches and nausea are common. Severe symptoms require immediate descent. Hypothermia is also a risk in cold environments. Contact lens wearers should remove lenses at night at high altitudes. Emergency evacuation procedures are in place on the mountain, where a rescue team will assist in descending to the park gate if needed.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. At a minimum, your policy must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with at least USD $200,000 in coverage. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please ensure your policy covers adventure activities like crampon use, if applicable to your itinerary.

• What rules or conduct guidelines should I be aware of for this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, and the exploitation of people in the sex trade is strictly against the tour's philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry service is provided at the start/end hotel. The time it takes for clothes to be ready will depend on the weather, as they are dried by the sun.