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Compare all our Mount Kilimanjaro adventures.
Uhuru Peak at Mount Kilimanjaro summit, Tanzania.
5.0
| 21 reviews

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro (5895m) via The Machame Route

Hike the most scenic route to the ‘Roof of Africa’ – the continent’s highest peak

Duration

8 nights

Annual Leave

8 days off work

Group Size

Up to 12 people

Season

Dec-Apr | Jul-Oct

Location

Tanzania

Meeting Point

Kilimanjaro International Airport

Classic Accommodation

Hotel · Campsite

Customer Reviews

(21)

5.0

Difficulty

Challenging

From

From

What's it like?

5.0
| 21 reviews
Great Trip, I missed my
February 2024
Charles T.
Great Trip, I missed my
February 2024
Charles T.
Would definitely book with MBA again, commu...
November 2023
Michelle
Would definitely book with MBA again, commu...
November 2023
Michelle
Would definitely book with MBA again, commu...
November 2023
Michelle
Wow, this was such an adventure! The summit...
August 2023
Claire
Wow, this was such an adventure! The summit...
August 2023
Claire
Wow, this was such an adventure! The summit...
August 2023
Claire
One of the best experiences I've had! An in...
August 2023
Maria
One of the best experiences I've had! An in...
August 2023
Maria
One of the best experiences I've had! An in...
August 2023
Maria
One of the best experiences I've had! An in...
August 2023
Maria
One of the best experiences I've had! An in...
August 2023
Maria
Absolutely loved the hiking group, all of t...
February 2023
Claire
Absolutely loved the hiking group, all of t...
February 2023
Claire
Absolutely loved the hiking group, all of t...
February 2023
Claire
Absolutely loved the hiking group, all of t...
February 2023
Claire
My first experience with MBA and I was impr...
February 2023
Brett
My first experience with MBA and I was impr...
February 2023
Brett
My first experience with MBA and I was impr...
February 2023
Brett
As many others have written, this was also...
January 2023
James
As many others have written, this was also...
January 2023
James
As many others have written, this was also...
January 2023
James
As many others have written, this was also...
January 2023
James
As many others have written, this was also...
January 2023
James
Our trek to Kilimanjaro could not have been...
January 2023
Marcy
Our trek to Kilimanjaro could not have been...
January 2023
Marcy
Our trek to Kilimanjaro could not have been...
January 2023
Marcy
Our trek to Kilimanjaro could not have been...
January 2023
Marcy
An unforgettable experience with an amazing...
October 2022
Nicole

Climb to the summit that's on every adventurer's hit-list: the iconic 5895m peak of Mount Kilimanjaro

Bask in a backdrop of endless scenic vistas on a trail that offers a better chance of success than other, shorter routes

Trek through a variety of ecosystems including rainforest, moorland, alpine desert and beneath glaciated precipices

Fancy adding a safari to your summit? Our alternative trip to Climb Kilimanjaro and Go on Safari does just that

Day 1

Welcome to Tanzania!

View of Mount Kilimanjaro from Moshi, Tanzania.

Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your accommodation at the Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel, where your host will be waiting for you. After meeting your guide for a detailed briefing and equipment check, you can get to know your fellow travellers and then retire for an early night, ready for tomorrow’s adventure.

Day 2

Machame Gate (1800m) to Machame Camp (2835m)

Illuminated tents at night in Machame Camp in front of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, under the stars.

Hiking

5-6hrs · 11.2km · 1220m up

Take a 45-minute drive through the mountain village of Machame to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate where your ascent will begin. Hike through the lush rainforest and along winding trails and learn about the local wildlife, perhaps even spotting a blue monkey or a tree hyrax. Have your gaiters and trekking poles at the ready, as the trail can be muddy and slippery at the lower elevations. Reach your campsite, settle in and enjoy your first night on the trek.

Day 3

Machame Camp (2835m) to Shira Camp (3750m)

Tents pitched at Shira Camp with a cloudy backdrop on Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

Hiking

4-5hrs · 4.8km · 915m up

Leave the rainforest behind you and take the ascending path through the valley and along a steep rocky ridge. From here, the route turns west into a river gorge which you will follow all the way up to Shira Camp. Drop off your daypack in your tent and climb the slope above camp for dramatic views over the surrounding plateau and the alpine landscape that awaits you next.

