Tanzania Climb Kilimanjaro Tour
A Bucket-List Climb of Africa's Highest Peak
- Available: January-December
- Activity: Level 5
- Accommodations: Comfortable Camping, Comfortable Hotels
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Group Size:
4-12 Guests
Min Age: 17
Highlights
- Experience the unforgettable moment of reaching the top of Kilimanjaro - we have a 98% summit success rate!
- Hike and trek up a famous yet less-traveled route designed for optimal mountain acclimatization
- Witness otherworldly flora and dazzling landscapes of the Great Barranco Valley
Itinerary
Welcome to Tanzania
Day 1
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania and meet with MT Sobek trip leaders to transfer to camp at the foot of Mount Meru, a stratovolcano roughly 40 miles west of Mount Kilimanjaro. Relax and acclimatize at 6,000 feet (a key factor in our summitting success rate), and meet fellow travelers before hitting the trail.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Deluxe Camp-Itikoni Camp
Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Dinner
Hike the Forested Slopes of Mount Meru
Day 2
Rise and shine for a hot breakfast at sunrise. After an in-depth briefing session, set off for an optional warm-up hike on the forested slopes of Mount Meru. Look out for colobus monkeys, buffalo, giraffes, and elephants and notice the region's diverse bird species that include touracos, hornbills, and parrots. Unwind to the alpenglow descending on the majestic slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Deluxe Camp-Itikoni Camp
Activity: 1-2 hours/2 miles optional hiking with 2,000' elevation gain; camp at 6,000'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek through a Montane Cloud Forest to Machame Camp
Day 3
Kick the day off with a scenic drive to the Machame Route trailhead on Kilimanjaro's southeastern slope. Pass Kilimanjaro National Park gates and start the beautiful montane cloud forest trek to the camp near the Machame Hut (10,000'). En route, pause for a hearty buffet lunch and continue the tropical climb over roots and through tangled vines of the giant fern forest. Warm up to a hot dinner at MT Sobek Camp's cozy dining tent.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Kilimanjaro
Activity: 6-7 hours/8 miles hiking with 4,000' elevation gain; camp at 10,000'
Transportation: 2-hour scenic transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek to Shira Plateau at 12,650'
Day 4
After breakfast, begin a short but arduous 3-mile hike through twisted heather bush forests, giant groundsel trees, low grasses, moorland lobelias, and black obsidian rock. End at Shira Plateau at 12,650', a stunning viewpoint onto the sweeping East African plains and Mount Meru in the distance. At the camp, revel in the first views of Kilimanjaro's Western Breach.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Kilimanjaro
Activity: 5 hours/3 miles hiking with 2,650' elevation gain; camp at 12,650'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head East to the Stunning Lava Tower
Day 5
Trek east towards Kibo Massif, Kilimanjaro's highest peak crater. Make your way towards the stunning rocky outcrop, Lava Tower, piercing up from the mountain over 15,000' into the sky. Rocks and boulders line the path towards Barranco Valley at 14,300', filled with hundreds of giant senecio, groundsel, and lobelia plants. Take in the jaw-dropping views of this valley, looking out over Kibo's face, the Western Breach, and Kilimanjaro's southern glaciers. The camp is at a lower elevation than the highest point of the day, to assist with adaptation.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Kilimanjaro
Activity: 6 hours/6 miles hiking with 1,650' elevation gain and 1,300' loss; camp at 13,000'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart Machame Route for Arrow Glacier Camp
Day 6
Today you change the course from Machame Route towards the Western Breach on a path less traveled. Climb over rocky ridges and face stunning views of the Breach Wall and the Breach Icicle. En route up to the camp at Arrow Glacier, the entirety of the Shira Plateau beckons below.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Kilimanjaro
Activity: 6 hours/3 miles hiking with 2,300' elevation gain; camp at 15,300'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Acclimatize at Arrow Glacier Camp
Day 7
Time to slow the pace, acclimatize, and rest the body and mind for the final push to Kilimanjaro's summit. Go for an optional acclimatization hike or a leisurely hangout around camp over hot cups of tea and breathtaking scenery.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Kilimanjaro
Activity: Hiking optional for acclimatization; camp at 15,300'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Climb to Crater Camp
Day 8
Today ascend 3,000 feet to the Great Western Breach, a steep rock wall leading to the edge of Kibo's crater. Arrive at the MTS Crater Camp at 18,300 feet and bask in the magical scenery of towering glaciers moving leisurely across the rocky landscape.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Kilimanjaro
Activity: 6-8 hours/2.5 miles hiking with 3,000' elevation gain; camp at 18,300'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Summit the Top of Uhuru Peak
Day 9
Today comes the unforgettable moment of success: making the final, 2-hour push to 19,341' - the top of Kilimanjaro's Uhuru Peak. Rejoice in surreal views of summit crater glaciers and African plains and join in for a group summit photo. Around 9am, start descending over 9,000 feet. Rest during lunch at Barafu (15,000 feet) and end the last night at Mweka Camp, nestled within a lush forest.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Kilimanjaro
Activity: 8 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,060' gain and 9,140' loss; camp at 10,200'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bid farewell to Kilimanjaro
Day 10
Finish off the last 3,700 feet down the rainforest trail to the Mweka Gate for transfer to the Moivaro Lodge. Relax, enjoy hot showers, and let the rewarding experience of the spectacular journey sink in. Receive your climb certificate at the final celebratory dinner and bid farewell to fellow climbers, then head to the Kilimanjaro International Airport for homeward-bound flights. Those who prefer can join our optional 5-day post-climb wildlife safari!
