ⓘ Health & Safety

• Mandatory Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is a condition of booking. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking up to 6,000m and include emergency medical evacuation by helicopter.
• Medical Clearance: Trekking at this altitude is a serious undertaking. We require that you consult with your doctor before the trip. It is not recommended for individuals with respiratory, cardiac, or other serious health conditions.
• Yellow Fever: A vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission.

ⓘ Visas & Passports

• A visa is required for most nationalities and can often be obtained on arrival or as an e-visa in advance. Please check the latest requirements for your nationality.
• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Tanzania.

ⓘ Gear & Packing

• You are responsible for your own personal hiking gear, including broken-in waterproof hiking boots, layered clothing, a warm down jacket, a headlamp, and a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures. A detailed packing list will be provided.
• Plastic Bag Ban: Tanzania has a strict ban on single-use plastic bags. Please ensure you do not bring any in your luggage. Reusable ziplock bags for toiletries are permitted.

ⓘ Tipping

• Tipping the mountain crew (guides, porters, cook) is a mandatory and deeply ingrained tradition on Kilimanjaro. It is a vital part of their income.

ⓘ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What makes the Marangu Route different from other Kilimanjaro routes?
A: The Marangu Route is unique because it is the only trail on Kilimanjaro that offers accommodation in permanent mountain huts instead of tents. This makes it a popular choice for climbers seeking more comfort and shelter from the elements. It is also known as the "Coca-Cola" route due to its classic, well-established path.

Q: Is this trek suitable for someone with no high-altitude experience?
A: Yes, the Marangu Route with the included 6-day/5-night trek is considered one of the best options for first-time high-altitude trekkers. The trail has a gradual ascent profile, and our itinerary includes a crucial acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, which significantly increases your chances of a successful and safe summit.

Q: How difficult is the summit night?
A: Summit night is the most physically and mentally challenging part of the trek. You will start hiking around midnight, climbing steep scree slopes in the dark for 6-8 hours to reach the crater rim at Gilman's Point, and then continue to the true summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895m), for sunrise. While demanding, it is a non-technical walk, and your guides will provide constant support and encouragement.

Q: What are the mountain huts like?
A: The huts (Mandara, Horombo, and Kibo) provide basic but comfortable shelter. They feature dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds and mattresses. There are shared dining halls where your cook will serve meals, and basic toilet facilities are available. They offer a communal and sheltered environment to rest and recover.

Q: What is the role of the porters and guides?
A: Your support crew is the backbone of your climb. The guides are responsible for your safety, pace, and health monitoring. The porters carry all the food, cooking supplies, and your main duffel bag (up to a specified weight limit), leaving you free to walk with just a small daypack. The cook prepares all your daily meals.