Gladys Adventure
Private Mt Kilimanjaro Climbs

Gladys Adventure offers both private climbs and open group climbs. A private climb can begin any day of the year, using any route with any number of participants. Each private group has the option of keeping the group closed or allowing others to join. We will never add people to a private climb without consent of the group. In planning your trip, you can count on your date being available unless we post a notice on this page. At the present, all dates are available for climbs.

Kilimanjaro Private Climb Prices

All climb packages include 2 nights hotel in Moshi with B&B plan. Our primary hotel is Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel which we consider a high 3 star hotel. If we cannot get availability there we use Salinero Kilimanjaro Hotel. We can offer alternative accommodations or offer you a price without any Moshi accommodations included. Please ask us if you want to consider other options. If you book your own accommodations it is far better if the accommodations are in Moshi rather than Arusha.

  • Machame Route 6 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $2507$2060$1979$1893$1865$1855$1853$1845$1842$1824

  • Machame 7 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $2815$2328$2249$2168$2128$2113$2104$2110$2102$2087
  • Lemosho 7 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $2942$2411$2340$2277$2237$2215$2202$2204$2191$2174

  • Lemosho 8 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $3224$2665$2621$2598$2579$2556$2536$2538$2519$2491

  • Lemosho 9 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $3504$2975$2935$2909$2870$2843$2824$2819$2800$2774
  • Northern Circuit (Grand Traverse) 8 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $3224$2665$2621$2598$2579$2556$2536$2538$2519$2491

  • Northern Circuit (Grand Traverse) 9 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $3504$2975$2935$2909$2870$2843$2824$2819$2800$2774
  • Rongai 6 days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $2634$2143$2070$2002$1974$1957$1921$1925$1915$1898

  • Rongai 7 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $2942$2411$2340$2277$2237$2215$2202$2204$2191$2174
  • Marangu 5 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $2118$1720$1665$1616$1586$1570$1546$1552$1547$1533

  • Marangu 6 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $2481$2024$1963$1907$1871$1854$1825$1830$1824$1808
  • Umbwe 6 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $2507$2060$1979$1893$1865$1855$1853$1845$1842$1824

  • Umbwe 7 Days
    1 climber2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    $2815$2328$2249$2168$2128$2113$2104$2110$2102$2087
  • Comfort add-on options:
    private tent -- $100/trek
    luxury mattress (3" thick and 2.5 ft wide compared to 1.5" thick and 2 ft wide) -- $35/climber
    higher profile tent --$40/tent
    camp cot -- $150/cot (the higher profile tent is required to accommodate the cots, so it must be added also)
    hot water bottle (to warm sleeping bag) -- free upon request
    day pack porter -- $10/day
    Gamow Bag -- $300/trek
    post climb massage -- $20/half hour
    post trek laundry service -- $10/kg (same day service)
    Be aware that some add ons may result in more porters used for the trek. Salaries for added porters are included in the price but not tips. Regarding private tents: Where there is an odd number of climbers, there is no additional charge for the one climber staying single. If there is an even number of climbers and one requests a single tent, only one single tent charge is added although two climbers will end up sleeping single.

  • We can add an overnight at Crater Camp to any route except Marangu Route. A special permit is required for crater camp, additional pay for each staff member who spends overnight in the crater and also private toilet tent(s) are required for the staff.
  • Crater Campsolo climb2 climbers3 climbers4 climbers5 climbers6 climbers7 climbers8 climbers9 climbers10 + climbers
    Supplement
    per person
    $606$393$318$331$321$303$291$290$282$276

Each trekking package includes:

  • Airport pick up and drop off - Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) - Moshi
  • Hotel accommodations in Moshi one night before the trek and the night that you finish the trek (or alternatively any two nights)
  • All park fees for the national park including taxes
  • All meals and unlimited drinking water while on the mountain
  • Private toilet tent included (1 toilet for every 7 climbers)
  • All salaries for guides, assistant guides, chef, porters
  • Transport to and from the park gate
  • Oxygen for altitude sickness emergencies
  • All camping equipment (tents, tables, chairs, cooking equipment, dining tent, sleeping mattress -- but not sleeping bag)

The trekking packages do not include:

  • Extra JRO airport pickups and drop offs ($40 per car)
  • Sleeping bag - please bring your own or rent one from our equipment rental shop
  • International flights & visas
  • Travel Insurance (we require all clients to have medical and evacuation coverage)
  • Mountain climb staff tips
  • Alcholic drinks
  • Personal travel and baggage
  • Telephone/internet bill
  • Laundry service
  • Any items of a personal nature
  • Activities not mentioned in the program

Note: For private groups with an even number of participants, the price is based on double occupancy in the hotel in Moshi and in the tents on the mountain. Private rooms/tents are available at an added price. For odd numbered participants, the price for one single hotel room and tent is already factored into the quoted price. Our default policy is to divide the entire price evenly. If you prefer, we can calculate a separate price for those with double occupancy and the person with single occupancy.