Activity: 5-6 hours/5.5 miles hiking with 4,800' elevation loss
Transportation: 2-hour private transfer to hotel; 1-hour private transfer to airport
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Dates & Prices
- 2022
- 2023
- Go Private
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
2022
Scheduled Dates
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
- Dec 17 - 26, 2022$6,695 price per person dbl occ+$400 single supplement+$1,610 national park feesAvailableConfirmed
2023
Scheduled Dates
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
- Jan 07 - 16, 2023$6,695 price per person dbl occ+$400 single supplement+$1,610 national park feesCheck for AvailabilityConfirmed
- Feb 11 - 20, 2023$6,695 price per person dbl occ+$400 single supplement+$1,610 national park feesAvailableConfirmed
- Mar 04 - 13, 2023$6,695 price per person dbl occ+$400 single supplement+$1,610 national park feesCheck for Availability
- Jun 23 - Jul 02, 2023$6,695 price per person dbl occ+$400 single supplement+$1,610 national park feesAvailable
- Jul 08 - 17, 2023$6,695 price per person dbl occ+$400 single supplement+$1,610 national park feesAvailableConfirmed
- Aug 05 - 14, 2023$6,695 price per person dbl occ+$400 single supplement+$1,610 national park feesAvailable
- Sep 02 - 11, 2023$6,695 price per person dbl occ+$400 single supplement+$1,610 national park feesAvailable
- Dec 16 - 25, 2023$6,695 price per person dbl occ+$400 single supplement+$1,610 national park feesAvailable
Go Private
Go Private
Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.
Choose from the selection of dates below for your group or if your preferred date is not available, we'll create a departure just for you.
Call or email us to get the ball rolling.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Private Trip Pricing:
2022 Pricing
4 to 5 guests from $7,295 per person double occupancy
6 to 7 guests from $6,995 per person double occupancy
8 to 9 guests from $6,795 per person double occupancy
10 guests from $6,695 per person double occupancy
2023 Pricing
3 guests from $7,595 per person double occupancy
4 to 5 guests from $7,295 per person double occupancy
6 to 7 guests from $6,995 per person double occupancy
8 to 9 guests from $6,795 per person double occupancy
10 guests from $6,695 per person double occupancy
Additional Costs:
National Park Fees: $1,610
Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Make Your Own Dates in These Months
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January, February, March, June, July, August, September, December
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
Start PlanningInclusions
Price Includes
- Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
- All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
- Snacks and water between meals
- Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
- Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
- Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
- Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
- Entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
- Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Baggage transfers and porterage
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
- Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
- Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
- Travel Protection Program
- Personal expenses
Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.
Your Guides
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Wines Temu
Wines was born and raised in the Kilimanjaro region, at the base of Mountain Kilimanjaro, and studied wildlife in colleges in Arusha (Tanzania) and Kampala (Uganda). He has been guiding Kilimanjaro adventures for 9 years and has led or assisted over 200 summit bids. Wines brings a wealth of knowledge, both about Tanzanian wildlife and local history, and speaks multiple languages such as Chaga, Maasai, Kiswahili, English, and French. Wines is a fun and friendly guide, who is well-loved for his organization and communication skills, and he enjoys helping guests of all ages to fulfill their dream of climbing Kilimanjaro.
Elias Msemo
Elias Msemo is a keen outdoorsman who fell in love with the natural beauty of Tanzania at an early age. In addition to being an accomplished climber, he is also a graduate of wildlife studies at the College of African Wildlife Management in Tanzania. Upon his graduation, he decided to pursue a career as a mountain guide and has led over 100 climbs of Kilimanjaro across his 20-year career. Elias currently resides in Arusha with his family and is very much looking forward to hosting you in Tanzania.
