• Junior trekkers (below 15 years) should have a company of parents/guardians.
• Trekkers between 15 to 18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/guardian.
• Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest free-standing mountain in the world and also the highest mountain peak in Africa. Located on a volcanic massif, Kilimanjaro is a coveted mountain expedition on every trekker’s bucket list. This iconic mountain peak attracts trekkers from all across the globe. The climb to Kilimanjaro is not just about conquering the summit but also experiencing the varied terrain and the culture of the region. Did you know? There are 7 distinct routes that you can choose to climb the mountain and each route has its unique charms and challenges. From the well-explored Machme Route to the less-trodden Northern Circuit, we discuss all the routes in detail in this article so that you can choose a path that resonates with your aspirations and abilities.w

The Different Routes to Climb Kilimanjaro

Machame Route or the ‘Whiskey’ Route

Difficulty: Medium

Distance: 62 km

Duration: 9 days

Success rate: High

Accommodation option: Camping

It is one of the most widely chosen routes to the Kilimanjaro summit along with Lemosho Route and offers stunning sceneries as you climb through five different climatic zones along the trek. This route allows for the walk-high and sleep-low concept, which is excellent for acclimatization. So, even if you are new to the world of trekking, you can choose this path. The route is so popular that as many as 20,000 people climb via this route every year. The trek starts from the southern face of the mountain at Machame Gate near Arusha and you will descend via a different path to Moshi. This route has the highest summit success rate along with beautiful sceneries.

Lemosho Route

Difficulty: Medium

Distance: 70 km

Duration: 7-8 days

Success rate: High

Accommodation option: Camping

The Lemosho Route also has a high success rate when reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro. Similar to the Machame Route, in this route also you will walk high and sleep low, allowing proper acclimatization. Along this route, you will get views of many deep gorges and the western side of Kilimanjaro. If you are lucky, you may spot large wildlife creatures like Antelopes in this region. Usually, people climb this route in 7 days but you can add one day if you want to take a longer time to acclimatize. 

Marangu Route or the ‘Coca Cola’ Route

Difficulty: Low

Distance: 72 km

Duration: 5-6 days

Success rate: Low

Accommodation option: Huts

This is the shortest route to climb Kilimanjaro but it also offers less time for acclimatization. The trek takes place along the eastern slope of Kilimanjaro. Also, known as the Coca-Cola Route, this route used to be the most popular trail to climb Kilimanjaro before the newer Machame Route and Lemosho Route were opened. The trek follows the same route for the ascent as well as descent and is often chosen by people who want to climb Kilimanjaro on a budget, owing to the dormitory-style hut accommodations with basic amenities. It takes only 5 to 6 days to complete the trek via this route. This route is also chosen by many as one doesn’t have to climb the Barranco Wall. However, the mediocre acclimatization profile leads to a lower summit success rate compared to other routes.

Shira Route

Difficulty: Medium

Distance: 56 km

Duration: 7-8 days

Success rate: High

Accommodation option: Camping

The Shira route starts on the western slope of the mountain and it is the route with the highest starting elevation at around 3500m. The beginning of the trek at such a high altitude means there is a higher chance of developing altitude sickness. So, if you are planning to do the trek via the Shira Route, we recommend doing a smaller acclimatization trek like Mt. Meru Trek before climbing Kilimanjaro. The trail is quite similar to the Lemosho route in terms of scenery but you miss out on the beautiful rainforest section of Machame and Lemosho.

Rongai Route

Difficulty: Low

Distance: 73 km

Duration: 6-7 days

Success rate: Medium

Accommodation option: Camping

This is the only route with a northern approach to climb the mountain. This route is more like one long trek with a gradual ascent which significantly reduces the difficulty level. Along the trek, you will get lovely views of the northern side of the mountain and even see Kenya’s Amboseli National Park in the distance. The rainforest and moorland sections are also quite pretty with a beautiful opportunity to see the sunrise over Mweka Peak. This route, however, doesn’t offer walk-high, and sleep-low opportunities and thus there’s a lesser chance for natural acclimatization. You can also add an extra day for proper acclimatization.

Northern Circuit Route

Difficulty: High

Distance: 98 km

Duration: 9-10 days

Success rate: High

Accommodation option: Camping

The newest route to climbing Kilimanjaro, the Northern Circuit is also the longest route to the summit. The trek starts on the western side but then wraps around the northern slope of the mountains leading to the summit. The long itinerary increases the difficulty of the trek, however, this route also has a high summit success rate as the longer duration gives a greater chance for natural acclimatization. Many do not choose This route due to the lengthy climb to the summit. The Northern Circuit starts from the same point as the Lemosho Route and then traverses along the northern side to the Uhuru Peak. If you have time on your hand and do not have a limited budget then you can opt for this route.

