Tanzania Frequently Asked Questions

We will send you detailed information about the Adventure in a Pre-Departure Packet once you register.

What is the weather going to be like in Tanzania?
The average high temperature in Moshi at the end of January is a hot 90 degrees Fahrenheit while the overnight low is 62 degrees. When we are off the mountain, expect hot days with some chance of rain, although we will not be in the rainy season. On the mountain, temperatures drop quickly - as much as five degrees per 1000 feet of elevation gain - so be prepared for cool days and cold nights higher up.

What is the best time to be traveling to area?
The main rainy season is March to May and should be avoided. Because we are doing both a climb (where we want warm temps) and a safari (where we don't), there is no perfect time to do both in Tanzania. January and February are the best months for climbing, since the weather is usually hot and dry.

What is the best way to get to the tour and where do we meet?
We meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport, which is between Moshi and Arushu, Tanzania. The main direct flight to the airport from outside Africa is a daily KLM flight from Amsterdam that arrives to Tanzania and departs from Tanzania in the evening (sometimes with a connection in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania). It is also possible to take other airlines with connections in Africa; we will meet you at the airport when you arrive. Flights, if purchased well in advance, should be under $2000 from North America.

How high do we trek and will I be able to deal with the altitude?
Your goal is to reach the top of Mount Kilimanjaro at 19,330 feet. This is higher than you have probably ever gone before and is almost 5,000 feet higher than the highest mountain in the Continental United States. The altitude is a serious thing. However, given proper acclimatization, many people do reach the summit. This is the major reason we choose the longer but more gradual Lemosho Route, which gives us two extra days of acclimatization on the mountain as compared to the more popular Marangu Route. Our guides are well versed in altitude sickness issues and acclimatization and you should be able to deal with the high altitude.

What happens if I do not adapt well to the altitude?
Safety is the first priority and the solution to altitude problems is always to descend. If you have symptoms of altitude sickness on the trek that do not go away, we will make the decision to have one of our local staff escort you down the mountain.

Should I do the safari too?
We understand your priority might be climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and joining the safari too is almost like spending the time and money for two vacations at once. Nevertheless, we highly recommend joining the safari. A safari will likely be one of the most amazing experiences of your life, even for jaded travelers (like us). If you take the time and spend the money to get to Africa, it is a shame not to also do a safari.

How about if I don't want to climb Kilimanjaro?
Aha, that is another issue. While a safari will appeal to everyone, we understand spending seven days hiking (and six nights in a tent) on Mount Kilimanjaro is only for a small segment of society. If you or your friend, spouse, or family member wishes to join the safari but not the climb, that is entirely possible. We can help arrange advance hotel stays or excursions while the group is climbing the mountain.

Do I need a passport and visa?
You must have a passport valid for at least six months upon entry to Tanzania.  If you do not have a passport, you should call your local Passport Agency (in the phone book) to get the process started.  North Americans can receive a travel visa to Tanzania upon entry at the airport but you can avoid potential lines by getting one in advance from the Tanzanian embassy. We will send you information on how to do this. If you are a citizen of another country, please check online with your local Tanzanian embassy.

Do I need to get immunizations?
Please see the CDC website for up-to-date recommendations.  In addition, you should consult with a travel doctor about what immunizations you should have.  Recommended shots might include:

What ability level do I really need to be for this Adventure?
This Adventure is rated as More Difficult. The seven-day trek will be strenuous for almost everyone on the trip. While being in shape is not a predictor of how you will do at altitude, it will certainly help you on the hike itself. We recommend you start working out several months in advance of the trip if you are not already doing so. You should be aware that you likely will experience some mild forms of altitude sickness such as slight headaches or an upset stomach.  Additionally, you should be aware that you are traveling to a developing country where sanitation and services are not up to the standard you experience at home, although we make every effort to ensure your good health while you are with us.

What is included in the trip price?
Included in the trip price is double-occupancy lodging, all meals once the group meets, local transportation, airport pickup, professional local guides and one Zephyr organizer, group camping equipment, national park entrance fees, and a Zephyr Adventures souvenir. Not included are your international flight, sleeping bag (rental available for $75), gratuities for your local guides, alcoholic drinks, and personal expenditures.

For what type of people would you recommend this Adventure?
This Adventure is for people looking for a challenging and culturally interesting vacation.  Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is the challenge of a lifetime and will likely be the highest altitude you ever reach. The safari is a memorable experience that will rank up with the best things you have ever done. If you are fit, culturally curious, and flexible enough to travel in a developing country, this is an amazing opportunity.