A 10% deposit will secure your climb. We accept payments via wire transfer directly into our bank account or online payment by credit/debit card (3% bank fee for this option). The remaining balance is not due until you arrive. We can accept additions to the groups up until the day before the trek starts.

If you need to cancel your trip we can offer refunds on any amount recoverable by Gladys Adventure less money transfer fees. Or your deposit can be applied to any future booking with Gladys Adventure up to one year after your original start date. Funds can also be transferred to another person who has booked through Gladys Adventure.

Full details about payment terms & conditions can be found here - Payment Terms & Conditions

For more information or to book a climb please contact us though our Info Request page.

Private Climb or Open Group -- Which is better?

Each option has its advantages. Lets help you consider which is best for you...

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We offer both open group and private group climbs. Most climbs that we do are through private climbs. While on the mountain, the climbs are nearly identical. We use the same guides, same equipment, same meals. The lone exception being that for open group climbs we do not automatially include private toilet tents (except for Grand Traverse route where they are required). These are available as an add on for open group climbs.

Private Climb

  • Freedom of choice -- You can start your climb and day of the year and any route that you choose.
  • Control over itinerary -- even the day before the climb you can make adjustments in start date, number of days and route. While on the mountain, if you are feeling strong, you can even with the approval of the guide, eliminate the acclimatization day (note that there cannot be a rebate for unused days since park fees are paid in advance). Or you can add an extra day while on the mountain if need be. Non standard options such as ascending via Western Breach, overnight at Crater Camp or daytime summits are available with private climbs only.
  • Control of the group -- You are in control of how many people are in the group and who is joining you. - Even if you request us to find others for your group, we will always consult you before allowing them to join.
  • Discounted Groups -- We offer discounts for both current Peace Corp volunteers, Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and their travel partners. This is done with private climbs only.

Open Group Climb

  • Price -- The open group climbs are the least expensive climbs that we offer. The only discounts that are possible on these climbs are park fees discounts that the government allows for expatriates having Tanzanian residence permits, East African citizens or youths under 16 years old.
  • Social -- Especially if you are traveling alone, this is a way to meet friends. Many times clients who have met on the mountain decide to go on safari or day trip together afterwards. Open Group Climbs include a welcome dinner.

Is opening up a private group to others the same as an open group climb? A: No. A private group climb will never be as inexpensive as an open group climb. If you have a private group and wish to open it up for others, the price will only be reduced if others join and the amount for the climb will never be the same as an open group climb. But, you will always be in control of the group. Before anyone is added, we would seek your appoval first.

How large are the open group climbs? A: Before the pandemic, the open groups had been averaging 4 - 5 climbers. Tourism currrently is just a fraction of how it was previously but is starting to rebound. We have no minimum or maximum number for the climbs. The number of climb staff varies according to the number of climbers. The largest open group climb that we have had so far has been 16 people. We have had a few open group climbs with only one climber.

We welcome any questions or further information requests.

Partners for Responsible Travel

We are proud partners of Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Program. Click to read about their valuable program. Kilimanjaro Porters Association

Climb Staff Tipping

What you need to know about the tipping process and procedures...

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Everything you need to know about mountain crew tipping

How many crew members will there be on my climb?
While we will know in advance how many guides, assistant guides and cooks you will have for a climb, we will not know how many porters will be used until the morning of the climb. The maximum weight allowed for each porter to carry is 20kg plus their own gear. Of course, they also need 3 meals a day and a mattress (not all companies supply these for porters, but we do). So once the total weight of all itmes being brought on the mountain is weighed we will know the definite crew numbers. Typically for a small group (4 climbers or less), a rough estimate of the number of porters is 4 porters/climber. For larger groups, approximately 3 porters per climber. Marangu route (overnights in huts) will use about 1 porter per climber less. While we can accommodate group sizes of any number, the national park treats groups over 10 people as 2 climbs. This means that for more than 10 in your group, there will be 2 head guides, 2 cooks, etc. The group will still be together as one group on the mountain though. Comfort add ons such as portable toilet tent or mattress upgrade add to the number of porters needed.

