Climb Kili
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The premier trekking company for Mount Kilimanjaro Climbs and Safari’s, our guides have been assisting adventurers from all over the world reach the Rooftop of Africa for nearly three decades. View hundred more reviews on our TripAdvisor page
Reviews 51
Alex T.
Aug 16,2024ClimbKili totally nailed our Kilimanjaro trek! Everything was perfectly planned, the guides were fantastic, and the food was way better than expected. Their spot-on itinerary got every single one of us to the summit. Book with these guys, no regrets!
Mike Hayes
Jun 25,2024My wife and I were looking for an adventure we could do together that would push us physically, but also not be too dangerous. After talking back and forth with Tiffany at ClimbKili, we knew this was our trip. My wife runs a small business so didn’t want to be gone too long. After discussing this, our fitness levels, and previous hiking experience with her, Tiffany helped us decide to try the Machame route in 6 days. Tiffany actually recommended 7 days but we thought we’d push for 6 so we could also fit in the quick safari since it was our first time to Africa. Long story short, we made it and enjoyed a trip of a lifetime! I can’t thank the ClimbKili team enough. EVERYONE from our first contact in Tiffany, to our driver Emanuel who picked us up at the airport, to Ricky who met us at the hotel, to our incredible crew led by our head guide Amani who safely escorted us to our goal of 19,341 feet and back down safely, all the while feeding us great meals every single day and taking care of our every need, was incredibly professional and helpful. If you’re even thinking about climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, just do it! And ClimbKili is the team to get you there. Oh, and if you have the time, I’d recommend the same thing Tiffany did and attempt it in at least 7 days instead of 6. We’re both in pretty good shape but one more day would have made it even more enjoyable, in my opinion. THANK YOU AGAIN, CLIMBKILI TEAM!!! -Mike and Tanis
Kam
Jun 23,2024I had an incredible experience with Climb Kili, this is my second time climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with them. The first time I completed the 8 day Lemosho route (Oct 2023), this time I completed the 7 day Machame route (June 2024). When I booked the Machame routed I contacted Tiffany who was very helpful, the one request I made was if possible I would like the same guides/team as my previous climb. Around 6 weeks before my 2nd climb I found out I had asthma, my doctor gave me the all clear to climb so I then contacted Tiffany to inform her about the change to my medical history. On the Machame route, Emanuel (Head guide), Singer (assistant guide), Juve, Magambo (cook), Ibrahim & Ali where all members of the climb Kili team who were part of my first climb last October, a number of them remembered me. On the way up to Lava tower Singer & I were reminiscing about the last trip and recalling funny things that had been said. From the start of the climb the guides where aware I had asthma and they knew where to find my asthma inhalers in my day pack. On both climbs the head guide checked the whole groups oxygen levels regularly and asked how everyone was feeling. I also knew that I didn’t have to wait for any of the guides to ask me how I was feeling, if I felt unwell or anything I could go to them. On summit night I was carrying my day pack and just over half way up I felt it was starting to slow me down so I mentioned to Emanuel that when we stop for the next short break I was planning to give up/him my day pack, he took the day pack from me straight way, he didn’t let me wait until our next stop. On both climbs I felt safe and well taken care of. All the climb Kili staff were friendly, Magambo’s a great cook. When I got down to the bottom this times, I thought to myself when can I do this again. I had such and enjoyable experience, the climb was by no means easy but I enjoyed the challenge of challenging myself and being cut off from everything else for 7 days. Maybe at some point I will do it again but I need to cross a few other things off my wish list first, if I do decide to do this again I will be contacting Tiffany to do it again with the great team at Climb Kili.
Zuz R
Feb 26,2024From start to finish, my interactions with Climb Kili were always positive and helpful. Tiffany was quick to reply with answers to my questions. We did the eight day Lemosho trek to increase our chances of a successful summit and everyone did! Our guide, Manny, was very good at communicating to us exactly what to expect and how to be fully prepared. In Manny We Trust became our motto when it came down to small things that made a big difference such as what kind of clothing to wear each day to recommending spikes on our shoes for certain sections of the climb. The support staff was friendly and helpful and they worked so hard to make sure we had the experience of a lifetime.
