How Much Does it Cost to Hike Kilimanjaro
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but before you start dreaming about standing at Uhuru Peak, you need to know how much this bucket-list trip is actually going to cost you. Spoiler alert: It’s not cheap. But is it worth it? Absolutely.
So, if you're wondering how much cash you need to throw at the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, let’s break it down in a fun and (hopefully) not terrifying way.
How Much Does It Cost to Climb Kilimanjaro?
The Hike Itself: $2,900 on Average
The cost of hiking Kilimanjaro varies based on the number of days and the route you choose. A good rule of thumb?
6-9 day hikes typically cost around $2,900 per person.
This includes your guides, porters, food, park fees, and camping gear (but not your tip—more on that later).
Some budget options might be a little lower, while high-end luxury treks (yes, those exist) can climb well past $5,000.
What’s Included in the Price?
At first glance, $2,216+ for just six days of hiking might make your wallet cry, but here’s what that price actually covers:
✔️ Park Fees: A huge chunk of the cost goes directly to Kilimanjaro National Park, and trust me, they’re not handing out discounts. Just the entrance fees alone can be over $1,000 per hiker.
✔️ Guides & Porters: These incredible humans do everything—from carrying your gear to setting up camp to making sure you don’t accidentally wander off a cliff in the fog.
✔️ Food & Water: You’re not surviving on granola bars and instant ramen. These crews cook up fresh, hot meals every day, and somehow, the food is really good.
✔️ Camping Gear: No need to bring your own tent and sleeping mat—they provide everything you need to be (somewhat) comfortable on the mountain.
What’s NOT Included?
🚫 Flights to Tanzania – Expect $1,500 - $3,000 round trip, depending on where you're flying from. I paid $2,200 for mine.
🚫 Tips for Guides & Porters – Tipping is expected and very much deserved. Budget around $250 - $400, depending on the length of your trek and the number of porters/guides on your team. I tipped $300, and it was worth every penny.
🚫 Hotels in Moshi or Arusha – You’ll likely need at least one night before and after the trek. I paid $140 for two nights.
🚫 Gear & Clothing – If you don’t already own proper hiking boots, thermal layers, a down jacket, and a solid backpack, you’ll need to invest in some gear before your trip. Renting in Tanzania is an option, but I recommend bringing your own essentials.
🚫 Travel Insurance – The company I used required helicopter evacuation insurance for emergencies
My Personal Costs (for Just the Hike)
When I hiked Kilimanjaro, I did a 6-day trek with Altezza Travel, and my hiking costs came out to:
6-Day Hike: $2,216
Tip for the Crew: $300
2 Nights in Moshi (Pre & Post-Hike Hotel): $140
Gear (rentals & purchases): $500. This varies based on what you have vs need.
Airfare (Round Trip to Tanzania): $2,200
Travel Insurance: $500
Vaccines: $100
Total cost for my Kilimanjaro portion of the trip? Around $5,400.
This does not include the additional days we spent on safari in the Serengeti or relaxing in Zanzibar—but those are separate adventures (and expenses) altogether.
Is Kilimanjaro Worth the Cost?
Look, I won’t sugarcoat it—hiking Kilimanjaro is not a budget-friendly adventure. But when I stood at the summit, exhausted and above the clouds, every penny felt worth it. It’s not just a hike; it’s a challenge, an adventure, and an unforgettable experience that will stick with you forever.
If you’re serious about climbing Kili, start saving now, budgeting smartly, and researching good trekking companies. Your future self—standing at 19,341 feet, watching the sunrise over Africa—will thank you.
Final Thought: Plan Smart, Trek Happy!
Kilimanjaro isn’t just a hike; it’s an investment in an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just someone looking for a serious challenge, climbing this legendary peak is worth every dollar, every step, and every slightly questionable bathroom stop along the way.
So, start saving, start planning, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!