How much is a recommended tip?
It is through the accumulation of feedback from our clients that the guidelines below have been suggested.
Recommended tipping rates range from
$20 - $30/day for head guide
$15 - $20/day for each assistant guide
$15 - $20/day for cook
$5 - $7/day for each porter
Out of the group of porters, some will have additional duties during the entire climb such as tent master, waiter and toilet attendant (if using private toilet tents). We suggest giving an additional amount of $3/day to these porters. There will also be summit porters who will have additional duties during summit day only. We suggest $20/trip for the summit porters. These are only guidelines. It is up to you and your budget if you want to vary from this. At the bottom of this article is a chart with the calculations for the tips.

Exactly how and when is the tipping done?
You will not need to bring any money with you on the mountain. You will distribute tips when you get back to Gladys Adventure office after the climb. At the last camp, you will be given a paper listing everyone on the climb staff. You can discuss with others in your group how much you want to tip. If you wish, you can write down the amounts for each staff person and at the gate after finishing the climb you can announce the amount OR ... if you are too tired (not uncommon) at the camp or if you want input from our office you can wait until you get to our office. You do not need to ask and should not ask any of the climb staff about recommendations. Also, you should not feel pressured by any staff member to tip a certain amount or even any discussion about tips. If you have any questions at all, our office staff will be glad to help you once you return to Moshi. If you feel that certain crew members are pressuring you directly or indirectly be sure to let us know. Tactics include telling embellished hardship stories to gain your sympathy. Another is to purposely dress poorly. We make sure before the climb that all porters have proper shoes and jackets. If they are not wearing proper gear while on the mountian, they are trying to fool you. Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) has gear for any porter in need and their office is located 20 meters from our office. At our office, you can collect the money from each climb member and put them in individual envelopes that we will supply - one envelope for each climb staff member. They will then be distributed to the climb staff in your presence. If you need to go to an ATM we can take you. Unfortunately, tips cannot be paid through credit/debit cards since the government will automatically treat this as a payment made to Gladys Adventure and charge us 18% VAT.

Sometimes we have clients who do not like the concept of tipping but want to make sure that the staff is adaquately provided for. It is ok to allot extra money to be paid as salary for the staff. The staff would then be told before the climb that their pay is being increased for the climb but no tips will be given afterwards.

If you wish to donate gear such as walking poles, clothing, etc this is best done through the office staff at Gladys Adventure or through KPAP office. The gear will then be distributed under supervision of KPAP.

Here are some comments from our Tripadvisor reviews regarding climb staff tipping:

  • Tipping is an important part of the hiking economy. Gladys and KPAP provide a guideline for tipping before your hike. Please account for this in your budget and we would strongly encourage you to tip your porters generously if you can afford it - you will witness firsthand how difficult their job is.
    Reviewed August 2023
  • The transparency of the tipping system bettered anything we had seen previously and added to the impression that we were in the care of a very well run Company.
    Reviewed August 2023
  • There is a 'tipping ceremony' at the end of the hike where tips are read aloud. While this isn't how things are done in the US, the purpose is to ensure that porters are publicly made aware of their share of the tips (historically, it was easy for the guides to dole out at their own discretion). You can also read up on average Tanzanian incomes to understand how meaningful these tips can be for the crew and why they undertake the work. We ended up tipping twice as much as what we read as average amount, because we genuinely felt connected to our crew and wanted to contribute to their growth and their communities.
    Reviewed August 2023

Tipping Chart

Head Guides ($20 - $30/day)
1 - 10 climbers uses 1 head guide, 11 - 20 requires 2 head guides

5 days6 days7 days8 days9 days
1 head guide$100 - $150$120 - $180$140 - $210$160 - $240$180 - $270
2 head guides$200 - $300$240 - $360$280 - $420$320 - $480$360 - $540

Assistant Guides (AG) & Chefs ($15 - $20/day)
2 - 4 climbers uses 1 assistant guide, 5 - 7 climbers uses 2 assistants, 8 - 11 uses 3 assistants, 12 - 14 uses 4 assistants. 1 chef is used for every 10 climbers.

5 days6 days7 days8 days9 days
1 Chef$75 - $100$90 - $120$105 - $140$120 - $160$135 - $180
2 AG/Chef$150 - $200$180 - $240$210 - $280$240 - $320$270 - $360
3 AG/Chef$225 - $300$270 - $360$315 - $420$360 - $480$405 - $540
4 AG/Chef$300 - $400$360 - $480$420 - $560$480 - $640$540 - $720
5 AG/Chefs$375 - $500$460 - $600$525 - $700$600 - $800$675 - $900
6 AG/Chefs$450 - $600$540 - $720$630 - $840$720 - $960$810 - $1080

Porters ($5 - $7/day)
The exact number of porters will not be known until everythig going on the mountain has been weighed. Roughly for 1 - 4 climbers, 4 porters/climber is good estimate, for 5+ climbers 3 porters/climber. Private toilet tents will use 1 more porter. Marangu route uses 1 less porter per person.

