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KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK

Touch the Roof of Africa, Embrace the Wild

$(CONTACT US)

7
days
DATE: (CONTACT US)
 

LOCATION

Kilimanjaro Region,

Tanzania

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Late June to October and late December to early March

Decleration

progression of Kilimanjaro's designation from a hunting reserve to a globally recognized protected area
 

  • Early 20th Century: The area was declared a hunting reserve.

  • 1921: It was designated as a forest reserve.

  • 1971: The official governing body for the park, Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), was established.

  • 1977: Kilimanjaro National Park was formally opened.

  • 1987: Kilimanjaro National Park was declared a World Heritage Site.

  • Continent’s Highest Point: Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.

  • One of the New Seven Wonders of Africa: Kilimanjaro is recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of Africa, a title that celebrates its natural beauty and cultural significance.

  • Highest 'Freestanding' Mountain in the World: Kilimanjaro is the highest freestanding mountain on Earth, meaning it is not part of a mountain range but rises independently from the surrounding landscape.

  • Three Peaks: The mountain features three distinct volcanic peaks:

  • Shira (a collapsed caldera)

  • Mawenzi (the second-highest peak)

  • Kibo (the highest point, where the summit, Uhuru Peak, is located).

  • Five Ascent Routes: Kilimanjaro offers five major routes to the summit, each with unique landscapes and challenges:

  • Marangu (Coca-Cola route)

  • Machame (Whiskey route)

  • Lemosho

  • Rongai

  • Umbwe

  • KINAPA's Ecosystem: Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA) is home to almost every type of environment found on Earth, from glaciers and snowfields to alpine moorlands, deserts, savannas, and tropical rainforests.

  • Endemic Flora: The park contains unique and endemic plant species, including giant groundsels and lobelias, which are found only on the slopes of Kilimanjaro.

  • Panoramic Views: From Kilimanjaro's summit, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Moshi, Mount Meru, and the surrounding areas.

  • Gorgeous Sunrises: Climbers who reach the summit are treated to magnificent sunrises over the African landscape, offering one of the most memorable experiences of their journey.

ANIMAL LIFE

Below 4,000m: Blue monkeys, Colobus monkeys, baboons, antelopes, mongooses, civets, elands, elephants and buffaloes, wild dogs, leopards, and even lions on the Shira Plateau.

BIRD LIFE

Wildlife

Buzzards and eagles

MACHAME ROUTE

The Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route", is one of the most popular and scenic routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

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  1. Starting Point: The route begins in the southern part of the mountain.

  2. Popularity: It is the most-traveled route on Kilimanjaro, attracting more than 40% of climbers. This high popularity reflects its balance of challenge and reward.

  3. Difficulty: The Machame Route is known to be challenging, requiring a reasonable level of physical fitness. Some parts of the trail involve short scrambling stretches and the steep ascent of the Barranco Wall.

  4. Scenic Beauty: One of the key highlights of the Machame Route is the stunning scenery it offers. Climbers pass through various ecosystems, including rainforests, moorlands, and alpine desert zones, providing diverse and picturesque views throughout the climb.

  5. Acclimatization: The route follows the "trek high - sleep low" strategy, which is important for acclimatization. This approach improves your chances of success by allowing the body to adjust to the altitude before ascending to higher camps.

  6. Summit Success: Because of the "trek high - sleep low" method, the Machame Route generally has a higher summit success rate compared to the Marangu Route, which is known for being less challenging but also has a lower success rate due to fewer opportunities for acclimatization.

  7. Duration: The Machame Route can be completed in a minimum of 6 days, but climbers are encouraged to consider extra days for acclimatization, especially at Karanga Valley. This extra day helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness and prepares climbers for the final push to the summit.

  8. Karanga Valley Acclimatization: For first-time climbers or those unfamiliar with high-altitude treks, an extra acclimatization day at Karanga Valley is highly recommended. This day helps ensure that climbers are fully rested and ready to tackle the ascent to the base camp and, ultimately, the summit.

 

The Machame Route is ideal for those who are looking for a more physically demanding climb but also want to experience the diverse landscapes of Kilimanjaro and have a better chance of reaching the summit.

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7-Day Machame Route Itinerary:

Mount Kilimanjaro

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Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania

  • Arrival: Pick up from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha and transfer to your hotel in Moshi.

  • Pre-tour Briefing & Equipment Check: Meet your mountain guide and office representative for a briefing and equipment check. Ask any questions to ensure you're ready for the adventure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 2: Machame Gate (1,790m/5,873ft) – Machame Camp (3,010m/9,875ft)

  • Transfer: After breakfast, drive to Machame Gate for registration and completion of National Park formalities.

