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7 reviews
Holidays

Kilimanjaro Northern Route Traverse and Circuit

Tanzania
7 reviews
Available Departures: Jan, Sep, Dec

11 days from

US$3,805

without flights
View Dates & Prices
Walk & Trek
Guided Group
CHALLENGING CHALLENGING

Summit Kilimanjaro (5895m) via the remote Northern Circuit, the route taken by the Comic Relief 2019 team

Trip Code: KNR
Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

Kilimanjaro Northern Route Traverse and Circuit

Highlights
  • A rarely walked route meaning the paths and campsites are quieter
  • Substantial acclimatisation with 9 days on the mountain, giving a higher chance to summit than some other routes
  • In 2019 the Comic Relief Returns team trekked along this route and all achieved summit success
  • Summit Uhuru Peak (5895m) along the ridge from Gilman’s Point
At a Glance
  • Group Size 4 to 14
  • 9 days trekking
  • Max altitude - 5895 metres
  • Join At Kilimanjaro International Airport
Accommodation & Meals
  • All meals included
  • 2 nights Hotel
  • 8 nights Camping
Overview

This is our ultimate Kilimanjaro itinerary. On this Northern Circuit Route we have 9 days on the mountain, maximising our acclimatisation and in turn summit success. This trail starts on the Lemosho Route in the west, briefly meets the Machame Route at Lava Towers before skirting around the back of the mountain with views of the Kenyan plains before coming around to where the Rongai Route summits from the famous Gilman’s Point, and then we descend along the Marangu Route. Much of our trek is along the lesser used paths contouring the northern flanks, so it is a more personal experience as we attempt to summit this mighty majestic mountain. Our porters and guides make the trip a delight as they assist you with their confidence, experience, smiles and singing to boost your spirits on the journey together to the summit of Africa. Standing on the summit is incredible – it’s worth the effort.

Is this holiday for you?

For most, standing on the summit of the highest peak in Africa is either a life-time goal, a personal challenge, or indeed both. On Kilimanjaro walking days are between 4-7 hours, most being around 6-7 hours. The summit day is long with a pre-dawn start and around 14-16 hrs of walking. All trails on the mountain are well marked and kept. Higher up there are some sections of scree which we have to negotiate. They are easy to follow, however you will always be behind your expert guide to ensure that you walk slow enough to adjust to the altitude.

 A typical day starts with early morning tea in your tent at 0600. After a hot breakfast, our porters take their loads and we leave camp for our days walk. Lunch is at around 1100 and we aim to be at camp at around 1500-1600 to relax before dinner in the mess tent later. Of course certain days are longer, especially the summit day!

 Don’t forget – Kilimanjaro is a big mountain (Africa’s biggest in fact!), you will need to be fit and mentally prepared to ensure summit success, and return home with the unique memories and the satisfaction of this massive achievement. You should aim to be fit enough to walk for at least two days in a row for 5-7 hours without a problem, and more than 12 hrs on summit day. Put on your boots and get walking and with a huge amount of determination you’ll be able to do it. Get training now and you can join the exclusive group who have summited.

Why KE?

Very few operators do this 9 day northern remote route.

10 Reasons you should climb Kilimanjaro with KE Adventure Travel rather than another operator…
1) We don’t mess with essential acclimatisation.

2) Vastly experienced guides and a summit crew on a 1:2 guide to client ratio.

3) Emergency PAC/Gamow bags and oxygen cylinder on all trips.

4) All meals and Kilimanjaro Park Fees are included.

5) We’ve been taking people to Kili’s summit for over 20 years.

6) Speak to someone who’s done it.

7) Pre-trip acclimatisation ascents of Mt Kenya (4985m) or Mt Meru (4562m) available.

8) Our porters and team of guides are fun (they sing a lot!), kind and extremely motivated.

9) No worries about the Porter Welfare.

10) Ultimately – KE have a 95% Kilimanjaro summit success rate.

KE Expert

Chloe Johnson, Product Manager

Read Bio
Tour Leader Bio
Chloe Johnson
Chloe Johnson

Product Manager

About Chloe:

Chloë was born and bred in Keswick, so a love of being out on the hills was instilled at an early age. Her first trip with KE was volcano trekking in Sicily and since then has summited Mont Blanc, travelled to Nepal, Morocco, India, Turkey and Thailand. She has even travelled up to Svalbard to see Polar Bears!

