Call /WhatsApp: +255 788 738494

Email us: [email protected]

Altenative: [email protected]

Call /WhatsApp: +255 788 738494

Kiriwe Travel and Trekking Safaris Terms and Conditions

Since our all tours are tailor-made to suit your needs, please feel free to email us to request for the price quotation.

Pablo Gavi

1.   Contract

Your contract is with Kiriwe Travel and Trekking Safaris Limited (hereinafter called “TO”, “we” or “us”). We draw your attention to the following terms and conditions, which cover all brochures and correspondence and all bookings made with us. Any contract with TO is subject to these terms and conditions from which no person has the authority to depart. Before making a booking with us you must ensure that you have read and understood these booking conditions (raising any queries you may have with us). By asking us to confirm your booking you are liable to be regarded as having had the opportunity to do so and to have actually done so before the contract between us comes into existence.

2.   Booking Procedures and a Confirming a Booking

TO will create a tailor-made holiday to suit your personal needs. A binding contract comes into existence between us when:

  1. We receive a deposit of 30% of the quote price, or
  2. when we receive full payment of the holiday when the booking is made less than 45 days before your departure date.

No contract will exist between the parties until such monies have been received. We require full payment to be made for your holiday 45 days prior to the departure date. If full payment is not received 45 days prior to the departure date, we reserve the right to cancel your holiday and apply the cancellation charges set out in paragraph 6. Cancellation will be without penalty to us and we will have no further liability to you. If, however, you have already provided us with your credit or debit card details whether this was to make a payment on account or not, and you do not specifically notify us in writing to the contrary prior to the date upon which any balance becomes payable by you, you agree that we may use such credit or debit card details to obtain payment of any balance due by you under this agreement.

The lead booking name is liable for making full payment for all persons in the booking party and all those in the booking party agree to be bound by conditions (including anyone added or substituted at a later stage). It is the responsibility of the lead booking name responsible for making the booking to ensure all in their party are aware of and have read these terms and conditions. If you accept our quote in respect of your holiday you must make a payment of 30% of the total price of the quote when you confirm your trip with us in writing. A delay in acceptance of the quote may result in a variation of the holiday price. Where the proposed departure date is within 45 days of the quote being given, we require full payment at the time of your written acceptance of the quote.

All bank charges are to be settled by the client or agent respectively. This includes transaction fees charged by our bank. The amount shown on the invoice, is the amount that needs to reflect in our account and should bank charges have been deducted, we would have to invoice you subsequently.

3.   Medical conditions and disabilities

If you or any member of your party have any medical problem or disability which may affect your holiday, please tell us before you confirm your booking so that we can advise as to the suitability of the chosen arrangements. In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of booking. If we reasonably feel unable to properly accommodate the particular needs of the person concerned, we must reserve the right to decline the booking or, if full details are not given at the time of booking, cancel when we become aware of these details.

4.   Documentation

Please carefully read your confirmation invoice, tickets and all other documentation we send you as soon as you receive them. Contact us immediately if any information appears to be incorrect as it may not be possible to make changes later. We regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracy in any documentation within 7 days of our sending it out. You will be responsible for any costs and expenses involved in rectifying any inaccuracies except where we made the mistake.

5.   Payment Terms

Tour packages are confirmed upon receipt of 30% deposit of the total cost of the package. Balance payable in full 45 days prior to arrival. Full payment is required if tour is booked less than 45 days.

6.   Cancellation by you:

In the unfortunate event that you are required to cancel your itinerary, cancellations must be submitted in writing and will be subjected to the following cancellation policy:

  • Cancellation between 120 – 61 days from arrival date, cancellation fee equal to 30% of deposited amount will be deducted.
  • Cancellation between 60 – 46 days from arrival date, cancellation fee equal to 50% of deposited amount will be deducted.
  • Cancellation less than 45 – 30 days from arrival date, cancellation fee equal to 75% of deposited amount will be deducted.
  • Cancellation between 29 – 0 days the full amount deposited will be forfeited and no refund will be possible.

Kiriwe Travel and Trekking Safaris Ltd assumes no responsibility for any changes caused by airlines e.g. Delays, flight cancellations and for any additional costs caused by those changes. We appreciate your report upon any changes in scheduling of trips you have

booked to facilitate us you’re planning.

If the reason for cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy you may be able to reclaim these charges. Notwithstanding the above, if we have issued your domestic airline tickets and you choose at any time to cancel them then we will not refund you any monies for these tickets.

