Mount Kilimanjaro Cost and prices | How much is it to climb?

The overall cost of trekking the majestic and awe-inspiring Mount Kilimanjaro is directly proportional to several logistical factors and reasons, all of which must be carefully considered, thoroughly examined, and intricately evaluated in order to accurately gauge the total expenses incurred on this remarkable journey to the roof of Africa.

Choosing the right operator is essential to ensure a successful and enjoyable Kilimanjaro expedition. It is recommended to thoroughly research and compare the prices, services, and reviews of different operators to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Keep in mind that price alone should not be the sole determining factor; factors such as reputation, experience, and safety record should also be taken into consideration. By selecting the right operator, you can embark on a memorable journey to the roof of Africa with confidence and peace of mind.

1. Group Size

When there are more individuals in a trekking group, the cost per person tends to decrease. Expeditions with only one or two climbers have the highest prices as the expenses to organize the climb are divided among a small number of people. It is not surprising that climbs with twelve or more individuals will have significantly lower prices. The majority of companies, including Tranquil Kilimanjaro, offer open climbs where customers have the option to reserve a spot and join others to form a group.

2. Days on the Mountain

Every day spent on the mountain brings about additional expenses in terms of park fees, salaries for staff, food provisions, and equipment utilization. Consequently, longer routes incur greater costs compared to shorter routes. Moreover, the choice of route also contributes to these expenses, as certain routes necessitate more personnel, gear, and logistical arrangements.

3. Level of Service

There are three primary price categories for Kilimanjaro operators: budget, midrange, and luxury. This significant variation in prices is the main reason behind the varying costs charged by different companies for seemingly identical services. It can be challenging for the average consumer to distinguish between operators solely relying on a company’s website, as it may not provide the complete picture. When it comes to budget operators, they offer affordable options for adventurous travelers who want to experience the wonders of Kilimanjaro without breaking the bank. These operators prioritize cost-effectiveness and provide basic services that cater to the essential needs of climbers. While the price may be lower, it’s important to note that certain luxuries and amenities may be sacrificed in order to maintain affordability. Midrange operators strike a balance between cost and comfort. They offer a range of services that appeal to climbers seeking a more comfortable experience without indulging in excessive luxury. These operators provide reliable equipment and experienced guides who ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. While the prices may be higher than budget operators, the additional services and attention to detail make it a worthwhile investment for many climbers.

For those seeking the utmost luxury and personalized service, luxury operators cater to every aspect of the climb. These operators spare no expense in providing the highest level of comfort and convenience to their clients. From luxurious accommodations and gourmet meals to top-of-the-line equipment and expert guides, every detail is meticulously crafted to create a truly unforgettable experience. The prices of luxury operators reflect the premium services they offer, making it an ideal choice for climbers who prioritize indulgence and exclusivity.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro – Cost and Prices

Costs for climbing Kilimanjaro differ greatly by many factors like the number of days you will spend on the mountain, the number of people in a group, the route was chosen and the type of accommodation before and or after your climb. Other things like renting climbing gear and equipment, airport transfers and choosing to extend your trip by combining your Kilimanjaro climb with a safari or Zanzibar add-on may alter the Kilimanjaro climbing price.

NB: If you need a free quote or an estimated price for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro please visit this link.

The true price of a cheap Kilimanjaro climb

How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro, and what should a Kilimanjaro climb cost you?

It doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg but the prices for Kilimanjaro climbs vary widely. To climb Kilimanjaro with tranquil Kilimanjaro the actual costs including tax can range from $1000 to $4000 or even more.

Anything below this as quoted by other companies can prove to be costly in the end.

Remember, cheap is expensive even though we understand your need to save big bucks.

Do not put the cost first when you want to climb Kilimanjaro, always put your safety and adventure first as it may cost you a lot in the long run.

Mount Kilimanjaro cost breakdown

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What does the Kilimanjaro climbing price include?