Day 4

Shira Camp (3750m) to Barranco Camp (3900m), via Lava Tower

Views from camp on the Shira Plateau, Kilimanjaro, with a man drinking tea silhouetted against the mountains.

Hiking

5-6hrs · 9.6km · 150m up · 700m down

Spend the day acclimatising as you continue the route along the alpine desert of the Shira Plateau. Hike east towards Kibo’s glaciated peak, then southeast towards Lava Tower (also known as the Shark's Tooth) at 4600m. You'll stop for lunch here to aid with acclimatisation before continuing your trek through moorland dotted with Giant Senecio trees, descending slightly to your overnight camp at Barranco where you'll have a hearty dinner and a good night’s rest.

Day 5

Barranco Camp (3900m) to Karanga Camp (3995m), via the Barranco Wall

Near the Barranco Wall, on the Machame Route up Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

Hiking

4-5hrs · 5.6km · 95m up · 300m down

Today is another important acclimatisation and contingency day to boost your chances of summit success. After breakfast, follow a steep ridge to the base of the Barranco Wall. This is a challenge both physically and mentally, as the wall appears higher than its 257m. Slow and deliberate steps are the trick to an easier scramble to the top (most hikers find it easier than anticipated, so fear not!). At the top, look out over the Heim Glacier and then wind up and down the Karanga Valley to reach your base for the night.

Day 6

Karanga Camp (3995m) to Barafu Camp (4673m)

Hikers following the Machame trail towards Barafu Camp, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

Hiking

2-3hrs · 3.5km · 700m up

Follow a short but steep trail through the ever-thinning air to Barafu Camp – your last stop before summit day. This camp is located on a rocky and exposed ridge, 'barafu' means 'ice' in Swahili. Have an early dinner, get yourself ready for the summit push in the morning and get some sleep. Nearly there!

Day 7

Summit day

Uhuru Peak at Mount Kilimanjaro summit, Tanzania.

Hiking

10-13hrs · 17.7km · 1195m up · 2805m down

Set off in the dead of night to begin the most physically and mentally challenging part of the trek. With head torches on, ascend slowly through heavy scree towards Stella Point (5756m) on the crater rim, followed by a further ascent to Uhuru Peak (5895m) – the highest peak on Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point in the whole of Africa and possibly your greatest trekking accomplishment. After a rest and some photographs, begin the long descent over dusty terrain forged by volcanic ash, eventually dropping back down into moorland as you reach Mweka Camp (3100m) for a well-deserved rest.

Day 8

Descend from Mweka Camp (3100m) to Mweka Gate

Three trekkers hiking through misty forest on the descent to Mweka Gate, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

Hiking

3-4hrs · 9.6km · 1410m down

Continue your descent to the Mweka Park Gate through lush forest – eyes peeled for fluffy black and white colobus monkeys as you reach the lower elevations. The weather here will be significantly warmer making the terrain wet and muddy so have your gaiters and trekking poles handy. When you reach the park gate, you’ll collect your summit certificate before driving back to your hotel in Moshi where you can enjoy a hot shower and celebrate your adventure. Following your trek, there will be a tipping ceremony for the crew who helped you to scale the mountain – please see the FAQs below for more information on this important local custom.

Day 9

Time to head home

View of Kilimanjaro from the Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel rooftop, Moshi, Tanzania.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast to mark the end of a remarkable trip and then head back to the airport, or continue your adventure in Tanzania.

Included

Guides

Local, certified guide and support team

Accommodation

6 nights camping and 2 nights in a hotel

Meals

All meals while on the trek, plus breakfast on departure day.

Transfers

To and from the airport and everything in-between

Porterage

Fair and sustainable wages paid to all the cooks and porters

Permits

All permits, taxes and licenses

Not Included

Flights to and from the meeting point

Travel insurance

Tips for your guides

Personal expenses

Visas where required

Day 1

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 2 – Day 7

Campsite · Twin tent

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 8

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 9

Departure day

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

What is the food like?

Plate of typical Tanzanian lunch including rice, curry and vegetables.

