We've given each of our tours a comfort rating and a tour pace, walking or cycling grade to give you a general idea about the level of activity on each tour and the standard of accommodation you will be staying in at the end of your day's adventure.
Often you'll stay in different styles of accommodation during your tour; so we make an average rating across the entire tour. For more information on where you'll stay each night, please refer to the day by day tour itinerary.
The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these trip notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations.
Coffee plantation visit with lunch $25 (excludes transport).
Some optionals can be paid for by credit card (not debit card). Please check with your tour leader for the most up-to-date information in this regard.
Please note that any credit card transactions may attract an approximate rate of 5% per transaction.
After consultation with local porter protection groups and our agent in Tanzania, you should, accordingly allow US$150-165 depending on group size for tipping on this tour. It would be advisable to have this amount in denominations of 5,10 and 20 dollar notes for ease of distribution.
Local Costs
| |
UK |
Tanzania |
| Tea/Coffee |
£1.50 |
$1.00 |
| Soft Drink |
£1.50 |
$1.50 |
| Bottled Water |
£1.50 |
$1.00 |
| Bottle of Beer |
£3.50 |
$3.00 |
| 2 Course Meal* |
£15.00 |
$12.00 |
| 3 Course Meal** |
£20.00 |
$20.00 |
| Bottle of Wine |
£14.50 |
$20.00 |
| Breakfast |
£5.00 |
|
*Cheap local fare in a small cafe or restaurant.
**Typical food in a simple, reasonably comfortable mid-range restaurant.
Important Information
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of joining any of our tours that you must have valid travel insurance. It must indicate that you have cover for (at least) medical expenses and emergency repatriation in the event of illness or injury. We also strongly recommend your policy includes cancellation protection as all deposit paid are non-refundable.
If you require travel insurance for your tour, Explore Worldwide is an appointed representative of Campbell Irvine Limited, who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services authority. Our travel insurance policy is specially tailored to the needs of the adventure traveller and will cover you for any included activity on any Explore trip. You can either purchase this at the time of booking or call us 0844 499 0901 after you have booked.
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Visa Requirements
UK, AUS, NZ. USA & CAN citizens need an entry visa. British citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival but this is subject to the fulfilment of all immigration requirements.
Other nationalities should consult their travel agent or consular office.
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All visa information is subject to change. You should confirm all visa related issues with the relevant Embassy prior to departure.
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Vaccinations & Protection
We strongly recommend protection against malaria, hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, polio and yellow fever. Please note you may be required to produce a valid yellow fever certificate on arrival in Tanzania. This includes travellers coming from Europe via, or transiting through, an endemic country including the airports of Nairobi (Kenya) and Addis Ababa (Ethiopia). Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on different prophylaxis available against malaria. Travellers may also wish to take immunisation against meningococcal meningitis.
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The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at http://www.explore.co.uk/Travelhealth/ and from your local healthcare provider.
Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure.
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Know before you go
We strongly recommend that you check your government’s travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs, including advice re: the legality of and local attitudes towards same-sex relationships. For UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice follow the link at http://www.explore.co.uk/Traveladvice/
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Preparing for your tour
Walking Grades and Fitness
On summit day you will be trekking for up to 12/14 hours.
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Additional Information for your Trekking Tour
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR LEMOSHO ROUTE
This trip to Kilimanjaro features more mountain walking than many of our other holidays. For this reason, we feel that it is of value to provide this extra information to help you prepare for your trip. If you are in any doubt about the suitability of the trip you have booked or are looking to book, don’t hesitate to call us and talk to one of our experts: several of whom have climbed Kilimanjaro at least once and others who have led these tours. To the majority of people, climbing Kilimanjaro is one of the most memorable and demanding experiences of their lives. It stands to reason that the better your mental and physical preparation, the more you will enjoy yourself and the more likely you are to succeed in your ascent to the Roof of Africa.
If you would like more further information about Kilimanjaro, please see www.rucsacs.com and select the ‘Explore Mount Kilimanjaro’ option.