Umbwe Route

Difficulty: High

Distance: 53 km

Duration: 5-6 days

Success rate: Low

Accommodation option: Camping

This is also a short route to climb Kilimanjaro but it is extremely steep and as such the summit success rate is quite low. The trail goes along the southern slope of the mountain and the rapid ascent gives a lesser chance for acclimatization. Also, the route takes place along a very remote region during the first two days. This is the least chosen route owing to the poor acclimatization profile and the summit success rate is also pretty low. If you are going to trek via this route, we strongly suggest pre-acclimatization.

How to Choose the Right Route?

Choosing the route to climb the mountain depends on multiple factors and the kind of experience you wish to have. Here are some tips to help you choose the route that’s right for you.

1.Identify your requirements

Once you figure out what you want to experience from the trek then it becomes easy for you to select a route. Are you looking for a getaway completely away from the crowd? Is reaching the summit your top priority? Are you looking for excellent photographic opportunities? Identify what you want and then choose a route that will best serve your requirements.

2.The sceneries along the trail

When it comes to natural sceneries, some routes are better than others. If it is stunning landscapes you wish to see then we suggest the Machame, Lemosho, Shira and Northern Circuit Route. 

3.Acclimatization option

Different routes offer different levels of acclimatization and it should definitely be a big consideration when you are selecting the route. A route that does not have rapid ascend is good for acclimatization and also some routes offer walk-high and sleep-low opportunities making them a better fit for acclimatization. Machame Route, Lemosho Route and the Northern Circuit Route are the best for acclimatization.

4.Consider your budget

If you are on a budget then you should consider choosing the more cost-effective routes. As a rule, the shorter the trek, the cheaper they are, however, you should also remember that this might affect your chances of the summit if you haven’t properly acclimatized prior to the trek. 

5.Consider the accommodations

All routes to climb Kilimanjaro offer camping accommodation except the Marangu Route which has hut accommodation. So, when choosing the tour operator make sure they offer good quality tents to make your experience more comfortable.

6.The presence of the crowd

If you are someone who wishes to divert away from the crowd and climb the mountain along the offbeat path then consider a route that is not usually chosen by the climbers. On the other hand, if you wish to meet like-minded people on the trail then you can choose among the popular routes of Kilimanjaro.

7.The time you want to spend

Different routes take different amounts of time to complete the climb. Some routes take fewer days while some are longer. So depending on the number of days you can invest, you can choose the route based on that. However, remember that climbing the mountain is not some kind of race and you should choose a route that you will be most comfortable to climb.

8.Prior trekking experience

The route you choose greatly depends on whether you have prior trekking experience or not. While fitness is a must-have criterion for any route, some trails are tougher than others and not suitable for beginners. The Umbwe Route for instance is quite steep and follows a rapid ascent, so prior trekking experience is a must when climbing via this route.

Mt. Kilimanjaro as we all know it today, lies in the East African nation of Tanzania. The mountain sits right on the border of Kenya and Tanzania and can be seen on both sides. Over the years, there have been debates about which nation the mountain peak belongs to and finally, the peak ended up in the land of Tanzania. In this article, we will delve into how it was settled that Kilimanjaro is a part of Tanzania and some accounts and evidence that prove the same. The mountain has a very interesting backstory and we would like to share it with you.

A common confusion – Is Kilimanjaro in Tanzania or Kenya?

If you look at the map of Kenya, you will notice that from Lake Victoria to the coast, it is a straight line with just a small curve and this bend is actually around Mount Kilimanjaro, which conveniently places the mountain on the Tanzanian land. 

Kilimanjaro was never a part of Kenya but there is a popular story that runs around which adds to this confusion The legitimacy of this story has never been determined, however, it is a very popular account in that region. It is said that Queen Victoria gifted the mountain to Kaiser Wilhelm II of Prussia, as a birthday present. While this story makes for a great account, it is unsubstantiated. This story was often used as a marketing gimmick that allowed tour operators to hoodwink tourists into believing that Kilimanjaro is in Kenya.

The border demarcation between Tanzania and Kenya was completely arbitrary until it was legitimized in the early 1900s. The arbitrary nature of the borderline created undue confusion and disagreement among the two nations regarding the belonging of the mountain. 