Itinerary

Download Trip Notes
The holiday starts at the hotel in Arusha. Airport transfers are included from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to the group hotel.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

D
Hide Details
After breakfast at our hotel, we drive to the Londorossi Gate (2360m) on the west side of Kilimanjaro, firstly on the main road and then through a mix of small farms and larger coffee estates that thrive at this altitude on the fertile soil of the mountain's lower slopes. After meeting our local trek crew, we start walking in the late morning through plantation pine forest and remnant rainforest, arriving at camp mid to late afternoon. Our first camp on Africa's greatest peak is at Miti Kubwa (Big tree) camp at 2895 metres.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

430 M

Time

3 - 4 hrs trekking

Distance

5 KM
Hide Details
The area between Londorossi Gate and the lower slopes of Kibo, including the Shira Plateau, was designated as Tanzania's first wilderness area. Today, we trek across an attractive moorland plateau, and up to the plateau setting up camp about an hour beyond at an altitude of around 3600m. There is the chance of seeing some wildlife here, especially birds of prey, including the Auger Buzzard. The wall of the Western Breach on Kibo can be seen in the distance and is particularly impressive if it has a covering of snow.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

860 M

Time

5 - 6 hrs trekking

Distance

9 KM
Hide Details
Continuing our trek across the slopes of Kilimanjaro we fuel up with a hearty breakfast as we enjoy the majesty of morning African vistas. Our trekking today continues across the Shira Plateau which is the remains of the Shira Caldera, Kilimanjaro's oldest volcano (which last erupted around 700,000 years ago). This whole area was then submerged by eruptions from the much younger Kibo eruptions of 100,000 to 200,000 years ago. Enjoying a well-paced day of trekking gives us plenty of opportunities to adjust to the demands of hiking at altitude and enjoy the beauty of Africa's highest peak! Setting up camp (3900m) early in the afternoon, provides some well-earned rest in anticipation of the summit day further ahead!

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

430 M

Time

3 - 5 hrs trekking

Distance

8 KM
Hide Details
The ascent to Lava Tower this morning is slow, steep and steady. Along the way we briefly meet up with the Machame Route which also ascends to the Lava Tower at 4600m. It is good acclimatisation to go high and then sleep lower. At the Lava Tower we branch off the main path and start our circular route along the northern flanks of Kilimanjaro. We descent to camp at Moir at 4200m.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

770 M

Time

7 - 9 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM
Hide Details
An early breakfast at Moir Camp, and we pack up and leave for Buffalo Camp. The views today are fantastic over the African plains stretching from the mountain and over the Tanzania / Kenya border. We descent a little as our walk progresses today and we will find it undulating as we trek around the contours of the mountain. We arrive into camp in the early afternoon for a late lunch at camp. We have the remainder of the afternoon to rest.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

390 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

11 KM
Hide Details
Again we have a general descent of a couple of 100m today. However our morning starts with an ascent from Buffalo Ridge to Pofu Camp (4030m). We lunch at Pofu Camp and then continue walking to Rongai Third Cave Camp (3800m) where we overnight. We should be starting to feel nicely acclimatised at this altitude now. Tonight's camp is on the original Rongai Route, but the majority who climb up the Rongai Route these days go via Mawenzi Tarn, not camp at Third Cave, so we will not see them till summit night. We have an early night tonight as we have a large ascent tomorrow.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

140 M

Time

4 - 5 hrs trekking

Distance

7 KM
Hide Details
Today we return into the zone above 4000m, which is more barren with rocks and scree. One of the beauties of having come along the Northern Route is that we have been on the edge of the vegetation for the last few days. As we climb onto the saddle, Mawenzi Peak comes into view to our left horizon. At this height it is likely that we will be above any clouds, which will add to the atmosphere and excitement of this day. We have a long trek today with a large amount of altitude gain. We should be in good shape for this and arrive at School Hut (4800m) camp in the early-mid afternoon so that we can rest and prepare for our summit walk tomorrow. Again, we should be fairly free from the majority of the trekkers on the Rongai Route today, which is a luxury on this mountain.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

760 M

Time

4 - 5 hrs trekking

Distance

5 KM
Hide Details
Summit day starts around the same time for all routes and trekkers on Kilimanjaro, which is around midnight. The early start enables us to take advantage of the best surface conditions (frozen scree and possible snow) for our trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro. We leave School Hut and it will be cold as we contouring around in between the Ratzel and Rebman glaciers till we meet with the line of lights of trekkers coming up from Kibo Hut on the Rongai and Marangu routes. Then our trek starts to ascend steeply till Gilman's Point. Here we are on the rim of the crater and the summit is still an hour's walk away, but the path gently ascending as we gain the last metres to the summit of Africa. With around 6 hours walking behind us we summit the highest peak in Africa at dawn and watch the sun rise over Africa. It's an awesome sight and feeling. Due to the temperatures we will not hang around long at the summit before descending. We return down on the Marangu Route - the quickest descent. Our campsite is at Horombo Hut at 3700m. On arrival at camp we will feel elated by our efforts, glad to be down from the high mountain.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1180 M

Time

14 - 15 hrs trekking

Distance

16 KM
Hide Details
As we descend from Horombo, we begin to encounter more vegetation and the lower part of the route is through pine forest. We pass the traditional first camping place on the Marangu Route at the Mandara Huts and continue our descent to the Marangu Gate (1900m). We say fond farewell to our trusty guide, staff and the porters who have helped us during the past week and pick up our certificates of ascent. We transfer to our hotel - a delight after camping on the mountains slopes. Here we have a shower and a beer (not necessarily in that order) and reflect on the climb and our achievements. A celebratory dinner and a well-deserved sleep in the hotel bed!