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Grading & Fitness for Treks
To climb Kilimanjaro you must be in good physical shape before you arrive. We recommend you start your fitness training well before departure. Running, hill walking and other active sports are the best ways of increasing your stamina and improving your fitness for a trek at high altitude.
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Altitude: On Trek
The altitude of Kilimanjaro makes this trip most suitable for the more serious walker with previous experience of hill walking. Extreme cases of Acute Mountain Sickness are rare, but if it becomes necessary for someone to abandon the trek in the interests of safety, the tour leader’s decision on this is final.
Insurance: Please ensure that your insurance policy covers you to the altitude indicated below in the section entitled “Medical examination” before you come on tour. If you have Explore insurance you will be covered to this altitude.
Medical Examination: You should visit your GP and specifically mention the maximum altitude the trek reaches, i.e. 5895m/19,340’. Bear in mind that the final trek to the summit is optional and can be omitted if so wished.
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Gradient Chart
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Climate
Broadly speaking, the long rains arrive March/May and the short rains November to early January. Although this pattern has been known to be completely erratic in the past. Kilimanjaro can be climbed at any time of the year, but it is often wet in the rainforest in April and May. December to March are the warmest months, but the climate varies greatly with altitude. Days in the lowland forest are pleasantly warm, but occasional showers are common and nights can be very cool. At altitude, it can be particularly cold at night, especially in June and July. On the final summit ascent, temperatures drop well below freezing.
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Seasonal weather patterns can be unpredictable. For up-to-date information on the weather worldwide please visit www.bbc.co.uk/weather.
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Luggage
Unfortunately it does occasionally happen that luggage does not always reach its destination on the same flight as its owner, or possibly it may be damaged in transit. If you are unlucky enough for this to occur, it is important that you file a PIR (Property Irregularity Report) with the airline before leaving the airport. This is essential when you come to make a claim either against the airline or from your travel insurance company
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Clothing & Footwear: On Trek
Walking boots: Probably the trickiest part of all. We strongly recommend walking in good boots. Trainers, tennis shoes or shoes of a similar ilk simply do not give the ankle support afforded by a decent pair of boots, or protection from the rain or cold. Many people now trek in the lighter weight Goretex or leather boots. They have the advantage that they take little breaking in. The slightly heavier traditional leather walking boots are also good. Avoid the types often found in high street shoe shops that are simply cheap trainers with a higher canvas side sewn on – they give little support and will probably not last the trek. Above all, your boots must be well broken in and comfortable. We strongly do not recommend borrowing or renting boots. It is a good idea to carry your boots in your hand luggage on international flights or wear them – should your luggage be delayed, your well broken in boots are the one thing which will be irreplaceable. Gaiters are useful to keep snow and scree out of your boots.
Trainers or trekking sandals: You may choose to bring these which will be useful in towns and when travelling, and leave them in Moshi. It is worth bearing in mind that trekking sandals afford you little protection from stubbing your toes when walking around rock-strewn campsites at night!
Socks: It is best to wear a pair of liner socks under a pair of fairly thick loop stitch socks. This helps to protect your feet against blisters. Avoid nylon socks, they are abrasive, don’t ‘breathe’ well and can cause blisters.
Jacket: After sunset, temperatures can fall below freezing. A very warm jacket is the most convenient way of keeping warm when the temperature drops. Down jackets are recommended especially for the summit attempt.
Waterproofs: Breathable jacket and trouser-type waterproofs made from material such as Goretex not only protects against rain and wind, but also stops you from overheating. They ‘breathe’ and avoid condensation that you will experience from nylon waterproofs.
Long trousers: For everyday walking, light trekking trousers are the most suitable. Jeans are not recommended as they are often difficult to walk in over longer distances and become cumbersome when wet.
Thick sweaters and fleece jackets: Thick sweaters or fleece jackets are essential as nights can be very cold at altitude. Make sure that your waterproof jacket is loose enough to wear over your sweaters and/or fleeces.