7.   Pricing Itineraries

The price of your itinerary will be based on known costs at the date of issue of the itinerary. At any time before a full payment of your holiday has been made TO reserves the right to levy a surcharge where costs have changed since the date of issue of the itinerary. TO will absorb amounts up to 2% of the total holiday price and surcharge any amount greater than 2%. Should the surcharge exceed 10% of the total holiday price before 60 days of arrival date you are entitled to cancel the holiday and receive a full refund of all monies paid. We reserve the right to make changes to and correct errors in advertised prices at any time before your holiday is confirmed. We will advise you of any errors of which we are aware and of the then applicable price at the time of booking.

Matters influencing a surcharge would include, but are not limited to, increases in transportation costs e.g., fuel, scheduled air fares and any other airline surcharges, taxes or fees payable for services such as landing taxes, or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports or airports, or increases in park fees, reserve fees or concession fees.

8.   Amendments by you

If you wish to change your itinerary after a deposit has been made, we will do our utmost to make the changes required, provided that notification is received in writing. Every change is subject to a fee depending on your amendments.

9.   Cancellation by TO

We reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your holiday for any reason at any time before full payment has been received. We cannot accept liability or pay compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by, or you suffer any damage or loss as a result of force majeure. In these booking conditions force majeure means any event which we or the supplier of services in question could not even with all due care foresee or avoid.

Such events are likely to include war, threat of war, civil strife, riot, civil disorder/unrest, industrial dispute, actual or threat of terrorist activity, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, breakout of an epidemic or pandemic disease, technical problems with transport, cancelation or amendment to any scheduled flight, closure, congestion of airports or ports, adverse weather conditions and all similar events outside our control. In the circumstances amounting to force majeure, we will not refund any money to you although if we can recover any monies from our suppliers, we will refund these to you.

10.   Amendments by TO

It is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your holiday although we reserve the right to make changes at any time. Most of these changes are minor and we will advise you of these in writing at the earliest possible date. When a major change is necessary such as the alteration of your outward or return flights by more than 12 hours or a significant change in the standard of accommodation, provided it does not arise from conditions amounting to force majeure or as a result of an amendment to a scheduled airline timetable, you will have the choice of accepting the new arrangements, taking another holiday with us or cancelling your holiday and receiving a full refund of all monies paid.

Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above- mentioned choices can be accepted where we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of unusual or unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care. No compensation will be payable and the above-mentioned options will not be available if we cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel, or if the change is a minor one.

A minor change is a change which, considering the information you give us at the time of booking or which we can reasonably be expected to know as a tour operator, we would not reasonably expect to have a significant effect on your confirmed holiday. No compensation is payable for children aged 3 and under. Please note we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or other sums of any description, which:

  1. On the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you, or
  2. Did not result from any breach of contract or any other fault by ourselves or our employees, or where we are responsible for them our Additionally, we cannot accept liability for any sums which relate to any business losses.

11.   Carriers

Carriage by air, and sea is subject to the terms and conditions of the carriers with whom you are travelling and to international conventions. TO accepts no liability whatsoever for cancellations, strikes, time table changes, diversions, technical issues unrelated to TO, lost or mislaid luggage, rescheduling costs, missed accommodation, or delays which result from any operational decision of the carrier concerned. TO accepts no liability for death, injury or illness that derives from carriage by air or sea.

12.   Your Responsibility

You must ensure that your travel documents, passports, visas and vaccination certificates are in order and that you ensure that you have taken the advice of your GP with regard to inoculations. We refer in particular to our pre-departure information sheet. TO will offer general advice but cannot be held responsible if you do not comply with current requirements before your departure. TO does not accept liability for any advice given of a general nature prior to the holiday commencing. You are responsible for a timely check in for all flights and for presenting yourself to take up all pre-booked components of your holiday. No credit or refund will be given to you should you fail to take up any component of your holiday or if you lose any travel documents. TO draws your attention to the fact that there are certain inherent risks involved in all of the holidays to Africa that we supply and these must be accepted by you at your own risk. If you wish to discuss any such risks with us, we would be more than happy to provide advice over the telephone or in writing.

13.   Insurance

TO requires clients to purchase travel insurance. The clients ensure to take out adequate insurance, including, death, medical and evacuation insurance, to cover any loss or damages.

