General Frequently Asked Questions

Tipping is not a local custom in Tanzania; it is common only amongst tourists and expatriates who live in the country. Giving monetary gifts to friends or relatives is common, however, both in the city and in the countryside. As tourism is growing in the country locals who work in the tourism industry are getting used to the notion of tipping and sometimes even expect a tip from clients.

Tips will vary depending on the length and complexity of the trip, the number of staff on the trip, and the number of clients on the trip. Generally, groups like to meet together before the end of the trek to discuss how much they would like to tip each staff member based on their individual trek experience. See our suggestions for tipping.

Many texts state that Kilimanjaro is “easily accessible”. However, you should not underestimate this mountain. There are no technical mountaineering skills required, but general fitness is necessary. However, the biggest problem for climbers is the effects of high altitude, which seem to be unrelated to fitness, age, or gender.

It is a good idea to start some physical training prior to the trek, which might include aerobic cross training and hiking to familiarise your body with the rigors of the trek. The fitter you are, the easier the climb will be for you. Determination and will power is another important factor.

If you have any particular medical problem please consult with your doctor before you come to Tanzania as to the medication that you should bring on your trip. This also applies to your own personal first aid kit.

Again we can provide you with a suggested list for your personal first aid kit. All trips will have a basic first-aid kit but it will not contain any prescription drugs. There are limited medical supplies in Tanzania and they are mostly found in the capital Daressalaam only. You will not be able to purchase them in the countryside when on the trip.

There are western Doctors who provide medical services to travelers. These professionals can be contacted in the case of an emergency or for a general inquiry.

Make sure that you have travel health care insurance.

It should at least cover:

Vehicles used are generally Toyota Land Cruisers or Land Rovers, as they are most suitable to the terrain. For larger groups, we use 4WD buses as it is more convenient for our clients to be all together in one vehicle only, and it is also more economic and better for the environment.

Most of the drivers we use are full-time employees. They have been trained by us in customer relationships, tourism-related topics, environmental issues, and vehicle maintenance. They are very familiar with the routes we take. Some drivers, especially on the less frequented routes are contract drivers, who work part-time for the company. These drivers are always experienced, reliable, and very knowledgeable of the areas they will take you.

The official currency of Tanzania is the Shilling. Smaller amounts of money are usually paid in Shilling, whereas larger amounts of money are paid in US$. In September 2009 1 US$ was worth approximately 1,320 Shillings. Money can be exchanged at the Bureaux de Change which can be found at any larger town and in the airports. Make sure that they change your money at the rate which is written in front of the bureau.

Travelers from the US are advised to bring US$ in currency; make sure that the bills you bring are dated 2003 or later, as currency dated earlier may be rejected by currency exchange places. Also, we at Alfajir won’t accept US$ bills that have been issued before 2003. You will get a better exchange rate for 50 and 100 dollar bills than for smaller bills. There are several banks where you can use ATMs. Visa card is the most widely accepted credit card.

Travelers from Europe are advised to bring Euros (or British Pounds, Swiss Francs). They can be changed to Shillings at all Bureaux de Change and you save the costs for changing twice – first from Euro to Dollar at your country of origin, and then from Dollar to Shilling in Tanzania. You can use international credit cards, preferably a VISA card, at the ATMs of most banks. At Barclay’s bank (Moshi, Arusha, Zanzibar, Dar es salaam) it is even possible to use your EC debit card.

Only hotels, restaurants and tourist shops of higher category accept international credit cards; when paying small amounts in US$ rather than Shilling, in most cases you get a worse exchange rate. Local shops accept Shillings only.

It is important to keep luggage to the barest minimum when on trek, as this will ease the burden of the drivers, vehicles and porters. Baggage should be of the round squashy type rather than hard suitcases that are difficult to fit into jeeps. Try to use something that is both lockable and waterproof as luggage can often end up sitting on the roof of the vehicle.

It is a good idea to bring another smaller bag so that unwanted clothes can be kept in it at the hotel when you go on a trek. This also helps to keep city clothes clean and free from dust. You should also bring a small day pack which can be carried while hiking or riding or can be readily accessible when you are traveling in the vehicles on long drives.

On camping trips, all equipment will be provided except for a 4-season sleeping bag. You do not need to provide any other camping gear; only personal belongings. See our Kilimanjaro packing list and Safari packing list.

It should be noted that the luggage limit per person on domestic flights is 15-20 kg per person (checked-in and hand luggage).

On your inbound flight, don’t check in items that you absolutely need (such as medicines), as it is not uncommon that checked-in luggage gets misdirected and arrives in Tanzania a couple of days after you. It is better to have such items in your hand luggage.

Around 80% of climbers choose the Marangu Route (5 or 6 days), which is commonly referred to as the “Tourist” or “Coca Cola” Route. The rest usually goes for the Umbwe, Rongai, or Machame Route (6 or 7 days). The other two routes (Shira and Lemosho) are far less frequented and therefore allow for a more remote and natural experience.

Please note that many of the routes meet on a mid-way point and there are only three routes to the summit.

Please see our route comparison table, read the descriptions of the routes, and ask us if you have any questions.