Are Any Vaccinations Mandatory?

While no vaccinations are officially required to climb Kilimanjaro itself, Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory if you are arriving from a country classified as a Yellow Fever risk zone.

Yellow Fever: What You Need to Know

• You must show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination if:
• You’re arriving from a high-risk country, or
• You’ve transited for more than 12 hours through such a country

Important: Even if you don’t leave the airport, a long layover could require proof of vaccination.

You must receive the vaccine at least 10 days before traveling to Tanzania. This gives your body time to build immunity and recover from side effects. If you’re flying directly from Europe or the U.S., you do not need this certificate.

Yellow Fever Risk Zone Countries Include:

Angola, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sudan, and many others in West, Central, and East Africa.

Recommended Vaccinations for Kilimanjaro

While not mandatory, several vaccines are strongly recommended when traveling in Tanzania. Always consult your healthcare provider about your personal health risks.

Routine Vaccines

Make sure you’re up to date on routine immunizations, including:

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio
• Chickenpox
• Seasonal Flu

Hepatitis A & B

• Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food or water.
• Hepatitis B is transmitted through body fluids. It’s wise to get this if you’re in healthcare or may need medical attention in remote areas.

Typhoid

Typhoid can spread through unhygienic food and water. You’re at higher risk if you eat street food, raw vegetables, or stay in rural areas.

Tetanus

Cuts or scrapes can cause tetanus infection, especially in outdoor environments. Ensure your tetanus shot is updated every 10 years.

Rabies

Although the risk is low for most climbers, rabies is spread through animal bites, especially from stray dogs. Consider this vaccine if you’re spending time in rural areas before or after your climb.

Cholera

If you’re visiting areas with poor sanitation or active outbreaks, a cholera vaccine may be advised. Speak with your doctor about current risks.

Malaria and How to Prevent It

Malaria is a serious concern in Tanzania, but the risk on Kilimanjaro is low due to the high altitude. However, you’ll likely stay in Moshi or Arusha, where malaria is more common.

Malaria Prevention Tips:

• Take anti-malarial medication as prescribed (e.g., Malarone)
• Wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings
• Use mosquito repellents with DEET
• Sleep under a mosquito net
• Avoid outdoor activities from dusk to dawn

• Note: The anti-malarial Larium is not recommended as it can cause side effects similar to altitude sickness.

Common Travel Illnesses: Diarrhea & Food Hygiene

Travelers often experience intestinal issues in East Africa. These are usually caused by poor food hygiene or unsafe drinking water.

Tips to Avoid Stomach Illness:

• Drink only purified or bottled water
• Avoid ice unless you’re sure it’s made from clean water
• Don’t eat unpeeled fruit or raw vegetables
• Wash hands or use antibacterial gel before meals
• Avoid undercooked meat
• During your Kilimanjaro climb, our team provides purified drinking water and ensures meals are prepared safely.

Medications to Bring

• Speak to your doctor about bringing the right travel medications. We recommend:
• Anti-malarials
• Ciprofloxacin or similar for bacterial diarrhea
• Diamox (if used to prevent altitude sickness)
• Ibuprofen or other pain relief
• Any personal prescription medications

Before your trip, we ask all climbers to complete a medical questionnaire and recommend a full check-up with your doctor.

Although climbing Kilimanjaro is safe for most healthy travelers, staying updated with the right vaccinations and medications is essential. Not only does this protect your health, but it also prevents disruptions to your journey.

If you’re unsure about anything, contact your travel health specialist early. That way, you’ll be fully prepared well before your flight.