Throughout your trip, a team of experienced chefs will cook and serve you nutritious meals. Breakfast will usually be some combination of fruit, cereal, porridge, eggs, bread, French toast, pancakes, sausage, bacon, tea, coffee and hot chocolate. Lunch will be a mix of vegetables, fruit, boiled egg, meat cutlets, various sandwich options (egg/cheese/tomato/tuna/meat/peanut butter), macaroni and meat sauce and bread. Dinner, meanwhile, will usually consist of soup, bread, salads, rice, pasta, potatoes, roast or fried chicken, beef or fish, curry, mixed vegetables, lentils, fruit salad and fruit with custard. On summit night, you’ll enjoy a midnight snack with juice, soup, hot chocolate, tea or coffee and biscuits, and when you return to base camp, a nice meal will be waiting as a reward all your hard work. If you have any special dietary requests, let your host know in advance and they will do their best to accommodate them. Vegan and vegetarian diets can be fully catered for.

What is the accommodation like?

View of the pool at Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel, Moshi, Tanzania
Moshi

You'll spend your first and last nights of the trip in a twin-share room at the Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel, located just 4km from Moshi Town and 40km from the airport. This 4-star boutique hotel has an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy an international breakfast and an a la carte dinner, or if you prefer something a little more casual, there’s also the 4th-floor Summit Bar which offers pizza and flame-grilled BBQ alongside stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Rooms are modern and comfortable with ensuite bathrooms and free WiFi.

Woman looking at the view from inside a tent at Karanga Camp on Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Along the Machame Route

During the trek, you will camp at a number of sites along the Machame Route in twin-share tents, with camping and cooking equipment provided (you'll need to bring your own sleeping bag, or hire one, though). You'll also have a mess tent where you'll be served all your meals, and a toilet tent used only by your group. Your team of porters will set up and break down camp for you each day.

Upgrades

For solo travellers wanting their own space, there is the option to upgrade to a private room or tent if you would like to do so, subject to availability. See Optional Extras for prices.

The Area

map

Logistics

Starts

Kilimanjaro Airport

Any time on Day 1

Ends

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel in Moshi or Kilimanjaro Airport

Any time on Day 9

Transfers

Your adventure begins at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) where your driver will be waiting for you outside the Arrivals area. Alternatively, if you’re already in Tanzania, your host can arrange a pick-up from any point upon request (not included). Your adventure ends with an overnight stay at the Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel in Moshi; from here you may decide to continue your adventure in Tanzania or ask your host to arrange an airport transfer for any flight departing that day. The airport transfer takes around an hour.

Airport transfers are included in the price if you arrive on Day 1 and depart on Day 12. For those arriving early or wanting to stay on longer, extra nights at the hotels and airport transfers can be arranged with your host at an additional cost. Please see Optional Extras for more information.

Travel options

There are frequent flights to Kilimanjaro (JRO) from major airports across the UK and Europe.

Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear

In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.

What's included?

  • Tent - Mountain Hardwear brand, Trango 3
  • Foam mattress
  • Dining tents with a solar light
  • Comfy chairs with backrest
  • Oxygen tanks
  • All cooking equipment

What do I need to bring?

  • Waterproof jacket - breathable with hood
  • Weather rated insulated jacket - synthetic or down
  • Soft jacket, fleece or soft-shell
  • Long sleeved shirts - light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric (2)
  • Short sleeved shirts - light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric (2)
  • Waterproof pants - breathable
  • Hiking pants - convertible to shorts recommended (2)
  • Fleece pants
  • Shorts (optional)
  • Long underwear - moisture-wicking fabric recommended (2)
  • Underwear - moisture-wicking fabric recommended
  • Sports bra (women)
  • Hiking boots - warm, waterproof, broken-in with spare laces
  • Gym shoes - to wear at camp (optional)
  • Socks - thick, wool or synthetic (3-5)
  • Sock liners - tight, thin, synthetic, worn under socks to prevent blisters (3-5)
  • Waterproof gaiters – highly recommended to prevent loose gravel and sand
  • Sleeping bag - warm, four season rated
  • Sleeping bag liner - for added warmth (optional)
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Duffel bag, for porters to carry your equipment
  • Daypack to carry your personal gear
  • Brimmed hat for sun protection
  • Knit hat for warmth
  • Balaclava for face coverage (highly recommended)
  • Bandana (optional)
  • Warm gloves (waterproof recommended)
  • Glove liners - thin, synthetic, worn under gloves for added warmth*
  • Sunglasses or goggles
  • Backpack cover (waterproof)
  • Poncho (during rainy season - optional)
  • Water bottle (Nalgene recommended) AND a water bladder (CamelBak type) - must have 2-3 litres combined; please note that disposable plastic bottles are not allowed on the mountain due to National Park regulations
  • Towel - lightweight, quick-dry (optional)
  • Pee bottle, to avoid leaving tent at night (highly recommended)
  • Stuff sacks or lightweight dry bags - various sizes, to keep gear dry and separate
  • Lip balm
  • Sunscreen
  • Mosquito repellent (for in town - it's not usually needed on the mountain)
  • Hot water bottle for the night
  • Extra water purification tablets (water will be purified by your trek team on the mountain so this is optional)
  • Nail brush
  • Trip receipt
  • Passport
  • Visa (available upon arrival)
  • Insurance documents

