GUIDED KILIMANJARO CLIMBS FROM SOUTH AFRICA
Kilimanjaro Packages from South Africa
Group & Private Kilimanjaro Climbs — Prices in Rand
Planning your Kilimanjaro climb from South Africa? Compare our small-group departures and private climbs, with prices in Rand, two hotel nights in Moshi and return shared airport transfers included. You'll deal directly with our South African office while experienced Tanzanian guides take care of you on the mountain.
EXPERIENCE YOU CAN RELY ON
Why Book Your Kilimanjaro Climb with a South African Specialist?
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a big adventure. Choosing the right route, allowing enough time to acclimatise and having an experienced mountain team can make a real difference to your experience.
Our experience with Kilimanjaro goes back to 2008, long before Kilimanjaro Hiking Tours was established in 2020. Our founder has climbed Kiimanjaro many times and even explored its slopes by mountain bike. That first-hand experience helps us give practical advice about routes, preparation and what to expect on the mountain.
Whether you're joining a scheduled group or planning a private Kilimanjaro trek with family or friends, we'll help you choose an itinerary that suits your experience, available time and travel plans.
Responsible trekking matters to us. We support fair wages, proper meals and safe working conditions for mountain crews. As an IMEC Partner for Responsible Travel , we support independent porter-welfare monitoring and responsible trekking standards on Kilimanjaro.
Explore Our Climbing Packages2027 GROUP CLIMB PACKAGES
Kilimanjaro Group Packages from South Africa
Prefer climbing Kilimanjaro with a group? Our scheduled departures bring together hikers who want to share the experience, with an experienced Tanzanian mountain team looking after the practical details. Choose the 7-day Machame Route or the 8-day Lemosho Route, both with time built in for acclimatisation. For South African travellers, our packages include two hotel nights in Moshi and return shared airport transfers, with prices displayed in Rand.
POPULAR GROUP OPTION
7 TREKKING DAYS
Machame Route
The Machame Route takes you through rainforest, moorland and dramatic high-altitude scenery, including the famous Barranco Wall. Our 7-day itinerary adds an acclimatisation day compared with the shorter 6-day option, giving you more time to adjust as you climb.
Indicative price per person sharing. A single-room and single-tent supplement applies to solo hikers.
LONGER ACCLIMATISATION OPTION
8 TREKKING DAYS
Lemosho Route
Lemosho starts on Kilimanjaro's quieter western slopes, with beautiful forest trails before crossing the Shira Plateau. The 8-day itinerary gives you an extra day to acclimatise and is our preferred choice for hikers who can allow more time on the mountain.
Indicative price per person sharing. A single-room and single-tent supplement applies to solo hikers.
KNOW WHAT YOUR PACKAGE COVERS
What's Included in Your Kilimanjaro Group Climb?
We want you to know what you're paying for before you book. Both group routes include the mountain crew, park fees, camping equipment, meals and essential safety support. Your South African package also includes two hotel nights in Moshi and return shared airport shuttles. Here's what is included and what you should budget for separately.
Included in Your Group Climb
Applicable Tanzanian taxes and VAT on the mountain services included in your package.
One night before and one after your climb, including breakfast. Shared accommodation is standard.
National Park entry, conservation, camping and rescue fees applicable to your route.
Official KINAPA certificate for reaching Stella Point, Gilman's Point or Uhuru Peak.
Experienced English-speaking Tanzanian guides, with guide numbers meeting KINAPA requirements.
One porter per hiker to carry up to 15 kg of personal luggage in your mountain duffel.
Mountain staff to set up and maintain the campsite throughout your trek.
Monitoring of porter working conditions and fair-treatment standards through the responsible trekking programme.
Mountain staff responsible for preparing and serving your meals during the climb.
Meals served during your trek, with the required dining utensils, cups, plates and cutlery.
A briefing and equipment check in Moshi before you leave for Kilimanjaro.
Group transport from your Moshi hotel to the starting gate of your Kilimanjaro trek.
Group transport from the finishing gate back to your Moshi hotel.
Storage at your accommodation for items you won't need on the mountain.
Drinking water supplied on the mountain from your first campsite onwards.
Emergency oxygen at a ratio of one cylinder per five hikers, plus a first aid kit.
