A seven-day Kilimanjaro climb with Great image Expeditions costs US$2,850. This price covers your food, camping equipment, and several additional services. Below is a detailed breakdown of what’s included and the expenses you’ll need to cover separately, such as your Tanzanian visa.
In this guide, we break down all the key expenses involved in planning a trip to Tanzania and ensuring a safe and enjoyable climb on Mount Kilimanjaro. Here’s what we’ll cover:
For those short on time, we’ve included a five-minute video highlighting the essential costs of climbing Kilimanjaro. While the video serves as a great introduction, we encourage you to read through the detailed post when you have the time. It dives deeper into each expense to help you plan effectively.
To make it even easier, there’s a comprehensive table at the end of this post. You can use it to calculate your personal Kilimanjaro budget based on everything discussed. Happy planning!
To climb Kilimanjaro, you first need to reach the mountain and then return after your adventure. Located in northeastern Tanzania within the Arusha region, Kilimanjaro is accessible from both Moshi and Arusha, which serve as popular stopovers for climbers. Moshi is about 66 km from Kilimanjaro National Park, while Arusha is slightly farther at 83 km.
At Great Image Expeditions, we arrange overnight stays in Moshi or Arusha before and after your climb. The choice of location often depends on whether you’re pairing your Kilimanjaro trek with a Tanzania safari – an incredible combination, if you ask us! Many of our groups choose to do both, as a safari is a well-deserved reward for conquering the mountain.
When planning your trip to Tanzania, consider flights to one of the following three international airports:
Most travelers heading to climb Mount Kilimanjaro fly into JRO due to its proximity to the mountain. It’s conveniently located just 67 km from Moshi and 46 km from Arusha, making it an excellent gateway not only for Kilimanjaro but also for northern safaris to world-renowned destinations such as Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater.
Located near the bustling port city of Dar es Salaam, DAR is Tanzania’s primary airport. It serves as the gateway for southern safaris and other adventures in the southern part of the country.
Situated on the beautiful island of Zanzibar, ZNZ caters to those seeking pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history.
Many Kilimanjaro climbers combine their trek with a safari or a Zanzibar beach holiday, so flights to DAR or ZNZ might be worth considering. However, if you choose either of these airports (or even Nairobi in neighboring Kenya), you’ll likely need to catch a connecting flight to JRO for easy access to Kilimanjaro. Ground transport is another option but can be time-consuming and costly unless you opt for the train.
From JRO, you’ll need a transfer to reach Moshi or Arusha. Most tour operators or accommodations can arrange this service.
If arriving at a different airport, you may need to:
The Dar es Salaam to Moshi passenger train resumed operations in December 2019 after a 25-year hiatus. Operated by the Tanzania Railway Corporation, it offers two journeys a week between the port city and Kilimanjaro, providing an alternative to flights or road travel.
For most travelers, a 90-day, single-entry visa to Tanzania costs US$50. This visa permits travel between mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, making it ideal if you’re planning to include Zanzibar’s stunning beaches in your itinerary.
For US citizens, the process differs slightly due to a special Tanzania-USA travel agreement. A tourist visa costs US$100 and is valid for a year, allowing for multiple 90-day entries. Like the standard visa, it covers travel between mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar as often as you like.
To obtain a visa, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of arrival in Tanzania. If your passport is nearing expiration, prioritize renewing it to avoid complications.
You can apply for a Tanzania visa online, selecting the “Tanzania Tourist Visa” (also known as an “Ordinary Visa”). This online process is straightforward and highly recommended. Alternatively, you can obtain a visa on arrival at your point of entry in Tanzania.
If you have any questions about the visa application process, feel free to reach out to us for assistance!
At Great Image Expeditions, airport transfers are not included in the package fee. We offer this service at a rate of $40 per person, per transfer.
While travel insurance might not be the most exciting topic, it’s an essential part of planning your Kilimanjaro adventure. In fact, having travel insurance that covers hiking up to 6,000 meters is mandatory.
When choosing a policy, ensure it provides coverage for the following:
Standard health insurance often doesn’t cover medical costs abroad, making this coverage crucial.
Lost or damaged luggage coverage ensures you can replace essential items, such as hiking gear, to continue your journey.