What can I hire?

  • Walking poles
  • Headtorch (you will need to bring your own AAA batteries)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Day pack (with or without waterproof covers)
  • Duffel bag
  • Nalgene water bottle/water bladder
  • A range of clothing (fleece pants, waterproof pants, walking trousers, windbreaker/ski trousers, waterproof jacket, light fleece jacket, heavy fleece jacket, down/ski jacket, hat, thermal top & bottoms, scarf, sunglasses, thin glove liners, thick ski gloves, hiking boots, gaiters, poncho, socks)
  • Pricing ranges from $5-$50 per item for the whole trip. Please request any items you would like to hire in the extras section on the booking form or contact your host prior to departure for confirmation of pricing and availability.
*Requests for optional extras can be made after booking on your “My Bookings” page

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation Double/Twin Room

Payable Before Departure

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation Double/Twin Room

Per Night

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation Single Room

Payable Before Departure

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation Single Room

Per Night

Private room & tent upgrade (nights 1-8)

Payable Before Departure

Private room & tent upgrade (nights 1-8)

Per Person

Private room upgrade (nights 1 & 8 only)

Payable Before Departure

Private room upgrade (nights 1 & 8 only)

Per Person

Private airport transfer - each way

Payable Before Departure

Private airport transfer - each way

Paul F.(February 2024)
Brilliant set up,the guides and

Brilliant set up,the guides and the porters go above and beyond with their help setting up camp,food and overall work ethic. I can't rate these men high enough,superb in every department,my thanks go to these guys for getting our challenge completed,we couldn't do it without you⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Shaun B.(February 2024)
Perfect

The whole team were amazing. Great atmosphere hard work. Thanks

Charles T.(February 2024)
Great Trip, I missed my

Great Trip, I missed my flight going out and contacted much better adventures to advise them they helped getting an additional flight and also contacted the Team in Kilimanjaro to let them know the situation. Great customer service and a well organised trip, a truly memorable experience. Would highly recommend Much Better Adventurer.

Timothy(November 2023)

Title: Conquering Kilimanjaro: A Dream Made True by Much Better Adventures

Review by Timothy Roosen

Embarking on the Much Better Adventures’ Kilimanjaro climb via the Machame Route was an unforgettable experience that has set a new bar for my future travels. This wasn’t just a climb; it was a transformative journey, one that challenged my limits and expanded my understanding of our world's natural grandeur.

The summit push to Uhuru Peak was the crescendo of this adventure. Standing at the peak with dawn breaking over the horizon was a transcendent experience. It was an emotional summit, where the bonds forged along the way and the raw beauty of the surroundings created a memory etched in time.

The magic of this journey was significantly enhanced by the incredible team of guides and porters. Their professionalism, expertise, and genuine warmth turned a daunting challenge into an achievable dream. They were the heartbeat of this adventure, ensuring our safety, cheering us on when the going got tough, and sharing insightful stories that enriched our understanding of local customs and the mountain's history.

Their support transcended the usual client-crew relationship; they became our mentors, friends, and silent heroes who carried the spirit of Kilimanjaro in their unwavering smiles and encouragement. The success of our climb was a reflection of their dedication. They are the unsung champions of the mountain, and the dream of reaching the summit was realized through their remarkable efforts.

Much Better Adventures also demonstrated a laudable commitment to sustainability. Their respect for the environment and the local community was apparent in every aspect of the climb, from their Leave No Trace ethics to their engagement with local staff. It’s clear that they are not just running trips but are also invested in the conservation of these magnificent landscapes and the well-being of those who call it home.