Guide-led health checks, including oxygen saturation measurements using a pulse oximeter.
Handwashing facilities, sanitiser and a small wash basin for personal hygiene at camp.
One portable toilet per five hikers on our camping routes, in addition to available campsite facilities.
One approximately 100-litre rubberised holdall or packsack for mountain luggage.
A basic sleeping mattress for each hiker, included with your camping equipment.
Shared mountain sleeping tents, a dining tent, chairs, tables and essential communal camping equipment.
Lunch with your guides at Mweka Gate after completing the Machame or Lemosho trek.
Arrival and departure shuttle transfers between Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and your Moshi accommodation.
Not Included in Your Group Climb
- Tips and gratuities. Tips for your mountain guides, cook, porters and support team are not included.
- Additional drinks. Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and other drinks outside the included meal service.
- International flights. Return flights from South Africa to Tanzania must be arranged and paid for separately.
- Personal travel insurance. Arrange insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies and evacuation.
- Visa fees, if applicable. Any visas or entry-related costs required for your nationality or circumstances.
- Personal expenses. Souvenirs, extra purchases and other personal costs during your trip.
- Water for your first trekking day. Bring enough drinking water for the walk to your first campsite.
- Personal hydration equipment. Water bottles and hydration systems are not included. Bring suitable reusable containers for your trek.
Travel Insurance for Tanzania
Mainland Tanzania introduced mandatory inbound travel insurance for foreign visitors on 1 October 2026.
Foreign residents of SADC and EAC countries, including qualifying South African residents, are exempt from this government inbound insurance requirement. Travellers who do not qualify for the exemption must arrange the required policy.
Important for all Kilimanjaro hikers: This exemption is not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance. We strongly recommend a policy that specifically covers trekking to Kilimanjaro's altitude, medical treatment, evacuation and trip interruption.
Possible Park Fee Changes from July 2027
Our group package prices include the applicable Kilimanjaro National Park fees.
Based on the current tariffs advised by our Tanzanian operating partner, rates are expected to remain applicable through 30 June 2027. Park fee changes may affect climbs departing from 1 July 2027.
Any applicable confirmed changes will be explained when we prepare your quotation. We won't treat a possible increase as a confirmed charge.
About our Rand prices: Our US Dollar rates form the basis of these indicative South African prices. The displayed amounts use an FNB US Dollar selling reference rate of US$1 = R16.80, reviewed on 12 November 2026. Your written quotation will confirm the Rand amount payable into our South African bank account. Exchange-rate movements may affect the final quote. Applicable Tanzanian taxes and VAT on included Tanzanian services are covered in the package prices. This does not mean South African VAT has been charged or included. All group prices are per person sharing. Single accommodation supplements apply when required.
Get Ready for Your Kilimanjaro Climb
Your group package includes the main camping equipment, but you'll still need suitable clothing, a sleeping bag and personal hiking gear. You can bring your own equipment or rent selected items in Moshi.
Kilimanjaro Gear Rental
Don't want to buy equipment you'll only use once? Our hikers can rent selected sleeping bags, trekking poles, rainwear, gaiters and daypacks in Moshi.
Gear rental is available exclusively to clients climbing with Kilimanjaro Hiking Tours. Reserve your equipment before travelling, as sizes and quantities are limited.
View Kilimanjaro Gear Rental Prices →Optional Comfort Upgrades
A little extra comfort can make a difference after a long day of hiking. Optional upgrades include thicker inflatable mattresses, folding camp beds and single-tent arrangements.
Extras are subject to availability and quoted separately unless already included in your package.
Explore Kilimanjaro Comfort Upgrades →2027 GROUP CLIMB DEPARTURES
Upcoming Kilimanjaro Group Climb Dates for 2027
Looking for a Kilimanjaro group climb you can join from South Africa? Choose from our scheduled 7-day Machame and 8-day Lemosho departures. Solo hikers, couples and friends are welcome. Our published departures are guaranteed, with a maximum of 12 hikers per group and an average of just four to five. You can book through our South African office and receive your quotation in Rand.
Upcoming Scheduled Departures
Find a Kilimanjaro Group Climb Date
Prices are indicative, per person sharing. Solo travellers pay a single-room and single-tent supplement.