Proof of Kilimanjaro belonging to Tanzania

In earlier times, Germany and Britain reached an agreement regarding the location of Mount Kilimanjaro, though they disagreed on where the demarcation line from the mountain to Lake Victoria should end. The British suggested a line from Kilimanjaro to Speke Gulf, while the Germans proposed a line to North Musoma. Another map from the German side illustrates a direct demarcation line from the northeastern corner of Lake Victoria to Mombasa. In both maps, Mount Kilimanjaro is depicted as part of where present-day Tanzania is.

The book ‘Why Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania’ by Schneppen Heinz gives a more plausible reason for the same. The book was published in 1996 and gives more reasoning and proof that Kilimanjaro belongs to Tanzania. The gist of the book is that the Germans had gained Mt. Kilimanjaro while Britain gained Mombasa. If we look at the recent day map, Mombasa is in present-day Kenya so Kilimanjaro belongs to Africa and the present-day nation of Tanzania. The assertions in the book are based on the Heligoland - Zanzibar Treaty of 1st July 1980. According to this treaty, Germany gave up the claim of the Zanzibar Sultanate which stretched as far as what is the present-day Kenyan coast in exchange for the coast of Dar Es Salaam and Heligoland. 

Between 1800 and the defeat of Germany in World War I, the East-African region constituted areas which are currently known as Rwanda, Burundi, and mainland Tanzania. The Heligoland-Zanzibar treaty does not mention any mountain, however, the demarcation line around the mountains does not appear to have changed. It is very much possible that by giving away the claim of the Zanzibar Sultanate (Kenyan coast currently), the Germans acquired Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Looking from an East African perspective, it was either the coast of Mombasa or Kilimanjaro. So giving up a coastline for a mountain does seem like a fair deal.

Mt. Kilimanjaro as we all know is the highest peak in Africa and also the largest free-standing mountain in the world. This mountain peak has long been the fancy of climbers and mountaineering enthusiasts. Every year throngs of people climb this mountain and it has become one of the most popular expeditions in the world. Beyond the adventure that Kilimanjaro provides, the mountain has also witnessed some extraordinary feats of human achievement that have been etched in the annals of world records. In this article, we are going to share the most remarkable world records set on Mt. Kilimanjaro. From the fastest ascent to the fun endeavours, these records illuminate the indomitable human spirit and the boundless possibilities that a mountain can offer.

1.The fastest supported ascent to Kilimanjaro

The fastest supported ascent to Mt. Kilimanjaro belongs to Karl Egloff, a Swiss mountain runner. On 13th August, 2013, he made a record-breaking ascent to the top of the summit at 5895 m within 4 hours 56 minutes beating Spanish runner Kilian Jornet’s record of 5 hours 23 minutes. Karl climbed the mountain by the Umbwe route to Uhuru Peak and descended to Mweka Gate, resting only for 4 minutes on the summit before descending down in 1 hour 42 minutes making the total ascent and descent time to be a total of 6 hours 42 minutes.

2.The fastest unsupported ascent

The fastest unsupported ascent to Kilimanjaro was made on 22nd February 2006 by Simon Muty from Tanzania. He made a record by reaching the summit within 9 hours and 21 minutes. He climbed via the Umbwe route and descended to the Mweka Gate. The ascent time was 6 hours and 33 minutes while the descent took him 2 hours and 46 minutes, resting only for 3 minutes at the summit. In an unsupported climb, the climber has to carry all his equipment on his own and doesn’t take the help of any resupply points. This type of challenge is much more difficult than the supported climb. 

3.Fastest ascent to Kilimanjaro on crutches

John Stanford Hart from the UK made the fastest ascent to Kilimanjaro in October 2009 on crutches. It took him 4 days 20 hours and 30 minutes to reach Uhuru Peak. 

4.The youngest person to climb Kilimanjaro

5 years old  Ognjen Živković from Serbia is the youngest person to summit Kilimanjaro as of date. He reached Uhuru Peak via the Machame Route in six days, reaching the summit on 6th August 2023. He broke the world record of Ashleen Mandrick (6 years old), who submitted the mountain in 2019.

5.Oldest person to climb Kilimanjaro

Arizona Lorimar from Arizona holds the record of being the oldest person to climb Mt Kilimanjaro at the age of 89 years on 12 July 2019. Originally, she climbed the mountain in July 2015 at 85 years old making her the oldest woman to summit Kilimanjaro. However, her record was broken in October 2015 by Angela Vorobeva, aged 86 years old, followed by another Dr Fred Distehorst at 87. But this did not deter Lorimar and she ascended the summit once again in 2019, aged 89 this time and again setting a new record.