14.   The law

The above booking terms and conditions together with all correspondence form part of your contract with TO. This contract and any matters arising from it shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with Tanzania law and the courts of Tanzania shall have exclusive jurisdiction to hear any and all proceedings between us either relating to our contract or arising out of it.

15.   Waiver of Claim against Introducer

If you have been referred to us by another part (for example a travel agent) you agree to hold them blameless and waive any and all claims against such party. Any issues you may have must be directed to us and dealt with under the terms of our contract.

16.   Problems

If you have a problem during your holiday, please inform the relevant organiser (camp/hotel manager/Safari guide) immediately and he will endeavour to put things right. If your problem cannot be resolved you need to contact the TO office so that we have the opportunity to investigate and rectify the problem.

17.   Baggage

At any time, all baggage and personal effects are at the client’s responsibility and the Company does not accept any liability for any loss or damage of any personal effects, howsoever arising. * Clients are entitled to one bag of not more than 15 kg (backpack or soft bag – no hardtop suitcase) and a daypack. The Company reserves the right to refuse excess baggage. Please notice that on our safari and trekking tours and on some “bush” flights other baggage regulations may apply.

18.   Risk

The company and its owner, director, management staff and employees shall not be held responsible for any injury or death to persons on tour, nor for loss or damage to personal property, however they may be caused. The company draws your attention to the fact that there are certain inherent risks present when on Safari, or when engaging in any strenuous physical activity. It is your sole responsibility to obtain appropriate medical advice as to medication, immunization, and whether or not you are fit enough to undertake the trip, prior to departure. The company shall not be liable for illness, injury or death sustained whilst visiting the properties owned and managed by the company.

19.   Authority on Tour

The decisions of the Company´s guide / driver on tour shall at all times be final and binding. * The client must at all times comply with the laws, customs and foreign exchange regulations of all countries visited.

20.   Marketing

The Company reserves the right to use any photographs and videos taken during tours for marketing or any other advertising material. The client hereby gives consent to use such photographs and authorizes the Company to retain copyright for these photographs and such material.

21.   Price changes

All our prices are based on the current national park fees and taxes. There have been ongoing talks that East African countries will be undergoing changes to tax regulations in 2014. Should the authorities decide on increasing fees and taxes, even though they might currently not be scheduled, we would subsequently have to pass on these increases to you.

22.   Access

We cannot be held responsible for road and airstrip conditions, which may make travel impossible at times. Any changes to the initial itinerary are subject to the conditions and rates outlined above, despite any access matters or weather conditions.

23.   Force Majeure

“Force Majeure” means, in relation to the company, any circumstances beyond the control of the company (including and without limitation, acts of God, explosions, floods, tempests, fires, accidents, war or threat of war, sabotage, insurrection, civil disturbance or requisition, sickness, quarantine, government intervention, weather conditions or other outwards occurrences)

If the company is affected by force majeure, it shall forthwith notify you of the nature and extent thereof. The company shall not be deemed to be in breach of these items and conditions or otherwise be liable to you, by reason of delay in performance, or by non-performance, of any of its obligations hereunder to the extent that any such delay or non-performance is due to any force majeure.

If the company is affected by force majeure, it shall be entitled to, and may at its sole and absolute discretion, vary or cancel any reservations or cancel any reservation or arrangement in relation to the visits. Payment of any refund by the company to you as result of the non-performance of any company shall use its reasonable endeavours to reimburse you where possible. However, the company shall be entitled to deduct from any refund recoverable to the reasonable actual and potential costs to the company of the force majeure.

24.   Disputes

If you have any cause of complaints while traveling, you must immediately bring it to the

attention of the company’s management on email [email protected] or phone: +255 788 738 49

25.   Consent

The payment of the deposit or any other partial payment for a reservation constitutes consent to all provisions of the Terms and Conditions. The Terms under which you agree to make the reservation cannot be changed or amended unless this is done in writing and signed by an authorized staff of the company.

26.   Website Promotions

Bookings must be made by emailing [email protected], Cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions or discounts and is subject to availability.

Pre- departure Information:

Packing list for safari

If this is your first time in Tanzania or your first time on safari, this packing list below can help to be well prepared and comfortable during your adventure. If you do forget a few things, don’t worry, you can pick up most everyday items in town before you leave.