7-Day Machame Route
Scenic southern trail · Barranco Wall
8-Day Lemosho Route
Quieter western start · Extra acclimatisation
7-Day Machame Route
Scenic southern trail · Barranco Wall
8-Day Lemosho Route
Quieter western start · Extra acclimatisation
Planning your trip: The dates displayed above are mountain climb start dates. You should arrive in Moshi the previous day for your pre-climb hotel stay, briefing and equipment check. These January and February 2027 prices are indicative Rand amounts per person sharing, based on our US Dollar rates and the FNB selling exchange-rate reference reviewed on 12 November 2026. The packages include return shared airport shuttles between Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Moshi. Flights, personal travel insurance, crew tips and personal expenses are excluded. We will confirm current availability and the final Rand price in your quotation. For later departures, use the View All Group Climb Dates button above to browse the full schedule.
A CLIMB PLANNED AROUND YOU
Private Kilimanjaro Climbs from South Africa
Want to climb Kilimanjaro with your own group rather than join a scheduled departure? A private climb gives you the freedom to choose your travel dates, explore different routes and have a dedicated Tanzanian mountain team looking after your trek. It's a great option for couples, families, groups of friends and hiking clubs planning an adventure together.
Climb Kilimanjaro Your Way
Perhaps you're planning a special birthday, organising a climb with friends or trying to fit a mountain adventure into your annual leave. A scheduled group date doesn't always work for everyone.
With a private Kilimanjaro climb, you can choose dates that suit your group, subject to availability. We'll help you compare the routes, understand how many days to allow for acclimatisation and decide which itinerary makes the most sense for your plans.
On the mountain, your group will have its own experienced Tanzanian guides, cook and porter team. Before you travel, we'll help with the planning and arrangements through our South African office.
Your Own Kilimanjaro Package
We'll prepare a private Kilimanjaro tour quotation based on your chosen route, number of hikers, preferred departure date and any optional extras.
Our South African private packages include two hotel nights in Moshi and return shared shuttle transfers between Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and your hotel. Private airport transfers and comfort upgrades can be discussed separately if required.
Choose Your Travel Dates
Plan your climb around your own schedule instead of joining a fixed group date, subject to availability and park arrangements.
Your Own Mountain Crew
Climb with guides, a cook and porters dedicated to your group, rather than joining hikers from another departure.
Find the Right Route
Consider Machame, Lemosho, Marangu, Rongai or the Northern Circuit, with advice on scenery, duration and acclimatisation.
Local Booking Support
Discuss your plans with our Pretoria office, receive a quotation in Rand and pay through our South African bank account.
Planning a Private Kilimanjaro Climb?
Tell us how many people are travelling, your preferred dates and which route interests you. Not sure which route to choose? That's fine too. We'll help you work through the options and prepare a personalised quotation for your group.
Private climb prices depend on the route, number of trekking days and group size. Our South African package includes the stated Moshi hotel accommodation and return shared JRO airport shuttles. Optional upgrades are quoted separately. Your written quotation will confirm all inclusions and exclusions.
PRIVATE KILIMANJARO PACKAGES — 2027
Private Kilimanjaro Climb Prices from South Africa
How much does a private Kilimanjaro climb cost when booking from South Africa? The price depends on your chosen route, how many days you spend on the mountain and the number of hikers sharing the trip. Compare our 2027 private climb packages in Rand below. Each includes your own Tanzanian mountain team, two hotel nights in Moshi and return shared airport shuttles between JRO and Moshi.
Swipe left to see prices for 2, 3–4 and 5+ hikers.
