Kilimanjaro Climb - Machame Route Frequently Asked Questions

We are often asked the following questions and I hope that you will find the answers useful. You could also have a look at our Blog where we have heaps of information about the climb. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions or just want to have a chat about the climb.

Do you offer group trips?

No, we do not have group departures, we leave that to the larger operators. We offer private trips with a personalised service - there is always someone to talk to at Macs. If you are a pre-formed group of family or friends then you are more than welcome to book with us and if you are more than 3 we will offer you a discount. Most of our trekkers are couples, small groups of friends or larger groups - rotary, charity etc. We do not cater for solo trekkers. 

Is this itinerary fixed or changable?

This is a sample itinerary but, we find that most clients will use it as a base upon which to build a trip.

We are more than happy to tailor-make each trip. Maybe you wish to take slightly longer to do the climb, stay longer in Arusha or add on a sarari or a trip to Zanzibar? We are itching to have a chat about this wonderful country. Please just give us a call and we will start planning your ideal trip. On the other hand if this trip is already perfect for you click on the avilability and prices tab and go ahead and book it.

Which route would be best for me?

If you click on download brochure you will find all three routes documented in one place, here we have detailed their relative advantage and disadvantages. We also have lots of information about this on our Blog.

How fit do I need to be?

This climb is graded strenuous and does spend some time at high altitude so you will enjoy the climb far more if you are well prepared and enjoy a good level of physical fitness.

If you do not currently enjoy a good level of fitness it may take many months of training to reach a suitable level of fitness to enjoy the 5-12 hours a day of trekking that is involved in climbing Kilimanjaro. It is important to start slowly and gradually increase your fitness. Try to exercise for between 30 and 45 minutes three times per week (walking, running, cycling or swimming) and go for longer walks on the weekends which should include some hills. A local gym will be able to draw up a fitness program for you on request.

Do I need any mountaineering experience?

No mountaineering experience is required as long as you are in good physical shape & have a sense of adventure you will enjoy this climb. We would advise that you have prior hill walking experience.

How long have you been in business?

We have been operating adventure holidays since 2003. Our local partner in Tanzania has been operating since 2004 and is a fully goverment registered tour operator operating to the highest responsible travel standards.

Do you have any referral customers?

Yes, we would be happy to supply references and you can also visit our Reviews Page for further information.

How far in advance do I need to book?

In peak season the guides are busy and many people are wanting to climb the mountain. That said we are flexible as we can be and will always try to accomodate you whereever possible so it is always worth giving us a call.

The further in advance you do book the more likely you are to availability at our favourite hotels and, of course the earlier you book your international flights the cheaper they will be.

What training and experience do your local guides have?

Our guides are some of the best in the business. All have at least seven years experience on Kilimanjaro, are fully qualified and trained according to Tanzanian law, are passionate about the fauna, flora and culture of Kilimanjaro and all have many successful ascents behind them. All speak fluent English and they will add hugely to your experience of climbing Kilimanjaro. As well as guiding you on the mountain they bring a wealth of knowledge to your journey and coordinate all your porters, accommodation and meals. Our guides are fully trained and experienced in recognising the signs and dealing with Altitude Sickness.

Are your porters and guides properly equipped, paid and insured?

Porters are an integral part of your climb and we have a fantastic team of full time porters. We are very proud of our porter protection policy. Our local partner is a partner for responsible travel with the International Mountain Explorers Connection and Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project. They are one of the only Kilimanjaro trekking companies to qualify for IMEC/KPAP membership.

In order to be a partner, they adhere to the following guidelines about porter treatment on Kilimanjaro:

• Wages - 6,000Tsh/day for the Marangu route and 8,000Tsh/day for all other camping routes.
• Loads should not exceed 25 kilos. Porter carries 20 kilos for the company and 5 kilos of their own gear.
• Porters receive the full amount of tip intended for them. A transparent tipping procedure in which each crew member receives their tip directly.
• Porters are outfitted with proper clothing and equipment.
• Porters have proper shelter and sleeping equipment - each porter is required to have a sleeping bag and adequate space in sleeping quarters.
• Porters are provided with food and water. Porters should be given adequate water and at least two meals a day while climbing Kilimanjaro.
• Number of crew should stay consistent throughout the trip. Porters should not be overloaded in order to send other crew down early.
• Sick or injured porters are properly cared for. An ailing porter should receive the same treatment you would provide for a sick climber.

What is the food like on the climb?

Delicious and plentiful to ensure that you are fully fueled up for your challenge. We provide three meals per day during the climb plus afternoon snacks as well as all your drinking water & hot drinks during the climb.

What are the shower and W/C facilities like during the climb?

We carry a toilet tent on all climbs so you will have privacy when going to the loo at overnight camps. A bowl of hot water is provided for washing each morning. Shower tents are only carried on some climbs and there is an additional charge.

Will there be opportunities to charge camera batteries during the climb?

No, you should bring spares or a solar charger.

Should I buy or hire a down jacket/sleeping bag?

Down jackets and sleeping bags are available to in Arusha and are more than adequate in terms of warmth/quality for your trek.

Unless you really want to own a down jacket I would recommend hiring or buying locally. I wear my down jacket quite a bit in Scotland but my sleeping bag hardly comes out the bag from one year to the next and if you consider a decent down jacket will cost at least £150 and sleeping bag from £200 upwards in the UK you can make a huge saving.

Price from £1690.00 - BOOK NOW

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