Travel Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Yellow fever vaccination records/
  • Tanzania visa, available at airport upon arrival, USD $100 payable in cash only for US citizens or USD $50 for residents of UK/European Union and most other
  • Copy of flight
  • Copy of travel and/or medical evacuation
  • Personal medical/dental insurance
  • Credit card (Visa and MasterCard are most widely accepted).
  • Cash in S. Dollars (bills MUST have been issued in 2004 or later)

Clothing

Remember, it’s not a fashion show out there, so be a bit more practical when choosing your safari wardrobe. Try to stay away from bright colours – khaki and other neutral colours tend to work well. It is probably best if you dress in layers since it can get cold, but also very hot.

  • Sweater or fleece pullover to keep warm
  • Sturdy boots or sandals
  • Sun hat
  • Sun glasses
  • T-shirts or polo shirts (2-5 depending on how often you want to change)
  • Long sleeve shirts (light weight)
  • Shorts
  • Long trousers
  • Underwear
  • Socks
  • Sleepwear
  • Travel towel
  • Thermal underwear, gloves and warm hat (during May – Sept)
  • Rain coat and rain trousers (During rainy season Mar – May and Oct – Dec)

Highly recommended

  • Camera and memory cards
  • Binoculars
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
  • Insect Repellent
  • Personal toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, eye drops etc)
  • Malaria tablets
  • Basic first aid kit and prescription medicines
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Chargers and extra batteries for your camera, phone etc
  • Power adapter to fit the UK style electrical socket

Others tips

  • Bring soft luggage such as a duffel bag, hiking pack or sports These are ideal for packing into a safari vehicle. Hard suitcases can often be difficult to fit into the vehicles.
  • Bring a backpack to carry all of your important items including travel documents, money, camera, medication You should keep this backpack with you at all times.
  • Keep luxury items such as hair dryers/ straighteners, expensive jewellery, make up and bulky toiletries to an absolute If in doubt, leave them out.
  • If you plan to bring cash, divide it into different areas of your carry-on luggage, wallet and money belt just in case something happens to one of those carry
  • Leave some space in your luggage for the all-important souvenirs that you will probably buy. There are places where you can send packages home via DHL etc, however this can sometimes be an expensive

TANZANIA SAFARI TIPPING GUIDELINES

To avoid awkward encounters while tipping your Tanzania Tour guide, or other staff like chef, we have presented the most articulately designed Tanzania Safari Tipping guidelines to make your life easier. In your Tanzania Safari you will be served by many dedicated safari staff who tirelessly work towards making your safari trip comfortable and safe. Tipping these hard-working staff is a small gesture of gratitude that is appreciated.

WHO TO TIP AND WHEN ON A TANZANIA SAFARI

You may be wondering whom to tip in Tanzania Safari? We are here to clear your queries in our following Tanzania Safari Tipping Guidelines:

  • Safari Guides: A successful safari depends on a right knowledgeable Tanzania safari guide who will provide you with the insights about the different national parks and its Therefore, Tipping Safari Guide Tanzania is customary at the end of the day as they make your trip exciting and successful.
  • Tip the hardworking Team: There are many people diligently working behind the scenes to ensure a successful and memorable trip with their devoted You can consider for example: Tipping Safari Drivers Tanzania at the end of your day. Tipping this team of enthusiastic staff is a gift of gratitude that will support them financially and lift their spirits.

DOS AND DON’TS OF TANZANIA SAFARI TIPPING

Here are some Tanzania Safari Tipping Dos and Don’ts:

  • Do tip after each activity
  • Do tip at the end of each day
  • Do tip at the end of your stay
  • Don’t be too generous with your tips
  • Don’t tip a stranger without asking your guide about
  • Don’t tip when are being demanded to tip

THE AWKWARD PART: HOW TO TIP?

Most restaurants and lodges have a tip box installed in their lobby where you can drop your tip. However, giving the tip in-hand to the staff is a better choice. The tipping is done in US Dollars. Another Tanzania Tipping Guide is that – It’s better to tip at the end of the day instead of each activity.

WONDERING HOW MUCH TO TIP?

We are most often asked – How Much Do You Tip in Tanzania? There is no set amount on how much to tip a guide or a staff on your Tanzania safari However you can follow a standard price of tipping to different staff as mentioned below:

  • US$15-20 per guest per day for a private guide
  • US$5-10 per guest per day for a safari chef
  • US$8-10 per guest per day for a group guide
  • US$1-2 per guest per day for the general staff
  • US$3-5 per city transfer

WHAT IF I DON’T WANT TO TIP?