When you book your Mount Kilimanjaro climb, for whichever route you choose, the cost will include the following

Professional and experienced guides
fresh, healthy, and balanced nutritious food
high guide to client ratio of 1:2
clean, purified drinking water (bottled)
hard-working, team-oriented support porters
fair wages to our employees
quality, waterproof, four-season mountain hardware tents, and equipment
All Park fees
Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees
Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
Comprehensive Safety and crisis management procedures
Emergency oxygen and medical kits ( upon request)

What does the Kilimanjaro Climbing price exclude?

The cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro does not necessarily include your accommodation before and after the climb. Accommodation before you climb or after your climb is usually the hotel you sleep in a day before you climb or after you come from the mountain. Normally your accommodation will either be in Moshi or Arusha.

The Kilimanjaro prices will not cater for the equipment you need to buy or rent, the vaccinations, the international flights, and other things like: –

Tanzania Visa
Accommodation in Arusha/Moshi
Gratuity
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, alcohol, beverages, etc.)
Other trip add-ons like safaris, Zanzibar beach holidays and other extra tours.

The true cost of a Kilimanjaro climb

Ok now let us dive in and see what your money will cater for when you book a Kilimanjaro climb. Where does your hard-earned cash go and why?

A huge chunk of the money goes to the government-charged fees to pay for Kilimanjaro national park fees. The price for the fees to enter Kilimanjaro park are constant and compulsory, about $800 for camping on the mountain for about 5 nights.

For each climb, part of the cost goes to paying the Kilimanjaro climbing team like the hard-working porters, the mountain guides, and the person responsible for preparing your meals, the chef/cook.

Food and supplies like fresh fruits and vegetables also account for your Kilimanjaro budget, the costs cover all the meals from breakfast, lunch, and dinner or supper. Our cooks are well trained in preparing that balanced diet and sumptuous meals. The meals will be fresh and taste great. Sometimes you will have no appetite due to altitude sickness but your body needs a great supply of energy-providing foods.

If you begin feeling symptoms of nausea or loss of appetite, our experienced guides will assist you in the best ways to acclimatize and take your medication.

Other drinks like coffee, tea, and safe, clean drinking water are also part of the Kilimanjaro climbing cost.

Quality equipment that is responsible for your survival on the mountain by keeping you warm in the harsh mountain weather also gets a fair share of your climbing costs. Apart from the tents, tables chairs, sleeping mats, there is the kitchen tent and the mess tent in consideration. The porters will carry them for you, that is why they are so important for your trip and you will rely on this mountain equipment to make your adventure enjoyable and easier to make it to the top.

Environmentally friendly climbs on Kilimanjaro also costs money, that is where the porters and guides come in, they will be responsible for carrying all the rubbish, our main aim is to keep the mountain clean and green.

The larger the climbing group, the lower the price per person because you will be sharing resources and costs.

Since we are a locally owned and operated company for Kilimanjaro climbs and adventures, it means our prices are more competitive and affordable than choosing an agent from overseas. Agents act as middlemen and have slightly or more expensive prices.

Kilimanjaro Park Fees

Every climber of Mount Kilimanjaro is required to pay park fees, which include crew, conservation, and camping expenses. Additionally, extra forest taxes are applicable on the Lemosho and Rongai routes. It is yet another important component of the price to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

Depending on the route taken and the number of days, the total park fees will range from US$800 to $1100. (all calculations and prices henceforth are given in USD).

It is IMPOSSIBLE to climb Mount Kilimanjaro without paying the required park fees by avoiding ranger posts. It is just not feasible to get to Uhuru Peak without running into any park officials. Every year, dozens of people who do this are captured.

Estimated park fees, Machame Route, per climber in a group of two

Fee payable	Climber/day	Climber/trip (7 days)
Conservation fee	70	490
Camping fee	50	350
Rescue fee (paid per trip)	20	20
Crew fee (13 people)	13	91
VAT 18%	–	171
Overall park fees	120	1122

Additionally, it is risky. You will lose the chance to get prompt assistance from the rangers if you deviate from established approved routes where climbing permits are checked at each ranger post.