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Time

5 hrs trekking
Hide Details
The holiday ends after breakfast. Depending on flight times we have some relaxation time today. We need to vacate our rooms at 1100, but can use the hotel facilities until our transfer to the airport. Airport transfers from the group hotel are provided.

Meals

B
Hide Details
Download Trip Notes
The Route
Airport Airport
Point Point
Peaks Peaks
Direction Direction
Trek
Transfer
Walk/Trek

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • A professional and qualified tour leader
  • Airport transfers to/from the group hotel on arrival and departure
  • All accommodation as described
  • All meals
  • All land transport required by the itinerary
  • National Park entrance fees (value of $1240)

  • Travel insurance
  • Visas
  • Tips for guide / porters and other staff
  • Miscellaneous personal expenditure - drinks and souvenirs etc

Return airport transfers from/to Kilimanjaro International Airport to/from the group hotel are provided for all passengers.

If you have additional nights which are not booked at the group hotel then we can provide private airport transfers at an additional cost.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

All meals are included in the holiday price from dinner on Day 1 until breakfast on Day 11.

Drinking Water

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled, filtered or provided in large jerry cans or 5 litre bottles. Additionally you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

Being hydrated and well fed is important element to summiting success. Our head chef and cook team works hard to ensure that the menu is carefully planned as you ascend, especially as it’s not unusual for people to lose their appetites at altitude. It is pretty amazing what this team of experts are able to produce on the side of the mountain.

At breakfast we have a hot drink (tea, coffee or hot chocolate) with porridge, or eggs, sausages and toast with jam, marmalade or honey. Lunch is usually three courses; starting with soup, followed by a hot meal such as cheese toast or chicken and ending with some fresh fruit or sometimes a muffin. Afternoon tea is served at camp shortly after we arrive, usually around 1500-1600, which is a hot drink with a snack such as peanuts, popcorn, or malt biscuits. Dinner is usually three-courses. Starting with soup, then a carbohydrate such as rice, pasta or potatoes, with beef, chicken, sausage or corned beef and cheese. The end of the meal there will be some fruit or something sweet. Vegetarians will have beans or a vegetable mix with different sauces. Please inform us of any special dietary requirements. You should bring your own trail snacks for the walking days.

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide for special diets.  Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your meals with food/snacks from home.  If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice.  Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

At the start of the holiday you have one night at a comfortable hotel with swimming pool a 15 minute drive from Kilimanjaro Airport. We have another night here at the end of the trek.

Whilst on the mountain there are 8 nights camping. We use high quality, spacious 3 person tents. These are Simond Makalu or Mountain Hardware Trango 3 tents and are expedition quality. Only 2 people and their bags stay in each tent. They are surprisingly warm at night. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag, although you can hire them through KE if you prefer. Camping mattresses are provided by KE. We also have a dining tent with a table and chairs for meal times. The team put up the tents and take them down in the mornings for you - so you don't have to worry about that. You will be looked after very well.

We take along our own portable toilets and a little tent for privacy. These are kept nice and clean, and loo roll is provided. There are long drop toilets at each campsite which are maintained by the National Park Authority - but we find its just best to avoid these!

If you are travelling by yourself, you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. Single hotel rooms and single tents are available for a supplementary cost. If you are planning on extending your holiday additional nights at the group hotel are available on request. All hotel accommodation is subject to change.

Our groups are led by a professional and qualified tour leader. They have led groups for many years and have considerable experience on the mountain. Summit success is often attributed to the quality and experience of the guides. We are also supported by a full trek crew including cooks and porters.

This holiday involves going to very high altitude. During the course of your trip you will be spending at least one night above 4000 metres and/or trekking to 5000 metres or above. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude. Unless you have previous experience of trekking above 4000 metres you should consult one of our trekking experts before embarking on this holiday. On this trip we carry a portable altitude chamber (PAC-bag) and/or bottled oxygen for use in emergencies.

The entrance fees and camping fees for the Kilimanjaro National Park form a considerable part of the cost of climbing this peak and are also prone to increase. We include these fees in your holiday price.