  • Trekking: Begin your trek through the lush rainforest, which can be muddy and wet. This is a steady ascent, providing an excellent introduction to the mountain.

  • Night Camp: Machame Camp.

  • Altitude Change: ↑835m (2,740ft)

  • Distance/Time: 7 km (4.4 miles) – 5-6 hours

 

Day 3: Machame Camp – Shira Camp (3,845m/12,615ft)

  • Trekking: After breakfast, continue the ascent. The trail becomes steeper and rockier in some areas, but the trek is slow with regular rests to allow for acclimatization.

  • Views: Reach the Shira Plateau with amazing panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru in the distance.

  • Night Camp: Shira Camp.

  • Altitude Change: ↑1,220m (4,003ft)

  • Distance/Time: 9 km (5.6 miles) – 6-7 hours

 

Day 4: Shira Camp – Barranco Camp (3,960m/12,992ft)

  • Trekking: The day starts with high moorland terrain as the scenery shifts to a more rugged landscape. Ascend to Lava Tower for lunch and then descend to Barranco Camp.

  • Acclimatization: This day provides excellent acclimatization as you climb to 4,600m and sleep at 3,950m, following the "climb high, sleep low" method.

  • Night Camp: Barranco Camp.

  • Altitude Change: ↑↓795m (2,608ft)

  • Distance/Time: 10 km (6.2 miles) – 6-7 hours

 

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m/13,944ft)

  • The Barranco Wall: Begin with the challenging ascent of the "breakfast wall," a non-technical scramble that adds an adventurous touch to your climb.

  • Scenic Views: After conquering the wall, enjoy breathtaking views of the Barranco Valley and surrounding peaks.

  • Trekking: Continue undulating through the valley before reaching Karanga Camp.

  • Night Camp: Karanga Camp.

  • Altitude Change: ↑↓500m (1,640ft)

  • Distance/Time: 6 km (3.7 miles) – 4-5 hours

 

Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m/15,223ft)

  • Trekking: Continue on a steep but short ascent across the barren landscape, with views of the Decken Glaciers.

  • Preparation: As you reach Barafu Camp, you'll have an early dinner and rest before your midnight summit attempt.

  • Night Camp: Barafu Camp.

  • Altitude Change: ↑605m (1,985ft)

  • Distance/Time: 4 km (2.5 miles) – 3-4 hours

 

Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak & Then Back to Mweka Camp (3,080m/10,105ft)

  • Summit Attempt: Start trekking at midnight using headlamps to light the way. Trek over scree and rock for 4 hours to reach Stella Point (5,750m), where you'll enjoy stunning views of the Mawenzi Peaks and ice cliffs.

  • Uhuru Peak: Continue your ascent to the summit, reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) by sunrise.

  • Descent: After celebrating your achievement, begin the descent via Stella Point and back to Barafu Camp for rest and lunch. Continue descending to Mweka Camp for the night.

  • Night Camp: Mweka Camp.

  • Altitude Change: ↑1,255m & ↓2,815m (9 hours total)

  • Distance/Time: 19 km (12 miles) – 12-14 hours

 

Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi

  • Final Descent: After breakfast, descend for about 4 hours to Mweka Gate (1,680m/5,512ft).

  • Transfer: After completing the trek, you’ll have a tipping ceremony and lunch before returning to your hotel in Moshi for a hot shower and rest.

  • Evening: Reflect on your achievement with your group at the hotel.

  • Altitude Change: ↓1,400m (4,593ft)

  • Distance/Time: 10 km (6.2 miles) – 3-4 hours

 

Day 9: Depart Tanzania

  • Optional Add-Ons: After breakfast, you have free time for relaxation or shopping in Moshi before transferring to the airport for your departure flight.

  • Safari or Zanzibar Extension: You may opt to extend your stay with a safari or a visit to Zanzibar.

 

This 7-day Machame route itinerary offers a well-rounded experience of Kilimanjaro’s varying landscapes and a summit ascent that challenges your physical limits while providing ample opportunities for acclimatization.

PRICE PER PERSON

PLEASE CONTACT FOR PRICE AND PACKAGES

Kilimanjaro Package Inclusions

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  • Conservation Fees, Camping/Hut Fees, & Rescue Fees: All necessary permits and fees to access Kilimanjaro National Park and for emergency rescue services.

  • Camping Equipment:

    • Terra Nova, Vaude, or Northland mountain tents for your stay.

    • Vaude double-layer sleeping mats or Trek & Hide foam mattresses for comfort.

  • Airport Transfers:

    • Round-trip transport between Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Moshi.

  • Transport: To and from Kilimanjaro National Park.

  • Mountain Crew:

    • A guide, assistant guides, and porters to assist with your trek.