Pro Tip: Always carry essential items like your hiking boots and winter jacket with you. Replacing smaller items is much easier than breaking in new boots on the trek of a lifetime!
We recommend coverage of at least US$200,000 for delayed travel, medical insurance, and trip cancellation/interruption. Ensure the policy explicitly covers “hiking up to 6,000 meters.”
Before departing, we require your insurance policy details for verification.
Credit Card Insurance: Many credit cards offer free travel insurance when you book flights with them. While helpful, this coverage often has limitations. Carefully review the terms to ensure it complements your independent insurance policy.
We recommend researching reputable travel insurance providers offering coverage for over 150 adventure activities, including high-altitude trekking.
Expect to pay around US$200 for a comprehensive Kilimanjaro travel insurance package.
Proper travel insurance ensures peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your Kilimanjaro adventure without unnecessary worries.
International roaming rates can be notoriously expensive. For travelers, here are two practical options to stay connected:
For more details on Tanzania’s network providers and their coverage, check out our guide on buying a SIM card in Tanzania.
Tanzania uses Type D plugs and operates on a 230V supply voltage with a frequency of 50 Hz. Travelers might need:
If you’re traveling with friends, consider a multi-port adaptor to keep everyone powered up efficiently.
It’s best to schedule a visit to your GP one to two months before traveling to Tanzania. This allows you ample time to receive necessary vaccinations and obtain essential medications, such as anti-malaria drugs. Depending on your country’s healthcare system, consider factoring this visit into your travel budget.
When traveling, it’s crucial to get vaccines that address diseases common in your destination. For Tanzania, consider the following vaccinations:
If you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is present, proof of yellow fever vaccination is mandatory.
You might also benefit from booster shots for standard illnesses like meningitis and measles. Consult your GP to determine what’s necessary for your trip. In the UK, some vaccinations are available for free through the NHS.
For detailed guidance on travel vaccinations for Tanzania, consult your healthcare provider or a trusted resource.
The entire country of Tanzania is a malarial zone. The term “malaria” originates from the Latin words mal and aria, meaning “bad air,” reflecting the ancient belief that the disease was airborne. We now know that malaria is transmitted through mosquito bites.
To protect yourself, it’s essential to take anti-malaria medication. Speak with your doctor to identify the most suitable option for you.
Reaching almost 6,000 m (19,685 ft) above sea level, Kilimanjaro poses a significant risk of altitude sickness. If you choose to take medication to manage altitude, consult your doctor to ensure you get the medication best suited to your needs.
Mount Kilimanjaro is a non-technical mountain, meaning you don’t need climbing gear like crampons or ropes, nor do you need prior mountaineering training or experience. The trails leading to the summit are straightforward hiking paths.
However, the terrain can be rocky and uneven in places, and the arctic climate at the summit presents unique challenges. Did you know Kilimanjaro is home to glaciers at its peak? With this in mind, it’s essential to come prepared with the appropriate gear and clothing. We provide a detailed Kilimanjaro packing list in another guide.
When planning your Kilimanjaro climb, consider the potential costs of acquiring the necessary trekking gear and clothing. Most trekkers camp along the route, with the exception of those on the Marangu route, who stay in huts.
As most climbers fly into Tanzania, it’s impractical to bring all your own camping equipment. The good news is that reputable tour operators supply the essential camping gear, such as tents, a mess tent, cutlery, cooking supplies, and food.
It’s crucial to confirm with your tour operator what’s included in your package fee to avoid surprises.
What Tour Operators Provide
Most tour operators offer standard camping gear, including:
At Great Image Expeditions, we go a step further, providing high-quality four-season sleeping bags and sleeping mats at no additional cost. Keep in mind that not all operators include these extras, so always confirm what’s provided before booking.
If you plan to bring your own camping gear, such as a sleeping bag or sleeping mat, be sure to include these in your budget. We recommend choosing gear that can withstand temperatures as low as -20°C to ensure comfort and warmth during the climb.
Trekking Poles
We strongly advise bringing trekking poles to support you during your adventure. If you don’t own a pair, you can rent them from us for a flat fee of $20.