Approximately £250 per person (or equivalent in US dollars or Euros) should be allowed for tips, soft drinks, snacks and miscellaneous expenses. If your flight departs in the late afternoon or evening, you may wish to budget for a lunchtime snack on the last day. Alcoholic drinks, souvenirs and optional activities are additional so you may wish to budget for these. 

You can choose to take your money in pounds sterling, US dollars or euros, but US dollars in small notes can also be used in emergencies where change facilities are not available. Tips to trek staff can be paid either in Tanzanian shillings or in US dollars, or a mix of both (USD are preferable). There will be the opportunity to change money into local currency on arrival at the airport on arrival, and we advise you to use the facilities here. Credit cards are useful and it is a good idea to carry one in case of emergency, however be aware that not all lodges/hotels accept cards.

Tips are the accepted way of saying thank you to your guides and porters. Tips they receive are seen as a personal thank you from group members and are entirely dependent on the service that was given. Tipping should be decided and given by the group as a whole rather than from individuals. As a rough guide we suggest that a total contribution of approximately $185-260 from each group member. This will then be divided between the guides and support staff.

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage, which should be a soft and sturdy duffel bag and a daypack. Your bag on trek will be carried by porters and should not weigh more than 14kg. This weight allowance is strictly enforced.  It is possible to leave clothes or other items not required on trek at the group hotel. For international flights please check your baggage allowance with your airline.

Please be aware that plastic/polythene bags are illegal in Tanzania. The law says that they are not allowed to be manufactured, imported, used or sold in Tanzania (since Jun 2019).

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in the ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders.

A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

For other nationalities, please refer to your own Government website for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check for the latest advice before travel.

Visa Tanzania

UK passport holders do require a visa. The visa fee is $50 (single entry) and is obtainable on arrival or prior to departure online at https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/. The online application requires a scanned passport photo, a scanned copy of your passport bio page and evidence of your return flight details. 

 

If you are arriving into Kilimanjaro Airport, Dar es Salaam or into Tanzania via the Namanga border crossing, we advise you to get a visa prior to arrival as there can be long queues for visas services at customs.

For visas on arrival you require 2 passport photos for the visa, however we recommend you travel with 4 passport photos just in case. Payment must be in cash when getting your visa on arrival.

USA passport holders do require a visa. The visa fee is $100. It is advised to obtain this prior to departure, full and up to date information can be found online https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Tanzania.html

 

We (KE) require copy of the information page of your passport in order to make the arrangements in Tanzania. A colour scan must be emailed or posted to us at the earliest opportunity.

If you are travelling to Zanzibar you will also need to purchase specific insurance (as well as your standard travel insurance), through the Visit Zanzibar website - Visit Zanzibar

Travelling With Under 18s

If the children (under 18yrs) with whom you are travelling have a different surname to yours, you should consider taking with you the child's full birth certificate. It is not a requirement, but some border personnel in Tanzania as well as the UK, may request to see it when travelling to/from Africa.

If you are travelling via Kenya to your destination you may also require a visa for Kenya. If you have connecting flights and your baggage has been checked all the way through to your destination you will not need a Kenyan visa.

VACCINATIONS

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you specific require any vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended in the UK e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella), along with hepatitis A and typhoid. Malarial prophylaxis are required. A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required if travelling from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hrs through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. On holidays to more remote areas you should also have a dentist check up. A good online resource is Travel Health Pro.

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

The unit of currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling.

The fitter you are the more you will enjoy your holiday and you are more likely to summit if you are not totally exhausted at the end of each day. Training should not be a chore, use your Kilimanjaro trip as a good incentive to get out in the evenings after work or a walking weekend in the hills. Aerobic activities such as running, biking and swimming help overall fitness. You should aim to be at least fit enough to walk for at least two days in a row for 5-7 hours without a problem. Put on your boots and get walking and you’ll be able to do it. The summit day is a tough day with an 8-10 hrs ascent and a 6-8 hrs descent – and alongside the fitness you need plenty of determination for this day!

There is little you can do to prepare for the altitude but if you have an excellent level of fitness this can help.

We would recommend wearing and testing out the equipment and clothing that you will be taking with you before you go. Best to find out before you go that your new boots give you a little blister, or the trousers are just a little on the tight side, or the jacket just has too many pockets. At least you can do something about it before the trip.