2027 Private Kilimanjaro Package Prices
Indicative South African Rand prices per person, shown by route and private group size. Swipe the table to compare every price.
| Route & Package | 1 Hiker Single |
2 Hikers Sharing |
3–4 Hikers Sharing |
5+ Hikers Sharing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Day Marangu Route 4 mountain nights in huts · 2 hotel nights | R37 716 | R31 836 | R29 904 | R27 804 |
| 6-Day Marangu Route 5 mountain nights in huts · 2 hotel nights | R43 176 | R36 036 | R34 272 | R31 836 |
| 6-Day Machame or Umbwe Route 5 mountain nights camping · 2 hotel nights | R45 444 | R37 884 | R35 448 | R32 760 |
| 7-Day Machame or Umbwe Route 6 mountain nights camping · 2 hotel nights | R51 828 | R42 756 | R39 144 | R36 876 |
| 6-Day Rongai Route 5 mountain nights camping · 2 hotel nights | R49 224 | R40 152 | R35 532 | R34 272 |
| 7-Day Lemosho or Rongai Route 6 mountain nights camping · 2 hotel nights | R55 104 | R45 024 | R40 908 | R38 388 |
| 8-Day Lemosho or Rongai Route 7 mountain nights camping · 2 hotel nights | R60 900 | R49 812 | R44 436 | R41 748 |
| 8-Day Northern Circuit Route 7 mountain nights camping · 2 hotel nights · portable toilet included | R63 840 | R51 324 | R45 444 | R42 336 |
| 9-Day Northern Circuit Route 8 mountain nights camping · 2 hotel nights · portable toilet included | R70 056 | R56 280 | R49 896 | R46 452 |
What the prices include: Two hotel nights in Moshi with breakfast, return shared airport shuttles between Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and your Moshi hotel, a private mountain crew and private transport between your hotel and the Kilimanjaro park gates. The full package inclusions are listed below.
About our Rand prices: These are indicative conversions from our US Dollar package rates, using the FNB US Dollar bank selling reference of US$1 = R16.80 on 12 November 2026. Exchange-rate movements may change the Rand amounts. Your written quotation confirms the final amount payable.
Tanzanian taxes and VAT: Applicable Tanzanian taxes and Tanzanian VAT on the included Tanzanian services are covered in these rates. This does not mean that South African VAT has been included or charged.
Choosing the right itinerary: More time on the mountain generally gives you a better opportunity to acclimatise. The shorter five-day Marangu itinerary offers less time to adjust to altitude than longer options. We're happy to help you compare routes before choosing a private package.
KNOW WHAT YOUR PRIVATE PACKAGE COVERS
What's Included in Your Private Kilimanjaro Climb?
Before you book, you should know what you're paying for. These private packages include mountain staff, park fees, accommodation, meals and safety equipment. We've listed the inclusions and exclusions separately so you can plan your budget with confidence.
Included in Your Private Climb
Applicable Tanzanian taxes and VAT on included Tanzanian services.
Conservation, entry, camping or hut, rescue and applicable crew fees.
One night before and one after the climb, including breakfast. Sharing or single accommodation as priced.
Arrival and departure transfers between JRO airport and your hotel in Moshi.
Private transport from your Moshi hotel to the starting gate and back after your trek.
Briefing and equipment check with your mountain guide in Moshi.
Storage at your hotel for belongings you won't need during your climb.
Experienced English-speaking guides and assistant guides assigned to your party.
Mountain cook, waiter and porters dedicated to your private group.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner on the mountain as detailed in your itinerary.
Boiled water supplied during the trek as specified in your mountain itinerary.
Four-season tents, basic sleeping mattresses, tables and chairs on camping routes.
A dining tent reserved for your private group on camping routes. Marangu uses mountain huts.
Porter service for up to 15 kg of personal mountain luggage per hiker.
Emergency oxygen, first aid equipment and pulse oximeters.
Health checks by your guides, including oxygen saturation monitoring.
Handwashing facilities, sanitiser and wash basins provided as applicable.
A small personal hot-water bottle for each hiker during the trek.
Included on our 8-day and 9-day Northern Circuit packages. Optional on other eligible camping routes.
Your own mountain crew, dining arrangements and private park transfers, with dates subject to availability.
Not Included in Your Private Climb
- International and domestic flights. Flights between South Africa and Tanzania and any other flight arrangements.
- Visas and vaccinations. Applicable visa fees, vaccinations and travel documentation costs.
- Travel and medical insurance. Personal insurance suitable for high-altitude trekking, medical treatment and emergency evacuation.
- Private airport transfers. Shared JRO–Moshi shuttles are included. Private airport transfers cost extra unless specifically quoted.
- Personal hiking equipment. Boots, clothing, sleeping bags, hydration systems and other personal gear.
