Take advantage of the chance to climb to the top of Africa and to relish in the sensation of achieving something remarkable. Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the highest volcanoes and highest freestanding mountains in the world. The ascent of the mountain allows you to experience a whole range of climatic zones, from the tropics to stunning glacial regions. With this comes an enormous range of beautiful biodiversity for you to take in. The summit itself is a truly unique experience and allows you to admire the breathtaking panoramas from atop of the roof of Africa. The elegant tailored nature of this trek guarantees it to be an unforgettable experience where no two days will be the same.
Kilimanjaro
The Roof of Africa
Kilimanjaro - The Roof of Africa
Kilimanjaro - Adventure Highlights
- Climb the highest mountain on the African continent; officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa in 2013
- Admire the distinct stunning views from the summit, spreading over several countries
- The chosen tailored trail includes a trek through the lower rainforest region, which is home to some of the areas wildlife such as the Colobus Monkey, Leopard and Buffalo
- Experience some of the most breathtaking star-filled skies in the world
- At 4630m, the chosen route offers the chance to admire Lava Tower, a vertical protrusion of volcanic rock poking skyward out of the side of Mt. Kilimanjaro
- Journey through every climatic zone in the world
- Consider adding on a few nights in Zanzibar or a safari after your climb for fuller experience of this African region
ALTITUDE
- 5,895m/ 19,340ft elevation
DURATION
10 days
TECHNICAL AND FITNESS LEVEL
No special technical skills are needed. You will be in the hands of some of the finest Expedition Leaders who will make the trip as comfortable for you as possible. We’ll be doing a lot of walking, the majority of it uphill. Not only that, we’ll be going into a more rarefied atmosphere the further you climb, which makes it tougher. With greater fitness comes greater enjoyment of the trek, so it is worth spending some time working on your fitness before you leave, but you don’t need to be an athlete to go on the expedition. The key to your fitness should be endurance. We are here to support you every step of the way. Even before you go we’ll be on-hand to give you expert advice and can provide a comprehensive personalised training plan should you desire.
RECOMMENDED GROUP SIZE
4-12 People
ACCOMMODATION
- 2 nights in a boutique lodge set in a small, unique coffee plantation close to the base of the mountain
- 7 nights in high-end bespoke tenting on the mountain
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time of year to trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro is from January to mid-March or between July and October for the better weather. However, Kilimanjaro can be climbed all year round; if you have a pre-formed group (family, friends or an organisation), we would be delighted to organise a trip around dates that suit your group.
Your itinerary at a glance
| Day | Destination | Accom. (B/L/D) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Tanzania | Boutique coffee plantation lodge (D) | |
| 2 | Big Tree Camp | Camping at 2,780m (B/L/D) | Unspoilt rainforest and quiet trials |
| 3 | Shira One | Camping at 3,500m on Shira Plateau (B/L/D) | First chance to see Mount Kilimanjaro up close on the trek |
| 4 | Shira Two | Camping at 3,900m (B/L/D) | Side trek to the Shira Cathedral with beautiful surrounding landscapes |
| 5 | Lava Tower | Camping at 4,650m or Barranco Camp 3,960m (B/L/D) | Low alpine, lunar like desert |
| 6 | Karanga Camp | Camping at 4,305m (B/L/D) | Climb the great Barranco wall |
| 7 | Barafu Camp | Camping at 4,640m (B/L/D) | Relaxing trek up the mountain |
| 8 | Summit Day (5,895m) | Millennium camp (camping at 3,790m) (B/L/D) | Reach Uhura Peak |
| 9 | Mweka Gate | Boutique coffee plantation lodge (B/L/D) | Gradual downward trail |
| 10 | Return home | (B) | Flight home or onward journey |
*B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Kilimanjaro - Your Itinerary in Detail
DAY ONE
Arrive in Tanzania, Africa
On arrival in Tanzania you will be transferred to a boutique lodge to relax and unwind after your flight. You will then receive a comprehensive briefing with your Expedition Leader followed by a delicious supper.
DAY TWO
Big Tree Camp (2,780m)
From the lodge, we will make your way to the gates of the mountain to register before reaching the start of the trek. This initial part of the climb takes you through unspoiled rainforest. The trails are quiet and the chances of seeing wildlife, such as the Colobus Monkey, are relatively high, while elephants and buffalo are also known to roam the area. The four to six-hour walk through the rainforest culminates at the Big Tree Camp.
DAY THREE
Shira One (3,500m)
Today you leave the rainforest behind and break into the moorland and heath zone, where the mountain opens up before you in all its glory. On a clear day you can look all the way back over the plains. The six to eight-hour climb to Shira Plateau is a gentle one; the plateau used to be an active volcano but the crater walls collapsed into their own caldera forming the plateau upon which you will spend the night.
