Before You Go

    Everything you need to know before — and after — your climb

    Pre-Climb Itinerary

    We strongly recommend arriving at least 2 days before your climb starts. Jet lag, altitude adjustment, and a proper gear check all need time.

    Day –2

    Arrive in Tanzania

    • Land at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
    • Transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha (~45 min)
    • Settle in, hydrate well and rest after your flight
    • Enjoy dinner at the hotel — most serve excellent local food
    Day –1

    Explore & Prepare

    • Meet your operator for a pre-climb briefing and gear check
    • Explore Moshi town — coffee shops, markets, local crafts
    • Buy any last-minute supplies (snacks, water purification, batteries)
    • Pack your daypack and duffel bag — leave valuables at the hotel
    • Early dinner and early to bed!
    Day 0

    Climb Day!

    • Hearty breakfast at your hotel
    • Transfer to the gate (varies by route: Machame, Lemosho, etc.)
    • Registration, final gear weighing, and group introductions
    • Your adventure begins — pole pole!

    Recommended Hotels & Lodges

    Most climbers stay in Moshi (closest to the mountain) or Arusha (better for safari combos). Your operator may include accommodation — check what's in your package.

    Post-Climb Itinerary

    Don't fly home the same day you descend! Give yourself at least 1–2 days to recover, celebrate, and soak it all in.

    Day +0

    Descent & Celebration

    • Descend to the final gate — legs will be wobbly, heart will be full
    • Tipping ceremony with your crew (a genuinely emotional moment)
    • Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi
    • Hot shower — the best one of your life
    • Celebratory dinner with your group!
    Day +1

    Rest & Recover

    • Sleep in — you've earned it
    • Gentle walk around town if you feel up to it
    • Treat yourself to a massage (many hotels offer them)
    • Reflect, journal, upload photos on actual Wi-Fi
    Day +2

    Explore or Depart

    • Optional safari day trip to Arusha National Park or Tarangire
    • Visit a coffee plantation tour near Moshi
    • Or simply relax by the pool with a Kilimanjaro lager
    • Transfer to JRO for your flight home

    What If You Don't Summit?

    Let's address this honestly: not everyone makes it to Uhuru Peak. Success rates vary from 65% to 90% depending on the route and duration. Altitude sickness can affect anyone — regardless of age, fitness or experience.

    If your guide decides you need to descend, they're saving your life. It's not a failure — it's a responsible decision. Many climbers reach Stella Point (5,756m) or Gilman's Point (5,681m) and receive certificates for those achievements too.

    Post-Climb Recovery

    Rest your legs

    Expect sore quads and knees for 3–5 days. Gentle walking is fine, but avoid intense exercise for at least a week.

    Hydrate aggressively

    Your body is still recovering from altitude dehydration. Aim for 3+ litres a day for the first few days.

    Eat well

    Your appetite will come roaring back. Embrace it — your body needs the calories to repair.

    Sleep

    You probably haven't slept well for a week. Catch up. Naps are not optional, they're medicinal.

    Watch for delayed symptoms

    Minor headaches, fatigue and swollen hands/feet can persist for a few days. If anything worries you, see a doctor.

    Celebrate properly

    You climbed the highest freestanding mountain on Earth. Tell everyone. Buy the t-shirt. Frame the certificate.

    Responsible Tourism & Carbon Footprint

    Kilimanjaro's glaciers are retreating. The mountain's ecosystem is fragile. As climbers, we have a responsibility to minimise our impact and support the communities that make this experience possible.