Ethan Way
Feb 20,2024I climbed with ClimbKili in October 2023. It was one of the best experiences of my life. Summiting Kilimanjaro was a goal of mine for many years. I finally made a go of it at age 51. ClimbKili was selected due to their online reviews. And I could not have been more pleased with the whole operation. Tiffany handled all of the logistics and answered all of my questions. Amani was our guide and he and his team were the best. The food was fantastic. There is a stray negative review on this site about KPAP. That’s a bogus claim. The porters at ClimbKili were among the best equipped on the mountain.
JJ
Dec 16,2023My group nearly booked with this company for a trip to Kilimanjaro. However, we found out that they are being dishonest on their website claiming to be a partner of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) which is a non-profit organization that certifies companies for ethical treatment of their mountain crew and porters. Not only do they falsely claim this on their website but they have created a clone website of KPAP, that adds their company to the list while removing other certified companies. How can you trust this company with thousands of dollars and your life, when they are dishonest.
David Myers
Oct 19,2023We had an amazing time climbing Kilimanjaro, summiting the day before new years. We all made it to the top. It sure helps to have a whole crew dedicated to helping us to the top. Our group consisted of me, my wife, and our two sons who were 15 and 12. Not many 12 year olds were on the mountain (maybe one that i saw) but this kid has always been a mountain goat, so i was hopeful. We had a few hours of hiking in the rain, otherwise, pretty great weather (though we had rain while in the tent). Sometimes you want to go faster at the get go, but the guides would slow us down as it is a LONG climb. The summit day is definitely the longest, but it is one of the most rewarding. The night before we summited, I could defiantly tell our bodies (especially mine) did not want to hang out long above 16-17000 feet. We had a private bathroom (which the climbkili crew brought for us which was cool). A full time chef and even a full time waiter was unexpected. Anyways, I followed the typical acetyizolamide tricks and followed my buddies advice to bring the big Nalgene as a pee bottle (like the 40 or 48 ounce) because you are peeing alot and you don't want to mistake which bottle to use in the night to hydrate. I for sure would go with this company again. Loved our fun guides. There whole goal was to get us to the top and keep us safe. I still whatsapp with our head guide and assistant head guide. We did the 6 day because of time constraints but I'd do the 6 day again.
Thomas Inman
Oct 03,2023Three of us - longtime climbing/hiking friends - did the Lemosho route with ClimbKili. We researched several different guide companies beforehand and picked ClimbKili because of their reputation, flexibility, and more "localized" operations. They did not disappoint! Our guides, James and Merkson, were outstanding, providing expert services with an excellent combination of professionalism and friendliness. It was also apparent to us - while encountering other groups on the mountain - that guides with other services treated them with respect, so their reputation must be well-deserved. The 8-day Lemosho route was beautiful and varied, and I'd recommend it to anyone. James and Merkson had tons of information about the area, as well as other routes on the mountain. We enjoyed our conversations and it really enhanced the experience. The support team was also excellent, and were very friendly and helpful. We especially enjoyed the food, which was varied and excellent. I have no idea how they can cook such good meals in those conditions, but we feasted like kings. For me, the experience was so good that I'd break my "no repeat summits" rule and happily go again, although I'd pick different route just for the variability. But I loved the Lemosho route as a first-timer. We were super happy with ClimbKili, and they were nowhere close to the price of the more expensive providers. Excellent value!
Mike Connelly
Aug 22,2023Amazing Amazing Amazing! Such a professional outfit, our group was 40 people including 23 kids, they were obsoletely incredible! We had 2 birthdays and the entire staff sang and danced for each of our birthdays. Food was pretty good and the staff ensured the kids kept eating and drinking to combat altitude sickness. If you are considering Kilimanjaro Climb Kili was phenomenal!
