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Kilimanjaro - Lemosho Trek

Tanzania - Trip code KC Walking and Trekking
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259Kg of CO²e
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Carbon Footprint
You deserve to know everything about your holiday, from what is included, what to expect and every kilogram of CO2 emitted on average per person along the way.

We've partnered with ecollective to measure the carbon footprint of this tour based on an average group size. Find out more about how we calculate this and why we think it's important here.

 

Take on Mount Kilimanjaro on our iconic trek to its summit, the highest point in Africa. Following the lesser-used Lemosho route, climb through breathtaking climactic zones, from rainforest to moorland and alpine desert to arctic planes. Our steady seven-day ascent gives you time to acclimatise as we push on to the summit.

Why we love this trip
  • Gradual ascent - Our seven-day ascent lets you slowly acclimatise to the changing altitude, helping you reach the summit and enjoy the climb.
  • Experienced crew - Our trek is led by world-class leaders and accompanied by a full team of guides, porters and cooks.
  • Wild camps - Sleep on Kili's slopes as we wild camp with panoramic views of the surrounding plains.
  • Extend your stay - Spend four days on the exotic island of Zanzibar (trip code: ZI) or three days on safari in some of Tanzania's best national parks (trip code: KCS).

  • Included meals

    Breakfast: 9

    Lunch: 8

    Dinner: 9

  • Trip staff

    Explore Tour Leader

    Cook

    Driver(s)

    Porter(s)

    Trek Crew

  • Transport

    Bus

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    Accommodation

    7 nights simple camping

    2 nights comfortable lodge

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    Walking grade:

    Challenging and Tough

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    Group Size:

    Trip maximum 12

Itinerary

Day 1 - Join trip Moshi

Our Kilimanjaro adventure starts today in the town of Moshi, the capital of the Kilimanjaro region.

We'll meet our trek leader in the reception of our hotel - the Weru Weru Lodge - at 5pm for a welcome meeting, including full trekking details. We'll also spend time checking our kit and making sure we're fully prepared for the challenge ahead - this can take several hours but it's essential to make sure we're all safe and happy as we set off on our trek. Afterwards, we'll sit down for a group dinner (included) at the lodge.

There are no other activities planned for today but it's important that you arrive in time for the welcome meeting. If you do miss it, our trek leader will catch you up as soon as possible.

If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is around a 45-minute drive from our hotel.

If you arrive earlier today, the Weru Weru Lodge has a swimming pool and garden where you can relax with views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Accommodation:

Weru Weru River Lodge (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Lodge

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: Dinner

Day 2 - Trek from Lemosho Glades to Big Tree Forest Camp (2,780 metres/9,120 feet)

Today, we begin our trek. After a drive through farmland and plantations, we'll reach the Londorossi National Park Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro. From here, we continue to the Lemosho roadhead at 2,100 metres/6,890 feet - this is the starting point of our trek.

We'll climb steadily through the lush forest of the Lemosho Glades - starting with a gradual ascent before making a slight descent to Big Tree Camp (2,780 metres/9,121 feet). As we find our walking feet, enjoy the sounds of the surrounding rainforest and keep your eyes peeled to spot black and white colobus monkeys amongst the trees.

Porters will assist us throughout our trek and will carry your trek kitbag, so you only need to carry what you need for the day - waterproofs, camera, water bottle, extra fleece, sunhat, packed lunch and three litres of drinking water.

Please note, drones are not permitted in Kilimanjaro National Park without a permit. Refer to the equipment section of the trip notes for more information.

Today's 7-kilometres/4.4-mile trek is expected to take approximately three to four hours with an ascent of 680 metres/2,231 feet.

Accommodation:

Big Tree Forest Camp (or similar)

Grade: Simple Camping

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 - Walk across grassy moorland to Shira One Camp (3,500 metres/11,484 feet)

Today, we'll head out of the rainforest zone and into the moorland zone, trekking a plateau of grass and heather scattered with volcanic rock formations. We'll hike over the Shira Ridge where - weather permitting - we'll catch our first glimpse of Kibo Peak rising in the distance, giving us a clear view of the exciting challenge ahead. Our destination today is the camp at Shira One (3,500 metres/11,484 feet).

We gain a reasonable amount of altitude today and some sections of our trek are quite steep.

