Can I fly a drone on Mount Kilimanjaro?

The Tanzanian regulatory authorities and animal conservation agencies have made it clear that using aerial drones in Tanzania’s national parks, such as Kilimanjaro, is prohibited.

I strongly advise you not to fly a drone there unless you first obtain written permission from the relevant regulatory body or bodies. I recommend that you contact the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your country for more information.

To legally operate a drone in Tanzania, you must first register it, obtain a pilot’s license, obtain necessary drone insurance, obtain a specific licence from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority, and obtain approval from the Ministry of Defense and National Service.

To put it another way, legally flying a drone in a national park is a long and arduous procedure. Tranquil Kilimanjaro is unable to assist you with this procedure.

Even if you get a permit to fly a drone in Tanzania

That is to say, it is physically demanding/nearly impossible but lets say you can, these will be your main challenges.

Mount Kilimanjaro is the world’s tallest peak that can be climbed without ropes. That does not imply that it is simple.
It’s so cold up there that you’d need at least two-three layers of gloves on, making it impossible to use the controller.
A drone would have to work considerably more just to keep balanced because it’s so high up and windy. Because of the thinner air, the
A drone would have to work considerably more just to keep balanced because it’s so high up and windy. The drone is less stable due to the thinner air.
Some people are unable to reach the summit due to the extreme altitude. Those that can even make there in the first place (unless they’re a pro) struggle. To operate a drone at the highest level would need much too much focus.
Temperatures ranging from -7 to -29 degrees Celsius are unlikely to allow your drone to function.
Finally, you’re only allowed to stay on top of the mountain for 30 minutes or fewer. Summarizing the mountain is a lengthy operation in and of itself, and assembling and operating a drone to do so would likely take even longer.

Flying Drones on Mount Kilimanjaro

You might be wondering how others have captured footage of Mount Kilimanjaro using a drone. Either they went through all the hoops to receive approval, or they did it way before the drone laws were put into action or they did it in an unlawful manner.

Some guides may feel compelled to let customers do anything they want. Some park officers may turn a blind eye in exchange for a bribe. It’s a risk our firm is unwilling to accept.

Don’t even consider flying a drone without first getting authorization. If you are found flying one, the rangers will confiscate it and penalize you as well as our guides. You’re inviting problems.

Regardless of legality, you should not utilize a drone. People walk outside to get away from the bustle and commotion of city life. Drones are obtrusive and noisy. They have the potential to annoy other people and wildlife.

Drone Laws in Tanzania

In Tanzania, there are several regulations that must be followed when operating a drone. This is a quick rundown of the legislation. See the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority’s notice for further information.

Flying a drone requires a specific licence from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority. Drones weighing less than 7 kg (15.5 pounds) are exempt from the permit requirement.
Drones may not be flown within 3 km (2 miles) of any domestic airport, or 5 km (3 miles) of any international airport.
Drones cannot be flown higher than 121 m (400 feet).
Drones must be in visual sight of the pilot at all times.
Drone insurance is required for all drone operations in Tanzania.
Drones must be flown in the daytime.
Drones are not allowed to fly over cities, towns, or populated areas without specific approval from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority and a local government agency.
Drones may not be flown over national parks (more below).