Rakesh Patel
Aug 20,2023We had a great team with Climb Kili. Our guides Vedasto, Steve and Tumaini were very professional and provided the best guidance and the crew was amazing and willing to help each and every step. These guys knew how to time everything perfectly and there was never a boring or dull moment. They gave me enough time when I needed it, yet they motivated me when I needed a pick-me-up. A special shout-out to Dale who always greeted us with a smile at every camp and each morning with our tea. I couldn't believe how well we ate at these altitudes. I've never eaten so well on a backpacking trip before. On a side note, while other companies set their base camp at Barafu Camp, Climb Kili has their base camp at Kosovo Camp, which allows a greater chance of summiting because we climbed an additional rocky terrain for an hour before setting up base camp. Otherwise, we would've had to do that extra terrain on summit night. We reached the summit perfectly timed for the sunrise. Tiffany helped us organize the trip and answered each question we had in a timely manner, whether through email or phone call. From the moment I arrived at the airport until the last day everyone was very accomodating. The Summit Lodge staff was very friendly and the stay was comfortable. Book your trip with Climb Kili. I never felt like Climb Kili left me to my own means at any time, before, during or after the trip. I have no regrets.
Linda C
Aug 18,2023Climbing Kili requires an amazing support group - and that's what Climb Kili provides you. We were 3 women, ages 58 through 61, with very little camping and/or mountain climbing experience. But between our determination and Climb Kili's great staff, we all made it to the summit! With Minja as the Head Guide, the entire team encouraged us, guided us through the more rocky climbs, prodded us through the summit push and didn't let us even think of giving up. Throughout the climb, they fed us plenty of good food, monitored our heart rate and oxygen levels and provided the most comfort possible in the camps (latrine tent, washing water, hot ginger tea, extra snacks, etc.) Each day started with coffee or tea brought to our sleeping bags. We felt supported every step of the way and we were all thrilled to summit! Meanwhile, we saw a few others who were leaving the mountain, without summiting. We chose the longest available route, to allow extra time to acclimate and increase our likelihood of summiting. We compared several tour operaters during the planning stage and we are very happy we chose Climb Kili. Highly recommended!!
William Blakeney
Jul 29,2023From beginning to end, Climb Kili provided an outstanding trip for me and my two sons. The initial booking and payment with Tiffany was easy, organized, and efficient and we were provided with all the info needed for 8 days on the trail. Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro airport, our driver was waiting and delivered us to our hotel where Rose and her staff took over to make sure all our needs were taken care of. Out on the mountain our guides, Meckson, Daniel, and Steven, were very competent, knowledgeable, friendly, and funny. The entire support crew was excellent in making sure we were all well-fed and comfortable as possible. The whole group was just a joy to be around. Luckily, even our other three trekking companions became good friends along the way. We taught them Cribbage and spent most afternoons playing and talking over world affairs. The true test came on Summit Day when our trusty leaders paced us to the top and a successful climb for all. I highly recommend Clim Kili and their help in achieving my 20 year old dream nurtured since the day my boys were born.
KP
Jul 13,2023What an amazing trip! It was a once in a lifetime trip and would not have been possible without the amazing guidance of our lead guide Manny and assistant guides Paul, Saddam and Joshua. They made us feel comfortable and safe for all, and especially during the hard parts of the trek. It’s a physically demanding trip! So mentally and physically prepare for that. Highly recommend Climb Kili given - guides / crew, positive and supportive attitude - would have been impossible without them! - permit to camp closest to summit (saves a steep climb during nighttime) - toilets at camp sites - responsiveness
Toby Koenig
Jun 25,2023My partner and I recently embarked on the adventure of a lifetime with Climb Kili. We couldn't be more thrilled to share our exceptional experiences and the outstanding services they provided throughout our journey. From the mesmerizing Serengeti Safari to the triumphant summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, and the luxurious stay at the brand new all-inclusive Riu Jambo in Zanzibar, every aspect of our trekking experience was nothing short of perfection. Serengeti Safari: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our Serengeti Safari surpassed all expectations! After being flown in over the Serengeti, we were collected by our expert guide Emanuel who ensured that every moment was filled with awe-inspiring encounters and breathtaking sights. Each day’s drive was meticulously planned, allowing us to witness the captivating wildlife in their natural habitat. Our three-day itinerary consisted of Serengeti National Park > Ngorogoro Crater > Tarangire National Park which allowed us to capture every animal on our rather long list. From the majesty of the roaming elephants, spending time amongst multiple prides, even catching a leopard with a recent successful hunt – each sighting left us in absolute wonder. The knowledge and passion of our guide (particularly the birds!) truly enhanced our understanding and