The driest months are June to October when there is the least likelihood of rain or clouds higher up. This is also peak season to climb Kilimanjaro, especially as many people are on summer holidays. January to end March is also a drier period compared to the long rainy season in April/May and a second, shorter rainy period in November/early December. January to March is usually a bit colder, which can put some people off, but means that there are less people on the mountain. Rain is usually lower down during this period. Temperatures vary greatly with altitude. At the foot of Kilimanjaro it’s usually approximately 25- 28⁰C, dropping to 15⁰C at night. At 3000m, daytime temperatures can be around 15⁰C. Above 4000m, the night-time temperatures will fall below freezing and it is usually no more than 10⁰C in the day.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that before travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates directly from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

AFRICA - THE HIGHEST PEAKS. KILIMANJARO 1:150 000 & 1:50 000 - TERRAQUEST

A great laminated map of Africa's highest peaks: Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya and the Rwenzori. The main Kilimanjaro map covers the whole mountain at 1:150 000 including Moshi and Arusha, with all trekking routes and campsites marked. And the smaller inset of the summit is at 1:50 000. The map is contoured and coloured and clear.

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

Please try to keep the weight of your baggage to a minimum. See the ‘baggage allowance’ section for further details.

You should bring the following items:

  • Sleeping bag (comfort rated -15°C)*
  • Hiking boots (waterproof)
  • Trainers / sandals for camp
  • Trekking poles
  • Walking / trekking socks
  • Underwear
  • Trekking trousers
  • Waterproof jacket and overtrousers
  • Warm fleece
  • Fleece jacket
  • Warm / down jacket (to go over the fleece jacket)
  • Thermal baselayer – leggings & top
  • T-shirts, tops and/or casual shirts
  • Thermal gloves
  • Warm and waterproof gloves or mittens
  • Warm hat
  • Sunhat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun protection (including for lips)
  • Water bottles for 3 Litre capacity (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)
  • Water purification tablets
  • Headtorch and spare batteries
  • Washbag and toiletries
  • Trek towel
  • Daypack 30 litres
  • Selection of dry bags (to keep trek bag contents dry)
  • Antibacterial handwash
  • Basic First Aid Kit including: painkillers, antiseptic cream/spray, throat lozenges, plasters and blister treatment, Diamox (for the altitude), insect repellent, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite) and diarrhoea treatment (Imodium)

The following items are optional:

  • Sleeping bag liner (essential if hiring a sleeping bag)
  • Gaiters
  • Shorts
  • Buff (it can get dusty)
  • Spare laces
  • Travel clothes
  • Camera
  • Pen-knife (remember to put all sharp objects in hold baggage)
  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Notes:

Equipment hire: Items marked * can be hired through KE Adventure Travel. Please make all requests at least 6 weeks prior to your departure date. The items are issued in Tanzania. Hire sleeping bags are not suitable for people over 6 feet in height.

Sleeping mattress: A thick foam sleeping mattress (3" thick) is provided.

Hold baggage: We recommend that you do not pack your hiking boots and other essential items in hold baggage due to the possibility of baggage being delayed.

PHD Gear Advisor:PHD specialise in cold weather equipment, from the world’s lightest right up to the very warmest. So to help you choose what you need to keep you warm, PHD have listed the gear that is appropriate for this Kilimanjaro trek.

Please be aware that plastic/polythene bags are illegal in Tanzania. The law says that they are not allowed to be manufactured, imported, used or sold in Tanzania (since Jun 2019).

Many of the equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive a 12.5% discount with Cotswold Outdoor, Snow+Rock and Runners Need. The discount code can be downloaded from your MyKE account and you can use this code at the checkout, either in store or online.

Extensions

Zanzibar Dhow
Zanzibar - 4 day extension

The lure of Zanzibar -The Spice Island, is legendary, with its exotic towns, palm-fringed beaches and pristine coral reefs it is the perfect place to relax after either climbing Kilimanjaro and bei...

Extension Details

Zanzibar - 4 day extension

4 Days

The lure of Zanzibar -The Spice Island, is legendary, with its exotic towns, palm-fringed beaches and pristine coral reefs it is the perfect place to relax after either climbing Kilimanjaro and being on safari. We are based at The Mwenzi Boutique Resort, The Ocean Paradise Resort, or similar (depending on availability) - all have access to the pristine white beaches. Zanzibar is bliss, and the perfect place to stop and relax for a few days after your time in Tanzania.

Extension Code: ZZWL

Extension Itinerary

We transfer to the airport and fly to Zanzibar. From here we transfer to the coast and our accommodation for the next few days. We have a cooling fruit cocktail and relax with views of the white sandy beaches.

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We can relax by the pool at our hotel or on the beach.

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A further day on Zanzibar to soak up the sunshine and relax in this corner of paradise.

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After breakfast we transfer to Zanzibar Airport to meet with your international flight home.

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Whats Included

  • 3 nights accommodation

  • Flight one-way from Arusha to Zanzibar

  • Airport transfers

  • Breakfasts whilst on Zanzibar

  • NOTE: This price and itinerary are an example for a 3 night stay on B&B basis in a standard room during low season. A stay of any number of nights is possible. Prices are seasonally dependent.