It’s completely up to the traveler if they wish to tip the staff. It’s not compulsory to tip anyone. Tanzania Safari Tipping is a generous gesture. If you were not happy with the services then you can skip tipping them. Moreover, if you wish to buy them a meal or give them a treat it is even wonderful!

CHOOSE THE RIGHT GUIDANCE FOR THE BEST SAFARI EXPERIENCE

In foreign land where everything is uncertain, the right guidance from the right tour operator will go long way to make Tanzania safari a successful trip. Our Guides will provide you with many Tanzania safari tips that will help you save more and enjoy even more on your safari. Our knowledgeable tour guides will also provide you with the most unfamiliar Tanzania safari facts that will intrigue you all the more.

Choose Lifetime Safari for your next safari tour to Tanzania as we not only organize the best Tanzanian Safaris but also aim to be a positive force in the development of our local society here in Tanzania! At Lifetime Safaris we believe in Sustainable travelling and tourism. If you want the best of Tanzania Safari Experience, call us now to book your Tanzania travel packages today!

Accommodation

For our accommodated safari, we make use of mid-range typical African standard/luxury hotel accommodation with en-suite facilities. And on mountain we use huts and tents for campsites.

Spending money/tipping:

Clients are advised to bring enough money to cover the purchase of curios, tips for the guide and additional entertainment. US Dollars and Tanzanian Shilling are the most practical and convenient currencies.

It is customary for satisfied Mountain climbers to tip guides and porters. Amounts given are entirely within the guest’s discretion. As a general guideline however, guests are advised to budget from $250-$300 each for this, dependent upon duration of climb and crew size.

Meals:

All meals are prepared by the local cook and all supplies and cooking equipment are carried by the porters. Breakfast and dinner are hot meals prepared at the various camps while lunch is enjoyed en-route.

Due to the extreme difficulties in logistics variations and options will be limited and we will need advance notice of any special dietary requirements.

First Aid:

Our guides are trained in basic first aid and a mountain rescue fee is included in the cost of the climb. We do however recommend that you bring along a basic medical kit with general consumables and specific prescription medication. Preventative Malaria medication should be taken before the trip and throughout its duration, although it is advisable to consult a doctor prior to departure. Yellow Fever vaccinations compulsory – please contact your Travel Clinic before departure.

Luggage:

The bulk of your luggage will be carried by a porter. Maximum baggage allowance as stipulated by the mountain authority per porter is 15kg, but Steppe Dogs Adventures recommends a limit of 12 kg per person. Please bring soft-sided luggage (e.g a backpack or soft barrel bag), not a suitcase.

In addition to your main luggage, we recommend that you bring along a small daypack (approx. 25 – 30 lt. capacity, with a waterproof cover). This will be carried by you and need to include personal items, water, snacks, and camera, waterproof and thermal layers.

Insurance:

It is compulsory for all travellers to have insurance covering their personal requirements, medical expenses and personal possessions. This is to be arranged before leaving your home country. Steppe Dogs Adventures Tanzania has comprehensive public liability insurance.

Visas:

The onus is on the client to organize all visas required for a visit to Tanzania prior to departure.

 What Gear you are required to bring!

You are responsible for bringing personal gear and equipment while communal equipment (tents, food, cooking items, etc.) is provided. Below is a gear list of required, recommended and optional items to bring on your climb.

Technical Clothing
  • 1 – Waterproof Jacket, 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 recommended)
  • 2 – Hiking pants 1 – Fleece Pants
  • 1 – Shorts (Optional)
  • 1 – Long Underwear (moisture-wicking fabric recommended) 3 – Underwear, briefs (moisture-wicking fabric recommended) 2 – Sport Bra (women)
Headwear
  • 1 – Brimmed Hat, for sun protection 1 – Knit Hat, for warmth
  • 1 – Balaclava, for face coverage (Optional) 1 – Bandana (Optional)
Handwear

1 – Gloves, warm (waterproof recommended) 1 – Gloves, thin

Footwear
  • 1 – Hiking Boots, warm, waterproof, broken-in 1 – Gym Shoes, to wear at camp (Optional) 3 – Socks, wool or synthetic
  • 3 – Sock Liners, tight, thin, synthetic, and worn under socks to prevent blisters (Optional)
  • 1 – Gaiters, waterproof (Optional)
Accessories
  • 1 – Sunglasses or Goggles
  • 1 – Backpack Cover, waterproof (Optional) 1 – Water Bottle (Nalgene, 32 oz)
  • 1 – Water Bottle (Camelbak type, 3 liters)
  • 1 – Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (Optional)
  • 1 – Pee Bottle, to avoid leaving tent at night (recommended)