Noel Mbwambo
Noel-or "Mchili" as he is known - was born at Pare Mountain in the Kilimanjaro region. He first started climbing in 1988 when he attempted the first summit of Mount Meru and has been guiding for 17 years. In addition to being an accomplished climber and caring guide, Noel is a graduate of wildlife studies and is passionate about sharing Tanzania's amazing wildlife. Recently he has enjoyed leading immersive walking safaris with the Hadzabe in Eyasi and Maasai in Ngorongoro, and his goal is to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for every guest.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 5. Climbing Kilimanjaro requires sustained periods of up to 15 hours of strenuous hiking at high altitude. You must be in excellent physical and mental condition. Previous experience and a signed Physician Certificate is required.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
1-2 hours/2 miles optional hiking with 2,000' elevation gain; camp at 6,000'
Day 3
6-7 hours/8 miles hiking with 4,000' elevation gain; camp at 10,000'
Day 4
5 hours/3 miles hiking with 2,650' elevation gain; camp at 12,650'
Day 5
6 hours/6 miles hiking with 1,650' elevation gain and 1,300' loss; camp at 13,000'
Day 6
6 hours/3 miles hiking with 2,300' elevation gain; camp at 15,300'
Day 7
Hiking optional for acclimatization; camp at 15,300'
Day 8
6-8 hours/2.5 miles hiking with 3,000' elevation gain; camp at 18,300'
Day 9
8 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,060' gain and 9,140' loss; camp at 10,200'
Day 10
5-6 hours/5.5 miles hiking with 4,800' elevation loss
Accommodations
Well-equipped high-altitude camps featuring four-season dome tents, as well as overnights at a deluxe acclimatization camp and thatched cottages amidst tropical gardens.
MT Sobek Camp-Kilimanjaro
Guests on the epic Kilimanjaro summit bid sleep in comfortable four-season Mountain Hardwear dome tents, sleeping up to two guests. Delicious hearty meals are served in the custom-designed mess tent. Each camp (Machame, Shira, Barranco, Arrow Glacier, Crater, and Mweka) commands exceptional views of rugged plateaus or verdant valleys, often amidst afro-alpine scenery well above cloud level.
MT Sobek Deluxe Camp-Itikoni Camp
Nestled at the base of Mount Meru in Arusha National Park, our deluxe camp offers luxury-style canvas tents with wooden beds, linens, comforters, pillows, and en-suite toilets, and separate shower tents. Day hikes from camp lead to enchanting forests and waterfalls. Guests savor delicious meals in the dining tent or relax in the cozy library lounge with a wood-burning stove.
Weather
You'll experience the pleasantly warm and dry climate of the plains and savannas. There can be passing showers, drizzle, or no rain at all at any time of year.
FAQs
Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
Yes, if you are a U.S. citizen, you need a visa to enter Tanzania. You may obtain your Tanzania visa in advance OR upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport. The current fee for a visa is $100 for a 12-month multiple-entry tourist visa.
What qualifications do the guides have?
Our leaders undergo extensive training to provide the safest Kilimanjaro climbs. Every year we operate an annual Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) training in Arusha, Tanzania. A Porters Association also selects the porters; they will carry an identification card allowing them to carry your belongings, and assist you up the mountain.
Do we carry our own luggage on the trip? If not, what is the weight the porters carry?
You will not be responsible to carry your luggage up Kilimanjaro. The porters can carry approximately 30lbs of your luggage; the rest can be stored safely at our office in Arusha. You will only be responsible to carry your day pack with the essential and personal items you need to have with you at all times.
Do I have to be extremely fit to take part in this trek?
Yes, train at altitude or at least test your abilities at altitude. The very best way to prepare for climbing to high altitude is to climb to high altitude! Although this is difficult for most people, remember that the higher the altitude and the longer the hikes, the better. This also allows you to get used to your backpack and boots.
After my Kilimanjaro climb, can I add a Tanzania Safari?
Yes, after the climb, celebrate your efforts with a classic luxury camping safari in the iconic Ngorongoro Crater and the legendary Serengeti plains.
Is the water on the climb safe to drink?
Yes, it is really important that you stay hydrated while at altitude for better acclimatization. All your drinking water is filted with a Katydyne water filter.
Does this trip contribute to any local conservation efforts?
Yes! We make a contribution to the Carbon Tanzania fund for every guest that travels on this trip. Carbon Tanzania helps protect forests to reduce carbon emissions and preserve wildlife by working with local communities and governments. Over a million acres of forest was protected in 2019 with the help of Carbon Tanzania, which has helped store over a million tons of carbon to date!
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Guest Reviews
"Utter euphoria! I think you have this trip down to a science."
Damien B.
MT Sobek Guest, Tanzania Climb Kilimanjaro
"Through MT Sobek, I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and took a safari through Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. I cannot say enough good things about this group! I felt like I was in great hands during every second of the journey."
Elyse H.
MT Sobek Guest, Tanzania Climb Kilimanjaro