Thermal underwear/base layers: Long sleeve tops and “long john” legging thermal underwear is essential. Please note that cotton clothing like t-shirts are not suitable or recommended as a base layer. Cotton does not “wick away” any moisture from the skin. In extreme cold, this could lead to hypothermia. It can also contribute to chaffing of the skin in sensitive areas leading to discomfort and skin irritation.
Shorts: Shorts can be very comfortable to walk in but you must carry long trousers with you in case you get either sunburned or cold! Follow your tour leaders advice on local sensitivities to wearing shorts during the trek.
Waterproof gloves; a warm scarf & a warm hat: Especially useful in the morning and in the evening at higher altitudes and are essential for summit night. Heavy duty windproof gloves or mittens are essential. Also bring a scarf to cover your neck and a warm balaclava or a warm hat.
Zanzibar extension
If you are taking the Zanzibar extension, we recommend that you take a beach towel, swim wear, snorkelling equipment, high factor suncream and sandals.
Zanzibar is a Muslim country and people may be offended by shorts or revealing dresses, which can attract unwelcome attention. Therefore you should dress with respect for local sensibilities. Women should also cover their heads when entering a sanctuary, though in general, mosques are forbidden to non-Muslims.
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Equipment Provided: On Trek
The following equipment is provided by Explore once you are on the trek:
- 2 man tents.
- Dining tents.
- All cooking and kitchen equipment.
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Personal Equipment: On Trek
Trek kit bag
Before leaving Moshi there is time to re-sort luggage into what you need on trek and what can be left in Moshi (for example, what you will need in Zanzibar). Think about what you are taking on trek (remember your sleeping bag) and then think how big your kit bag needs to be. An ex-army type can usually be obtained cheaply. A nylon or canvas bag with a zip along the top is also suitable. Whatever you choose, it must be strong and waterproof, but the porters will carry your kit in heavy duty outer bags for added protection. Soft luggage is essential as framed rucksacks are unsuitable. The weight limit for bag and its contents must not exceed 15kg but you will probably find that you do not need this much.
Small rucksack/day bag
During the course of a trekking day, you do not have access to the luggage that is being carried for you by the porters. In any mountain region the weather can change rapidly and you must be equipped for this eventuality. We would recommend that you have a waterproof liner or cover. Your daysac should, therefore, be large enough to carry the following: waterproofs, fleece, long trekking trousers (if walking in shorts), warm hat and gloves, sun hat, sun cream, platypus (at least 2 litres), water bottle (1-2 litres), tissues and your packed lunch. Most people normally find that this adds up to about 3 to 5kg. Camera equipment can be heavy so think carefully when deciding what to take. It is usually more comfortable to carry a slightly larger pack that is not full than to carry a small pack that is overfull or with ‘bits’ tied on the outside. Something around 30 litres capacity is probably the most suitable. A shoulder bag is not a practical alternative. Nor are gym type bags.
Heavy duty plastic bags
If you pack your gear in heavy duty plastic bags or dry bags inside your kit bag, they will stay dry in case of rain. It will also be easier for you to sort through. Remember, the less you have to unpack in the evening, the less you have to repack each morning! One of these bags to use inside your day bag is strongly recommended.
Sleeping bag
As you do not carry it yourself, this may be down or synthetic, but it must be 4-season comfort rating (temperature –10°C to –5°C). A silk or fleece liner helps to keep your bag clean and adds an extra season.
Sleeping mat
We strongly recommend that you bring your own inflatable thermarest for added comfort and a good night's rest. Whilst Vaude sleeping mats are provided, they are light weight and thin.
Sleeping aids
You may find ear plugs and an eye mask useful at night.
Trekking poles
Trekking poles are strongly recommended and can usually be hired in Moshi, at US$15 per pair. However, you may prefer to take your own.
Water Bottle or Platypus/Camelbak hydration system
Water along the trail must never be considered as drinkable until purified. Take at least two 2 litre personal water bottles or a system that allows for this much water. A personal supply of tablets/drops for water purification system is essential. Powdered fruit juice can be used to disguise the taste. This can be purchased in Moshi. If you elect to use a hydration system with a tube then it is essential that the bladder and tube are insulated for high altitude and below freezing temperatures.