Today's 8.5-kilometres/5.3-mile trek is expected to take approximately four to five hours with an ascent of 720 metres/2362 feet.

Accommodation:

Shira 1 Camp (or similar)

Grade: Simple Camping

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 - Walk through upland desert to Shira Two Camp (3,900 metres/12,796 feet)

Ahead of us today, we have the chance to view the Northern Ice Fields from the western side of the mountain, opening us up to some unusual views of Kibo. Traversing yet another unique climactic zone, we'll steadily trek across the green grassy landscapes of the Shira Plateau to more arid planes. This steady climb will help with acclimatisation as we reach the Shirt Two Camp at 3,900 metres/12,796 feet.

This afternoon, we have free time with the option to take an acclimatisation walk to the junction of the trail to the Moir Hut.

The 8-kilometres/5-mile trek between the camps at Shira 1 and 2 is expected to take approximately five hours with an ascent of 400 metres/1,312 feet. The afternoon acclimatisation trek is for an additional one to two hours.

Accommodation:

Shira 2 Camp (or similar)

Grade: Simple Camping

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 - Trek via Lava Tower (4,640 metres/15,223 feet) to Barranco (3,960 metres/12,992 feet)

Today's longer walk helps us acclimatise more as we ascend to a high point of 4,640 metres/15,223 feet before descending to a lower altitude for the night.

Our trek starts with an ascent into the climatic zone of the upland desert, where we'll be rewarded with panoramic views. We'll progress slowly via the lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach before reaching the pinnacle of the Lava Tower (4,640 metres/15,223 feet), our high point for the day and a great place to stop for lunch.

This afternoon, we'll make a steep descent to our camp for the night, located at the base of the Great Barranco Valley (3,960 metres/12,992 feet), sheltered by towering cliffs but with extensive views of the plains below.

Today's 10-kilometre/6.2-mile trek is expected to take approximately seven to eight hours with an ascent of 740 metres/2,428 feet and descent of 680 metres/2,231 feet.

Accommodation:

Barranco Camp (or similar)

Grade: Simple Camping

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 - Trek Karanga Camp (4,035 metres/13,239 feet) via the Barranco Wall

We have a challenging start ahead of us today as we traverse the steep ascent of the Barranco Wall. This rocky cliff (standing 260 metres/853 feet high) is thought to have been created by a huge landslide around 100,000 years ago. Our trail zig-zags up the wall and there are sections where you'll need your hands free to pull yourself over some of the rocks. You don't need technical ability and we'll take this section slowly.

The climb leads to an undulating trail on the southeastern side of Kibo and (weather permitting) we'll get views of the Southern Ice Fields. Again, the terrain here is unique with volcanic scree pocketed with lush vegetation. Eventually, we'll make our descent into the Karanga Valley followed by an ascent to our campsite at 4,035 metres/13,239 feet. The Karanga Valley is the last water point on the approach to Barafu.

Today's 6-kilometre/3.7-mile trek from the Barranco Valley to Karanga is expected to take approximately four to five hours with an ascent of 360 metres/1,181 feet and descent of 185 metres/607 feet.

Accommodation:

Karanga Camp (or similar)

Grade: Simple Camping

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 - Trek across compacted scree to Barafu Camp (4,640 metres/15,224 feet)

This morning, we'll climb out of the Karanga Valley following an easy path of compacted scree. The trek will be steep, constantly gaining altitude, until we reach our camp at Barafu (4640 metres/15224 feet).

This afternoon, we'll prepare for our midnight ascent - prepare your pack, load up on carbs and water and settle down for a very early night.

Today's 6-kilometres/3.7-mile trek is expected to take approximately four to five hours with an ascent of 605 metres/1,985 feet.

Accommodation:

Barafu Camp (or similar)

Grade: Simple Camping

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8 - Kilimanjaro summit ascent (5,895 metres/19,341 feet); descend to Millennium Camp (3,790 metres/12,435 feet)

Leaving camp at around midnight, while the scree and potential snow are still frozen, we'll make our final ascent. We plan to trek to the summit at 5,895 metres/19,341 feet before descending over 2,000 metres/6,562 feet to our last campsite. It'll be a long and strenuous day with high altitude and extreme cold. Remember to take it steady up here - at times you might only manage ten paces before you need to rest.