Health and safety were top priorities on this trip. The guides conducted regular health checks and were vigilant about our well-being, ensuring everyone had the best chance to enjoy and complete the trek successfully.

In sum, the Kilimanjaro climb with Much Better Adventures was an epic adventure crafted by the hands of those who know and love the mountain most. The crew’s dedication, combined with the company’s responsible approach to travel, created an experience that was nothing short of extraordinary. For those who dream of reaching the roof of Africa, there is no better companion than Much Better Adventures. Their team doesn’t just guide you to the summit; they elevate the entire experience into a profound journey of discovery.

Rating: 5 stars

Megan(November 2023)

A great way to hike Kili

Michelle(November 2023)

Would definitely book with MBA again, communication was excellent throughout. The team in Tanzania were outstanding, from ensuring you had packed all the correct gear at the start to the closing ceremony back in Moshi, which included a group lunch with all the team that got you to the top - a lovely touch. The trek itself was a magical and unforgettable experience. I felt very safe throughout, and the guides paced us perfectly to reach the summit for sunrise.

Bob(October 2023)

We made it! The local host team did a great job of making us feel as comfortable and confident as possible during our hike. The meals were varied and plentiful, the guides and porters were excellent company, and the small/extra comforts (of having a hot water bottle at night, a private toilet, extra porters during summit night) made all the difference! The whole experience can be quite emotional, and you're truly "stuck" on the mountain with each other for a full week, so it was also amazing to feel how you started to bond with the team. Thanks for an unforgettable experience!

Claire(August 2023)

Wow, this was such an adventure! The summit night is tough, don't underestimate that, but the guides do everything they can for you to achieve getting to the top. They are so attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. We had the best group to climb with and it definitely takes the whole team (26 of them!) for you to summit Kilimanjaro. When we booked we thought it would be pretty basic but we're surprised by the luxurious extras such as tea and coffee brought to your tent to wake up with, hot bowls of water to clean with in the morning, a portable toilet, a dedicated dining tent with 2-3 course meals which were always delicious. The company definitely look after their team with all the porters wearing suitable footwear (unlike some other companies porters we saw), paying a fair wage, and at the end of the climb we had a lunch and beers with the whole team to celebrate and personally give them the tips so you know it's going directly to them.

Maria(August 2023)

One of the best experiences I've had! An incredible, exhausting, challenging journey for which teamwork is essential. Met amazing, strong, warm people, my teammates and the guides and Kili superheroes that took us through the journey. It was more difficult than expected and I ran into a couple of unfortunate setbacks, being unable to fully acclimatise and then having a fall. But, it is in situations like these where you really test the professionalism and care of your tour operator and guides, and they went above and beyond to make sure I was safe and well taken care of: so grateful to Iza, Ema, Bibi and the team

Claire(February 2023)

Absolutely loved the hiking group, all of the guides and Kili fighters who went above and beyond to keep us safe, well fed, and in good spirits with lots of singing along the way. The summit night was tough, mostly because of the thin air, but the sunrise at Stella Point was worth it and the whole trip was really fun and a great physical and mental challenge. I was surprised how good the food was. We didn’t go hungry but I recommend taking a lot of snacks for on the walks. I had mild headaches a couple of days due to the altitude. Definitely suggest taking painkillers. Camping was made as comfortable as possible with morning tea and hot water for washing. I’m not used to sleeping on a mat and would maybe take a blow up for next time to go alongside the thin mattress they provide.

Brett(February 2023)

My first experience with MBA and I was impressed. As expected the trip is sub contracted out to a local well run company. Kili was much harder than I expected and if it wasn't for the team, crew and leaders provided I honestly think I may have failed. Trip of a lifetime

James(January 2023)

As many others have written, this was also a once in a lifetime adventure, and the team were fantastic. Iza was really helpful from the moment I booked. And it's hard to find words to thank the 13 incredible people who enabled just 2 of us to have such an amazing experience. Our guide (a legend of the mountain, Asseno, with over 500 summits!) acclimatised us perfectly so that he could push us safely. That meant we made it to the summit but that it was also the hardest challenge (mentally and physically) of my life. And that's what I was after. Beautiful place. Amazing people. Thank you.