Stuff Sacks, Dry Bags or Plastic Bags, various sizes, to keep gear dry and separate

Equipment
  • 1 – Sleeping Bag, warm, four seasons
  • 1 – Trekking Poles, collapsible (highly recommended) 1 – Head lamp, with extra batteries
  • 1 – Duffel bag, 50-90L capacity, for porters to carry your equipment
  • 1 – Daypack, 30-35L capacity, for you to carry your personal gear

*May be rented on location

  • Other Toiletries Prescriptions Sunscreen Lip Balm
  • Insect Repellent, containing DEET First Aid Kit
  • Hand Sanitizer Toilet paper
  • Wet Wipes (recommended)
  • Snacks, light-weight, high calorie, high energy (Optional) Electrolytes, powder or tablets (optional)
  • Camera, with extra batteries (Optional)

Paperwork Trip receipt Passport

Visa (Available at JRO Immunization papers Insurance documents

The most common mistake that climbers make is that they over pack and bring way too much gear.

Be selective in what you take with you. Please note that our porters are limited to carrying 33 lbs (15 kgs) of your personal belongings. Everything the porters will carry for you between campsites should be placed into the duffel bag, including the sleeping bag, but it is OK to pack the sleeping bag separately if necessary. If you rent a sleeping bag from us, note that the bag weighs 5 lbs 6 oz. and this weight does count against the 33 lb limit.

Our porters will place your duffel bag and sleeping bag into a large, sturdy, waterproof bag with a roll-top closure.

If you have excess weight, you will be required to hire an additional porter. It is rare to require an extra porter and should happen only in special cases, such as for carrying extensive photography equipment. You are expected to bring everything you need, though we do rent warm sleeping bags and trekking poles on location. All extra luggage, items you will not use on your climb, such safari clothing, gear and equipment, can also be safely stored at the hotel.

Plastic, recyclable water bottles are not allowed in the park, due to past problems with litter. So water should be carried in Nalgene bottles, water bladders, or similar devices. You should be able to carry 3-4 liters of water with you at all times. Please do not bring alcohol. It is illegal to have alcohol in the park. Our staff will not carry it for you. Besides, drinking and high altitude do not mix well.

Checked luggage on airplanes can get lost or delayed on the way to Tanzania. You should prepare for this possibility by wearing or carrying on the items that are essential to your Kilimanjaro climb. While most clothing, gear and equipment can be replaced in Tanzania prior to your climb, there are some things that you should not replace.

Steppe Dogs Adventures recommends that you wear one complete hiking outfit on the plane, including a long sleeve shirt, hiking pants, underwear, socks, and hiking boots. In your carry-on baggage, you should bring your backpack, waterproof jacket and pants, insulated jacket, fleece pants, snacks, toiletries, medications, camera and all paperwork. Airline regulations do not allow you to carry trekking poles on the plane. Make sure you do wear/carry your hiking boots; wearing a different pair of boots on your climb will likely cause blistering.

If your baggage is lost or delayed, please notify us immediately upon your arrival so we can assist you in assembling the necessary gear. We will take you to local, independently owned rental gear shops in Moshi. Note that these shops generally carry second-hand items that may not be up to Western standards. Steppe Dogs Adventures cannot guarantee the fit, quality or functionality of items found in local shops. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to carry on the most important pieces of gear as noted above. We will make reasonable attempts to deliver delayed luggage to you on the mountain. All additional expenses that are incurred by us while resolving lost or delayed luggage problems must be reimbursed locally.

Should I Get a Medical Check Up?

All climbers should have a medical check prior to attempting the mountain. Ask your doctor if high altitude trekking is permissible for your age, fitness level and health condition. Ask if you have any preexisting medical conditions that can cause problems on the climb. Ask if any of your medications can affect altitude acclimatization. Ask whether Diamox can be taken with your existing prescription medicines.

If you have any medical issues that can be make climbing Kilimanjaro more dangerous for you than the average person, we need to be informed of this before you book.