Headlamp
A headlamp is another essential item for navigating the campsite at night with ease. These are available for rent locally in Tanzania if you prefer not to bring one along. Feel free to contact us for assistance with renting any gear for your Kilimanjaro climb.
Double Occupancy
Most tour operators, including us, operate on a double occupancy basis. This means two people share a tent during the climb, as well as lodge or hotel accommodation before and after the trek.
Solo Travelers
If you’re traveling solo, we’ll pair you with another climber. However, if you prefer a private tent, we can arrange this for an additional fee of approximately $200.
Preparing the right gear for climbing Kilimanjaro can be a significant expense, often exceeding the cost of camping and trekking arrangements. This is because organizing personal gear is your responsibility. For a comprehensive guide, refer to our Kilimanjaro packing list.
If you’re new to trekking, be aware that you may need to purchase essential items such as thermal base layers, quality trekking boots, durable trekking trousers, and a reliable winter jacket. To save on costs, consider borrowing these items from friends or family whenever possible!
If you’re just starting your Kilimanjaro adventure research, you might not yet realize that climbing the mountain independently is not allowed. According to regulations set by the Kilimanjaro Park Authority, only licensed tour operators can organize climbs. So, if you were planning a solo expedition, it’s time to reconsider!
Tour operators charge a package fee to take you up Kilimanjaro. This fee typically covers:
Not all operators include every item in their package, so it’s important to review the inclusions carefully. A lower fee may seem appealing but could come with hidden costs.
These fees include a daily entry permit and a rescue fee for each climber. They are charged on a per-person, per-day basis. Tour operators include these fees in their package and handle the payments for you—saving you the hassle.
Climbing Kilimanjaro requires a skilled and dedicated team. Each climber typically has a guide, a cook, and three porters. A larger group means an even bigger team.
Here’s an overview of the crew roles:
The size of the crew is necessary as everything required for the trek must be carried to and from the mountain. Even climbers on the Marangu route, which features hut accommodations, need the full support of guides, cooks, and porters.
To avoid exploitation, crew members must be paid fairly and have sufficient numbers for their safety and that of the climbers. Reputable operators ensure their fees account for fair wages.
Unfortunately, porter mistreatment remains an issue in the industry. To address this, Great image Expeditions is an approved partner of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) and the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC).
We voluntarily allow KPAP representatives to monitor our climbs, ensuring our porters are treated and paid fairly. By choosing us, you contribute to ethical climbing practices.
KPAP, now part of the Kilimanjaro Responsible Trekking Organisation (KRTO), works to improve porter conditions by:
By climbing with a responsible operator, you support ethical practices and help improve the lives of Kilimanjaro’s hardworking porters.
Your package fee includes the cost of purchasing, maintaining, and replacing all the essential equipment and supplies for a Kilimanjaro expedition.
Equipment covers everything needed to set up and manage a camp. This includes items like water containers, buckets, crockery, gas cookers, foldaway tables, tents, sleeping mats, sleeping bags, portable toilets, and a first aid kit—just to name a few. (It’s easy to see why so many porters are required to carry these essentials!)
Supplies refer to consumable items used during the climb, such as food, dishwashing liquid, toilet paper, medicines, and other daily necessities.
All food consumed during the climb is carried by porters. In some cases, tour operators transport fresh supplies to higher elevations by vehicle, where porters collect them for delivery to camps further up the mountain. This ensures climbers have access to fresh food throughout their trek.
Water is initially collected from mountain streams and purified, typically using purification tablets. However, in the higher, arid zones of the mountain, there are no water sources, so porters carry all the drinking water needed for these areas.
The quality of safety measures and crew training can significantly differentiate Kilimanjaro tour operators. Reputable operators prioritize climbers’ safety by extensively training their staff in mountain safety and first aid, with regular refresher courses. They also carry essential equipment, such as oximeters to monitor oxygen levels and emergency oxygen for altitude-related emergencies.
The Tanzanian Government imposes taxes and annual fees on all businesses, including tour operators. These costs are factored into the overall pricing of Kilimanjaro packages.
Tour operators generally include two nights of local accommodation in their packages: one night before the climb and one night after. These stays are essential due to the remote location of Kilimanjaro.