appreciation of this incredible ecosystem. Mount Kilimanjaro Summit: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Scaling the magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro was an unforgettable achievement, made possible by the exceptional support and guidance provided. From the moment we set foot on the mountain, their team of experienced and encouraging guides ensured our safety and comfort throughout the challenging trek. Their in-depth knowledge of the terrain, combined with their unwavering encouragement (pole pole!), propelled us forward towards our ultimate goal. We managed to reach the summit just on sunrise and had the incredibly fortunate luck of getting the top all to ourselves courtesy of our two incredible guides and a summit porter for enhanced safety. Reaching the summit was an indescribable feeling of triumph, and we owe it all to the incredible expertise and motivation of our guides. A special mention goes to our wonderful team of experienced porters, chef, “internet engineer” and camp staff who consistently went above and beyond to always ensure our well-being and safety. Riu Jambo, Zanzibar: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Following our incredible adventures, we were delighted to indulge in the luxurious comfort of the all-inclusive resort also arranged by Climb Kili. The resort surpassed our expectations with its stunning architecture, lavish amenities, and impeccable service. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. The staff catered to our every need, ensuring that our stay was both relaxing and unforgettable – including organising exclusive dinners. Whether it was lounging by the sparkling pools, enjoying meals at the multiple available restaurants, and rejuvenating at the spa, every aspect of our stay was meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort and luxury. Overall, our trekking experience with Climb Kili was beyond exceptional. Their attention to detail, commitment to customer satisfaction, and passion for creating unforgettable adventures set them apart from the rest. With the organisation of all hotel bookings, hotel transfers, domestic flights to Serengeti & Zanzibar, guide briefings - we didn't have to lift a finger from the get go. We wholeheartedly recommend this group to anyone seeking an unforgettable journey where every moment is crafted to perfection. We are forever grateful for the memories we made and the exceptional service we received. Thank you Climb Kili for the experience of a lifetime! Warm regards, Jourdin & Toby
Kim Tarnopolski
Apr 03,2023We hired Climb Kili for a 3-day safari, 8-day Lemosho hike up Mt. Kilimanjaro, and they arranged a tour guide for us in Zanzibar. From start to finish, this company has been professional and responsive. Tiffany answered all our pre-trip questions quickly and was available for help throughout our trip. We had challenges getting to Tanzania that included a missed connection, an overnight in JFK and Zanzibar, and delayed luggage. We missed half of our safari and had to make accommodations to meet our friend in one of the national parks. Tiffany acted quickly, arranged a driver, and made sure we got to our safari as quickly as possible. We had a sleeping bag stolen from our luggage. Tiffany made sure a sleeping bag was delivered the morning of the hike. She “had our back” the entire time we were in Tanzania which was comforting. She is also helping us with the travel insurance claim documentation. Each driver, guide, and support staff were timely and friendly. We had a wonderful experience during our Mt. Kilimanjaro hike. James and Mackson were our guides. They are brothers who have been leading groups up the mountain for 30 years. They were very knowledgeable, friendly, accommodating, and easy to get along with. We opted for a private group with just the three of us. That turned out to be a good decision as they quickly saw that we were strong hikers and adjusted our pace accordingly. They also adjusted our start time each day to get our hike in before the rain started in the early afternoons. Our porter crew of 13 would always have our camp set up when we arrived. With Climb Kili’s long standing in the community, we seemed to get the best campsites every day. Alex, our cook, did a fantastic job preparing our meals each day. He accommodated our vegetarian and limited meat preferences. A variety of hot vegetable soups were served at lunch and dinner. The meals were high in carbs since you burn so many calories during the hike. Fruit, vegetables, pasta, rice, pizza, fried chicken were staples. Breakfast was oatmeal, eggs, toast, crepes, and fruit. Snack was popcorn, nuts, and biscuit cookies. Coffee and tea were served in your tent each morning. Every day when we arrived at camp, Bacari would clean our shoes and gaiters. This was a nice treat which we learned did not happen with other companies. Bacari’s big personality made our arrival each day fun. Seahko (sp??) was our personal attendant and didn’t miss a beat. He filled our water bottles, served our meals, brought us hot water for cleaning our hands in the morning, and was observant and proactive when he noticed one of us struggling with packing up or getting our gear on. He was kind and caring and made us feel very taken care of at camp. Bryan made sure our tents were clean and properly positioned. Steven was our summit porter and was instrumental in making sure we made it to the top. The three of us each made it to the summit. As a group of three women, we felt safe and taken care of the entire trip. The Climb Kili crew are experts and made our trip very memorable. I highly recommend them for any activity you are interested in.