- Crew tips and gratuities. Tips for guides, cooks, porters and other mountain crew members.
- Extra meals and beverages. Restaurant meals, drinks and refreshments outside the included services.
- Optional comfort upgrades. Thicker mattresses, camp beds, extra porters, private toilets where not already included and other extras.
Tanzania Inbound Travel Insurance
Mainland Tanzania introduced compulsory inbound travel insurance for certain foreign visitors from 1 October 2026.
Qualifying residents of SADC and EAC countries, including South Africa, are exempt from this government inbound insurance requirement. Other travellers should check whether they need to purchase the compulsory inbound policy.
Important: This exemption is not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance. We strongly recommend cover that explicitly includes trekking to Kilimanjaro's altitude, medical emergencies and evacuation.
Possible Kilimanjaro Park Fee Changes
Our private package rates include the applicable Kilimanjaro National Park fees.
Based on the tariff information provided by our Tanzanian operating partner, current rates are expected to apply through 30 June 2027. Changes may affect climbs from 1 July 2027.
Any confirmed changes affecting your package will be explained in your quotation or applicable booking terms.
Kilimanjaro Gear Rental
Need a sleeping bag, trekking poles or other specialist hiking equipment? Selected gear is available to rent in Moshi, so you don't have to buy everything before travelling.
Rental gear is available exclusively to Kilimanjaro Hiking Tours clients and must be reserved in advance.
View Gear Rental & Prices →Optional Comfort Upgrades
Want a little extra comfort? Ask about thicker inflatable mattresses, folding camp beds, additional porters or private toilets on eligible camping routes.
Upgrades are subject to availability and quoted separately unless already included in your itinerary.
Explore Comfort Upgrades →Ready to Plan Your Private Kilimanjaro Climb?
Tell us your preferred travel dates, number of hikers and the route you're considering. We can help you work through the options if you're still undecided. Our South African office will prepare a personalised Rand quotation confirming your package price, inclusions and any extras.
PLAN YOUR JOURNEY FROM SOUTH AFRICA
Flights from South Africa to Kilimanjaro
Wondering how to get to Kilimanjaro from South Africa? Most hikers flying from Johannesburg connect through Nairobi or Addis Ababa before landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), near Moshi. International flights are not included in our climbing packages, but we can help you plan your arrival around your chosen climb dates.
Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways offers connecting itineraries from Johannesburg to Kilimanjaro International Airport through Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. It's worth comparing the total journey time and connection length rather than looking at airfare alone.
Transit tip: If you're connecting through Nairobi, check whether you remain in the international transit area and how long your connection will be. This can affect Tanzania's yellow-fever documentation requirements.
Explore Kenya Airways Flights →Ethiopian Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines is another option when travelling from Johannesburg to Kilimanjaro, with a connection through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport in Ethiopia.
Check your total travelling time, baggage allowance and arrival time in Tanzania. As with Nairobi, the length and nature of your connection may also affect yellow-fever entry requirements. Flight schedules can vary by departure date.
Explore Ethiopian Airlines Flights →How Much Are Flights from South Africa to Kilimanjaro?
Airfare is one of the main costs to budget for in addition to your Kilimanjaro climbing package. Return economy fares change depending on your travel dates, demand, connection times and how early you book.
For a rough budgeting reference, a Kenya Airways return economy fare from Johannesburg to Kilimanjaro was approximately R10 500 when researched on 12 November 2026. This is a historical example, not a live fare or a guaranteed price for your travel dates.
Your international flights are arranged separately from your KHT climbing package. The Rand climb prices shown earlier on this page do not include airfare.
When Should You Arrive and Fly Home?
Plan your flights around the entire Kilimanjaro trip, not just the trekking days. Our standard South African packages include a hotel night in Moshi before the climb and another after the trek.
Arrive the Day Before Your Climb
Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) the day before your trek starts. Your included shared shuttle takes you to your Moshi hotel, where you'll have time to prepare for the climb. Your pre-climb briefing and equipment check will be arranged with your guide.
Enjoy Your Kilimanjaro Climb
Join your scheduled Machame or Lemosho departure, or begin your chosen private Kilimanjaro trek. Your mountain crew, accommodation and meals are arranged according to your itinerary.