Finally, it is forbidden. Tanzania views trespassing on national parks as a serious offense. The best-case scenario means getting deported and paying huge fines, leaving you without the chance to ever experience Tanzania’s beauties again. You may be jailed if you commit this offense.

Kilimanjaro Guides, Porters, and Cook Wages

The next significant expense factor for climbing Kilimanjaro is crew wages. All credible Tanzanian trekking outfitters have wage systems for their climbing crews, even though the rates paid (and charged to the client) may differ. The average daily wage for a guide is between USD 20 and USD 40, for a cook, it is between USD 10 and USD 15, and for a porter, it is between USD 7 and USD 10. Therefore, the ultimate sum will depend on the number of crew members required to serve the total climbers and provide the level of comfort anticipated during the climb. Tips that are based on the client’s trekking experience are also appreciated.

The high unemployment rate, on the other hand, enables many budget operators to fill their crews with people prepared to work without a guarantee of compensation, allowing them to maintain low rates. The only source of income for the crew will be the client’s tips at the end of the expedition. These teams frequently have a large proportion of inexperienced and unqualified employees.

Food cost and transport

The majority of climbs offered by reputable outfitters are packages that include logistics and supplies, including transfers and resupplies, at least three meals and water, as well as numerous other minor but crucial items. These logistics and supplies add to the overall cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Costs that are somewhat typical for the sector in Tanzania are: $55 per climber

Mountain Gear and Equipment

On the mountain, the gear and equipment go through harsh weather and conditions causing wear and tear sometimes. Make sure your operator maintains all equipment to a high standard and replaces it on a regular basis. When selecting a climb, make sure you’re obtaining the following:

Tents that are sturdy, well-maintained, and appropriate for mountainous terrain.
table and seats in a proper dining tent
Toilet and a portable toilet (if applicable)
backup equipment in case of damage

You’ll also want to make sure that your group has the right sleeping arrangements and hiking equipment. You can also rent gear and equipment from Moshi or Arusha if needed.

The difference in costs in the Kilimanjaro routes

The route you will be choosing to take you up Mount Kilimanjaro will determine the cost of the overall trip. Many routes differ by popularity, traffic on the route, length or duration of days on the route, scenery, and difficulty. More scenic and longer routes are more expensive, they also happen to have fewer people plying their trails.

How much is it to stay in Moshi?

Moshi, the closest town to Mount Kilimanjaro offers a wide range of accommodation options, from cheap, shoe-string budget guest rooms to midrange to high-end and luxury lodge accommodations. Dormitory beds could go for as cheap as $5 per night per person in hostels like the Kilimanjaro Backpackers hostel while luxury options would range between $100-$500 for hotels like the Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel and other luxurious options.

Travel Insurance Cost

In the event of a mountain emergency, you will require sufficient travel insurance to cover you for all possibilities, including cancellation, lost luggage, and, most crucially, medical evacuation and treatment.

From Moshi, the Kilimanjaro Helicopter Rescue Service provides emergency evacuation in the event of a mountaintop injury, altitude sickness, or severe ailment. You must have emergency evacuation and trekking up to 6,000 meters covered by your travel insurance.

Airline Tickets and VISA fees

Getting to Kilimanjaro will cost you more money. We advise you to reserve your flight tickets well in advance and to confirm your visa needs to avoid any last-minute surprises. Most foreign travelers require a visa, which must be obtained in advance or paid for at the airport (if possible).

Mount Kilimanjaro Packages and Costs

Best seller!

$2,350.00

8 days Lemosho Route Itinerary

You get an extra day to acclimatize on Mount Kilimanjaro if you choose the 8-day Lemosho route plan. The Lemosho

Popular!