6.Highest Cricket Match in the World

The world’s highest cricket match was played in Kilimanjaro. A group of 30 cricket players and officials played the highest-ever cricket match in the world in 2014. The match was played in Twenty20 style. Among the players were notable names like Ashley Giles (former England player), Makhaya Nitni (former South African fast bowler), Clare Connor (former captain of England Women’s Cricket Team), and Heather Knight (current player of English Women’s cricket team).

7.Highest Rugby Match in the World

The highest rugby match in the world was played on 18th October 2015 atop Kilimanjaro. A team of 38 rugby players including rugby legends like Mike Wainwright, Lee Briers, Alan Hunte, Adrian Morley, Chico Jackson, and Barrie McDermott joined the team along with BBC’s Beccy Meehan and former reporter for Sky Sports’ Rugby League. The team was then climbing for a charity – the Steve Prescott Charity Foundation (SPF) and pulled off a wonderful rugby match atop the mountain.

8.World’s Highest Female Football Match

An all-female soccer team made a world record for playing the highest football match in the world in June 2017 atop Mt. Kilimanjaro. The team saw 30 professional football players from 20 nations across five continents. The match took place at an altitude of nearly 19,000 ft in the crater of Mt. Kilimanjaro as a part of the Equal Playing Field Project. 

9.World’s Highest Pizza Delivery

Amid the many records on Kilimanjaro, this one stands out particularly. This incredible feat was achieved by Pizza Hut in collaboration with Yum! Brands in the USA to mark the launch of the Pizza Hut franchise in Tanzania. The delivery challenge started on 5th May 2016 and the team reached the summit on 8th May 2016, celebrating the 100th Pizza Hut franchise opening with a slice of pizza at the summit. The pizza was made in the Dar Es Salaam restaurant and then flown to Kilimanjaro, where it was transported to the trailhead. It was then carried in an insulated pack heated by batteries, specially designed to keep the pizza fresh and horizontal.

10.Climbing Kilimanjaro Backwards

Nepali Mountaineer, Sanjay Pandit set this unique world record by climbing Kilimanjaro walking backwards and that too within an astonishing duration of 25 hours and 40 minutes. The climb took place between 15 to 18th December 2015. Sanjiv also climbed Mt. Kosciuszko, the highest peak in Australia backwards. It took him 5 hours and 45 minutes. 

Incredible feats indeed! These records on Mount Kilimanjaro stand as a testament to the unwavering zeal of the human spirit, showcasing the indomitable drive to surpass limits, both physical and mental.

Kilimanjaro lies in the East African country of Tanzania and is quite close to the Equator. Being this close to the equator, it does not experience the same four seasons as other parts of the world. Kilimanjaro rather experiences two distinct seasons throughout the year – rainy seasons and dry seasons. In this article, we will delve into a comparison between the wet and the dry seasons of climbing Kilimanjaro. You will get detailed information about all the aspects of both seasons so that you can make an informed decision on which season suits your preferences better.

Wet Season in Tanzania

The rainy season in Tanzania is divided into two parts one is the short rainy season from late October to mid-December. During this time you can expect a mix of rain and sun. The weather is typically warm and it is not dusty at all. 

The long rainy season starts in late March and lasts till early June. Mostly it is raining during this time however, you will occasionally have a clear day when the sun is out. From May onwards the weather becomes cooler and there isn’t dust at all during this time either.

Advantages of climbing in the rainy season

During the rainy season, the slopes of Kilimanjaro are extremely green and vibrant. If you want to experience nature at its fullest then this is a great time to climb the mountain.

You will see the snow-capped summit of the mountain. There is snow on the summit only during the wet season. March to May is a great time to see snow at the summit of Kilimanjaro.

During the wet season, the crowd is much less as compared to the dry season and there is actually a real chance for you to be alone during the trek. For those seeking a secluded experience, this is a good time for them.

This is the time when the trail is free of dust. The dry months especially the hot ones see quite a bit of dust, so if you wish to avoid that, the rainy season is the right time for you to experience Kilimanjaro

The lush, green landscapes of the rainy season provide photographers with unparalleled opportunities to capture stunning images of Kilimanjaro's natural beauty. 

Disadvantages of climbing in the rainy season

Fog and rain are more likely to cloud the view in the wet season than in the dry one.

Expect the trails to be muddy.