What's Not Included

  • Any other meals

  • Optional activities in Zanzibar

  • Miscellaneous personal spending & drinks etc

  • Additional travel insurance required for Zanzibar - https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/insurance

  • BAGGAGE: On the internal flight from Arusha to Zanzibar there is a 15 kg weight limit in a soft bag.

Giraffe at lunch
Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park, close to Arusha, is the perfect place to spend a day either before or after your Kilimanjaro climb. The montane forest is inhabited by inquisitive blue monkeys, birds and the ...

Extension Details

Arusha National Park

1 Day

Arusha National Park, close to Arusha, is the perfect place to spend a day either before or after your Kilimanjaro climb. The montane forest is inhabited by inquisitive blue monkeys, birds and the acrobatic colobus monkey. At the spectacular Ngurdoto Crater we can see herds of buffalo and warthog. And the green and blue Momela Lakes, can be tinged pink with thousands of flamingos. Giraffes can be seen gliding across the grassy hills in between grazing zebra herds.

Extension Code: ANPT

Extension Itinerary

After breakfast our safari guide briefs us for the day ahead. We leave in our safari vehicle for the 30-45 minute drive into the Arusha National Park. The main sightings will usually be giraffe, zebra and buffalo heads and sometimes the many flamingos at the pretty Momela Lakes. Good viewings of the blue-and-white colobus monkey are frequent. Elephants are uncommon, and lions & rhino are absent altogether, however leopards and spotted hyenas have been seen in the early morning and late afternoon. Weather dependent this is also a great place for views of majestic snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro and its unassuming cousin, Mt Meru (4566m) that dominates the park's horizon. At the end of the afternoon you are either taken back to your hotel in Arusha or straight to the airport for the evening flight home.

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Whats Included
  • A professional and qualified tour leader / wildlife guide
  • Game viewing safari as described
  • Picnic lunch
  • Park fees
What's Not Included
  • Tips (approx USD20 for the safari guide from everyone in the vehicle (max 6 in vehicle)
  • Miscellaneous personal expenditure - drinks and souvenirs etc
  • NOTE: Prices are based on 2 people sharing a vehicle. The price decreases with larger groups
  • please call the office.
Lion and cub, Tanzania
Tanzania Safari 4 day extension

The world's finest game viewing can be found in the Tanzania National Parks of Tarangire, Manyara and in the crater of Ngorongoro. There is an excellent chance of spotting the ‘big five’ of ele...

Extension Details

Tanzania Safari 4 day extension

4 Days

The world's finest game viewing can be found in the Tanzania National Parks of Tarangire, Manyara and in the crater of Ngorongoro. There is an excellent chance of spotting the ‘big five’ of elephant, rhino, leopard, buffalo and lion, as well as wildebeest, cheetahs, giraffe, zebra and hyena. From our comfortable permanent tented lodge accommodation, we go out on safari with expert guides and trackers, in 4WD vehicles which are specially adapted for game viewing.

Extension Code: SAWL

Extension Itinerary

After breakfast we leave Arusha and drive to Manyara National Park. The road winds through luxurious jungle where groups of a hundred or more baboons can be found along the road. Blue monkeys climb in the acacia tress and the bushbuck antelope gentle grazing in the shade of the forest. In the meantime the impressive silvery-cheeked hornbills have a cacophonic concert in canopy! We stop for a picnic lunch under the Umbrella Thorn before continuing our game drive. This small park has herds of elephant, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest and giraffe. It is famous of it's lions who lounge in the Umbrella Thorn (not the one we have our picnic under though!). At the end of the day we drive to our accommodation for the next 2 nights, on the green, lush outskirts of the small village of Karatu.

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After breakfast we drive the 30 mins to Ngorongoro Crater. We spend a full day here in the park discovering its wonders. The crater has an inside diameter of 20km, and is 600m from its rim. It is also one of the places in Tanzania to see the Big 5; elephant, lion, rhino, leopard and buffalo. More than 550 bird species are found here, and Lake Magadi in the crater is often pink because of the flamingos. We can also see the hippo and buffalo lounging in the mud in Ngoitotitok. It's a special place. We return to our lodge in Karatu for our overnight.

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We have breakfast and depart our accommodation for Tarangire National Park. This park is famed for its large herds of wildlife, especially the elephants between August to January. It also harbours antelope species which are difficult to see in other parks such as' gerenuk, kudu, oryx and eland. We have a picnic lunch and see the many baobab trees on the hilly plains that Africa is so famous for. The landscape is also dotted with a large number of termite mounds. The Tarangire River crosses through the park giving way to permanent water points - a life line for the wildlife. At the end of the afternoon we drive back to our accommodation in Arusha.

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After breakfast we depart to the airport, either for our return flight - or maybe off to the paradise island of Zanzibar.