DAY FOUR
Shira Two (3,900m)
After breakfast, head away from the path and across towards Shira Cathedral – part of the remnants of the old crater rim of the extinct volcano, Shira. This is not just a valuable acclimatisation walk but there is also an optional chance to scramble up the exciting ridge, which rewards its climbers with breath-taking views looking down on the rest of the mountain. In the afternoon we will head back down the ridge to walk to the next camp, Shira Two.
DAY FIVE
Lava Tower (4,300m) or Barrance Camp (3,960m)
Today, we’ll break the 4,000m barrier and enter a new climatic zone above the vegetation line. Low alpine desert, almost lunar in appearance, is devoid of tropical flora, but still surreally beautiful. Camp today depends on the ground the adventure covers, the weather and the pace of the group. The group may camp at Lava Tower, a great solidified lava funnel that rose and promptly solidified without time to flow downhill. If the weather is good, the eager ones can scramble up the tower. The other option is to trek a little further down at the foot of the Great Barranco Wall.
DAY SIX
Karanga Camp (4,305m)
Our goal today is Karanga Camp, five to eight hours away, high up on a ridge above the Karanga Valley. To reach it, we need to climb the Great Barranco Wall that was formed by a massive landslide 100,000 years ago. It looks daunting, but it is an easy – and very satisfying – trek up the wall into a series of valleys, arriving at Karanga Camp that evening.
DAY SEVEN
Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Today’s camp is not too far, just a four to six-hour trek, at a relaxed pace, up the mountain – arriving in the early afternoon. We will spend the afternoon there, relaxing, enjoying the views and preparing to make the summit the next day.
DAY EIGHT
Summit Day (5,895m) & Millennium Camp (3,790m)
Starting out early in the morning, under the glow of a million stars, we will begin your final climb to the summit. On a clear evening, it’s possible to navigate the route by moon and starlight alone, without the need of a head torch. We may be able to spot the occasional shooting star as you make your way up Kibo, one of three volcanoes of Kilimanjaro, which represents the final summit climb. High up on the mountain, the sun will begin to rise over the extinct Mawenzi volcano, slowly bathing the plains far below in the golden morning light. At last, after a final push up the mountain, we’ll reach Uhuru Peak, 5,895m above sea level- the highest point of Africa. After taking in the captivating views from the summit we will make your way back down to Millennium Camp. The journey down is much quicker and we’ll reach camp with time to sit back and relax, after twelve to sixteen hours of walking, to reflect on your incredible journey.
DAY NINE
Mweka Gate (1,630m)
Our last day on the mountain follows a gradual trail downwards, passing back through the rainforest and arriving back at the gates of the mountain. We will say goodbye to our porters who have helped us throughout the journey and head back to the lodge for a bath and well-deserved dinner to celebrate our phenomenal accomplishment.
DAY TEN
Return home or consider extending your trip in Zanzibar or on a safari for a fuller experience of this region of Africa.
Pricing Information
This trek will depart with a minimum of 4 people and a maximum of 12*.
From £5,995.00 per person based on two people sharing (£500.00 single supplement).
A non-refundable deposit of £1,495.00 will be required.
Included
- An Expedition Leader from ‘The Adventure Boutique’
- Local guides and porters
- Accommodation
- Scheduled meals
- Park fees and permits
- Tips for the local staff and porters and local chefs
- In-country transportation
Excluded
- International flights
- Travel Insurance
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips
A non-refundable deposit of £900.00pp will be required.
*We can accommodate private groups less than 4 or more than 12 people. Please contact us for further information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this differ to any other Kilimanjaro ascent?
The team have handpicked one of the longer routes of the possible six standard paths, allowing you more time to acclimatise on the way up – which means more days on the mountain. Other companies economise by spending a shorter time on the mountain, often a false economy as you reduce your chances of making it to the summit. It also means it’s a quieter and a more unique trek, providing you with peaceful surroundings to appreciate the views.
We’re climbing mountains here, isn’t this a bit extreme?
We’re not kitting you out with ropes and crampons so no technical climbing skills are needed, but we are going quite high, it’s a long walk uphill and we will be camping. However, the high-end camping provided allows you to focus on climbing the mountain rather than worrying about whether your tent will be wet in the morning. Our proven in-depth knowledge and expertise with expedition logistics and equipment gives you the attention to detail and edge over other Kilimanjaro ascents. This allows you to concentrate on the climb and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
How are we catered for?
A quality local chef and kitchen team will accompany the group when camping throughout the trip; you will not fail to be anything but amazed by their creativity on the mountain. You will be provided with proper balanced meals to enjoy, that will be nutritious yet tasty. These meals will be tailored to your dietary needs.
What are the toilet facilities on the mountain?