Tips for trekking in the rainy season

The northern face of the mountain receives less rainfall than the southern side. So, you may opt for selecting the Rongai or Marangu Route. However, if you wish to witness the lush greenery and beauty of Kilimanjaro in monsoon then Machame Route is the best option.

Opt for shoulder season, either in the front or tail end of the monsoon so that you get to experience pleasant weather.

Make sure to get quality gear. Have waterproof and breathable jackets, pants and boots. Also, ensure that your backpack has a rain cover.

Pack everything inside your duffle bag or backpack in ziplock or plastic bags.

Check the weather forecast before venturing out on the trail.

In the rainy season, temperature can fluctuate so bring extra layers.

Despite the cooler temperatures and rain, it's essential to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain hydration levels and prevent altitude-related illnesses.

Dry Season in Tanzania

Like the rainy season, there are also two dry seasons throughout the year. Late December to mid-March is a dry season. The weather is warm and it begins to get dusty towards the end of the season. 

From mid-June to October is another dry season in Tanzania. The weather is cooler during this time, especially in the mornings and evenings. 

Advantages of climbing in the dry season

During the long dry season, the temperature is cool and during the short dry season, the temperature is warmer. Either way, the skies are mostly clear during these times of the year.

January and February are the peak season to climb Kilimanjaro as the weather begins to transition from the short dry season to the long rainy season, making it a pleasant time to do the expedition.

There is minimal precipitation during this time, so the trails are not muddy and you can also trek comfortably if you yourself are dry. For someone, who does not want precipitation on the trek, it is the right time to do the trek.

The dry season is associated with higher summit success rates on Mount Kilimanjaro. The clear skies and favourable weather conditions increase your chances of reaching the summit.

With clear skies and minimal cloud cover, you'll have uninterrupted views of the snow-capped peaks and the diverse mountain ecosystems.

Disadvantages of climbing in the dry season

While the dry season typically boasts clear skies and minimal precipitation, it also brings colder temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.

Clear skies during the dry season mean more direct sunlight, which can result in higher UV exposure and an increased risk of sunburn and heat-related illnesses. 

The Machame and Marangu routes experience a lot of crowds.

Tips for trekking in the dry season

In the dry season, you have clear skies and brighter days, which also means intense sunlight and UV exposure, especially at higher altitudes. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF rating as well as sunglasses and hats.

Dress in layers, so that you can adjust your clothes along with the temperature changes.

Pack essential gear and equipment as well as rain cover. Kilimanjaro is known for receiving unexpected rainfall even in the driest months so be prepared for it.

Note: All this being said, Kilimanjaro sometimes creates its own unique weather. This means that even though the weather is pretty predictable, you may experience slight drizzles on the trek. If you wish to experience a completely dry trek and avoid rainfall, this cannot be guaranteed 100 per cent as even in the driest seasons, you may experience unexpected rainfall on the slopes of the mountain.

PASSPORT & VISA REQUIREMENTS

• All nationals visiting Tanzania must carry their passport when entering the Republic of Tanzania. 
• The passport should be valid for at least 6 months past the date of entry into the country.
• Your passport should have at least one blank page for official stamps.

Visitor’s Visa

Most foreign countries require a visa to visit Tanzania except for some commonwealth countries. You can obtain your Visa either before arrival or on arrival at your port of entry. All non-commonwealth countries require a Visa unless your country has a pact with the Tanzanian Republic and the Visa requirement has been waived for your nation.

Commonwealth countries do not require a Visa to visit Tanzania. However, India  Australia, the UK, New Zealand, Canada, USA, and most EU countries require a Visa.

How to apply for your Visa?

• To arrange your Visa in advance, you can simply contact the Tanzanian Embassy in your country. Usually, they ask for your passport and you fill out an application form that is processed by the Embassy and you are issued your Visa.
• You can also apply for your Visa online. The process is simple, you fill out an online form, make the payment and submit your application form. Your application will be reviewed and processed and you will be notified via email whether your application has been accepted or rejected. You may even need to visit the Embassy Office for an interview.

Note: Before you apply online for your Visa. Keep the following points in mind.

→ The type of Visa you are applying for.

→ The documents required for the application.

→ Countries that do not require visas.

→ Nationals that require approval by the Tanzania Commissioner General of Immigration for entry.

Visa on arrival

To avoid delays in obtaining the Visa, many people opt for the Visa on arrival option. You can simply purchase your Visa upon entering Tanzania. While this option is practically trouble-free, if it’s a peak visiting season then the queues can be pretty long.