$1,985.00

7 days Machame Route Itinerary

The 7-day Machame Route gives you an advantage over the 6-day Machame Route since it gives you ample time to

$1,695.00

6 Days Marangu Route

The more advantageous option for ascending Mount Kilimanjaro via the well-known Marangu route is the 6-day Marangu route plan. For

climbing Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route

$2,545.00

9 days Northern Circuit Route

The 9 days Northern Circuit Route is one of the easiest routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is a recently introduced

$1,675.00

7 Days Rongai Route

This is a 7 days Rongai route itinerary variation with an extra day for acclimatization. Gradually sloping towards the summit,

$2,895.00

9 Days Crater Camp via Lemosho Route

This 9-day crater camp trek combined with the 8-day Lemosho route climb is a unique and ultimate Kilimanjaro experience. Crater

$2,165.00

7 days Lemosho Route

The shorter 7-day Lemosho route variant does not include the extra acclimatization day as the 8-day Lemosho route itinerary. The

$1,850.00

6 days Machame Route

For mountain climbers with prior climbing expertise and the capacity to acclimate more quickly, the 6-day Machame route is advised

$1,450.00

6 Days Rongai Route

This 6-day route uses the Rongai Route to get you to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. Treks up the Rongai

$1,450.00

5 Days Marangu Route

The Marangu route, which is the mountain's oldest and most popular path, is used in the five-day Marangu route itinerary.

$1,420.00

6 Days Umbwe Route

Many climbers, particularly first-timers, dislike the 6 day Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro itinerary for a variety of reasons. It is one

$3,895.00

11 Days Western Breach Route

Due to the risks involved in taking this route to ascend the peak, the 11-day Western Breach route itinerary is

$2,413.00

7 Days Shira Route

Shira is an ancient route that does not adhere to normal acclimatization guidelines, so the Lemosho Route, which is more

$170.00

One Day Kilimanjaro Trek to Mandara Hut- Marangu

The 1 day hike to Kilimanjaro's Mandara Hut, the first accommodation point along the Marangu route begins with an early

$185.00

One Day Hike on Kilimanjaro to Shira Plateau

Experience a one-day trip to Mount Kilimanjaro's Shira Plateau. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenge that many would love to

Calculating the Mount Kilimanjaro Expenses

There are over 200 authorized operators on Mount Kilimanjaro, which can be overwhelming when trying to make a decision. Unfortunately, there are not many reputable operators to choose from, so selecting the right one is crucial for a successful and fulfilling experience. However, if you eliminate the questionable companies, you will be left with only a few dozen high-quality Kilimanjaro operators. It is important to not base your decision solely on price. While price should be considered, it should be just one factor in your overall decision. High-altitude trekking is not the time to look for a cheap bargain, nor is it the time to unnecessarily overpay. What you should be looking for is excellent service at a reasonable price. We often get asked how our prices can be thousands of dollars less than luxury operators. To explain, we must consider the minimum expenses that every Kilimanjaro operator faces, such as park fees, taxes, staff wages, food, equipment, transportation, and other logistical costs. The entrance fees for Kilimanjaro National Park, camping/hut fees, and Tanzanian taxes are the largest expenses, amounting to approximately $200 per climber per day. Here is a breakdown of the expenses involved in climbing Kilimanjaro:

Conservation Fees – $70 per day per person.

Fees are gathered by the Kilimanjaro National Park authority from every visitor to financially support the maintenance of the park. This encompasses the essential tasks of upkeeping the trail, ensuring its cleanliness, and compensating the rangers. Each day spent within the park, even if it’s only a partial day, incurs a conservation fee. For an eight-day Lemosho climb, the accumulation of conservation fees reaches $560 ($70 multiplied by eight days).

Camping or Hut Fees – $50 to $60 per night per person

The fee serves as payment for utilizing the campsites and basic huts situated on the mountain. However, it is important to note that the huts are exclusively accessible via the Marangu route, whereas all other routes offer camping options at specified public sites. When embarking on a 5-day Marangu climb, the hut fees amount to $240, which translates to $60 per night over a span of 4 nights. Conversely, an 8-day Lemosho climb entails camping fees totaling $350, equivalent to $50 per night for a duration of 7 nights.