At Great Image Expeditions, we ensure our clients enjoy a comfortable stay in a lodge, either in Moshi or Arusha, depending on their itinerary. When available, we host our guests at the lovely Lindrin Lodge in Moshi, providing a relaxing and convenient base for the climb.
Make sure to confirm that pre- and post-climb accommodations are included in your package when comparing operators to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
This portion of the package fee represents the tour operator’s profit. Organizing a Kilimanjaro expedition requires extensive effort and countless hours of preparation.
When planning your climb to the Roof of Africa, it’s important to know that Kilimanjaro tour operators charge anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 per person. With over 300 registered tour operators, the options can seem overwhelming.
But don’t worry! We’re here to help you navigate the choices. Below, we provide insights into the various types of operators, why their pricing varies so widely, and why opting for the cheapest deal might not be the best decision.
Before diving in, here’s one crucial piece of advice: Don’t choose a tour operator based solely on price. As you’ll see, the cost often reflects the quality of service, safety, and experience.
We group Kilimanjaro tour operators into three categories:
Let’s explore the differences between these groups and the price ranges for each.
Budget Operators
Value-for-Money Operators
Luxury Operators
No matter which tour operator you choose, a Kilimanjaro climb is a significant financial investment. You’re embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, so prioritize safety, quality, and a reliable operator over simply chasing the lowest price. Your experience and success on the mountain depend on it!
When planning your Kilimanjaro adventure, you’ll encounter three main categories of tour operators:
When selecting a Kilimanjaro tour operator, it’s essential to understand where your money goes. In this section, we break down the pros and cons of different operator types to help you make an informed decision and plan your budget accordingly.
While budget tour operators may appear attractive due to their lower prices, we strongly advise against choosing them for your Kilimanjaro climb. Though their prices may be enticing, they often cut corners in critical areas. Here’s why we recommend caution when considering a budget operator:
Each year, there are several fatalities on Kilimanjaro, many of which are avoidable with proper safety measures. Unfortunately, some budget operators sacrifice safety by not training their staff in essential first aid or neglecting necessary safety equipment. This can be catastrophic, as guides may lack the tools or skills to handle emergencies. Proper mountain operators ensure that staff is well-trained, have the right equipment, and monitor your health daily, including allowing for extra acclimatization days when needed.
A skilled, knowledgeable, and supportive crew is essential to a successful Kilimanjaro climb. With budget operators, you may encounter staff who lack the expertise and professionalism you expect. A well-rounded crew not only supports your physical trek but also enhances your experience by sharing valuable insights into the local environment, wildlife, and culture.
Budget operators often cut costs by underpaying their staff or relying solely on tips for compensation. Some even fail to provide proper clothing or adequate food for their crew members. This can create an unhealthy and demotivated team, which can negatively affect your climbing experience. At Great Image Expedition, we believe that a happy, well-treated, and well-paid crew is essential to a positive trekking experience. We strongly encourage you to choose a tour operator that values fair wages and proper treatment of staff.
Budget operators often skimp on the quality of camping amenities and meals, offering lean options that may not meet your expectations or basic needs. After a challenging day on the mountain, a comfortable camp and a satisfying meal are crucial to recharging for the next day’s trek.
Choosing a tour operator that values both the climbers and their team leads to a more enjoyable and fulfilling Kilimanjaro adventure. Remember, the value of your climb isn’t just about price—it’s about the experience, safety, and well-being of everyone involved.
Some tour operators may offer basic or minimal camping amenities, which we believe aren’t what most trekkers are looking for. At Great Image Expedition, we understand that after a long, exhausting day of climbing, you want a proper chair to relax in. You’ll want a cozy and comfortable tent, with a good mat to rest on, ensuring you’re well-rested for the next day’s climb. You’ll also need hearty, satisfying meals to keep your energy levels up for the trek ahead. And, of course, you deserve a clean toilet tent when nature calls.
Be cautious with budget tour operators, as they may not provide these essential comforts.
Having proper camping facilities and delicious meals is crucial for your Kilimanjaro experience. The climb will test your endurance, so having comforting food, seating, and bedding can help lift your spirits and refocus your determination. Don’t be the trekker who wishes for better conditions; be the one relaxing on a comfy chair with a hot chocolate, savoring the moment and appreciating the journey!
