Climbing Kilimanjaro became popular over the last several years. Kilimanjaro climb is a physically demanding activity that can get very expensive. Here is the list of ideas on how to lower the cost and climb Kilimanjaro on a budget.
Kilimanjaro view from Shira Huts, Lemosho routeHow climb Kilimanjaro on a budget
Select Machame route.
This 5-day route is significantly shorter and subsequently cheaper. While longer routes are more expensive, they allow for better acclimatization and subsequently better change of summiting.
Kilimanjaro sunrise, Uhuru peak view
Hire local guide in Arusha or Moshi.
This requires more time and some advanced planning and extensive research but can be done. If I climb Kili again, that is what I will do.
Here is very “raw” and basic high level plan:
Research potential local tour operators online prior to the trip, have the list ready. Contact them if you can, ask about their safety and success rate. Majority of the operators can be contacted via WhatsUp.
Book your flight, tentatively plan to stay in Tanzania about 2 weeks (the longer the better)
Book a hotel in Moshi for two-three nights (when booking hotel search for those that provide airport pick up.)
Once in the hotel, ask your hotel first about Kilimanjaro tour operators. They will have suggestions. Also, ask about tour operators in town.
You can hire the guide in town or even at the Kilimanjaro Park entrance. I know people that did that and they were very happy with the service.
Research various options when booking the flight. When I was booking my flight from Rochester, NY to Kilimanjaro (JRO- Kilimanjaro international Airport, local airport that serves Arusha and Moshi area) I was able to save almost $400 by making two separate bookings: Rochester, NY- Amsterdam and Amsterdam –
Kilimanjaro .
Glacier near Uhuru peak, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Borrow climbing gear.
Ask around, talk to your friends and ask them to ask their friends. You will be surprised how many people willing to lend their gear. I’ll be happy to lend you some of my stuff if you are in San Diego area.
Make your snacks for the trek.
Ingredients are much cheaper. You can make trail mixes, protein bars, protein cookies, cereal bars, roasted nuts, etc. I made my own trail mixes and protein bars for the climb and they were delicious. Making your own snacks will take time, but you will end up with better tasting snacks.
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