5 days6 days7 days8 days9 days
5 porters$125 - $175$150 - $210$175 - $245$200 - $280$225 - $315
6 porters$150 - $210$180 - $252$210 - $294$240 - $336$270 - $378
7 porters$175 - $245$210 - $294$245 - $343$280 - $392$315 - $441
8 porters$200 - $280$240 - $336$280 - $393$320 - $448$360 - $504
9 porters$225 - $315$270 - $378$315 - $441$360 - $505$405 - $567
10 porters$250 - $350$300 - $420$350 - $490$400 - $560$450 - $630
11 porters$275 - $385$330 - $462$385 - $539$440 - $616$495 - $693
12 porters$300 - $420$360 - $504$420 - $584$480 - $672$540 - $756
13 porters$325 - $455$390 - $546$455 - $637$520 - $728$585 - $819
14 porters$$350 - $490$420 - $588$490 - $686$560 - $784$630 - $882
15 porters$375 - 525$450 - $630$525 - $735$600 - $840$675 - $945
16 porters$400 - $560$480 - $672$560 - $784$640 - $896$720 - $1008
17 porters$425 - $595$510 - $714$595 - $833$680 - $952$765 - $1017
18 porters$450 - $630$540 - $756$630 - $882$720 - $1008$810 - $1143
19 porters$475 - $665$570 - $798$665 - $931$760 - $1065$855 - $1197
20 porters$500 - $700$600 - $840$700 - $980$$800 - $1120$900 - $1260
21 porters$525 - $735$630 - $882$735 - $1029$840 - $1176$945 - $1323
22 porters$550 - $770$660 - $924$770 - $1078$880 - $1232$990 - $1386
23 porters$575 - $805$690 - $966$805 - $1133$920 - $1288$1035 - $1449
24 porters$600 - $840$720 - $1008$840 - $1168$960 - $1344$1080 - $1512
25 porters$625 - $875$750 - $1050$875 - $1221$1000 - $1400$1125 - $1575
26 porters$650 - $910$780 - $1092$910 - $1274$1040 - $1456$1170 - $1638
27 porters$675 - $945$810 - $1134$945 - $1323$1080 - $1512$1215 - $1701
28 porters$700 - $980$840 - $1176$980 - $1372$1120 - $1568$1260 - $1764
29 porters725 - $1015$870 - $1218$1015 - $1421$1160 - $1624$1305 - $1827
30 porters$750 - $1050$900 - $1260$1050 - $1470$1200 - $1680$1350 - $1890
31 porters$775 - $1085$930 - $1302$1085 - $1519$1240 - $1736$1395 - $1933
32 porters$800 - $1120$960 - $1344$1120 - $1568$1280 - $1762$1440 - $2016
33 porters$825 - $1155$990 - $1386$1155 - $1617$1320 - $1848$1485 - $2079
34 porters$850 - $1190 $1020 - $1428$1190 - $1666$1360 - $1904$1530 - $2142
35 porters$875 - $1215$1050 - $1470$1125 - $11715$1400 - $1960$1575 - $2205

Out of the group of porters, some will have additional duties during the entire climb such as tent master, waiter and toilet attendant (if using private toilet tents). We suggest giving an additional amount of $3/day to these porters. There will also be summit porters who will have additional duties during summit day only. We suggest $20/trip for the summit porters. The quoted tips are suggested amounts to be given from the entire group. Add the guide amounts, AG/Chef amount and the porter amount and divide by the number of people particpating in your trek to calculate the total tips/participant. As is the nature of tipping, this is entirely at your discretion and your budget.

Mountain Packing List

What you need for a safe and comfortable trek...

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Mountain Packing List

mountain packing list itemsBefore your climb we will go through a piece by piece equipment cheeck with you. Any item that you need can be rented at our shop. Even though we have a large amount of rental equipment, if you know in advance that you will want to rent some items let us know so we can reserve them for your dates. As our client you will receive a 30% discount from our listed prices.