We climb steadily on a zig-zagging scree path. After passing the Rebmann Glacier, we'll reach Stella Point and continue around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 metres/19,341 feet. After time to enjoy our achievement and take our victory photographs at the famous summit sign, we'll descend back down the scree to Barafu Camp for a rest and something to eat.

Continuing back down, we have a continuous descent to the Millennium Camp at 3,790 metres/12,435 feet, where you'll feel the difference in the air immediately.

Today's walking totals 19.5 kilometres/12 miles and is expected to take up to 14 hours. The trek from Barafu Camp to Stella Point is an ascent of 1,045 metres/3,429 feet and will take around five to six hours, with the hike from here around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (an additional 210 metres/689 feet of ascent) taking another one to two hours. The trek down from the summit to Millennium Camp, (a total descent of 2,105 metres/6,907 feet), is expected to take approximately five to six hours (excluding the time spent resting at Barafu).

Accommodation:

Millennium Campsite (or similar)

Grade: Simple Camping

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9 - Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,630 metre/5,348 feet); drive to Moshi

After a well-deserved night's sleep and rest, our final day on the trek takes us down through the lush beauty of the rainforest, enjoying the increasing warmth and richness of the mountain air. Our trail ends at the Mweka Gate (1,630 metres/5,348 feet) from where we'll travel by road to Moshi and back to the comforts of our lodge. We'll have a well-earned lunch on arrival back in Moshi.

Today's 12-kilometres/7.5-mile trek is expected to take between approximately four to six hours and is a total descent of 2,160 metres/7,087 feet.

Accommodation:

Weru Weru River Lodge (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Lodge

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10 - Optional game drive; trip ends in Moshi

This morning there is the option to head out on a game drive around the Momella Lakes area in the nearby Arusha National Park. The park is well known for its giraffe population, as well as elephants, hippos and buffalos. The game drive will run from approximately 6.30am to 1pm and requires a minimum of two participants to run (this optional costs between $122-328 depending on numbers).

If you don't want to take part in the game drive, you're free to depart from the hotel in Moshi at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at the lodge. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is around a 45-minute drive from our hotel.

Customers who are joining our Zanzibar Extension (trip code: ZI) will be transferred to Arusha Airport (around a two-hour drive away) for the flight to Zanzibar. Our tour leader will advise you of your departure time.

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Trip information

Climate and country information

Tanzania

Climate

The climate is tropical but varies greatly with altitude. Coastal areas and islands are hot and humid, while the central plateau is dry and arid. Tanzania can be visited all year round and its seasons can be defined as green and dry. The dry season is generally from June to October and January to February, with most days being fine and sunny weather with temperatures and humidity rising throughout the day. It can be cold at night, particularly in June & July. The green season includes the rains of March to May (with the peak in April – generally during the afternoon) and November to early December. This pattern can be unpredictable. The weather system during these periods refreshes the landscape creating luscious green scenery which is not witnessed during the dry season. The Zanzibar archipelago is a year-round destination but does have dry and rainy seasons. The dry season is between June to October and January to February. The ‘short rains’ are between November to December, when a short, afternoon rainstorm can be a daily occurrence. The ‘long rains’ occur between March to May, when days can be humid and rainy, however, sunshine is still often frequent. The changing weather patterns does mean the ‘rainy’ season is becoming less predictable. Weather at altitude can vary to the above seasons, with the evenings being cold. Kilimanjaro features its own array of climates and biomes; between 1,800 to 2,800 metres is a rainforest climate (humid and hot), from 2,800 to 4,000 metres is dry mountain vegetation – please note night time temperatures can fall to below 0 degrees from this level. A cold desert climate with a strong equatorial sun during the day but cold nights is found between 4,000 to 5,000 metres. The summit generally has clear days though the evenings can be very cold featuring snow.

Time difference to GMT

+3

Plugs

3 Pin (as per the UK), best to travel with an adapter as some lodges have 2 pin sockets.

Religion

Christian, Islam

Language

Swahili, English

Budgeting and packing

Optional activities

The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for locally and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.


Moshi -
Excursion to Arusha National Park including park fees and lunch, Approx. $122-400 USD - depending on numbers (minimum 2 persons). This excursion runs from approximately 0630-1300hrs and is dependent on passenger flight times.

Massage - Relax after your trek with a massage at the Weru Weru River Lodge Spa. Prices range from $60 - $90 USD and can vary from 60 minutes - 90 minutes.