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Whats Included
  • A professional and qualified tour leader / wildlife guide
  • All transport and transfers included as per the itinerary
  • 1 night in an Arusha hotel
  • 2 nights at permanent tented lodge in Karatu
  • Game viewing safaris as described
  • All meals
What's Not Included
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips (approx USD20 per day of safari for the guide from everyone in the vehicle - max 6 in vehicle)
  • Miscellaneous personal expenditure - drinks and souvenirs etc NOTE: This price is based on 2 people travelling together. Please call us for a price for larger number (usually cheaper)
  • or to see if others on your climb also booking a safari.

Videos

Reviews

5 out of 5 from 7 reviews

Extremely well organised, efficient and reasonable value ★★★★★

All of our party summited, which gave us all a great sense of achievement. Our guide Onex led his team well and was an excellent judge of abilities and pacing. The grading is fair at level 8 and I needed all the time to acclimatise. Given the conditions cooking on the mountain, the food was excellent and varied.

All information required for VISA application was easy to find ( first hotel, local agent's name etc). Would have been useful to know that a few Tanzanian Shillings, changed at the airport would be useful for hotel tips.
By Paul from Malmesbury | 24 February 2025

Northern Route Circuit ★★★★★

Extremely helpful staff manage expectations during the booking process through to departure with excellent communication throughout. Use knowledgable and well prepared guides for an enjoyable holiday experience.

By Hilary from Manchester | 20 February 2025

An amazing experience ★★★★★

I have been on two challenging trips with KE both professionally organised and delivered an amazing experience. Our guide Onex ( Master) and his team made the trip. A brilliant communicator and organiser he always kept us informed and took our safety very seriously. Getting to the top of Kilimanjaro was quite an emotional experience it fully satisfied the dream I had of being on the top of Africa. The northern route I would recommend as the preferred route, scenery jaw dropping and so quiet.

By Nigel from Malmesbury | 18 February 2025

Kilimanjaro Nothern Route ★★★★★

Wow such a fantastic trip, from booking to the actual trip KE were fantastic providing great information and answering all our questions. The team on the ground in Tanzania were amazing, Onex and Joseph our guides were super knowledgeable and friendly and as our first trek to altitude we felt really well looked after. All the porters we super friendly and the food was exceptional.

Review Image
By Neil from Leeds UK. | 19 October 2024

Adventure of a lifetime! ★★★★★

What an adventure! Our group of 10 was made up of both singles/groups and couples, and what a fantastic group it was. Our guides, cooks and porters worked tirelessly to ensure we were comfortable, safe and well fed. Special thanks to Onex (lead guide) & Saidi and Joseph (assistant guides) they ensured everything ran seamlessly from arrival through to departure. There was a slight change to the itinerary, missing out Lava tower in favour of extra acclimatisation time at School Hut, which in m y view and that of the other trekkers was a great call from an experienced leader. As mentioned above we were well fed with some great meals of which there was always plenty. The trekking was varied with a real mix of terrain, culminating in what was a tough but rewarding push to the summit. Once again the support of the guides ensured that all 10 of us reached the summit, with some encouraging bursts of song along the way. Overall this was one of my most memorable and enjoyable treks, filled with memories that I will cherish forever.
Review Image
By Paul from Leicestershire UK | 15 February 2024
Read More Reviews Leave a Review
Traveller Reviews
5 out of 5 from 7 reviews
Leave a Review
Extremely well organised, efficient and reasonable value
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
All of our party summited, which gave us all a great sense of achievement. Our guide Onex led his team well and was an excellent judge of abilities and pacing. The grading is fair at level 8 and I needed all the time to acclimatise. Given the conditions cooking on the mountain, the food was excellent and varied.

All information required for VISA application was easy to find ( first hotel, local agent's name etc). Would have been useful to know that a few Tanzanian Shillings, changed at the airport would be useful for hotel tips.
By Paul from Malmesbury | 24 February 2025
Northern Route Circuit
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Extremely helpful staff manage expectations during the booking process through to departure with excellent communication throughout. Use knowledgable and well prepared guides for an enjoyable holiday experience.

By Hilary from Manchester | 20 February 2025
An amazing experience
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I have been on two challenging trips with KE both professionally organised and delivered an amazing experience. Our guide Onex ( Master) and his team made the trip. A brilliant communicator and organiser he always kept us informed and took our safety very seriously. Getting to the top of Kilimanjaro was quite an emotional experience it fully satisfied the dream I had of being on the top of Africa. The northern route I would recommend as the preferred route, scenery jaw dropping and so quiet.