We will be specially bringing ‘Portaloos’ for you all the way up the mountain to each of our campsites. This is to offer you the comforts that are missed by others on mountain treks ensuring you are made to feel as happy as possible.
Do you provide expert training advice in advance of the trip?
Yes. Even before you go we’ll be on-hand to give you expert advice and can provide you with a comprehensive personalised training plan should you desire. Our Expedition Leaders have a high level of experience and can give you sound advice based on their numerous past experiences.
You say we’re going high- do I need to acclimatise?
Absolutely – it’s vital, for this reason several acclimatisation days have been built into the trek to allow your body time to adjust to the increasing elevation.
What is the weather going to be like?
It depends a little on the time of year you go. But generally, at the base of the mountain, temperatures can exceed 30°C, while higher up they can still reach more than 20°C during the day. At night, however, they can drop below freezing up the mountain. Generally, the skies remain pretty clear but you are at cloud level and it can rain (or even snow), but normally just brief spells.
What clothing/equipment do I need?
The Adventure Boutique team will give you a full comprehensive kit list when you sign up and be on-hand if you have any questions before the trek.
I see we have porters, do they really carry everything for me?
Yes, the porters are there to make life as easy as possible for you without detracting from the challenge of climbing part of the highest mountain in Africa. Every ounce of weight becomes magnified at altitude, so we want you to save as much energy as possible during the climb to ensure you have plenty in reserve for summit day. All you need to carry is a light daypack, containing essentials described in the daypack kit list that will be provided. Even if you don’t want to carry this, we can organise a local guide to personally carry it for you.
Do I need to tip our local staff?
You do not need to tip the local staff. Unlike other companies, we have included the tipping into the price so there are no hidden surprises when you arrive in the country. Tipping the Expedition Leader is at your discretion but will be much appreciated, especially after you witness their dedication and professionalism in looking after you and helping you to the summit.
Will I require any spending money?
Throughout the experience, you won’t need much spending money as the trip is comprehensively covered in the initial cost. You may require money for the very occasional meal not shown on the schedule and any alcoholic drinks. You may also wish to buy some souvenirs or make a satellite phone call home or for work purposes. It will be best to bring your usual currency and this can be changed into local currency soon after arrival.
Do I need special insurance?
You should not need specialist-climbing insurance, but check with your insurer that you are covered trekking to the altitude you will be reaching (5,895m). If you do not have adequate insurance cover, The Adventure Boutique team can refer you to appropriate insurers.
Do I need a visa?
This is dependent on your nationality, our team can advise you on this before signing up. British citizens can obtain a visa, in advance, from the Tanzanian High Commission or on arrival in Tanzania.
Do I need any vaccinations?
Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible. Sources of information include: www.fco.gov.uk, www.hpa.org.uk, www.nathnac.org, your General Practitioner or a specialist travel clinic. Clients travelling to worldwide destinations are recommended to seek advice from the sources mentioned above and, where recommended, obtain vaccinations or tablets for protection against, for example, Malaria, Hepatitis A, Polio and Typhoid. Please note that any passenger travelling between South Africa and either Zambia, Tanzania or Kenya (in either direction) will be required to have a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate with them. The vaccination needs to have been given no less than ten days prior to travelling.
How large are the groups?
The group size should be a maximum of twelve people. The number of participants is kept to a level where quality can be maintained. We at The Adventure Boutique do not want you to become a number on the mountain or a blur after the trek has finished. We normally have a maximum number so as not to allow the groups to become too large. We believe that by doing this, the Expedition Leaders will be able to look after you more carefully, in turn you will find the group dynamics work better and your success rate and enjoyment level increases immeasurably. If you are a group of friends of more than twelve, then obviously we will work together to accommodate you. If you would like to have a more personalised trip below the recommended group size, we would happy be to facilitate this for you too.
What is the minimum age a person has to be to go on this adventure?
The minimum age is 16 years old accompanied by a legal guardian or 18 years old otherwise. If you do have children and want to bring them, the minimum age is 10 years to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. We have the expertise and would be happy to make necessary arrangements to accommodate a young person into a private group.
Is there a maximum age?
There is no maximum age limit, providing you are fit and in good health.
Will my mobile work? Can I stay in touch with the office or my family?
You will find very little mobile phone reception on the mountain so don’t be surprised if your phone does not work. We specially carry a satellite phone in case of emergencies, but we also realise people may need to keep in touch with their loved ones or have some work commitments to deal with. The satellite phone can be used for a charge.
Can I organise this adventure exclusively for myself, my friends and family?
If you have a group of friends or family who want to travel together, a bespoke date can certainly be arranged to suit your party. If you do have your own group and want to discuss any variations in the schedule or particular objectives, feel free to discuss this with The Adventure Boutique team.