Guided Trekking on Kilimanjaro

Passport

British nationals require a full valid passport with six months validity from the date of entry into Tanzania.

Visas

British passport holders need a visa to enter Tanzania which must be obtained prior to arrival from the Tanzania High
Commission in London: High Commission for the United Republic of Tanzania, 3 Stratford Place, London W1C 1AS. The current cost (August 2011) is £38 per visa. Postal applications are accepted. However monies must be paid directly into the High Commission’s bank account. Full details can be found online at www.tanzania-online.gov.uk

Those who do not have British passports with full right of residence in the UK should check requirements with a Tanzanian Embassy or Consulate.

Health advice

Before booking, you should check with your doctor to see if any health precautions are needed. The following websites provide a wealth of information on travelling and health:

www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk

www.traveldoctor.co.uk

Malaria

Risk exists throughout the year in most parts of Tanzania. Mosquitoes carrying malaria tend to strike mainly in the evenings. It is wise to wear clothing which covers your arms, legs and feet at this time of the day, as well as wearing insect repellent. Consult your doctor or pharmacist as to the most appropriate form of malaria prophylaxis for the areas to which you are travelling.

Altitude sickness

Our mountain guides are trained to ensure that you are monitored at all stages and are able to recognize various forms of mountain sickness and their severity, and to take appropriate steps. Their ability to make these decisions is also based on years of experience on the mountain and so their decisions must be adhered to at all times.

Altitude & the Trek

The attraction of Kilimanjaro is that it is one of the world’s major peaks that can be conquered by trekking to the summit rather than technical mountain climbing. In saying that, the trek leads through areas of high altitude, with rough and wild sections, and it is a serious undertaking. The peak is certainly attainable by healthy, regular walkers, and there are no official upper age limits. However, a degree of training and conditioning is needed before departure. You will receive a full information leaflet regarding what to expect upon booking, and full support is given by our local team of guides whilst on the climb.

Climate

The climate of the Kilimanjaro region is of course dominated by the altitude. The plains surrounding the mountain are warm year-round with temperatures of around 30°C.

The lower flanks of Kilimanjaro are warm in the day and cool at night. As altitude is gained temperature drops, although there may still be times when it is pleasantly warm during the day. Night time temperatures can drop to around freezing, and it is important to note that whilst on the mountain the weather can change quickly. A full kit list will be provided with your travel documents.

Our treks are programmed to depart at the best times for trekking, in the dry season and when visibility should be at its best, although this can never be guaranteed.

Money

The unit of currency is the Tanzanian Shilling. The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The best currency to bring is US dollars which can be changed at banks, authorised dealers and bureaux de change. Euros are also easily changed. A receipt should be obtained and kept until departure.

Tipping

Tipping is not compulsory, but is a means of recognising good service in most countries. Previously we have included tipping in the price of our holidays, but guest feedback has shown that guests would prefer this to be at their own discretion – to give more, or less, as a reflection of the service.

As guidance, we would recommend you allow approximately £100 per person for tips on this holiday to cover local staff and services.

For flights information please see the Dates and Prices tab.