Sunglasses/snow goggles
A good pair of sunglasses/snow goggles are essential for protection against UV rays and glare at high altitudes.
Sun hat, high factor sun cream/block & lip salve
Choose a high factor suncream (Factor 30 or more) to protect your skin against the sun at high altitudes. A combination sunblock/ lipsalve is ideal for facial protection.
Torch/batteries/bulb
A head torch is essential at night in the camp and for finding your way on summit night. Remember to bring some spare batteries and a bulb. There are no facilities on the mountain to recharge any digital equipment.
Toiletries
Essentials are toothbrush/paste. ‘Wet Wipes’ are great for an alternative to washing and a quick clean up.
Personal first aid kit
On each trek a first aid kit is carried but you should have your own blister kit, supply of plasters, aspirin and other essentials. Please do not give medicines to local people without consulting the tour leader.
Personal supplementary snacks
Although sufficient food is supplied on this tour, we recommend that you bring some high energy snacks like cereal bars and chocolate (sweets if you are lactose intolerant) with you. Dextrose and mint cake are especially good for summit night.
Swimming costume
Bring your swimming costume for a swim at the Moshi hotel.
Kit Hire Moshi
It may be possible to hire some kit locally for your Kili trek. Please contact our local contact in Moshi on gladmushi@yahoo.com quoting your reference. They will then be able to confirm availability and cost for you and reserve the items you require. Estimated costs per tour are as follows:–
Down jacket $15 per tour
Sleeping bag $20 per tour
Thermarest style sleeping mat $15 per tour
Gloves $10 per tour
Walking poles $10 per tour
EXPLORE has its own hardy kit bag specifically designed with EXPLORE tours in mind. Please see http://www.explore.co.uk/travelextras/travelequipment.htm for more information.
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Summit Night Clothing: On Trek
Climbing Kilimanjaro is the equivalent of trekking from the Equator to the Pole. It is essential that you have the proper equipment and clothing to ensure you enjoy the trek and also give yourself the very best chance of reaching Uhuru Peak.
After many years of trekking and reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro, we strongly recommend that you should wear the following for your summit night (a comprehensive guide is listed):
- Your torso: You should have six or 7 layers of clothing covering your chest depending on your kit specifications. Starting from your base layer to the outer shell, you should wear a long sleeve thermal underwear layer; a comfortable long sleeve shirt; a jersey; a thin fleece; a thicker fleece and a thick waterproof and windproof outer shell that may contain a fleece lining. If you have a down jacket you may want to decrease this by one layer.
- Your legs: You should wear THREE LAYERS OF CLOTHING covering your legs. Starting from your base layer to the outer layer, you should wear “long john” thermal underwear; trekking trousers and a waterproof and windproof outer shell.
- Your extremities: Your head must be covered by a balaclava or a warm hat and your neck should be covered by a scarf. Your hands MUST be covered with thick waterproof and windproof gloves. You must have thick clean warm socks for summit night. You might also wish to bring “hand warmers” for additional warmth for summit night. Most well stocked pharmacies/outdoor stores will have these available.
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General Information
General Information
Buy a Mosquito Net and Help Prevent Malaria
Malaria is a leading cause of child mortality claiming the life of a child every 45 seconds. Over 90% of malaria deaths occur in Africa. It is a preventable and treatable disease with insecticides, medicines and vaccines but the most obvious source of prevention is the use of mosquito nets. We are working with our Local Agent to provide insecticidal nets to significantly reduce the number of deaths by malaria. This will not only benefit the recipients of the nets but also the Tanzanian economy by purchasing the mosquito nets locally. We will be donating these nets to local families in the Boma Ng'ombe district of Moshi near the airport.
For a donation of just $3 you could assist with this project by providing a mosquito net for a local family. Please speak with your Tour Leader for more information. Your help is invaluable and would be greatly appreciated!
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Electric Supply & Plugs
For comprehensive information regarding voltages and plug types in use in the countries visited, follow the relevant link at http://www.explore.co.uk/Traveladvice/
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