Payments by cash or card.

Clothing


Being properly equipped is one of the keys to a successful trek. Use the following check list and notes to be sure that you have what you need for the actual trek.

Jacket - After sunset, temperatures can fall below freezing. A very warm jacket is the most convenient way of keeping warm when the temperature drops. Down jackets are recommended especially for the summit attempt.

Waterproofs - Breathable jacket and trouser waterproofs made from material such as Goretex not only protect against rain and wind, but also stops you from overheating. They 'breathe' and avoid the condensation that you may experience from nylon waterproofs.

Long trousers - For everyday walking, light trekking trousers are the most suitable. Jeans are not recommended as they are often difficult to walk in over longer distances and become cumbersome and cold when wet.

Fleece jackets: Fleece jackets are essential as nights can be very cold at altitude. Make sure that your waterproof jacket is loose enough to wear over your fleeces.

Thermal underwear/base layers - Long sleeve tops and long-john legging thermal underwear is essential. Cotton clothing like t-shirts are not suitable or recommended as a base layer as they do not wick away any moisture from the skin. In extreme cold, this could lead to hypothermia. It can also contribute to chaffing of the skin in sensitive areas leading to discomfort and skin irritation.

Shorts - Shorts can be very comfortable to walk in but you must carry long trousers with you in case you get either sunburned or cold!

Waterproof gloves; a warm scarf & a warm hat - Heavy duty windproof gloves or mittens (such as ski gloves) and thinner liner gloves are essential. Also bring a scarf to cover your neck and a warm balaclava or a warm hat.

Buff - Useful protection against dust kicked up from the scree slopes of the summit

Note re: summit night clothing - Climbing Kilimanjaro is the equivalent of trekking from the Equator to the Pole. It is essential that you have the proper equipment and clothing to ensure you enjoy the trek and also give yourself the very best chance of reaching Uhuru Peak. After many years of trekking and reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro, we strongly recommend that you should wear the following for your summit night

Torso: You should have six or seven layers of clothing covering your chest depending on your kit specifications. Starting from your base layer to the outer shell, you should wear a long-sleeve thermal underwear layer; a comfortable long sleeve shirt; a jersey; a thin fleece; a thicker fleece and a thick waterproof and windproof outer shell that may contain a fleece lining. If you have a down jacket you may want to decrease this by one layer.

Legs: You should wear three layers of clothing covering your legs. Starting from your base layer to the outer layer, you should wear long-john thermal underwear; trekking trousers and a waterproof and windproof outer shell.

Extremities: Your head must be covered by a balaclava or a warm hat and your neck should be covered by a scarf. Your hands must be covered with thinner liner gloves with thick waterproof and windproof gloves on top. You must have thick clean warm socks for summit night. You might also wish to bring hand warmers for additional warmth for summit night. Most well stocked pharmacies/outdoor stores will have these available.



Footwear

Walking boots - We strongly recommend walking in a good, comfortable, broken in pair of boots. Trainers and tennis shoes do not give the ankle support afforded by a decent pair of walking boots. Ideally, visit a specialist outdoor pursuits shop who will offer advice. It is a good idea to carry your boots in your hand luggage on international flights or wear them. Gaiters are useful to keep snow and scree out of your boots.

Trainers or trekking sandals - Useful in towns and when travelling and relaxing around camp. It is worth bearing in mind that trekking sandals afford you little protection from stubbing your toes when walking around rock-strewn campsites at night.

Socks - It is best to wear a pair of liner socks under a pair of fairly thick loop stitch socks. This helps to protect your feet against blisters. Avoid nylon socks, they are abrasive, don't breathe well and can cause blisters.

Luggage

20kg

Luggage: On tour

Your luggage should consist of three main pieces:

Main baggage - The item of luggage used to carry all your belongings in the hold of the plane and used to store all of the items that you don't need on trek. This can be left behind at the group hotel used prior to the trek.

Trek kitbag - Before leaving Moshi there is time to re-sort luggage into what you need on trek and what can be left in Moshi. Think about what you are taking on trek (remember your sleeping bag) and then think how big your kit bag needs to be. An ex-army type can usually be obtained cheaply. A nylon or canvas bag with a zip along the top is also suitable. Whatever you choose, it must be strong and waterproof, but the porters will carry your kit in heavy duty outer bags for added protection. Soft luggage is essential as framed rucksacks are unsuitable.The weight limit for bag and its contents must not exceed 15 kg but you will probably find that you do not need this much.