Nancy Hagood
Mar 13,2023There are not enough positive things to say about our Climb Kili experience. Our guides, James and Evans, were the absolute BEST!!! They were extremely knowledgeable, professional, and most of all, just a ton of fun to hike with every day. They thought through every detail and paced us perfectly throughout the hike. The entire team of porters was incredible, and Climb Kili was particularly unique in how well they cared for the porters and incorporated them into the full team. Summiting Kilimanjaro is a truly spectator experience, and I am so grateful to have done it with the Climb Kili team.
Sam Maguire Boyle
Feb 24,2023The Climb Kili Team's support made my experience great in support me and my uncle in reaching Uhuru and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
Porschephile
Feb 10,2023Fantastic experience with a very professional expedition company. I've done high altitude trek in Himalays for comparison, and other endurance stuff... if I returned to Kilimanjaro I would use these guys again in a heartbeat. No reason to look any further! Specific comments - Excellent guides. Kind knowledgeable and supportive. Couldn’t be better. My son (13) had to turn back a few hours into the final summit. I was sufficiently confident with guides' care of him to continue on to the summit myself, knowing he'd be safe. Excellent logistics. Transfers to hotel, coordination of bags and gear etc. Importantly, this is a 'real company' eg collect from airport in their vehicle. Many agencies just farm the real work out to local providers. Excellent ‘Welcome pack’ - training guide, pack list, how to prepare etc. Frankly the best I’ve seen Excellent food under the conditions - fresh, varied, healthy. The chef even made two birthday cakes at altitude... I don’t know how! Excellent living conditions under the circumstances. Eg Mountain Hardware tents, private toilets, comfortable dining tent & chairs. Given that this is still an expedition.... we were really well looked after. My only (minor) criticism is that rental gear wasn't amazing. Specifically: gaiters and Thermarest mats were fine but poles were worn and one kept slipping. Those who rented sleeping bags said not warm enough. Looking at reviews this seems to be a common challenge among all local companies as stuff wears out pretty quickly. It's a good reminder to rather provide own gear especially where it really matters.
Kyle
Feb 10,2023After contacting several Kilimanjaro tour operators, I committed to Climb Kili based on two reasons. Firstly, their lifetime deposit. And secondly, The speedy response time and detailed nature of Tiffany's responses. From arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport and being met by wonderful Climb Kili driver Simon, to the fantastic staff at Summit Lodge, everything was prepared, ready and on time. It truly is a well-oiled machine which allows you to focus on the climb, everything else is taken care of. The morning of the climb, the Summit Lodge provide a buffet breakfast from 6 am, so if you want to fuel up, you have ample opportunities to do so. This morning I met our two Climb Kili guides, James (007) and Mackson, and I couldn’t imagine my Kili journey without them. They were both incredibly knowledgeable not only about the mountain but also about the very ground that we walked on, the plant life we were surrounded by and the animals we shared this path with. We were later joined by a third guide, Minja (Mr. 100%). They lead by example and take their profession and mission to get you to the summit incredibly seriously but they also balance it out with a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful sense of humour. Their extended team of porters truly are outstanding not only at their jobs but also as people, and each one absolutely contributes to your experience, once again, I couldn’t imagine my Kili journey without any of them. They truly are real life superheroes. I had some complications on summit night and had to turn around after around 10 minutes. However, 5 hours later, a porter/guide named Amani knocked on my tent and asked if I wanted to go down to Mweka Camp or go to summit. I decided to try to summit again. 5 hours later, Amani and myself reached the summit. Amani absolutely got me to the summit with his expertise, patience and compassion. A unique experience arriving at the summit at 11:30 am with nobody else around (and it wasn't freezing). However, even if I wouldn’t have summited, this company, the crew, the guides and the experience still would have received 5 stars. For me, it wasn’t ever about the summit, it was always about who this climb was shared with and the laughs that we had. And who knows, maybe sometime in the future, Kilimanjaro may call again, and if it does, I’ll be sure to send Tiffany a message. And some final bits of advice: There is a lot of downtime on Kilimanjaro, so take a pack of cards. Take plenty of treats. Share them with your fellow climbers, your Climb Kili team and guides. Take plenty! Don't attempt to blow up an air mattress at 15,000 feet. You will regret it. And finally, when you tip your guides and porters at the end of the journey, if you have the means, double it. Also, if you can share any of your equipment with your guides and porters along the way or at the end, then do.