Such medical issues include but are not limited to: spine problems; circulation problems; internal problems such as diabetes, hypoglycemia, intestinal or kidney problems; respiratory issues such as asthma; high or low blood pressure; head trauma or injury; heart conditions; blood disease; hearing or vision impairment; cancer; seizure disorders; joint dislocations; sprains; hernia.

The minimum age for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is 10 years old. There is no maximum age. However, the climb is strenuous and presents health risks, especially to people in high-risk categories. Serious consideration should be given to anyone under the age of 18 and over the age of 60. The climbers on the extreme ends of the age spectrum should definitely consult their doctor.

Our minimum fitness requirements are that each climber must have a resting heart rate of under 100 beats per minute. We will check your resting heart rate before your climb. If your resting heart rate is above 100, you will be required to see a local doctor prior to the climb to get approval. The average resting heart rate is 60-80 beats per minute.

What Are the Entry Requirements for Tanzania?

Foreigners seeking to enter the United Republic of Tanzania should be in possession of a valid passport, at least six months prior to expiration. The passport is to be presented to the Immigration Control Officer at any entry point: border station, airport, and harbour. The passport must be presented along with one of the following:

  • A valid visa
  • Resident permit
  • A pass

A visitor must also present an onward or return ticket together with proof that the visitor has sufficient funds to support himself or herself while in Tanzania.

All foreigners from non-Commonwealth countries are required to have a valid visa unless their countries have agreements with Tanzania under which the visa requirement is waived. Exemptions: Citizens of Commonwealth countries are not required to obtain visas unless they are citizens of the United Kingdom, Canada, Nigeria, or India. The visa is permission granted to a foreigner who intends to travel to Tanzania on business, for a holiday, to study or conduct research, or for other approved activities. When entering Tanzania, the visitor with a visa may then obtain from the immigration control officer, a pass or any other authority to enter the country.

Visas are issued by the following:

  • The office of the Director of Immigration Services, Dar es Salaam, and the office of the Principal Immigration Officer,
  • Tanzanian representatives abroad: Visas can be obtained at Tanzanian Embassies and High Commissions, such as the Tanzanian Embassy of the United States.
  • Entry points to the United Republic of Tanzania: principally Namanga, Tunduma, Sirari, Horohoro, Kigoma port, Dar es Salaam International Airport, Kilimanjaro International Airport, Zanzibar Harbour and Zanzibar
  • Any other gazetted entry

At Kilimanjaro Airport, passengers disembark their flights outside on the tarmac. Upon entering the airport, there is one line for visitors who have their visas and one line for visitors who need to purchase their visas.

To avoid potential loss of passports in the mail or delays in visa processing, Steppe Dogs Adventures recommends that US citizens obtain their visas upon arrival, at Kilimanjaro International Airport. It is an easy and simple process. The cost of a Tanzanian visa for US citizens is $100, payable in US dollars.

Canadian, Australian, British and most European passport holders can also obtain visas upon arrival at the airport. The cost of a Tanzanian visa is $50, payable in US dollars. Confirm with your embassy.

What Vaccinations, Immunizations and Medications Do I Need?

The following information was obtained from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Tanzania.

Recommended Vaccinations and Preventive Medications

The following vaccines may be recommended for your travel to East Africa. Discuss your travel plans and personal health with a health-care provider to determine which vaccines you will need.

  • Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG). Transmission of hepatitis A virus can occur

through direct person-to-person contact; through exposure to contaminated water, ice, or shellfish harvested in contaminated water; or from fruits, vegetables, or other foods that are eaten uncooked and that were contaminated during harvesting or subsequent handling.

  • Hepatitis B, especially if you might be exposed to blood or body fluids (for example, health-care workers), have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment. Hepatitis B vaccine is now recommended for all infants and for children ages 11-12 years who did not receive the series as
  • Malaria: your risk of malaria may be high in all countries in East Africa, including See your health care provider for a prescription antimalarial drug.
  • Meningococcal (meningitis) if you plan to visit countries in this region that experience epidemics of meningococcal disease during December through
  • Rabies, pre-exposure vaccination, if you might have extensive unprotected outdoor exposure in rural areas, such as might occur during camping, hiking, or bicycling, or engaging in certain occupational activities.
  • Typhoid vaccine. Typhoid fever can be contracted through contaminated drinking water or food, or by eating food or drinking beverages that have been handled by a person who is Large outbreaks are most often related to fecal contamination of water supplies or foods sold by street vendors
  • Yellow fever, a viral disease that occurs primarily in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America, is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected The virus is also present in Panama and Trinidad and Tobago. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travellers to endemic areas and may be required to cross certain international borders (For country specific requirements, see Yellow Fever Vaccine Requirements and Information on Malaria Risk and Prophylaxis, by Country.). Vaccination should be given 10 days before travel and at 10-year intervals if there is on-going risk. · As needed, booster doses for tetanus- diphtheria, measles, and a one-time dose of polio vaccine for adults.
Malaria