James(January 2023)

I wholeheartedly recommend this trip of a lifetime to anyone. The whole experience from start to finish was incredible. The team dynamic was great, the team on the ground in Kilimanjaro were so helpful from Iza, to the lead guide's, Stephen and Coleman. The food was amazing, the service and assistance were even better.

Marcy(January 2023)

Our trek to Kilimanjaro could not have been more perfect. Iza and his team bent over backwards to make sure we had an amazing (and rewarding) time from the moment we landed until we left 8 days later. Our guides for the hike (lead guide Stephen, along with Colman and Elkenney) were an absolutely blast and made sure we were totally prepared to summit Kilimanjaro. Our whole crew (the porters, the chef, the waiter) were so dedicated to making sure we enjoyed ourselves and could enjoy the mountain they live so much. I felt extra lucky to come across Iza and the team to take us up to the top - I’m not sure anyone else on the mountain was having as much fun as we were!

Nicole(October 2022)

An unforgettable experience with an amazing crew! Thank you!

Stephanie(August 2022)

I had an amazing time climbing Kilimanjaro with the team. All the staff were fantastic and from tents to food to safety, the service they provided was excellent. My guide Stephen was super-knowledgable and a pleasure to spend 6 days hiking with! I highly recommend both the trip, as it is an unforgettable experience, and the company as they were great!

Stefan(February 2022)

It was an amazing trip that was expertly planned. A once in a lifetime experience that was challenging, but fun and in the end rewarding! My daughter, who at 15 became one of the youngest persons to climb Kilimanjaro, and I had a great time. It was really awesome to pass through the different climate zones and their terrains and our team of 12 consisted of two guides, a cool, a potty pilot and some strong porters. The food was well tuned to the demands of the climb and delicious. We would highly recommend this trip to anyone seeking an adventure and a bit of a physical challenge!

Antonia(February 2020)

An absolutely fantastic trip which was amazingly organised from start to finish. After booking, Azizi and his team gave us all the information that we needed, were really responsive and a fantastic source of information. From the moment we arrived, everything was exceptionally well organised and we felt in very good hands with the guides, porters and staff. The food, tents, logistics and support could not have been better and we really could not identify a single point on which the experience could be improved. This was the perfect company to summit Kili with, thank you so much!

Alan(February 2020)

The entire trip was amazing, from the Tanzanian life in Moshi and the surrounding areas to the days on the mountain. Everyone in the trekking company was attentive and keen to help at all times. The guides were excellent, the chef was great, the waiter a massive character and the pilot and other porters all worked diligently throughout to make sure we had a good time. The kit provided was good quality and the food top-notch despite being halfway up a pretty big hill! The actual physicality of the climb was much easier than expected and meant that I was probably doing less in the way of exercise than I would on a normal day at home so it was easily within my capabilities. The constant feeling of being hungover due to altitude sickness at camp was all part of the experience and tended to abate once I was moving. We didn't have the best of weather but everything still ran smoothly and was enjoyable. We did, however, have good weather for summit night with some amazing views towards Mawenzi from Stella Point as the sun rose.

Eoin(November 2019)

The dedication of the team (guides and porters) that helped get us up the mountain were great.

Adrian(January 2019)

The hospitality of the entire team was great. They looked after us at every moment of our journey. I can't find anything that could be organised better than it was. Huge thank you to you guys!

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 251kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

Much Better Adventures offers three routes on Kilimanjaro. Depending on your preferences you can choose a route that is best suited to you; whether that's escaping the crowds on the quieter sides of the mountain, spending more time in Kilimanjaro's forest and moorland environments for best wildlife spotting, and of course finding a trip that suits the time and budget you have available.

Rongai Route (7 days on the mountain): A much quieter and more remote trek away from the crowds. Approaching from the north, your climb starts on Kilimanjaro's second peak, Mawenzi, before crossing a high saddle onto the main peak, Kibo, where you reach the same high point of the other routes, Uhuru Peak. The days are generally considered more moderate, with gradual climbs and avoiding the Baranco Wall scramble. However, the challenges of altitude and a long summit day remain. To reach the start of the Rongai Route involves a 3-4 hour drive.

