FAQs - Pamoja Kilimanjaro and Safaris

Climbing Kilimanjaro

How difficult is it to climb Kilimanjaro?

It requires no technical climbing experience, and any moderately fit person can summit the mountain. Also it easier because the trekker gets more assistance and information from our tour guides who will be with.

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

January and February are the warmest months, April and May are the wettest months, June and July are the coolest months, and August and September are the driest months. Therefore, the best time to climb Kilimanjaro tends to be the warmest and driest months. It is possible to climb Kilimanjaro year round; however it is best to climb when there is a lower possibility of precipitation. The dry seasons are from the beginning of December through the beginning of March, and then from late June through the end of October. These are considered to be the best times to climb in terms of weather

What is the weather like on Mt. Kilimanjaro?

The temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro range from hot to bitter cold as the altitude increases. Temperatures range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius at the foot of the mountain and -15 to -20 degrees Celsius on top plus wind chill.

The journey from the gate to the peak is like traveling from the equator to Antarctica in a matter of days. This is because the routes to the Uhuru peak cross different ecological zones. Mount Kilimanjaro has five major ecological zones, each approximately 3,280 feet (1,000 m) in altitude. Each zone is subject to a corresponding decrease in rainfall, temperature and life as the altitude increases.

Can children climb Kilimanjaro?

The minimum age set by the National park Authorities for summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro is 12 years old. However, younger children can attempt the summit with special permission. Younger children can also trek on the mountain without reaching the summit.

Kilimanjaro Routes

Which route should i take?

All the routes to the summit are good and having a different views and geographical features, therefore it is your own decision to choose any routes as you read them on the navigation bar or as you heard from the friend who had already climb Mt. Kilimanjaro (note that all routes end up on one peak.

Why the Marangu route is called the "Coca Cola" route? Is it really dirty and overcrowded?

Marangu route have a good infrastructure and there are huts built to accommodate you while you reach the camp for sleeping, different to other route which you will camp and sleep on tents. (Note that the summit day looks similar like Machame route. The national park had already arrange and manage the cleanness of the huts and toilets, also it might be crowded but manageable with the National park servants.

How is the Marangu route different from the Machame route?

Physically, the Marangu and Machame routes are rather different. The main force of Kibo’s volcanic activity occurred out towards the west (the Machame side) and so Machame is steeper – especially in the first day and a half – and more rugged than Marangu. It is often considered more scenic because the views of Kibo are more impressive than from the south-east (the Marangu approach), but many consider the vegetation on day 2 of the Marangu route to be more attractive than anything seen on the western side. As always with mountains, every route has its advantages and drawbacks.

How long does it take to reach the summit?

It will depend on the route you pick and your pace. It can take from 4-8 hours to reach the summit from the high camp.

The Team

How many guides, and porters and cooks do we get?

The number of staff that you will have depends on how much gear and weight is brought up the mountain, the route chosen and number of days on the mountain; however a typical trek will have (per 4 persons); 1 guide, 1 assistant guide, 1 cook, 1 waiter and 9 porters.

Are the guides trained in first aid and altitude sickness?

Kilimanjaro guides are trained in acute mountain sickness (AMS) and basic mountain first aid. However, they are not doctors or paramedics. Climbers are responsible for bringing their own first aid kit and medical supplies.

Are the guides licensed / certified?

Kilimanjaro guides are trained and certified by the Kilimanjaro National Park. They start out as porters and work their way up to assistant guide. When they are ready (after about 2-4 years), they go through the national park certification process.

Who prepare the food on the mountain?

Your trekking party will be supplied with a cook to prepare your meals in a safe and hygienic manner.

Payment

When do I need to pay the balance of my climb/safari?

Final (90%) balance which remains, the payment will be made in cash on your arrival in Tanzania.

What is the deposit amount to hold my space?

A 10% deposit is required at time of booking to hold your climb/safari.

What additional costs can I expect when I travel with you?

Extra expenses include:

Tips for the crews
Rent equipments
Personal issues

How much is a good tip?
PORTERS $ 8 per day per porter
COOKS $ 10 to $ 12 per cook per day
GUIDES $ 20 per day per guide

*Tip amounts listed for trekking Kilimanjaro are per group, not per individual traveler. Sometimes it depends on the enjoyments and happiness you got from them while they were doing services to ensure you reach the summit happy and health and time while you descend from the mountain. Therefore you might increase the tip for the enjoyment and happiness you got on your trekking.

What happens if we one of us gets ill and has to return earlier? Is there an extra charge or is our money returned in case of illness or injury?

If a client cannot walk because they are injured or sick, at least two support staff will assist this climber down. There is no extra charge for coming down and taken back to the hotel, but you will get no money back for that mountain days you missed, and you will be responsible for medical assistance and extra hotel nights. We highly recommend travel insurance to cover any medical expenses and further evacuation.

Medical

Do I need to take malaria medicine?

Malaria is a serious problem in East Africa so you must consult your doctor about getting effective malaria prophylaxis for your visit. You cannot catch malaria above 3000 m on Kilimanjaro, but you must be careful below that altitude.

What shots should I get?

Talk to your doctor about getting

Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Typhoid
Yellow fever
Tetanus
Polio
MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Meningococcal Meningitis (Africa/Asia)

How do I cope with change of altitude?

We have trained guides who they will assist you very well. (Note As the altitude increase also the weather conditions change so it better for you to walk slowly and drink some water.

Do you accommodate people with dietary restrictions?

Vegetarian and other special diets can be accommodated. Please let us know ahead of time and remind your guide during your trek briefing.

others

Do you have luggage (weight/size/number) limitations on your climbs?

The one pack that the porters carry for you is limited to 20 kg.

Can we leave excess luggage behind whilst on trekking?

Extra luggage can be stored in a locked storage room at the hotel you slept and there is no charge. Valuables should be left in a safe deposit box at the hotel.