The most reviewed Kili company on TripAdvisor, , , TZ
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Mary Anne C
Dec 03,2024After much research into the numerous companies guiding folks to the summit of Kilimanjaro, I chose to explore my options with Climb Kili. I wanted a company that was Tanzanian, and that treated their porters with the dignity outlined by KPAP. I also wanted a company that had been in business for a couple decades, and had one of the highest success rates for their clients. ClimbKili meets all those requirements and more. It is difficult to keep my review short, because there were so many instances in which Climb Kili went above and beyond expectations to accommodate us, but I will try to limit my praises in order to keep this review manageable. First, had originally spoken with Tiffany, (via numerous exchanges) seven years ago, in 2017, because I planned to summit the morning of my 60th Birthday. Unfortunately, I had to cancel, but my deposit remained with the company. Jump to 2024, I reached out again to Tiffany, she immediately replied(as she always does!) She assured me that my deposit was still valid and worked with me to find the best group to join as a solo climber. Second, I had scheduled to join a 3 day safari, prior to my 8 day Lemosho climb. However, on the first day of the safari, it became clear that I’d picked up a flu bug of some sort on the flight to Africa, and it would be prudent to get back to the hotel ASAP to recover for the upcoming climb. So, at no charge to me, ClimbKili arranged for a driver to make the 3 hour journey to reach our safari location, and then return me to the hotel. They also provided an escort to walk me to a local pharmacy for cough medicine, as well as find an adapter for my phone. Rickson(Tanzanian contact) even offered to reschedule my climb, if I wanted a few more days to recover. And all of this was PRIOR to starting the climb itself. The climb: I summited Mt Kilimanjaro on September 20, 2024. My group consisted of me(66, with the flu), my son(36), another fellow(69) and his female friend(70). I cannot say enough about the positive energy and dedication to our well-being the entire support team demonstrated. Each team member took responsibility for making this trip the best it could be for us. Ibrahim, our tent master, secured the tents tightly each night so there was never any wind flap or rain infiltration. (not something I have been able to achieve on my own backpacking trips!) Mogambo, our cook, provided a variety of good food- always more than we could consume. Ally, in charge of the latrine, kept everything clean, secure and well stocked…and had the most beautiful singing voice! Juvenal, our waiter, greeted us gently each morning, serving coffee, tea or cocoa to our tents as we prepared for the day. As for our guides, I could not have asked for anyone more knowledgeable than Manny(19 years on the mountain) and Singa(assistant guide). Manny and Singa compassionately accommodated our different needs and levels of fitness, so as to assure we all summited as safely as possible. A few times during that cold, dark difficult night climb to the summit, I could hear Manny very quietly singing hymns in Swahili and English. I don’t believe the others in the groups heard him, but for me, it was both comforting and encouraging on that long final ascent to the summit. I would strongly encourage anyone considering the challenge of Kilimanjaro, to go with Climb Kili. You will not be disappointed.