Equipment

  • 1 - Sleeping Bag -- we suggest a comfort rating of 0 °C (32 °F) plus a liner.
  • 1 - Trekking Poles, collapsable
  • 1 - Head lamp, with extra batteries
  • 1 - Duffel bag - waterproof, 85L capacity or larger, for porters to carry your equipment
  • 1 - Daypack, 30-35L capacity, for you to carry your personal gear

Accessories

  • 1 - Sunglasses or Goggles ---important to be polarized
  • 1 - Backpack Cover, waterproof
  • 1 - 3 - Water Bottle(s) (Nalgene, 32 oz.)----you will need to carry 3L of water with you each day. It is best that not all water is in a Camelbak since too much chance of system breakdown or line freezing so best that at least some of your water is in a bottle. The park will not allow disposable bottles on the mountain.
  • 1 - Water Bladder (Camelbak type, 3 liters)--or carry 3L in water bottles as an alternative
  • 1 - Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (optional)
  • 1 - Pee Bottle, to avoid leaving tent at night (recommended - not as important if you have a private toilet tent)
  • Stuff Sacks, Dry Bags or Plastic Bags*, various sizes, to keep gear dry and separate. * Important Update: Disposable plastic bags are no longer permitted in Tanzania. But "zip-lock" style bags are exempted since they are expected to leave the country with you.

Technical Clothing

  • 1 - Waterproof Jacket/Poncho, breathable with hood
  • 1 - Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down
  • 1 - Soft Jacket, fleece or soft-shell
  • 2 - Long Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
  • 1 - Short Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
  • 1 - Waterproof Pants, breathable (side zipper is ideal)
  • 2 - Hiking Pants
  • 1 - Fleece Pants
  • 1 - Shorts (optional)
  • 1 - Long Underwear, moisture-wicking fabric
  • 5 - Underwear, moisture-wicking fabric recommended
  • 2 - Sport Bra (women)

Headwear

  • 1 - Brimmed Hat, for sun/rain protection
  • 1 - Knit Hat, for warmth
  • 1 - Balaclava, scarf or Buff

Handwear

  • 1 - Gloves/mittens, warm and waterproof
  • 1 - Gloves (liner gloves)

Footwear

  • 1 - Hiking Boots, warm, waterproof, broken-in
  • 1 - Comfort Shoes, to wear at camp (optional)
  • 5 - Socks, wool or synthetic -- cotton does not dry quickly enough
  • 1 - Gaiters, waterproof
  • 5 - liner socks (optional)
  • 1 - crampons Note: These are only needed during periods of heavy precipitation. They were last needed in 2020. But it is best to check with us before your trek if you are having an April, May, or early June trek date.

Miscellaneous

  • Toiletries
  • Prescription medicine -- if using Diamox, this is readily available in Moshi.
  • Sunscreen -- the UV is quite strong so this is important even if you do not typically use this
  • Lip Balm -- important to have UV protection
  • Insect Repellent, containing DEET -- not in pressurized can. This is only needed at lower altitudes
  • First Aid Kit -- your guide will have a first aid kit also but some basic items for blisters, upset stomach/nausea/diarrhea and headache is a good idea
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Toilet Paper -- some will be brought along but best to bring an extra roll
  • Wet Wipes (optional but recommended)
  • Dry Wipes (optional)
  • Snacks, light-weight, high calorie, high energy (optional but can be a big help on summit day) -- these are not available locally
  • Electrolytes, powder or tablets (optional)
  • Camera/phone (optional) -- there is no charging capabilities on the mountain unless you bring a solar charger. Extra batteries/memory card are a good idea.

Documents

You will not take these on the mountain

  • Passport
  • Visa (available at JRO Airport upon arrival)
  • Immunization Papers --no immunization is needed unless you are coming from a Yellow Fever risk area.
  • Insurance Documents
  • Emergency contacts

Equipment Provided by Gladys Adventure:

  • sleeping tents (for clients and staff)*
  • mess tent*
  • cooking tent*
  • sleeping mattress (for clients and staff)*
  • folding table*
  • folding chairs*
  • Portable toilet tent(s) -- One toilet & tent for every 7 clients
  • cooking utensils
  • dining utensils
  • cooking fuel
  • food
  • water purification tablets
  • emergency oxygen cylinder(s)
  • portable stretcher (brought on request)
  • first aid kit
  • walkie talkie to communicate with Gladys Adventure office (we have our own private channel for this)

* indicates equipment not used for Marangu Route

Meals on the Mountain

A climb requires a lot of energy and maximum performance. Meals play a very important role during your trek...

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Meals on the Mountain

While on the mountain, eating a good diet is essential for a successful climb. The food must be high energy, plentiful, appealing and easy to digest. These are important components since a great amount of energy is required. The most common symptoms of altitude sickness are nausea and loss of appetite. Food that will not disturb the stomach further is essential and since climbers at times have to force themselves to eat. The food must be appealing.

