There are literally hundreds of companies who service the mountain. Selecting an operator can be a daunting task, and requires research. You want to be sure that your operator staffs experienced, competent guides, who practice high safety standards and treats porters well. You want an operator that has proven expertise, successfully serving a wide range of clients for many years. Our local operator has lead climbs on Mount Kilimanjaro since 1987, and has helped literally thousands of climbers reach the peak.

(2) How Much Does it Cost to Climb Kilimanjaro?

Do not select a company strictly based on price! Price should be only one component in your overall decision. Prices vary significantly between operators, ranging from less than $1,000 to as high as $5,000 for a seven-day trek. Low budget operators cut corners to give you a "bargain" price, but what you are getting is anything but. High budget operators promise added luxury and higher safety in exchange for exorbitant prices.

Ultimate Kilimanjaro offers quality climbs at reasonable rates. Our prices are a great value at about $1,500 per climber, excluding tips. At this price level, we can satisfy all park fees, pay decent wages to staff, supply adequate food and equipment, while still providing great service to our clients.

(3) When are the Best Months to Climb Kilimanjaro?

The best times to climb Kilimanjaro tend to be the warmest and driest months - January, February, and September. June, July, and August are also good months. However, temperatures and weather are unpredictable, and can change drastically based on the time of day and altitude. The risks associated with climbing increase significantly when the weather is foul. The effects of rain, mud, snow, ice and cold can be very strenuous on the body. Correspondingly, your chances of a successful summit also increases significantly with nice weather. It's best to avoid the long rainy season, from the end of March to early June, and the short rainy season, from November through the beginning of December.

(4) Which Route Should I Take?

The routes each have different characteristics which may or may not appeal to you. Consider the difficulty, scenery and traffic when you select your route. Other factors that should be considered are your age, fitness level, medical conditions, climbing/backpacking/hiking/camping experience, experience at high altitude, degree of motivation, and any other special considerations. Ultimate Kilimanjaro recommends Lemosho, Machame and Rongai.

(5) How Many Days are Needed to Climb Kilimanjaro?

The more days you spend on the mountain, the better your chances for successfully reaching the summit. Statistics show that each additional day you spend acclimatizing increases your probability of success. Do not book the minimum number of days. Chances are, you will not enjoy your climb nor will you reach the top. Seven or more days is recommended.

(6) Should I Climb Kilimanjaro by Joining a Group?

No. A private, small-party climb is the best way to climb Kilimanjaro. A small-party climb ensures individualized attention, added flexibility and increased safety.

Most climb operators run group departures for up to 12 people. Once they add the support staff, a "small" group of 12 climbers becomes almost 50 people total! That's hardly the way to enjoy the mountain.

(7) What Do I Need for the Climb?

Follow the gear list and resist the temptation to bring more. You won't need it and it is just extra weight that you or your porters must carry. There are stories where climbers' luggage was lost by the airlines so they arrived with no gear. So they rented only the essential gear and upon completion of their climb, realized that what they had originally brought from home was very excessive. Try to limit all of your gear to less than 40 lbs. It can be done.

(8) How Do I Physically Train for the Climb?

It is very hard to gauge the mental and physical strength needed to climb Kilimanjaro. If you've spoken to those who have successfully or unsuccessfully climbed it, you'd get a wide range of accounts. The truth is, like any other activity, some people excel at it and some people struggle. Two months of physical training is usually sufficient. If you can do day hikes for four to six hours, with moderate elevation changes (~2,000 ft) while carrying a 20 lb pack, or if you can walk on a stairmaster for a 2 hours, at 30 steps per minute while carrying a 20 lb pack, then it's likely you'll have no problems with the physical part of the climb (altitude acclimatization is unknown, however).

(9) What Do I Need to Know About Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness is potentially fatal. However, most climbers will get some form of mild AMS while on the mountain. Your guide will monitor you closely during the duration of you climb. However, you should be aware of the symptoms of mild, moderate and severe AMS, and you must inform your guide of any symptoms immediately. Never try to hide your symptoms in order to continue climbing.

(10) What Else Do I Need Before I Arrive in Tanzania?

Not many people have been to such high altitudes before. Therefore, all climbers should have a medical check prior to attempting to climb Kilimanjaro. Speak with a health-care provider to determine which immunizations and medications to obtain for your travels to East Africa. A valid passport, six months prior to the expiration, is required for entry into Tanzania. Most travelers will need a visa to enter the country, which can be obtained ahead of time through the Tanzanian Embassy, and are also issued at points of entry, including Kilimanjaro International Airport. Climbers should obtain travel insurance. Finally, make copies of your passport, visa, airline tickets, itinerary, medical and insurance documents. Give copies to someone from your home country and carry copies with you in case the originals are lost.