Daysac/Rucksack: 30-35 litres recommended. During the course of a trekking day, you do not have access to the luggage which is being carried for you by the porters. In any mountain region the weather can change rapidly and you must be equipped for this eventuality. Your daysac should therefore be large enough to carry waterproofs, fleece jacketweater, long trousers (if walking in shorts), warm hat and gloves, sun hat, sun cream, water bottle (minimum 1 litre) and your camera. Most people normally find that this adds up to about 2 to 3kg. Other optional items in a daysac might be a diary or a book to read at lunch time. We advise you to take a waterproof rucksack cover or alternatively line the sack with a large dry sack to keep the contents dry.

Equipment


Personal equipment you will need to take on trek:

Sleeping bag - As you do not carry it yourself, this may be down or synthetic, but it must be 4-season comfort rating (temperature -10 degrees celcius). A silk or fleece liner helps to keep your bag clean and adds extra warmth.

Sleeping mat - Whilst Vaude sleeping mats are provided, they are lightweight and fairly thin. You therefore may wish to bring your own inflatable thermarest for added comfort and a good night's rest.

Sleeping aids - Some people find it difficult to sleep at altitude. You may find ear plugs and an eye mask useful at night.

Trekking poles - Strongly recommended.

Water bottles or Platypus/CamelBak hydration system - During the trek you will be supplied with filtered water each morning in camp but this will still need to be purified. Take at least 2 x 2 litre personal water bottles or a system that allows for this much water. If you elect to use a hydration system with a tube then it is essential that the bladder and tube are insulated for high altitude and below freezing temperatures.

Explore have partnered with Water-To Go who supply 75cl personal water bottles with an in-built filter that eliminates 99.99% of all microbiological contaminants including viruses, bacteria, chemicals and heavy metals. https://watertogo.eu/partnerships/explore/

If not using a filtered bottles, a personal supply of tablets/drops (approximately 40 tablets) for your water purification system is essential and should be brought with you as they are not easy to find in Moshi. Powdered fruit juice can be used to disguise the taste and this can be purchased in Moshi.

Sunglassesnow goggles - Essential for protection against UV rays and glare at high altitudes.

Sun hat, high factor sun cream/block and lip salve - Choose a high factor suncream (factor 30 or more) to protect your skin against the sun at high altitudes. A combination sunblock/ lipsalve is ideal for facial protection.

Torch/batteries/bulb - A head torch is essential at night in the camp and for lighting your way on the night time summit ascent. Bring plenty of spare batteries and a bulb. There are no facilities on the mountain to recharge any digital equipment.

Personal toiletries - Essentials are toothbrush/paste, soap (preferably biodegradable), face cloth and trek (quick dry) towel.

Personal First Aid Kit - on each trek a first aid kit is carried but you should have your own blister kit, supply of plasters, aspirin and other essentials.
Also please bring antibacterial hand wash for daily usage.
Please do not give medicines to local staff without consulting the tour leader.

Personal supplementary snacks - Although sufficient food is supplied on this tour, we recommend that you bring some high energy snacks like cereal bars and chocolate (sweets if you are lactose intolerant) with you. Dextrose and mint cake are especially good for summit night.

Swimming costume - The hotel in Moshi has a pool.

Two man tents, dining tent, toilet tent and all cooking and kitchen equipment are provided by Explore once you are on the trek.

Equipment rental in Tanzania - the following items are available for hire locally and prices stated are for the duration of the trek. Please advise Explore in advance of your trek so prior arrangements can be made with our local agent in Moshi :-

Trekking poles - $15 per pair
Four-season sleeping bag - $20
Air mattress (self-inflating Therm-a-Rest style) - $10

Equipment hire and trek training days in the UK - Trek Hire UK hire out a wide range of kit including quality sleeping bags, down jackets, therm-a-rest sleeping mats and walking poles http://www.trekhireuk.com. They also run regular trek training and preparation days from their base in the Surrey Hills, ideal for getting an indication of your overall fitness level and also covering advice on kit and altitude.