A typical breakfast may have combinations of the following:
Porridge, breads/chapati, plantains, pancakes, eggs, sausage, hot chocolate/ tea/ coffee, fruit
Lunches and dinners:
Pasta, rice, plantains, potatoes, vegetables, meat, bread, soup/stew, fruit, popcorn, peanuts

Our cooks can accommodate special diets such as vegetarian/vegan, food allergies, gluten free, etc. We welcome special requests (before we are on the mountain please).

There is no food preservation method on the mountain (this gets less important as the temperature gets colder) but we resupply the food part way through the climb to insure freshness.

Excerpts from our Tripadvisor reviews:

  • Food: Faustine, our chef, cooked the most incredible food - restaurant quality! He accommodated several dietary restrictions which was impressive. From our first lunch at the gate, I knew we were in for a treat. We had a hot lunch (with a tablecloth and silverware), while several groups from other companies just had boxed lunches. Every meal on the mountain had multiple courses- the pancakes at breakfast and the soups were some of our favorites! The meals were nutritious and included fresh fruit, veggies/salad, and different proteins. Faustine even surprised us with 2 delicious cakes for 2 birthdays in our group and to celebrate our summit. Be prepared to eat a lot and push yourself! Amos and Juma were very encouraging about this, knowing how important food is to a successful climb at high altitude.
    Waiters and Cook: Everyone talks about their guides and their porters but no one mentions their waiters and chefs – I want to highlight how important these roles are and take a moment to brag about Amosi, Juma, and Faustine. Chef Fau was a quiet hero, while we didn't see him everyday he literally fueled our trek. He fed us the most amazing meals, from the photos you would have no idea we were dining on a mountain. Fau even made specific meals for vegetarian, IBS, and other dietary needs in our group. His crepes/pancakes are still my favorite food. Amosi is the sweetest, most caring person I have ever met. He didn’t just bring us our meals– he sang to us good morning with coffee in bed as a wake-up call, congratulated us when we pushed ourselves to eat at high altitudes, always made sure our water bottles were full, and even haggled with other tour groups to get us more mint tea.
    Reviewed October 2023
  • ... eat the delicious hot food they prepare on the mountain for you (and catching glimpses of food from other companies, I felt very pampered indeed!)
    Reviewed October 2023
  • Tito, our chef, cooked the most amazing meals that were way better than anything I can cook at home with an actual stove and oven. He even made us a cake on the last night. The pancakes were my favorite and my husband loved the pizza and leak soup. Reviewed September 2023
  • Our Chef, Patrick, made incredible meals for us each and every day (plus snacks). Gladys emphasizes the importance of good, hot meals 3x a day to maintain energy through the hike and I think I actually gained a few pounds despite walking up and down 72km of mountains. On some occasions, while we were eating a hot meal, I noted that travelers with other groups were provided cold sandwiches.
    Reviewed August 2023
  • Food and water quality are taken seriously, so not only did I eat well on the mountain (lots of fresh fruits, veggies/salads and of course, tons of carbs), but I had no stomach issues (which would have been stressful to deal with on the mountain). The attention to detail is very appreciated (all of the condiments/pantry items used during my trek were brand new/sealed)
    Reviewed February 2023

Mountain Safety

Trekking above 5,000m cannot be taken lightly. No matter your fitness level adaquate precautions must be taken ...

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Mountain Safety

Mt Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain that can be climbed without technical skills or equipment. So in mountaineering it is referred to as a "walk up mountain". But that does not mean that it is not difficult or should be taken lightly. It is because it is a "walk up mountain" that provides the challenge. At 5,895m (19,341 ft) elevation at the summit there is less than 50% of the oxygen available at sea level. Adjusting to the altitude is the challenge because it is possible to ascend faster than your body can adjust. Technical climbs progress far more slowly than walking, so the body has more time to adjust. This makes Mt Kilimanjaro more dangerous in regard to altitude related problems. It is important to go only with a well trained guide and with proper health monitoring of each person. Gladys Adventure guides will monitor your vital measurments including respiration, pulse, blood oxygen saturation, blood pressure, body temperature and blood sugar to make sure that you are fit. Our guides are Wilderness First Responders (WFR), trained to pay attention to your respiration and just by engaging in a conversation with you along the way they are monitoring your condition. It is imperative that you are honest and open with your guide about your health. Before the trek, we need to know of any health conditions and medications that you are taking. Chances are very great, that your honesty will not disqualify you from climbing, but the guide will be giving special attention to any potential health threat. Gladys Adventure has a 98% rate of success. We are not striving for everyone to summit. We are striving for 100% safety with the right number to summit.