By Nigel from Malmesbury | 18 February 2025
Kilimanjaro Nothern Route
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Wow such a fantastic trip, from booking to the actual trip KE were fantastic providing great information and answering all our questions. The team on the ground in Tanzania were amazing, Onex and Joseph our guides were super knowledgeable and friendly and as our first trek to altitude we felt really well looked after. All the porters we super friendly and the food was exceptional.

Review Image
By Neil from Leeds UK. | 19 October 2024
Adventure of a lifetime!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
What an adventure! Our group of 10 was made up of both singles/groups and couples, and what a fantastic group it was. Our guides, cooks and porters worked tirelessly to ensure we were comfortable, safe and well fed. Special thanks to Onex (lead guide) & Saidi and Joseph (assistant guides) they ensured everything ran seamlessly from arrival through to departure. There was a slight change to the itinerary, missing out Lava tower in favour of extra acclimatisation time at School Hut, which in m y view and that of the other trekkers was a great call from an experienced leader. As mentioned above we were well fed with some great meals of which there was always plenty. The trekking was varied with a real mix of terrain, culminating in what was a tough but rewarding push to the summit. Once again the support of the guides ensured that all 10 of us reached the summit, with some encouraging bursts of song along the way. Overall this was one of my most memorable and enjoyable treks, filled with memories that I will cherish forever.
Review Image
By Paul from Leicestershire UK | 15 February 2024
Amazing Adventure
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
One of the best trips I have done! Our guides Onex, Saidi and Joseph were fantastic. They buoyed us up when the walking was tough and were extremely encouraging and never doubted we would make it to the summit; which all of our group did. We had such a great mix of people on the trip with a 73 year old leading the charge! The Northern route isn't as popular which meant at times we were the only people on the paths, this added to the enjoyability of the climb as we could really connect with our surroundings. Our porters were fantastic and were always warm and welcoming when we arrived into camp each day. The chef was brilliant and even invited us into the kitchen and had me popping popcorn, to the amusement of every body! The memories of this trip; the scenery and the people (especially the guides and porters) will stay with me forever.
By Katherine from Taunton | 22 February 2023
Excellent Trip
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I just want to say that our guides Onex, Saidi and Joseph were AMAZING! We wouldn't have had all of us summit had it not been for these tireless and inspirational leaders. I want to HIGHLY recommend them. They became dear friends to us all. And the chef was on another level. He conjured up the BEST food high up the side of a windswept, remote mountain. An awesome team!

By Erik from petaling jaya | 21 February 2023
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DATES & PRICES

Private Departure?

Gather a few friends, family or club and take over your own departure.

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2025

Dates

Adults from

Deposit

Status

More Information

  • Kilimanjaro Northern Route Traverse and Circuit
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: KNR /02/25/
  • This trip begins on Sat 20 Sep and ends on Tue 30 Sep
  • This departure is guaranteed. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$550
  • Single Supplement Price: US$115 - For the 2 hotel nights in Arusha
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$170
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Kilimanjaro Northern Route Traverse and Circuit
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: KNR /03/25/
  • This trip begins on Wed 17 Dec and ends on Sat 27 Dec
  • This departure is guaranteed. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$550
  • Single Supplement Price: US$115 - For the 2 hotel nights in Arusha
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$170
  • Download Trip Notes

2026

Dates

Adults from

Deposit

Status

More Information

  • Kilimanjaro Northern Route Traverse and Circuit
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: KNR /01/26/
  • This trip begins on Sat 17 Jan and ends on Tue 27 Jan
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$550
  • Single Supplement Price: US$115 - For the 2 hotel nights in Arusha
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$170
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Kilimanjaro Northern Route Traverse and Circuit
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: KNR /02/26/
  • This trip begins on Sat 19 Sep and ends on Tue 29 Sep
  • Single Supplement Price: US$115 - For the 2 hotel nights in Arusha
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$170
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Kilimanjaro Northern Route Traverse and Circuit
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: KNR /03/26/
  • This trip begins on Wed 16 Dec and ends on Sat 26 Dec
  • Single Supplement Price: US$115 - For the 2 hotel nights in Arusha
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$170
  • Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

Please refer to the 'Joining Arrangements & Transfers' within Holiday Information for further details.

Flights and other transport to your destination should not be booked until you have received your booking confirmation and the departure is showing 'Guaranteed to Run' or 'Limited'.

The LAND ONLY dates and prices are for the itinerary joining at the hotel in Arusha, Tanzania. For clients making their own flight arrangements, Kilimanjaro International Airport is the most convenient for transfers to the group hotel.

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

The price of our holidays can change depending on a variety of factors but unlike some other tour operators, KE have undertaken to guarantee the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked. The price when you book is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases, get the best flight prices and take advantage of our 'No Surcharge Guarantee'.

KE Adventure is a fully bonded tour operator. We hold an ATOL license (No: 2808) and are bonded with ABTA (Membership No: W4341)


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