Entry points from where you can purchase a Visa on arrival

• Kilimanjaro International Airport
• Dar Es Salaam International Airport
• Zanzibar International Airport
• Namanga Entry Point (Tanzania-Kenya border point)
• Horohoro
• Tunduma
• Sirari
• Kigoma port

Countries that do not require a Visa to visit Tanzania

66 countries of the world do not require visas to enter the Republic of Tanzania. The following are this list of the countries:

Botswana, Cocoas Island, Ghana, Heard Island, Rwanda, Seychelles,  Vanuatu, Bermuda, Channel Island, Jamaica, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Turks and Caicos, British Indian Ocean Territory, Mozambique, Samoa, Tonga, Zambia and Zimbabwe,  Belize, Cook Island, Isle of Man, Montserrat, Singapore, Ashmore & Certie Island, Grenada, Lesotho, Naue Island, Swaziland,  Brunei, Gambia, Jersey,  Malta, Ross Dependency, British Virgin Island, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Cyprus, Hong Kong, Nauru, South African Republic, Malawi, Saint Lucia, Cayman Island, Mauritius, Anguilla, Guyana, Romania, Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Vincent, Guernsey, Solomon Island, Madagascar, Gibraltar, Bahamas, Macao, Uganda, Kiribati,  Falkland Island, Christmas Island, Dominica, Saint Helena, Trinidad and Tobago, Kenya, Tuvalu, Namibia, Barbados.

OTHER ENTRY REQUIREMENTS IN TANZANIA

Yellow fever vaccination

If you are arriving from a country that has the risk of Yellow Fever, even if it was a layover, you will need to show proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination.

→ Travelling through any of the following countries, will you need a vaccination card:

AFRICA – Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Uganda.

AMERICANS – Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela.

→ Tanzania is considered a low-risk area for Yellow Fever. If you are coming to Tanzania without a vaccination card, make sure you take precautions against mosquito bites.

→ Travellers travelling from Tanzania to South Africa are required to have a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate upon entry to South Africa.

→ Please recheck regulations before travelling, as the above is subject to change without notice.

Proof of sufficient funds

You will need to have sufficient funds to help you sustain during your stay in Tanzania and you might even have to show the proof if asked.

Proof of return or onward journey

You will likely be asked to show your return or onward ticket out of Tanzania.

RECOMMENDED IMMUNISATIONS

As a sensible precaution we recommend that you consider getting at least some of the following recommended immunizations:

• Hepatitis A – You can get Hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Tanzania, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
• Typhoid – You can get Typhoid through contaminated food or water in Tanzania, especially if you are visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
• Please check with your local travel clinic for the latest recommendations

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

• Credit cards / Travellers Checks

Credit cards are only accepted by the major airline companies and by most of the bigger hotels and lodges. Do not rely on credit cards as a source of cash while in in Tanzania. In some cases, a surcharge will be added to credit card payments. We suggest that you take sufficient cash and use the credit card as a backup only. Traveller’s checks are accepted at most banks and some hotels, however, a surcharge normally applies to exchange traveller’s checks into cash. Please note many shops/hotels don’t accept traveller’s checks.

• Currency

The Tanzanian Shilling is the local currency, but traveller's checks and cash in US$ are recommended. It is possible to change foreign currency at any Bureau de Change, which generally gives better rates than hotels and most banks. If you bring US $ cash or receive the US $, please make sure the bank notes are in good condition with no cuts or damage and that the bank notes are not older than 2008.

• Duty-free

→ The following items may be imported into Tanzania, by travellers older than 18 years, duty-free:

→ 250g of tobacco or 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes

→ One bottle of alcoholic beverage

→ 580 ml of perfume

→ Prohibited Imports

→ Unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Plants and plant products require a phytosanitary certificate.

• Prohibited Exports

→ The export of gold, diamonds, and tanzanite, unless bought from a licensed jeweller is prohibited. 

→ Exporting souvenirs made from wildlife skins (this includes reptiles), shells, and coral is forbidden.

• Electricity

→ The local electricity supply is 230 volts, 50 Hz. You will need to supply your own international standard adapter for your electrical appliances. 

→ Most hotels in Tanzania use plugs with 3 large flat prongs (“British” type – BS1363 system), however, some hotels also use plugs similar to the “French” type (2 parallel prongs) but with an earth connector.

• Insurance

It is strongly advised to take out travel insurance which should cover baggage as well as personal accident and medical insurance and specifically covering your Kilimanjaro expedition.