Diamox---good idea? Approximately 75% of climbers will display symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Symptoms include severe headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appitite, loss of reasoning, confusion and irratability. Diamox is a drug that causes an increase in respiration thereby increasing your body's ability to acclimatize. It is very difficult to predict a person's ability to handle high altitude. There have been world class athletes that have had to abandon their climb by the 3rd day while some who are far less fit or older have succeeded (88 years old is the current Kilimanjaro age record). There is no good data for comparing whether Diamox has made a difference for a specific person. If you do choose to use Diamox, it is best to purchase it when you arrive in Moshi. It is readily available at pharmacies in the correct dosage and will most certainly be less expensive here. Start taking Diamox before the trek so we can monitor any side effects so the effects of the drug can be distinguished from effects from the altitude. Before the trek, your guide can answer your specific questions.

First Aid Kit -- We will always have a well stocked first aid kit on hand. We suggest that you may bring a few simple items for blisters, sunburn, insect bites, stomach upset, diarrhea and headache.

Stretcher -- Mt Kilimanjaro National Park has some stretchers available scattered along the mountain. They are metal frames with a single motorcycle wheel and suspension mounted under the center of the metal frame. Unfortunately, the ride down is very rough. Rough enough to cause injuries since it is not uncommon for the stretcher to tip over or to throw the disabled climber off unless they are securely strapped in. The park has recognised that these are terrible and are in the process of eliminating them. Instead they will invest in making landing sites for helicopter rescue (see our evacuation insurance article). Gladys Avdenture has portable stretchers for their climbswhich we bring upon request. Rather than rolling these over the rough terrain like the park stretchers, we use porters to carry the disabled climber off the mountain or to an altitude where they can walk under their own strength. Gladys Adventure has portable stretchers available for their Kilimanaro treks. Rather than rolling these over the rough terrain like the park stretchers, we use porters to carry the disabled climber off the mountain or to an altitude where they can walk under their own strength. Because bringing a stretcher will most likely add an extra porter for your climb, we will bring a stretcher only upon your request.

Oxygen -- All Gladys Adventure climbs will have emergency oxygen available. We reserve the use of the oxygen for emergencies. Our guides are very well experienced to know how and when to allocate the use of the oxygen. Oxygen cylinders are a very important item but are one of the items often left out by companies looking to cut costs, especially if they are using guides that are not properly trained in administering the oxygen properly anyway.

Gamow Bag -- A gamow bag is an portable compression chamber designed for high altitudes as treatment if a trekker suffers from severe AMS. This can be a lifesaver where the recommended treatment of quickly descending is not possible. On some mountains this is a very important piece of equipment. On some mountains getting a person to a lower altitude can take days. But as we mentioned, being a "walk up" mountain means that it is a problem that people can ascend faster than their body can acclimatize. But this also means that a person can descend quickly with the aid of porters and supervised by a guide. Descending quickly is the preferred treatment of AMS. Gamow bags are inflated with a foot pump. They are also designed intentionally not to be air-tight. So descending with a gamow bag requires frequent stops to reinflate the bag. We do not include a gamow bag as standard equipment but have gamow bags available as an optional add on for any climb ($300 fee).

Our Guides -- Last but certainly not least is the experience and expertice of our mountain guides. It is easy for a company to say whatever they like. But here are what our clients have reported about Gladys Adventure climb safety on Trip Advisor reviews:

  • Their medical knowledge is also incredible. They take vitals signs and are knowledgeable on what is expected in the body throughout the journey. I even had a cough and they listened to my lungs with a stethoscope. Because they were so thorough, I felt strong and reassured.
    Reviewed December 2023
  • I was very impressed by the professionalism and knowledge shown by all of our guides. I very quickly trusted them with my health and safety. Everything they do from day one factors into your success. I also noticed how well known they were by other groups on the mountain. Prosper is a very experienced chief guide, having completed over 500 summits. He let his assistant guides lead, but also knew when to step in. He kept a close eye on everyone’s food/water intake and health. Any health concerns/issues were immediately addressed both during the regular health checks and as they came up on the trail. We ended every dinner with a briefing about the next day (even telling us what we should wear) so we knew what to expect.
    What was most impressive to me was how well they knew the trail. They stood on either side of us if there were cliffs, and were always running ahead to be there to help us with difficult spots - literally holding our hands and arms to ensure our safety.
    I cannot begin to describe how impressed I was with the porters. They helped us everyday, watched out for us every night, and made the hike look easy. The Gladys porters served as a ‘security’ team at camp to ensure no one got lost or went into our tents. As an anxious traveler this was such a relief. I was able to sleep comfortably and relax at camp knowing that our trusted porters were keeping an eye on the place.
    Our group had a safe and successful summit, and it seems like this is the norm for this company.
    Reviewed October 2023
  • We recently completed the 7 day Machame route with Gladys and the experience was amazing. Everything was well organised, great equipment and food and health and safety was always at the top of their mind. All 20 of us in the group summited and any issues were taken care of quickly and professionaly. Prosper who was our lead guide has done hundreds of summits and his experience was invaluable. Great local operator and would highly recommend them.
    Reviewed September 2023
  • The head guide also made sure that each of us received proper attention and care. There were daily health checks and twice the guides administered care for altitude difficulties. The food was prepared to meet all our dietary restrictions and to provide the energy needed.
    Reviewed September 2023
  • The team were consistent in doing regular health checks to ensure that we were coping well with the altitude and providing advice from their wealth of experience.
    Reviewed September 2023
  • The guides and porters make sure you acclimate well; they make sure you eat well and consume sufficient calories for the task; they make sure you stay hydrated; they take your pulse oximeter twice a day and listen to your lungs; in short, they keep you safe, and help you manage the challenge in all ways — physically and mentally. You feel very well cared for in every regards.
    Reviewed December 2022