Lemosho Route (8 days on the mountain): Our longest route with the highest success rate, if you have the extra day available this is probably the best all-round route for most. The Lemosho Route starts to the west of Kilimanjaro and enjoys three days of relatively quiet trails before joining the Machame Route at Lava Tower. These first days are through temperate forest, with good potential for wildlife spotting, before climbing up and across the Shira Plateau. With the extra day on the mountain, it is a more complete experience, seeing all sides and zones of the mountain, as well as allowing more time to adjust to the altitude – it is the route with the highest success rate and growing in popularity because of this.

Machame Route (7 days on the mountain): Considered to be very scenic, the Machame Route strikes a good balance between a safe acclimatisation profile and an efficient itinerary – the Machame Park Gate is only a 45-minute drive from Moshi, so it's the quickest to get to. As with Rongai and Lemosho, you have a different descent route for your way down the mountain.

See our guide to the Best Routes on Kilimanjaro for the full lowdown.

Mount Kilimanjaro isn’t a technical climb and anyone with reasonable fitness should be capable of summiting it as long as they are prepared and determined. However, this doesn't mean it is easy: the main challenge is the high altitude, therefore a slow pace is recommended when ascending.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

The guides have been extensively trained at the Mweka Wildlife Centre and are familiar with the routes, terrain and conditions. With over 10 years' experience, they have also been to the summit more than 100 times. Additionally, all of the guides are certified First Aid Responders and CPR trained.

For every customer, you'll be accompanied by approximately 4 supporting crew members. For example, a group of 8 is likely to be accompanied by 33 support crew. This is broken down as one lead guide, three assistant guides, one cook/chef, one waiter, one pilot (toilet porter), one tent crew, four summit porters (to carry day packs on summit day) and 21 regular porters who carry any additional equipment.

It's possible to climb Mount Kilimanjaro all year round, however, the months outside of the rainy seasons are more desirable. The best climbing months are from December to March and July to October. The best weather is usually at the beginning of the year from January to March, which are also typically the warmest and driest months.

Thanks to Tanzania’s proximity to the equator, the region doesn’t typically experience the extremes of winter and summer weather you might expect and instead has dry and wet seasons. The local weather conditions on Kilimanjaro can be somewhat unpredictable (to say the least) and rainfall varies from 2100mm per year in the rainforest belt to less than 120mm per year in the summit zone. Daily temperature changes are also unpredictable when compared to normal weather cycles, and are largely dependent on the altitude.

Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are, of course, entirely at your discretion but the norm in Tanzanian culture means there is an expectation to tip for good service. This particularly applies to climbing Kilimanjaro, where tipping culture is deeply ingrained and an important custom. Even if it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. After your climb, there will be a ‘tipping ceremony’ in which you’ll have the opportunity to show your gratitude to the team who have supported you along the way.

We would suggest a minimum tip of $350 per guest in 2023 and $400 per guest in 2024. This complies with local guidelines to support the fair and ethical treatment of porters, cooks and mountain guides.

The tipping ceremony is a celebratory affair, and will take place after you share a meal with your support team following the climb. Your host will provide guidance on the appropriate split of the money between the team members. Each individual will be presented with their portion of the tip in a sealed envelope, and in turn you’ll be presented with your Kilimanjaro summit certificate.

In Tanzania, many banks and businesses refuse notes that are old or damaged in any way, so tips with bills that are no more than 15 years old and in good condition are gratefully received.

If you have any hiking gear that’s in good condition but you don’t need after your trek, donations to your team of porters will be gratefully received. Talk to your host if you’d like donate any of your gear.

If you need to be taken down to a lower altitude as a matter of urgency, there are two options in place. In most instances, steel-framed, mobile stretchers can be pushed by porters to descend quickly. Most people feel immediate relief at lower altitudes where you will be evaluated and if the guides determine you are well enough, you will wait for your group at a lower camp or be taken to the gate for transfer to Moshi for medical treatment (if necessary). For more serious concerns, through a partnership with Kilimanjaro SAR, emergency helicopters can be deployed within 5 minutes for evacuation, complete with in-flight medical treatment. If you require further medical attention upon landing, you will be taken to their modern, private High Altitude Medical Clinic, designed to tackle Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Please ensure that you have appropriate insurance coverage for trekking with evacuation coverage for up to 6,000 metres above sea level.

No, however, if you would like the peace of mind of a doctor accompanying you, this can be arranged. Please contact your host and book at least two months in advance.