Stay Overnight Before Flying Home
After descending Kilimanjaro, you'll return to Moshi for your included post-climb hotel night. We recommend booking your international departure for the following day. Your included shared shuttle will take you back to JRO at the arranged time.
Yellow Fever Requirements: Transit Through Nairobi or Addis Ababa
South African travellers who connect through Nairobi or Addis Ababa should check Tanzania's yellow-fever entry requirements before booking their flights. Both Kenya and Ethiopia are listed by Tanzania as countries with yellow-fever transmission risk.
Travellers arriving from South Africa who remain in the international airport transit area for less than 12 hours will generally not need a yellow-fever vaccination certificate solely because of that transit.
A certificate may be required if your transit in a yellow-fever-risk country lasts 12 hours or longer, if you enter that country, or if your travel history includes another relevant yellow-fever-risk destination.
Check your exact itinerary with your airline and refer to the official Tanzania Ministry of Health before travelling. If vaccination is required, seek advice from a qualified travel-health professional well before departure.
Need Help Planning Your Travel Dates?
Before you book flights, send us your preferred Kilimanjaro departure date. We'll help you check the correct arrival and departure days so your flights, hotel nights and included airport transfers fit together properly.
Ask About Your Travel DatesINDEPENDENT CUSTOMER REVIEWS
What Our Kilimanjaro Climbers Say
Before booking a Kilimanjaro climb, it helps to hear from people who've already been there. Our customers, including South African hikers, have shared their experiences of preparing for the climb, dealing with our team and trekking with our Tanzanian guides and porters. Here are five summaries of their independent Trustpilot reviews.
A Trip That Exceeded Expectations
Maryke appreciated the quick responses to her questions, helpful preparation checklists and excellent mountain guides and porters. She also praised how well her post-climb safari was organised.
Professional Guides and Great Support
Sean was initially nervous about his first experience of this kind. He praised the guides for helping everyone feel safe and comfortable, and was pleasantly surprised by the food served on the mountain.
A Challenging but Rewarding Climb
Ingrid described climbing Kilimanjaro as difficult but rewarding. She particularly appreciated the helpful guides, fantastic mountain food and the planning that went into the trip.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Amandine enjoyed the friendly people she met and appreciated having the travel arrangements organised for her. She felt this took much of the stress out of such a big adventure.
Support All the Way to the Summit
Michael praised the organisation, mountain food and the support of the guides, porters and cook. He said the guides gave the group confidence on their way to the Kilimanjaro summit.
Local South African booking support, experienced Tanzanian mountain teams. When you're planning a Kilimanjaro climb, it helps to know who you're dealing with and what other hikers have experienced. We're here to answer your questions and help you prepare for the mountain.
Speak to Our South African TeamSOUTH AFRICAN KILIMANJARO TRAVEL QUESTIONS
Kilimanjaro Packages from South Africa: Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a Kilimanjaro climb from South Africa? These are some of the questions we're often asked about prices in Rand, flights, passports, insurance, group departures and private climbs.
How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro from South Africa?
The cost depends on the route you choose, how many days you spend on the mountain and whether you join a scheduled group or book a private climb.
Our South African Kilimanjaro packages are displayed in Rand and include the applicable mountain services, two hotel nights in Moshi and return shared airport shuttles between JRO and Moshi.
Compare our group climbing packages or the private Kilimanjaro price table . Flights, personal insurance, crew tips and optional extras are budgeted separately. Your quotation confirms the final price.
Can I book and pay for Kilimanjaro in South African Rand?
Yes. If you're booking from South Africa, we can quote your climb in Rand, and payment is made into our South African Rand bank account.
Our US Dollar package rates form the basis of the prices. We use FNB's US Dollar bank selling rate as a reference when converting them to Rand.
As exchange rates change, the indicative website prices may also change. Your written quotation will confirm the amount payable in Rand.
Do South African passport holders need a visa for Tanzania?
South African passport holders are currently visa-exempt for short tourist visits to Tanzania.
Your passport should have at least six months' remaining validity. You should also have your return or onward travel information available.
Always confirm entry rules before departure, especially if members of your group hold different passports. See the Tanzanian Embassy in South Africa for official visa information.