Drones - Are not permitted in any National Park in Tanzania without a permit. Permits cost approximately US$250 per 24 hrs. Please advise us at time of booking if you wish to take a drone with you into the National Park, as permits are difficult to obtain. If you launch a drone without a permit this will be confiscated by the Park officials.

Plastic Bag Ban:
With effect from 01 June 2019, it is illegal to use, manufacture and/or import plastic bags into Tanzania and Zanzibar. Any person found with plastic bags of any type including shopping bags on arrival into the country can receive a heavy fine. Small plastic bags used for hand luggage toiletries are permitted but must be in a reusable condition and not disposed of in the country. Please ensure you do not have any non-permitted types of plastic bag in your hand luggage or luggage. Any plastic bags obtained whilst travelling are disposed of before arriving into Tanzania or are surrendered at the designated desk available at all entry points into the country.

Tipping

Explore leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. However, you might want to recognise a leader that's done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It's a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but for our Kilimanjaro trips we'd recommend US$ 15-20/day per person as a guideline.
Local crew
Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. In order to make things easier for you, your leader may organise a group's tips kitty for included activities and meals and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour.

After consultation with local porter protection groups and our agent in Tanzania, you should accordingly allow US$200-250 per person depending on group size for group tipping on this tour.
It would be advisable to have this amount in denominations of 5,10 and 20 dollar notes for ease of distribution.



Tanzania

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.


Lunch price
£8.00
Dinner price
£15.00
Beer price
£2.00
Water price
£1.00
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Tanzanian Shilling.
Recommended Currency For Exchange
US Dollars are preferable. Please be aware that any notes issued before 2006 will not be accepted
Where To Exchange
Banks or 'Forex' offices only in main towns/cities. Your Tour Leader will advise you on arrival.
ATM Availability
Major towns and cities will have ATMs available.
Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are generally not accepted.
Transport, Accommodation, Food & Drink

Transport Information

Bus

Accommodation notes

During this tour, we spend seven nights at simple camps and two nights at a comfortable lodge.
Our Kilimanjaro trek is camping based and conditions on the mountain are basic. We use two-man tents which are put up and taken down by our amazing porter team. There is a mess tent where we eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as tea and refreshments. Each campsite has basic long drop toilets but we also carry a toilet tent with chemical toilets. There are no permanent washing facilities at the camps and water is limited.
In Moshi, we stay at the Weru Weru River Lodge, a three-star property with good facilities including an outdoor swimming pool with views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The lodge also has a restaurant and bar as well as a spa.

Food and drink

Food throughout East Africa is often very similar however, any dishes you find that contains dried or fresh coconut or green banana can be traced to the Tanzanian mainland whereas anything prepared with a generous seasoning of nutmeg, cloves or cinnamon often has its origin on the spice island of Zanzibar. The major food staple is ugali, a type of porridge prepared with cornmeal often enjoyed with a vegetable stew or a deep dark meety broth.

During this trek you will be fed three nutritious meals per day often starting with a nealthy serving of oatmeal/porridge followed by toast, fresh fruit or eggs.

Your lunch will often be a mix of energy-boosting options with a selection of snacks, cakes, cheeses or fruit complemented by a more substantial sandwich.

Dinners will be be flavourful and filling often with a selection of carbs such as rice, potato chips or yams paired with a selection of curries, sauces and freshly made chapattis on the side.

All meals will be accompanied by a a selection of hot drinks and purified water will be abailable throughout the entire trip.

Tanzania

Food and drink

Dietary requirements: Most restaurants and hotels in Tanzania do not have a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian choices. There is usually a choice of salads and one main vegetarian and/or vegan main dish on the menus, but choice will be limited especially in more remote locations. If you have specific dietary requirements we do recommend for you to bring some food with you.

Can you drink the water?
The  water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip. 

Essential Information

Government Travel Safety Advice

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination's safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. Relevant government website links for UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens are available on our Travel Safety page.

If you'd like some inital information on country-specific entry requirements, such as visas or any health declaration forms, please refer to our Entry Requirements page.  The services and information on this page are provided by a third party, and so we will still recommend that you cross check this against your government website for the latest advice.
 

Under 18 immigration guidance

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions
 

Visa and Passport Information


Tanzania: A single visa is required by UK, New Zealand, Australian, US & Canadian citizens. Single entry visas only can be arranged on arrival, but due to queues at immigration we recommend for the visa to be arranged in advance.