Unlike many operators, your host carries oxygen on all climbs and guides perform daily health and pulse oxymeter checks, which measures both your heart rate and the percentage of oxygen in your blood. Ensuring and monitoring your health and safety at all altitudes is your host's top priority, and your guides are well-trained to identify the signs of AMS and resolve them immediately.

When you trek in the mountains, there's always the risk of getting altitude sickness, regardless of how old, young, fit or unfit you are. We would expect most trekkers to feel some mild symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, sleeplessness, heavy breathing) when over 3000m. Our guides are trained to identify the symptoms of altitude sickness so if any more serious symptoms are noted, there is a strict procedure regarding extra care or a rapid descent or evacuation if needed. All of our trips have been designed with altitude best practice in mind so acclimatisation days have been built in and our experienced guides follow advice to ‘walk high and sleep low’.

There is a limit to the weight that the porters can carry and your kitbag must be no heavier than 20kg. You will also have a rucksack to hold your basic kit for each day of walking. If you wish to bring more than 20kg it is best to arrange another bag and an extra porter charge will apply.

Your team of porters will provide you with boiled and filtered water throughout the trek.

Yes! Just mention this in the enquiry form when you book or message your host after you have booked and they can help you to arrange this. Prices are shown above in the Optional Extras section.

In this case the optional single room charge would be halved.

A plastic bag ban went into effect across Tanzania from 1st June 2019 and the use, manufacture or importation of plastic bags, including garbage bags and shopping bags, is now illegal and convicted offenders, including tourists, can face heavy fines, imprisonment for up to two years, or both. Visitors are advised to avoid packing any plastic bags in their suitcases or hand luggage before flying to Tanzania. Items purchased at the airport before boarding the aircraft should also be removed from plastic bags. Please check your hand luggage before disembarking at entry points and any plastic bags should be left on the plane. Similarly, the transparent zip-lock plastic bags that some airlines require passengers to use for keeping liquids, cosmetics, toiletries etc are also not permitted and should be removed and left on the plane before disembarking.

You can securely leave any excess luggage at your host's base before setting off on the trek.

We recommend checking out the country specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

For current advice about travelling in Tanzania, have a read of the UK Foreign Office pages.

Absolutely! Good thinking. Check out our Climb Kilimanjaro & Go On Safari Adventure.

You are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice. Information about visas can also be found on the Tanzanian Immigration website.

If you are eligible for an e-visa and are required to provide the address of your accommodation, please use the following details:
Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel
Address: Plot No 1, Block K Section, Kigoma Street, Shanty Town, Moshi, Tanzania
Postal code: 25102
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +255272751984
PO Box 8964

Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.

Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.

We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.

Our team of Adventure Hunters create exclusive adventures with highly vetted, specialist hosts. We only work with independent, local in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. See here for more info about the local teams we partner with.

TRIP DEPARTURE DATES

July 2024

Saturday • 13th July 2024

to Sunday • 21st July 2024
Guaranteed to run
Only 1 spot left at 5% off

Saturday • 20th July 2024

to Sunday • 28th July 2024
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 3rd August 2024

to Sunday • 11th August 2024
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 10th August 2024

to Sunday • 18th August 2024
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 24th August 2024

to Sunday • 1st September 2024
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 7th September 2024

to Sunday • 15th September 2024
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 21st September 2024

to Sunday • 29th September 2024
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 12th October 2024

to Sunday • 20th October 2024
Guaranteed to run
Only 1 spot left at 5% off

Thursday • 26th December 2024

to Friday • 3rd January 2025
New Years Day Summit
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 11th January 2025

to Sunday • 19th January 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 18th January 2025

to Sunday • 26th January 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 1st February 2025

to Sunday • 9th February 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 8th February 2025

to Sunday • 16th February 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 1st March 2025

to Sunday • 9th March 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 8th March 2025

to Sunday • 16th March 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 12th July 2025

to Sunday • 20th July 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 19th July 2025

to Sunday • 27th July 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 2nd August 2025

to Sunday • 10th August 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 9th August 2025

to Sunday • 17th August 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 30th August 2025

to Sunday • 7th September 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 6th September 2025

to Sunday • 14th September 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 4th October 2025

to Sunday • 12th October 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 20th December 2025

to Sunday • 28th December 2025
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 27th December 2025

to Sunday • 4th January 2026
Guaranteed to run
Private trip

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