Learn about planning and preparing your trip
Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa (364.898 sq mi / 945.203 km²), bordered by the Indian Ocean with the island of Zanzibar only approx. 20 mi / 30 km off the coast. This country features some of Africa's most alluring destinations like Serengeti, Ngorongoro or Mount Kilimanjaro.
The climate is tropical with temperatures ranging from 68 °F / 20 °C in the highlands to 78–88°F / 25–32 °C in the lower and coastal areas. Temperatures are highest between November and February, while a moderately warm period extends from May to August.
In the northern parts of the country (the Kilimanjaro Region and the areas of the great Game Parks) the rainy seasons last from October to December and from March to May.
The population is about 44 M and consists of more than 120 ethnic groups. They all live together peacefully and accept each other's traditions. Tanzania's crime rate is one of the lowest in Africa. Almost half of the population are children under 15.
The official languages are Swahili and English, while about 100 tribal languages are also spoken in Tanzania.
The local currency is the Tanzania Shilling, which is rather instable with exchange rates changing frequently. For that reason admission fees for National Parks and Game Parks must always be paid in US Dollars. Local money can be withdrawn from any ATM by ATM card or credit card.
The best airport to reach the northern part of the country where Kilimanjaro and the most popular national parks are located, is Kilimanjaro International Airport, which is served by many international airlines. A visa is usually required, it is valid for three months and can be obtained easily for USD 50 at the airport. (It is not necessary nor cheaper to apply for a visa at your local Tanzanian Embassy) You can find further information at www.state.gov.
Due to the fact that Tanzania is an equatorial african country, you should take reasonable precautions like immunisations against hepatitis and typhoid. We also recommend a malaria prophylaxis.
See your doctor before you start planning your holiday, to get vaccinations on time.
On mountain tours, altitude sickness may occur - even persons in good shape and excellent health may be affected.
Symptoms are headaches, nausea, dizziness, insomnia and loss of appetite. These may appear for some hours and typically go away again. Talk to your guide if you experience any of these symptoms. More severe cases may be complicated by chest tightness,vomiting, breathlessness, confusion or even lethargy. If any of these symptoms occur, you will have to descend immediately, a guide will accompany you. The risk of mountain sickness can only be decreased by climbing slowly and thus getting enough time to acclimatize.
The drug “Diamox(R)” against altitude sickness is available in Tanzania. Please consult a doctor before taking any kind of medicine against altitude sickness.
We strongly advise you to take out appropriate travel insurance, which covers loss of luggage as well as medical treatment for the whole duration of your holiday.
One of the most important prearrangements for enjoyable holidays is being properly equipped.
We advise you to make copies of your documents and keep them in a safe place.
We present this checklist as a guideline, please feel free to contact us for any further questions. You will receive a comprehensive checklist after your booking is confirmed. We also offer rental gear, please contact us for more information!
Without doubt, climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is a physical and mental challenge, regardless of which route you choose.
Being physically prepared will increase your chances of reaching the summit substantially, contribute to your mental confidence and determine whether you will enjoy your climbing tour
If you are in good physical shape you might not need any special training. Just exercise as usual, and try some 5–6 hour hikes with a small backpack in hilly areas.
If you do not exercise frequently, you should start with regular training at least 8 weeks before departing to get in decent shape. First of all, seek the approval of your doctor! Tell her/him what you are up to and ask for a medical check-upTerminate your fitness program at least 3 days before your departure and give your body time to rest.