An E-visa for Tanzania can be obtained prior to departure via the e-visa website: http://www.immigration.go.tz.
Click on the e-Services tab and then select Online Visa Application, please ensure you read the Visa Application Guidelines before applying for your e-visa. Please refer to the Explore visa letter you will receive for information required to complete your e-visa application.
You will need to print a copy of your e-visa approval letter and present this with your passport and final documents at your entry point into the country. The approval letter takes approximately 10 days to approve if there are no queries on the application. We therefore advise for you to apply at least 15 workings days prior to travelling. Please ensure you have enough validity left on the visa through to the end of the tour before you travel.
The Tanzanian High Commission in London no longer processes or issues visas.

American nationals are required to apply for a multiple entry e-visa for all tourism visits to Tanzania; the ordinary single entry e-visa is unavailable for Americans to apply to.

From September 1 2024, all travellers visiting Zanzibar must buy compunsory travel insurance before travelling, and this must be purchased through The Zanzibar Insurance Corporation online prior to travelling. The fee for this is US$44/pp

Travellers must pay the insurance fee regardless of whether or not they have obtained travel insurance elsewhere.

Passports must have a minimum validity of 6 months and at least 1 blank/unused page at time of travel.

Plastic Bag Ban:
With effect from 01 June 2019, it is illegal to use, manufacture and/or import plastic bags into Tanzania and Zanzibar. Any person found with plastic bags of any type including shopping bags on arrival into the country can receive a heavy fine. Small plastic bags used for hand luggage toiletries are permitted but must be in a reusable condition and not disposed of in the country. Please ensure you do not have any non-permitted types of plastic bag in your hand luggage or luggage. Any plastic bags obtained whilst travelling are disposed of before arriving into Tanzania or are surrendered at the designated desk available at all entry points into the country.



If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.
 

Booking conditions

Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
 

Minimum age restrictions

For our group tours, the minimum age is 16. The minimum age on Family trips varies between 7 and 11 - please check the 'Family information' section of the trip page for more information. 


Your safety and enjoyment on tour

We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at cr@explore.co.uk as soon as possible. Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities. This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred. 
 

Your Tour Leader

All tours aside from extensions, Galapagos cruises and polar expeditions will be led by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments in country – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.

Transfers

Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.

Booking a land only package with Explore

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. 

You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.


Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.

The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.  

Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.  

For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.


Flight Information

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

 

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Maximum altitude (m)

5895

Altitude information

This trip goes to an altitude where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), a common and usually harmless condition caused by reduced air pressure and a lower concentration of oxygen. While the itinerary has been specifically designed to allow your body to acclimatise gradually, the speed of onset and severity - as well as the height at which AMS develops can vary greatly between individuals; being physically fit affords no special protection. If symptoms occur while on tour you must let your tour leader know immediately. For further advice when travelling at altitude we recommend visiting the medical advice website of Medex and downloading their information booklet: http://medex.org.uk/medex_book/english_version.php

Travellers with heart or lung conditions, anaemia, asthma, high blood pressure, or taking the contraceptive pill must seek the advice of their GP and specifically mention the maximum altitude this trip reaches - 5,895m. Please take these to your medical appointment so that your doctor has the full details of your trip.

You must have adequate travel insurance for your trip. Please ensure that your insurance policy covers you to the maximum altitude indicated above. If you have Explore insurance you will be covered to this altitude.

This trip includes night stops where we sleep at altitudes in excess of 4000m. For this reason it is suitable only for participants aged 16 and over.


Included activities

As part of our Responsible Tourism program, we support the 'Donate a Mosquito Net' charity. This scheme purchases mosquito nets from a local provider and donates the nets to villages in areas that are most affected by malaria. The nets cost US$3.00 each and your leader will advise how you may donate if you wish.

Tanzania

Vaccinations

A Yellow Fever vaccination and certificate is only required when travelling to Tanzania from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. We strongly recommend protection against malaria, hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, polio and yellow fever. Please note you are required to produce a valid yellow fever certificate on arrival in Tanzania. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on different prophylaxis available against malaria. Travellers may also wish to take immunisation against meningococcal meningitis. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by on the NaTHNaC website and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

Plastic bag fees

Please do not bring plastic bags into Tanzania as this could incur a fine. etc etc

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Airport Transfers
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