Unfortunately, there are some fraudsters in the Kilimanjaro tour industry. Some operators ask for upfront payments and then disappear, while others cancel trips without offering refunds or demand additional payments while you’re already on the mountain. While this may sound shocking, it’s important to be aware of these risks and research the tour operator thoroughly before booking.
In summary, budget tour operators may not treat their staff fairly, may cut corners on safety, and often provide subpar food and camping conditions. In some cases, they may even engage in fraudulent practices. Always be cautious and ensure you’re booking with a reputable company.
Value-for-money Kilimanjaro operators stand apart by providing everything that budget operators often lack:
What they don’t offer are unnecessary luxuries that would raise the price unnecessarily. The majority of Kilimanjaro climbers prefer to keep costs manageable while ensuring their safety and comfort during the climb. Many adventurers also enjoy the challenge of a more rugged experience, which makes for memorable stories back home.
At Great Image Expedition, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional value for climbers. Our mountain crew is experienced, our guides are skilled, and our porters are well-trained.
One of our lead guides, Chris Sichalwe, has summited Kilimanjaro over 300 times and is widely regarded as one of the top 10 guides on the mountain. He’s passionate about sharing his extensive knowledge of Kilimanjaro with clients.
We pay our staff liveable wages and foster a respectful, healthy working environment.
Our camping facilities include double-occupancy sleeping tents, a mess tent, a toilet tent, camping chairs, and more to ensure you’re comfortable while staying within the essentials for an adventurous climb.
Our carefully crafted menu provides the nutrition necessary to fuel your ascent, and our mountain crew is trained in first aid, carrying the equipment needed to monitor and protect your health throughout the trek.
Luxury Kilimanjaro tour operators provide all the standard benefits of regular tour companies but with added exclusivity and comfort. These operators cater to a select market seeking a premium experience.
What sets luxury Kilimanjaro tours apart includes five-star accommodations before and after the climb, more refined transportation to the trailhead, foam mattresses for extra comfort, the option for single-occupancy tents, gourmet meals, and thoughtful gift packs with items like lip balm and moisturizers.
We recommend thoroughly researching the additional services offered by luxury operators to ensure they deliver a worthwhile upgrade that justifies the higher cost of the package.
At Great Image Expedition the single supplement fee is US$250.
Luxury Kilimanjaro tour operators provide all the standard benefits of regular tour companies but with added exclusivity and comfort. These operators cater to a select market seeking a premium experience.
What sets luxury Kilimanjaro tours apart includes five-star accommodations before and after the climb, more refined transportation to the trailhead, foam mattresses for extra comfort, the option for single-occupancy tents, gourmet meals, and thoughtful gift packs with items like lip balm and moisturizers.
We recommend thoroughly researching the additional services offered by luxury operators to ensure they deliver a worthwhile upgrade that justifies the higher cost of the package.
Did you know that Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano with three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira?
The highest point on Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak, sits on the rim of Kibo’s crater. While different surveys provide slightly varying heights, the sign at Uhuru Peak officially lists the mountain’s height as 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.
Climbing Kilimanjaro typically takes between five and nine days, depending on the route you choose. Some routes are longer, while others allow for a quicker ascent. You can also opt for additional days to make the climb easier and provide better acclimatization. The itineraries for each route vary, and more days on the mountain enhance your chances of summiting successfully. Acclimatization is crucial, and we emphasize its importance for a successful climb.
As a general rule, the more days you spend on Kilimanjaro, the higher the cost. This is due to increased crew wages, food, and park entry fees. While it’s tempting to cut costs, it’s important not to compromise your health and safety, your overall enjoyment of the journey, and your chances of reaching the summit.
Altitude sickness is a significant factor in preventing climbers from reaching the top. Symptoms include nausea, dizziness, headaches, and fatigue. Most climbers will experience mild altitude sickness, but a lack of proper acclimatization can lead to more severe symptoms. Spending an extra day acclimatizing can be the key to success.