Travel/Medical Insurance

For all Mt Kilimanjaro treks we require each client to have medical insurance coverage ...

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Travel/Medical Insurance

For Mt Kilimanjaro climbs we require medical insurance coverage. You must be sure that this covers non technical trekking up to 6,000m.

Through experience, we find World Nomads to be a good provider (www.worldnomads.com). You can also consider using Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance (ripcordrescuetravelinsurance.com). Other companies that our clients commonly use include AIG, Priceline, I-Trek, Columbus Direct, Virgin and Simply Travel Insurance.

Q: Doesn't Kilimanjaro National Park already charge a rescue fee? Doesn’t this provide coverage?
A: There is a mandatory fee of $20/climber (already included in your climb package price). This goes to maintenance of rescue equipment such as wheeled rescue stretchers, not towards evacuation costs.

Q: Is there emergency airlift available?
A: Medical helicopter rescue service has been reinstated for Mt Kilimanjaro. This option is used only in the most dire circumstances.

Coffee Tour/Waterfalls Hike

If you are arriving a day early in Moshi we suggest this culture/acclimatization half day tour...

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Coffee Tour/Waterfalls Hike

We offer a very popular half day cultural/ acclimatization tour. This tour visits a small village just outside of Kilimanjaro National Park boundary. We will tour a small coffee farm and you will learn from a local guide about the cultivation and processing of coffee. You will also learn about the history and customs of the local Chagga tribe. There will be hiking at a waterfalls and even a chance for a swim if you like. The local women will prepare a lunch consisting of traditional Chagga foods. Included in this tour is private transportation, local fees and taxes, English speaking guide, lunch and drinking water. Good shoes for hiking are needed since to get to the waterfalls involves some steep terrain. Athletic shoes are ok, sandals are not. There will be a chance for a short swim so a swimsuit underneath your clothes and a towel would be good items to bring. This trip offers some exercise after your long flight but not so much as to tire you out for the climb.

Prices (quoted in USD) 1 person participating: $120, 2 people: $81/person, 3 people: $69/person, 4+ people: $50/person

Some excerpts from our Tripadvisor Reviews about it...
"...We visited on a drizzly day but the muddy hike was well worth the reward of seeing this beautiful waterfall! Our guide, Noela, was patient and friendly as she helped us navigate the slippery track. Nothing could have prepared me for our visit to a local Chaga coffee farm to learn about how coffee is produced using traditional methods. You simply cannot call this a tour because it was a fully immersive experience! As a non-coffee drinker, I wasn't even slightly excited about this part of the day, but oh my goodness! We learnt, we sang, we danced, we ate! This is the kind of positivity that everyone needs in their life!"


"...The day trip on the front end to the water fall and coffee farm was a perfect acclimatization day..."


“........the tour itself was way more than I expected. The coffee part was great - Emanuel went through the process for preparing the beans, and we drank the coffee that we made, and it was followed by a walk to a waterfall (which was honestly dream-like, seeing the water cascade down and the swifts flying around described the history of his area (coffee-growing during colonial times and the development of irrigation from the waterfall) and showed us many interesting plants and animals (chameleons on trees, the nice smell of lime and eucalyptus leaves, a rough leaf used as sandpaper, and, of course, coffee berries [sweet and delicious!]).”


“...We did a day trip to the Materuni village with a coffee plantation tour and a hike to the waterfall. This was our acclimatisation day, which seemed very helpful and a lot of fun. “