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. Humans get malaria from the bite of a mosquito infected with the parasite. Your risk of malaria may be high in all countries in East Africa, including cities. All travellers to East Africa, including infants, children, and former residents of East Africa, may be at risk for malaria. Prevent this serious disease by seeing your health care provider for a prescription antimalarial drug and by protecting yourself against mosquito bites.

All travellers should take one of the following drugs:

  • atovaquone/proguanil,
  • doxycycline,
  • mefloquine, or
  • primaquine (in special circumstances).
Yellow Fever

A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Tanzania when arriving from countries where yellow fever is present.

Food and Waterborne Diseases

Make sure your food and drinking water are safe. Food and waterborne diseases are the primary cause of illness in travellers. Travellers’ diarrhoea can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, which are found throughout East Africa and can contaminate food or water. Infections may cause diarrhoea and vomiting (E. coli, Salmonella, cholera, and parasites), fever (typhoid fever and toxoplasmosis), or liver damage (hepatitis).

To stay healthy, do…
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or, if hands are not visibly soiled, use a waterless, alcohol-based hand rub to remove potentially infectious materials from your skin and help prevent disease
  • In developing countries, drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated (bubbly) drinks in cans or Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes. If this is not possible, learn how to make water safer to drink.
  • Take your malaria prevention medication before, during, and after travel, as directed. (See your health care provider for a )
  • To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and do not go barefoot, even on beaches.
  • Always use latex condoms to reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted
  • Protect yourself from mosquito insect bites:
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats when
  • Use insect repellents that contain DEET (N, N-diethylmethyltoluamide).
  • If no screening or air conditioning is available: use a pyrethroid-containing spray in living and sleeping areas during evening and night-time hours; sleep under bed nets, preferably insecticide-treated
Do not…
  • Do not eat food purchased from street vendors or food that is not well cooked to reduce risk of infection (i.e., hepatitis A and typhoid fever).
  • Do not drink beverages with
  • Avoid dairy products, unless you know they have been
  • Do not swim in fresh water to avoid exposure to certain water-borne diseases such as
  • Do not handle animals, especially monkeys, dogs, and cats, to avoid bites and serious diseases (including rabies and plague). Consider pre-exposure rabies vaccination if you might have extensive unprotected outdoor exposure in rural
  • Do not share needles for tattoos, body piercing or injections to prevent infections such as HIV and hepatitis
  • Avoid poultry farms, bird markets, and other places where live poultry is raised or

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is required to participate on this trip.

Trip deposits are non-refundable and balance payments are only partially refundable. Therefore, it is prudent for you to protect your investment against trip cancellation, interruption, delays and unforeseeable expenses. Standard travel insurance provides coverage for:

  • Trip cancellation
  • Trip interruption
  • Missed connection
  • Travel delay
  • Baggage delay and personal items lost
  • Hurricane and weather
  • Employment layoff
  • Pre-existing medical conditions
  • Emergency medical
  • Medical evacuation and repatriation
  • Financial default
  • Terrorism

At a minimum, the insurance should protect you against trip cancellation and trip interruption, should you need to cancel your trip due to circumstances such as training injuries or sickness or emergencies. Ideally, insurance should cover high altitude trekking (not to be confused with “mountaineering” or “mountain climbing” which most insurance will not cover) and all medical and repatriation costs.

For our customers residing in the USA, we recommend that you obtain Travel Guard’s Silver, Gold or Platinum plans, which provide coverage for high altitude trekking, trip cancellation, interruption and delay; lost, stolen and damaged baggage; medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation; and luggage delay, for a low cost.

Climbers are strongly advised to obtain travel insurance immediately after booking their trip. Travel Guard insurance covers trip cancellation due to pre-existing conditions only when insurance is purchased within 15 days of booking. Clients must be able to provide proof of insurance to staff upon request. Clients who fail to obtain travel insurance will not be allowed to climb.