There are seven trekking routes on Kilimanjaro, each leading to Uhuru Peak, where climbers can celebrate their achievement and admire the stunning landscape below. The table below shows the acclimatization profiles and durations for each route, along with their success rates. The longer the route, the more time you have to adjust to the altitude, which improves your chances of summiting.
| Route | Acclimatisation | Duration |
|---|---|---|
Northern Circuit | Excellent | 9 or 10 days |
Lemosho | Very good | 7 or 8 days |
Machame | Good | 6 to 8 days |
Rongai | Okay | 6 or 7 days |
Marangu | Okay | 7 or 8 days |
Shira | Poor | 7 or 8 days |
Umbwe | Poor | 5 or 6 days |
The Kilimanjaro National Park Authority requires all climbers to spend a minimum number of days on the mountain. Trekkers using the Rongai or Marangu routes must spend at least five days, while those opting for other routes are required to spend a minimum of six days.
This regulation was introduced to ensure proper acclimatization and minimize the risk of altitude sickness, as well as to reduce the number of emergency evacuations.
It’s important to note that climbing Kilimanjaro solo is not allowed. All climbers must book with a tour operator, who will ensure that these rules are followed.
Since each day spent on the mountain incurs costs, one of the significant expenses of climbing Kilimanjaro is the daily park fees. These mandatory fees are charged per person, per day, and are specified by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority in US dollars.
| Permit | Fee in USD |
|---|---|
Entry permit | 70 |
Camping permit | 59 |
Rescue fee | 20 |
Each day spent on the mountain comes with a US$100 fee, which is the cost for the privilege of trekking in Kilimanjaro National Park.
When you climb Kilimanjaro with Great Image Expedition, you can choose a trek that lasts between six and nine days. We recommend this duration for proper acclimatization; anything shorter than six days can increase the risk of altitude sickness. Our goal is for every client to reach the summit and experience the triumph of standing at Uhuru Peak.
We typically lead groups on the Lemosho, Machame, and Rongai routes. These routes are our favorites due to their scenic beauty and favorable acclimatization profiles. However, we’re happy to guide groups on any of Kilimanjaro’s seven available routes.
You won’t need to worry about spending money during your Kilimanjaro climb itself. However, you might want to carry some cash for small purchases like souvenirs, snacks, or drinks before or after your trek.
The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling (TSh).
Due to hyperinflation, as of February 2023, US$1 is equivalent to approximately 2,340 TSh. For the latest exchange rates, you can check XE.
Tanzanian shillings come in the following denominations:
Please note, Tanzanian shillings cannot be obtained outside of the country.
Most people bring US dollars with them to Tanzania. These notes need to be post 2013 and in good condition or they won’t be accepted anywhere in Tanzania.
Alternatively, you can use a Visa or Mastercard to withdraw cash from ATMs, which are widely available across the country.
Cost of Drinks
Meals are typically included in your accommodation package before and after your Kilimanjaro climb. However, drinks are generally purchased separately in Tanzania, even at all-inclusive lodges.
Here’s a look at the cost of some common drinks in Tanzania…
| Item | Cost in TSh | Cost in USD |
|---|---|---|
330 ml bottle of water | 690 | 0.30 |
Coca-Cola | 1,000 | 0.45 |
Imported beer | 5,000 | 2.15 |
Regular cappuccino | 4,500 | 1.95 |
As you can see, euros and dollars go a long way in Tanzania! So if you’re wanting to bring along cash for the odd small purchase like a bottled drink, you really don’t need much.
And just so you know, bargaining in tourist areas for things like souvenirs is standard practice and expected.
Tipping your Kilimanjaro support staff is not mandatory, but it is a well-established tradition. It plays a significant role in their income, and we strongly encourage you to participate. After all, you wouldn’t want to feel uncomfortable during the tipping ceremony, especially if you’re the only climber who doesn’t contribute.
And yes, you read that correctly – there is a tipping ceremony at the end of every Kilimanjaro climb! It’s a lively occasion with song and dance, offering a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your achievement and express your appreciation for the hard work and dedication of your climbing crew.
