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FAQs
General Travel and Trip Info
What is included in the package price?
For a detailed list, please see the specific itinerary you have in mind on our Trips. In general, each package includes transportation to/from the airport, lodging, and breakfast while in Arusha. On Kilimanjaro, tents, meals, park fees, transportation and crew wages are included. On safari, lodging, meals, park fees, 4wd land cruiser, and driver/guide wages are included.
Does Ramblin’ Travel offer private trips?
Yes, of course. Please send us a message and let us know what you have in mind.
What airport should I fly into?
Kilimanjaro International Airport, JRO
Will Ramblin’ Travel help me book my flight to Tanzania?
Sorry but no. Airfare is a world of its own and we do not claim to be airfare experts. Delta offers smooth and easy flights from the U.S. to Amsterdam, and then to Arusha. There are cheaper options if you are willing to research further online, have longer travel times, and connect in other countries. Which flight you choose is totally up to your personal preferences. Ramblin’ Travel is not responsible for delays or cancellations due to issues with air travel.
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Do I need a passport and tourist visa to enter Tanzania?
Yes. Your passport must have at least one blank page and be valid for at least 6 months after your trip. On the airplane, you will also be given a declarations card to fill out. You can get a tourist visa upon arrival. It is $100 cash.
We’re here to help you get the most out of your Africa trip experience. Here are a few of our favorite resources as we plan your upcoming African adventure.
Packing List
Give us a shout and we’ll send your way!
Kilimanjaro Training Tips
Give us a shout and we’ll send your way!
Do I need any vaccinations or medications to travel to Tanzania?
Ramblin’ Travel strongly recommends that you schedule a doctor’s appointment to discuss international travel and altitude issues. You should discuss your general health and any personal specifics, altitude, malaria, and yellow fever. It is also a good idea to discuss Typhoid, Hep A, Hep B, and Tetanus. If you are flying from the U.S. and only to Tanzania, then you are not required to have a yellow fever vaccination certificate. You can also find information from the CDC website
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Make sure your policy covers you for trekking up to 5895 meters. World Nomads coverage is good for trekking up to 6000 meters. At the least, your policy should cover accidental/emergency expenses and evacuation.
Do I have to arrange my own transportation from/to the airport?
Absolutely not. Just share your flight arrival and departure times with us. We will arrange your transportation beforehand and greet you upon your arrival.
What type of hotels will I be staying at in Arusha?
Generally, our guests will stay at the Mount Meru Hotel and similar while in Arusha. Please send us a message if you have specific accommodation requests.
Will I be expected to share a hotel room and a tent?
All prices are quoted assuming double occupancy. There is a small additional charge if you prefer single accommodation.
Can special diets and dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, of course. Please message us directly (link to Contact Us) to inform us of your dietary restrictions.
Can I drink the tap water while in town?
RT strongly recommends you drink only bottled water while in town and on safari.
What opportunities are there to buy souvenirs?
Yes, plenty. In Arusha, the Maasai market has all kinds of souvenirs. Bring your bargaining skills and a friendly smile. Our favorite item is Tanzanite Please send us a message if you are interested in Tanzanite.
Climbing Kilimanjaro
When is the best time to go?
There are two main climbing seasons; January to early March and late June to early October.
How many days does the climb take?
Ramblin’ Travel recommends at least 7 or 8 days. The secret to climbing Kilimanjaro is allowing your body ample time to acclimate. With the exception of summit day, the distance hiked and elevation gained per day is not generally an issue for climbers. The main reason for failing to reach the summit is gaining too much elevation too quickly. We believe you should give yourself the best chance to reach the summit and feel well while doing it. If you need to arrange a shorter climb, then please send us a message (link to Contact Us).
What kind of trail conditions should I expect on Kilimanjaro?
Expect pretty much everything; hot, cold, sun, rain, snow, fog, mud, dust, ice, flat, steep, smooth, rough.
Is it dangerous?
You will be climbing higher than any point in the lower 48 states. Climbing at altitude does pose some risk, but most of the risk is manageable. Trust your guide’s recommendations, and be willing to hike down if the symptoms of altitude sickness become an issue. “Getting to the top is optional. Getting down is mandatory.” Ed Viesturs
What should I wear on my climb and what gear should I bring?
The key is layering. When hiking, synthetic fabrics are far better than cotton. Contact us (link to Contact Us) for a packing list and recommended gear items.
What gear is provided?
A tent and foam sleeping mat will be provided. (An additional, inflatable sleeping pad will add to greatly to the warmth and comfort.) All the cooking and dining equipment is provided, including a dining tent and chairs.
Can I rent gear?
Some gear is available to rent if necessary. Please send us a message to ask about specific items.
Should I bring trekking poles?
Yes. They are very strongly recommended.
What kind of boots should I wear?
Your boots must be broken in and fit well! Blisters can ruin anyone’s enthusiasm. When considering which boots are best for you consider warmth, waterproofness, ankle support, and weight.
How much weight will I need to carry while trekking?
You will only carry your daypack with what you will need inbetween camps. Porters will carry the majority of your personal gear and all the group gear. Porters carry their own gear plus a maximum of 15 kgs (33 lbs). Please limit your duffel bag to 15 kgs or less.
Can I drink the water while on Kilimanjaro?
All the water you are given on Kilimanjaro will have been boiled. If you would like an extra layer of protection, then feel free to bring purification tablets, drops or filtered bottle.