the saddle on grand traverse route

8 Best Reasons to Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest freestanding mountain, is a dream come true for many adventures–but it’s by no means a walk in the park. However, with diligent training, the right equipment and the support of the mountain’s most experienced guides, Kili is an excellent choice for nearly anyone seeking to reach new heights! Here…

kilimanjaro trekking gear recommendations

From Head to Toe: 15 Kilimanjaro Gear Recommendations from Thomson Staff

  Wondering where to start when you’re gearing up for Kilimanjaro? Our trekking experts have built a list of our top gear recommendations for you. From boots to bags, sunglasses and gaiters, consider this a starting point as you prepare for your Kili adventure!   HEADWEAR Sunglasses Any polarized wrap-around sunglasses with 100% UV protection…

trekkers ascending to kibo peak

20+ Swahili Words and Phrases You Should Know to Trek Kilimanjaro

  Jambo! Trekking Kilimanjaro is a multi-disciplinary adventure. You need strong legs, formidable resolve and…an elementary proficiency in the local language? While knowing the language is far from mandatory, even a sprinkling of Swahili will go a long way in your quest to Kili’s peak. Your conversations on the mountain will be richer and more…

lisa at karanga camp with kibo in the distance

What is Camp Life Like on Kilimanjaro?

  When you’re trail-weary after hours of trekking Mt. Kilimanjaro, there’s no better sight than the scattered orange tents of a Thomson camp in the distance. Every day of hiking ends here, at your home away from home. Combining top-notch service with the highest standards of mountainside comfort, it’s your reward for a job well…

hiking near kilimanjaro summit

Why Safety Matters on Kilimanjaro

  Climbing Kilimanjaro may be the toughest thing you ever do. Extreme altitude, tough weather and taxing physical demands create a trifecta of challenges that can pose serious health risks to the unprepared. But with smart planning and adequate safety precautions, you can minimize those risks and join the thousands of trekkers who experience the…

thomson trekkers at kilimanjaro summit

10 Things to Get Right Before Climbing Kilimanjaro

  Muscle and willpower will take you far on a Mt. Kilimanjaro trek. But a good plan? That’ll get you the rest of the way! In fact, the most critical decisions you make in your quest to Uhuru Peak occur long before you take your first step. Here are 10 things you need to get…

lion cubs seen on safari

7 Reasons to Go On a Tanzanian Safari After Your Kili Trek

  Congrats, you’ve climbed Kilimanjaro! You’ve sweated, strained and sacrificed on your quest to the Roof of Africa. You’ve accomplished something incredible. But what’s next? Your flight home? Before you go, make more of your time in Tanzania with a post-trek safari. Track lions across the Serengeti, count giraffes from a hot-air balloon and share…

thomson staffer brittany at summit of mount kilimanjaro

Q&A: Thomson Staffer Brittany Talks Kilimanjaro Trekking and Zanzibar Relaxation

  Her muscles ached. The frigid air stung. Huffing and red-faced, Thomson staffer Brittany trekked toward the summit anyway, battling Kilimanjaro’s whistling winds and stirring dust. The oxygen thinned but Brittany remained strong, stronger than she could’ve imagined a few years ago, when she believed she would never be capable of high-altitude climbing. For so…

water bottles vs hydration bladder for kilimanjaro

Water Bottles vs Hydration Bladders: Pros and Cons

Water is heavy. It sloshes around. How you store it during your Kili trek can make for a noticeably different experience. Kili trekkers usually opt for one of two setups when it comes to hydration transportation: 1) 4 Nalgene water bottles, or 2) 1 hydration bladder and 3 Nalgene bottles. Which setup is best for…

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