At the end of your trek, you’ll pool your tip money with your fellow climbers to give a lump sum to each crew member. Below is a breakdown of the recommended amounts for different staff roles.
| Crew member | Tip in USD |
|---|---|
Porter | 6-10 |
Helping porter | 8-12 |
Cook | 10-15 |
Assistant guide | 15-25 |
Lead guide | 20-30 |
But what do these figures mean to you individually for your climb? The tables below help you work out an exact amount to bring along in your backpack for the post-climb tipping ceremony based on the duration of your climb and how many people were in your group.
Note that the more people in your climb group, the smaller your total tip amount will be. That said, more people equals the need for more porters. So it’s not a neatly descending figure, but generally speaking the more climbers, the smaller your personal contribution to the total overall tip.
The top row indicates the number of climbers in your climb group. Please scroll right for the complete table.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min amount (in USD) | 575 | 425 | 295 | 255 | 280 | 255 | 240 | 240 | 235 | 235 | 235 | 225 |
| Max amount (in USD) | 905 | 680 | 475 | 410 | 455 | 415 | 395 | 395 | 385 | 385 | 380 | 365 |
We recommend tipping the maximum amount if you’re really happy with the service you received. If the service was just adequate, please only tip the minimum amount.
The top row indicates the number of climbers in your climb group. Please scroll right for the complete table.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min amount (in USD) | 655 | 485 | 370 | 315 | 320 | 300 | 295 | 280 | 290 | 275 | 270 | 260 |
| Max amount (in USD) | 1,030 | 775 | 595 | 510 | 520 | 485 | 480 | 460 | 470 | 445 | 440 | 425 |
We recommend tipping the maximum amount if you’re really happy with the service you received. If the service was just adequate, please only tip the minimum amount.
The top row indicates the number of climbers in your climb group. Please scroll right for the complete table.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min amount (in USD) | 740 | 570 | 435 | 380 | 370 | 345 | 335 | 325 | 330 | 315 | 310 | 300 |
| Max amount (in USD) | 1,160 | 920 | 700 | 615 | 600 | 560 | 545 | 530 | 540 | 510 | 505 | 485 |
We suggest tipping generously if you’re thrilled with the service provided. However, if the service was only satisfactory, tipping the minimum amount is acceptable.
While the recommended tips may initially seem high, remember they are shared among the entire mountain crew. These hardworking individuals are critical to your trek’s success—offering support, encouragement, and smiles even during your toughest moments. We’re confident you’ll feel inspired to express your gratitude generously!
Mountain crews on Kilimanjaro often prefer US dollars. If you have dollars, there’s no need to exchange them for Tanzanian shillings. Just keep these points in mind:
If you’re traveling from a country that uses a different currency, we recommend converting it to Tanzanian shillings in advance for use during the tipping ceremony.
And finally it’s time for you to work out your own Kilimanjaro cost. Use the table below to make some calculations and arrive at your personalised Kilimanjaro budget. Once again, amounts are given in US dollars.
| Item | Details or cost in USD |
|---|---|
GP visit, meds and vaccinations prior to departure | Variable |
Travel to Tanzania | The price of international flights from your country |
Travel within Tanzania to Arusha | Cost of internal flight to Kilimanjaro Int. Airport (JRO) or the cost of the drive to Arusha region |
Tanzania tourist visa | $50 (or $100 for US citizens) |
Airport transfers | $40 per person each way if travelling with Great Image Expedition |
Traveller’s insurance | Around $200 |
Universal adapter and converter | Price of a universal adapter and voltage converter if you need |
Tanzanian SIM card and package | ~$30 |
Camping and trekking gear (incl. a sleeping bag) | No cost if using a tour operator like Great Image Expedition |
Trekking clothes | Variable (you can rent a Great Image Expedition down winter jacket for $60) |
Tour operator package fee | Variable (between $1,900 and $3,200 for a seven-day climb with a value-for-money operator) |
Single supplement (if you don’t want to share a tent) | $250 at Great Image Expedition |
Spending cash | Personal preference |
Mountain crew tips | Variable (see our tables above to work out your tipping range when you know how large your group is) |
And that’s it – you’re all set! If you’d like to discuss the details of the costs involved in climbing Kilimanjaro, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help you plan and make your dream of conquering Kilimanjaro a reality!
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