Mount Kilimanjaro
Africa's highest peak at 5,895m — and the world's highest free-standing mountain. Multiple trekking routes ranging from 5 to 9 days, with Marangu and Machame being the most popular.
A closer look at Mount Kilimanjaro.
Mount Kilimanjaro is not just the highest peak in Africa; at 5,895 metres (19,341 feet), it is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Crowned with snow, it rises majestically above the African plains, offering one of the most accessible yet challenging high-altitude treks on the planet. The ascent takes climbers through five distinct climate zones: from lush, cultivated lower slopes and dense montane rainforests teeming with wildlife, to alpine meadows, high-altitude moorland, and finally the surreal, icy summit of Uhuru Peak. Reaching the "Roof of Africa" requires no technical climbing skills, but it demands immense physical and mental endurance, rewarding climbers with an indescribable sense of achievement and sunrise views over the curvature of the earth.
Wildlife, scenery & local character
- Rainforest slopes
- Moorland
- Alpine desert landscapes
- High mountain scenery
- Summit sunrise
Things to experience
- Guided multi-day trekking
- Landscape photography
- Mountain-area stays before and after the trek
Getting there & getting around
Arrange the mountain programme as a distinct guided journey, including arrival and post-trek accommodation. A northern safari or Zanzibar stay can follow the climb.
How long to stay
6–9 trekking days depending on the chosen route, plus separate arrival and post-trek nights.
Planning your visit
Choose the climb around acclimatization and fitness, and include arrival and recovery nights outside the trekking days.
Build your time here around the experiences you most want to enjoy. Allow for transfers, check the location of your accommodation and leave space for weather or wildlife to shape the day.
Connect the journey
Our local team can help you compare overnight stops, choose the right number of nights and connect this destination with the rest of your safari. Tell us your dates, travel style and interests for a specific recommendation.
Find your safari style →
Kilimanjaro photography credits
Mountain photographs from Wikimedia Commons, resized and converted to WebP. Display crops adapt to the screen.
- Snow-covered Kibo summit on Mount Kilimanjaro above the moorland — Chris 73, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0.
- Hikers following the trail towards Kilimanjaro’s Kibo summit — Yosemite, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0.
- Kilimanjaro’s Kibo and Mawenzi peaks above the trees — Chris 73, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0.
A few things you might be wondering
When should I visit Mount Kilimanjaro?
January to March & June to October (Clearest skies)
How can I include Mount Kilimanjaro in my trip?
Choose the climb around acclimatization and fitness, and include arrival and recovery nights outside the trekking days.
Are all activities available year-round?
No. Weather, local conditions, age policies, permits and individual operators can affect availability. Optional walks, marine activities and special experiences must be checked and confirmed for your actual dates.
Can I change the route and accommodation?
Yes. The published routes are starting points. Tell us your dates, interests and preferred comfort level so we can adjust nights, transfers and activities before quoting.
What determines the final price?
The travel season, number of travellers sharing a vehicle, park fees, room arrangements, lodge availability and domestic flights all affect cost. Your written proposal will identify inclusions and optional extras.
Can the safari finish in Zanzibar?
A mainland safari can connect with Zanzibar by a separately arranged domestic flight. Leave enough time for the transfer and confirm baggage allowances before booking flights.
When is the best time for a Tanzania safari?
Wildlife can be seen all year. June to October is dry, with animals gathering near water. January to March brings the calving season in the southern Serengeti. April and May are the long rains: greener, quieter and often better value. We match the parks and camps to the month you travel.
How many days do I need?
Two or three days suit Tarangire and Ngorongoro. Four to six days let you add the Serengeti without rushing, and seven or more give time for extra parks, a cultural visit or the coast. Fewer long drives usually means a better trip.
Is the safari private?
Our tailor-made safaris are private: your own vehicle and guide, and a daily pace set around your group. Shared departures can sometimes be arranged for solo travellers — ask us and we’ll explain the options.
What vehicle will we travel in?
Game drives are in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for viewing and photography. Your proposal confirms the vehicle and seating for your group size.
Is a safari suitable for children?
Yes, with the right planning. We keep drives shorter, choose family-friendly rooms and build in rest time. Some camps and activities have minimum ages, so please share each child’s age when you enquire.
Can you cater for dietary needs?
Most lodges and camps can prepare vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other meals with notice. Tell us about allergies or requirements when you enquire and we’ll pass them to every property on your route.
Do I need vaccinations or malaria tablets?
Requirements depend on your nationality and recent travel, and a yellow fever certificate may be needed if you arrive from certain countries. Malaria precautions are generally advised. Please check with a travel health clinic before you go.
What should I budget for tips?
Tipping is not compulsory but is customary for guides and lodge staff. We include current guidance with your proposal so you can plan for it in advance.
Will there be Wi-Fi and charging?
Many lodges and camps offer charging points and some Wi-Fi, but the connection can be slow or limited to main areas in remote parks. A spare power bank is useful on game drives.
How far in advance should I book?
For July to October and the holiday season, three to nine months ahead gives the best choice of camps. Shorter notice is often possible — send us your dates and we’ll check availability.
A few details.
A good beginning.
Tell us who is coming and what you would love to find here. We’ll send back a route you can read, question and make your own.
- Planned around your dates and interests
- Midrange or luxury, at your pace
- A personal conversation with our local team