Do South Africans need Tanzania's mandatory inbound travel insurance?
Qualifying residents of SADC and EAC countries, including South Africa, are exempt from the compulsory inbound insurance requirement for mainland Tanzania.
Important: The mainland exemption does not automatically mean you're exempt from separate Zanzibar insurance rules if your trip includes a Zanzibar holiday.
You should still arrange suitable travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking on Kilimanjaro, medical treatment and emergency evacuation.
Check the official mainland insurance FAQs and, where relevant, Zanzibar's insurance portal .
Do I need a yellow-fever vaccination when flying via Nairobi or Addis Ababa?
If you're flying from South Africa to mainland Tanzania and connect through Nairobi or Addis Ababa, a yellow-fever certificate is generally not required solely for a short airside transit lasting less than 12 hours.
The requirements can change if your connection is 12 hours or longer, you enter the transit country or your journey includes another yellow-fever-risk destination.
Check your exact itinerary with the airline and Tanzania's Ministry of Health before departure.
Are international flights and airport transfers included?
International flights from South Africa are not included in our climbing packages. You'll need to book and pay for those separately.
Both our group and private South African packages include return shared airport shuttle transfers between Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and your hotel in Moshi.
Transfers between the hotel and Kilimanjaro park gates are also included. Private packages include dedicated park transfers; airport shuttles remain shared unless upgraded separately.
See our flight and arrival planning advice .
Should I choose a group climb or a private Kilimanjaro climb?
A group climb is a good choice if you'd like to meet other hikers and join an existing departure. Our scheduled groups follow fixed itineraries and dates.
A private climb may suit you better if you're travelling with family or friends, need different dates or want your own mountain crew.
Not sure which is right? Start with our private climb overview , then compare the private package prices .
Can I join a Kilimanjaro group climb as a solo traveller?
Yes. You don't need to arrive with friends or book a private expedition. Solo hikers are welcome on our scheduled group departures.
Our published departures are guaranteed and groups have a maximum of 12 hikers. A single supplement applies for your hotel room and mountain sleeping tent.
You can browse our upcoming group climb dates or contact us to check availability.
Which Kilimanjaro route is best for a first-time climber?
For many first-time hikers, we recommend the 8-day Lemosho Route or the 7-day Machame Route. Both give more time for acclimatisation than their shorter alternatives.
Lemosho offers a quieter western start and an extra trekking day. Machame is a scenic seven-day option for hikers who have less time available.
The right choice depends on your fitness, hiking background, available time and personal preferences. Our Kilimanjaro route comparison will help you explore the differences.
How many days should I allow for my Kilimanjaro trip?
Our 7-day Machame group package is normally a nine-day trip in Tanzania, including a hotel night before and after the climb.
The 8-day Lemosho group package is normally a ten-day trip. Private trips vary according to your chosen route and trek duration.
Remember to allow for connecting flights from South Africa. Check your arrival and departure dates with us before you purchase airfare.
Do I need hiking experience or special equipment?
You don't normally need technical mountaineering skills for standard Kilimanjaro trekking routes, but you should prepare for several days of hiking and the effects of high altitude.
You'll need suitable boots, layered clothing, a warm sleeping bag and other personal hiking equipment. We can help you understand what to bring and what can be rented.
See our Kilimanjaro training advice and gear rental options . Rental is available exclusively to KHT hikers and must be booked in advance.
When should I book my Kilimanjaro climb from South Africa?
It's best to start planning several months in advance where possible, particularly if you're travelling in the popular dry season or need to use fixed leave dates.
Booking ahead gives you time to compare flight options, train, organise suitable travel insurance and prepare your equipment.
If your dates are approaching, you can still contact our South African office to ask about available group places or a private-climb quotation.
YOUR KILIMANJARO ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Ready to Climb Kilimanjaro from South Africa?
Whether you've found your ideal group departure or you're planning a private climb with family or friends, we're here to help you take the next step. Tell us when you'd like to travel, how many people are joining you and what you have in mind. We'll help you choose a suitable route and put together a clear quotation.
Book through our South African office. We'll confirm your climbing package, what's included and any optional extras in a personalised Rand quotation, with payment into our South African bank account.
Read Our Customer Reviews on Trustpilot