Mount Kilimanjaro Safari Guide
Africa's highest peak at 5,895 metres — the world's tallest free-standing mountain and a bucket-list trek through five distinct climate zones.
Top Highlights
Best Time to Visit Mount Kilimanjaro
January to March and June to October offer the driest conditions. June-October is peak season with the clearest views. January-March is slightly quieter. Avoid April-May (heavy rains) and November (short rains).
Mount Kilimanjaro Safari Budget Guide
Kilimanjaro climbs cost $2,000-6,000+ depending on route, duration, and operator quality. Budget operators from $1,800-2,500. Mid-range $2,500-4,000. Premium $4,000-6,500. Prices include park fees ($70/day), guides, porters, food, and equipment. The Machame and Lemosho routes (6-8 days) offer the best summit success rates.
Getting to Mount Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the gateway, with hotels and operators based in Moshi or Arusha. Trek operators arrange all transport to the gate. Most climbers combine with a safari or Zanzibar extension.
Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the world's great adventure destinations — a dormant volcano rising 5,895 metres from the plains of northern Tanzania to a snow-capped summit that can be reached without technical climbing equipment. It's the tallest free-standing mountain on Earth and Africa's highest point, drawing over 50,000 trekkers each year.
The trek to Uhuru Peak passes through five distinct climate zones — from cultivated farmland through tropical rainforest, heather moorland, alpine desert, and finally the arctic summit zone with its glaciers and ice fields. This extraordinary ecological diversity is one of Kilimanjaro's greatest attractions, with each day of the climb bringing a dramatically different landscape.
Seven official routes offer options for different fitness levels, time constraints, and scenery preferences. The Machame Route ("Whiskey Route") is the most popular, offering excellent scenery over 6-7 days. The Lemosho Route (7-8 days) provides the highest success rates and most varied terrain. The Marangu Route ("Coca-Cola Route") is the only route with hut accommodation.
Where to Stay in Mount Kilimanjaro
Ready to Plan Your Mount Kilimanjaro Safari?
Connect with verified local safari specialists who know Mount Kilimanjaro intimately. Get personalized quotes and expert advice — completely free.