Rescue Fees– $20 per person per trip

A fee for rescues is imposed in case the park authority has to organize a rescue operation. Regardless of whether or not you actually need to be rescued, this fee is mandatory and amounts to $20 per person per journey.

Guide and Porter Entrance Fees – $2 per staff person per trip

Every single member of the staff is required to pay an entrance fee of $2 per person per visit in order to gain access to the park.

Value-Added Tax – 18% of services

A value-added tax (VAT) is a broad-based tax on consumption applicable to various goods and services, imposed at every step of production or distribution where value is added. In Tanzania, the government enforces an 18% VAT on Kilimanjaro operators.

Wages, Food and Transportation Costs

Following park fees and taxes, the other major expenditures include salaries for the staff, provision of food, and the cost of transportation. The wages for local workers range from $80 to $150 per climber per day, depending on the size of the group. Food expenses amount to approximately $10 to $20 per climber per day, which includes meals for the staff as well. The transportation costs for a single trip are estimated to be around $100, depending on the chosen route. Additionally, there are costs associated with the wear and tear of camping equipment, as well as administrative expenses incurred in organizing your climb. By summing up all the daily costs mentioned above, you can approximate the amount needed to independently fund a Kilimanjaro expedition. Although the total cost is certainly significant, it does not justify the exorbitant price tags commonly observed in the industry.

Cost of extra things in Tanzania outside your trek

After completing a trek in Tanzania, several costs will contribute to the overall expense of your trip. These include:

Flights: International flights to and from Tanzania can vary significantly in cost depending on the season, airline, and departure city.
Visas: Most travelers will need a visa to enter Tanzania, which can typically be obtained on arrival or in advance, with fees varying by nationality.
Inoculations: Prior to your trip, you may need vaccinations or preventive medications, such as those for yellow fever, hepatitis, and malaria.
Food and Accommodation: Beyond what your trekking agency provides, you’ll need to budget for meals and lodging.
Additional Activities: Costs for activities such as safaris, cultural tours, or a visit to Zanzibar can add to your expenses.

Accommodation in Tanzania

Your trekking operator usually includes a couple of nights’ accommodation in the package. For additional nights, you can either extend your stay through the operator or book independently. Accommodation costs vary widely:

Budget: Basic tourist accommodation starts at around £5/US$7.50 per night. Cheaper, non-tourist options are available but may be unhygienic and unsafe.
Mid-Range: Decent budget hotels and guesthouses offer more comfort and better hygiene.
Luxury: High-end hotels and safari lodges can exceed US$2000 per night during peak season.

Food in Tanzania

Food costs can be minimal if you opt for local street food, although hygiene can be a concern. For a safer and still affordable option, budget restaurants start at around £3/US$4.80 per meal.

Public Transport in Tanzania

Most trekkers rely on their trekking operator for airport transfers and other transportation needs. However, if you use public transport, you’ll find it very inexpensive:

Local Buses and Dala-Dalas: Cost around £1/US$1.60 per hour. While cheap, these modes of transport often come with discomfort and safety concerns due to poor vehicle conditions and driving practices.
Luxury Buses: Offer more comfort and safety for a slightly higher price and are recommended for longer journeys to avoid the risks associated with local buses. $10-$30 depending on the distance from town to town. Towns that are closer than 3 hours away, you can pay about $2, for example from Mosho to Arusha.

Additional Considerations

Zanzibar: It’s important to note that Zanzibar is significantly more expensive compared to the mainland, especially for accommodation and activities. This island paradise, while beautiful, will require a higher budget for those planning to visit.

Safety and Comfort: Given the high incidence of road accidents in Tanzania, it is advisable to spend a bit more on safer and more reliable transportation options whenever possible.

You should be aware of these expenses and make informed choices about accommodation, food, and transport, you can better manage your budget and enjoy a rewarding experience in Tanzania beyond your trekking adventure.