    • A mountain chef prepares meals while on the mountain.

  • Meals & Water:

    • Full meals throughout the trek, prepared by your mountain chef.

    • Water was provided throughout the hike.

  • Hotel Accommodation:

    • Pre and post-climb accommodation in Moshi at Panama Garden Resort or Salinero Kilimanjaro Hotel (or similar) on a half-board basis.

  • VHF ICOM Radio Communication: For communication between guides and base camp.

  • Medical Equipment:

    • Portable Oxygen Tank (1.8L canister) for emergencies.

    • Pulse Oximeter to monitor your body's performance at high altitudes.

  • Fair Wages for Mountain Crew: Your package includes fair wages for porters, cooks, and guides, in line with responsible travel practices supported by the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Porters Association (KPA), and Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO).

 

Kilimanjaro Package Exclusions

  • Sleeping Bag: You will need to bring your sleeping bag for the climb.

  • Snacks, Personal Hygiene Kit, and Personal Medication: You are responsible for bringing any personal items such as snacks, toiletries, and any necessary medications.

  • Extra Acclimatization Day: An additional day for acclimatization can be added if necessary, at an extra cost per person. This amount is payable after the climb at the main office.

  • Water Purification Tabs: You may need to bring or purchase your water purification tablets.

  • Portable Manual Flush Toilet: Available for hire toilet per tent for the entire trip (except on the Marangu route).

  • Personal Clothing & Trekking Gear: While most equipment is provided, you will need to bring your own mountain clothing and gear, though some items are available for rent in Moshi.

  • Flights & Tanzania Entry Visa: Your flight to Tanzania and any required entry visas are not included.

  • Health Requirements: Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended based on your travel route; vaccinations for Meningitis & Hepatitis A are optional.

  • Travel & Medical Insurance: Highly recommended, but not included.

  • Hiking Helmet & Crampons: Not included, but may be required for certain routes, especially during icy conditions.

  • Doctor for the Group: Not included, though a doctor may be hired for the group at additional cost if needed.

  • Items of Personal Nature: Any other personal items such as souvenirs, additional drinks, or activities not related to the climb.

 

This package includes everything essential for your Kilimanjaro trek while ensuring a safe and memorable experience, with a focus on responsible tourism and fair treatment of the mountain crew.

OUR MOUNTAIN CREW

Professional guides, assistant guides, cooks and porters.

 

  • We carefully select and train our mountain crew, to ensure that despite their experience on the mountain, they are all qualified enough to be able to carry on their duties while on the mountain with maximum safety to themselves and to our clients. Our guides are all licensed professional mountain guides with many years of trekking experience on Kilimanjaro with extensive mountain first aid and outdoor training.

  • To us, Safety comes first - Our guides are properly equipped and well trained on risk management to provide maximum safety while on the mountain.

  • We use professional cooks who are experienced in catering both local and international meals to suit our clients’ dietary requirement

  • Our mountain crew are well looked after by the Company to ensure that they are properly clothed, equipped with camping gears and are well fed throughout the time that they are on the mountain.

https://www.dolphintravelers.com/

Tipping Recommendations for Kilimanjaro Climbers

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Tipping is an important part of the Kilimanjaro trekking experience, as it helps ensure that the mountain crew members are compensated fairly for their hard work and service. Here's how you can prepare and organize the tipping process:

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  1. Know Your Crew:

    • During the pre-climb briefing, you'll be informed of the number of crew members who will be assisting you throughout your trek (guides, assistant guides, porters, cooks, etc.). It’s a good idea to keep track of this information and confirm the number of crew members when you reach your first campsite.

    • You can also write down the names of your crew members so you can refer to this list when giving tips at the end of your climb.

  2. Tipping Ceremony:

    • It’s recommended to hold a tipping ceremony at the last meal on the mountain or at the main office on your way back to your hotel. This will provide an opportunity for climbers to personally thank and tip each crew member.

  3. Tipping Method:

    • Place the tips in individual envelopes with each crew member's name written on them. This ensures that the tip is given to the right person.

    • It is highly recommended to hand over the tips directly to each crew member to ensure that they receive the full amount and to avoid any misunderstandings.

  4. Tipping Amounts:

    • Tipping amounts can vary depending on the level of service and the size of your group. As a guideline, climbers should budget and prepare tips in advance, based on the crew's number and your satisfaction with the service.

    • Although the amounts are not fixed, it's important to give an appropriate amount that reflects the level of service provided by the guides, porters, and other crew members.

 

By following these recommendations, you ensure that your crew receives the proper appreciation for their hard work and service during your Kilimanjaro trek.

https://www.dolphintravelers.com/
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