Best Kilimanjaro Tour Operators

XPATS International Travel, Summits Africa, Climbing Kilimanjaro, Team Kilimanjaro, Altezza Travel and Ultimate Kilimanjaro (UK) are 6 best Kilimanjaro local tour operators and international travel agencies for 2023 to 2024, with an average mountain climb and tourism company review score of 5/5 star rating on TripAdvisor, Trustpilot and Reddit over time.

These Kilimanjaro climbing companies are equipped with high-quality equipment, have well-trained tour guides, and are known for being sustainable tourism businesses.

Furthermore, you can expect nutritious and healthy food, cozy accommodations during your climb, as well as a safe and sanitary camping environment on all hiking routes.

To get a better insight into the degree of quality you can expect from various Kilimanjaro outfitters, we’ve put together a listing of company profiles that highlight a host of amenities provided by respective brands.

Mountain Performance From Tour Companies In Tanzania

Best Kilimanjaro Tour Operators 2023 & 2024TripAdvisor ReviewsOwners of Climbing Company
1. XPATS International Travel5/5 Star RatingTanzanian
2. Summits Africa5/5 Star RatingTanzanian
3. Climbing Kilimanjaaro5/5 Star RatingTanzanian
4. Team Kilimanjaro5/5 Star RatingBritish
5. Altezza Travel5/5 Star RatingRussian
6. Ultimate Kilimanjaro (UK)5/5 Star RatingAmerican
The table above lists and compares reviews of the best Kilimanjaro tour operators and climbing companies for 2023 to 2024, across all mountain routes. The evaluation of this tourism company list is scored on a scale of 1 to 5 and is drawn from a range of local trip sources and travel guides including TripAdvisor, Trustpilot and Reddit over time.

Several travel agents in the world of Kilimanjaro tourism, including XPATS International Travel, G Adventures, and Intrepid Travel, can help organize transfers from Kenya and provide summit experiences with views of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic crater, Lava Tower and Mount Meru. XPATS International Travel specializes in customized tourism trips, including cross-border road transfers and luxury safari game drives, while G Adventures and Intrepid Travel are known for an exceptional review profile, tour guide services and an eco-friendly guide along trekking routes on Kilimanjaro. Excluding travel insurance, any travel agency among the three company options can arrange a hotel or lodge and a good scenic trip that ensure a top location view of the crater from the summit of Kilimanjaro at an affordable price.

For a family experienced in climbing up to a height of Mount Fuji, K2 or Everest, a suitable Kilimanjaro holiday package would include a trekking path that balance gradual altitude gain, moderate to low difficulty and scenic views. The 7-day Machame trail or the 7-day Rongai route offer good acclimatization and are less strenuous, making them ideal tour packages for a group to hike. Alternatively, the 8-day Lemosho route provides more distance, time for acclimatization and a higher climbing chance of a successful summit, especially when a personal porter is included during the trek. Package holidays on Kilimanjaro vary so it’s important to avoid cheap tourism operators and research a travel agency that offers the holiday of a lifetime.

The appropriate local exchange rate for climbing Kilimanjaro or safari game drives depends on the cost of the Tanzanian shilling (TZS) to major currencies like the US dollar (USD). At this time, the exchange rate is approximately 2,500 – 2,600 TZS per USD. However, it’s recommended to check for the most current rates through official exchange services or at local banks in Tanzania before your trip, as the rate may fluctuate.


Local Tour Operators That Work With Experienced Guides

1. XPATS International Travel 🇹🇿

XPATS International Travel is a Kilimanjaro local tour operator that has established itself as a sustainable tourism company with an unblemished reputation for offering unique and personalized travel experiences.

The team at XPATS International Travel is comprised of local tour guides who have an intimate knowledge of Mount Kilimanjaro and a deep-seated passion for showcasing its splendor. One standout feature of XPATS International Travel is the unwavering commitment to safety and comfort for all their climbers and support crew.

The company provides camping and dining equipment, which includes tables, chairs, sleeping tents, mess tents, dining utensils and mattresses.

Moreover, all your meals are freshly cooked, according to your dietary preference, and served at your convenient time, leaving you free to focus on climbing Kilimanjaro.

XPATS International Travel has a perfect 5/5 star review rating on TripAdvisor, Trustpilot and Facebook.

2. Summit Africa 🇹🇿

Summit Africa offers several options for those seeking adventures beyond climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. The company has a variety of traditional routes, which are accompanied by a lead guide, assistant guides, and a mountain crew. All the routes begin at the foothills of Kilimanjaro and vary in length from a 5 to 9-day travel itinerary.

Summit Africa provides accommodations and meals, along with camping and dining equipment. However, you’ll need to bring your own hiking gear, as well as sleeping bags and pads.

According to TripAdvisor, Summit Africa holds a 5/5 rating.


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3. Climbing Kilimanjaro

Climbing Kilimanjaro is a well-known tour operator that offers a wide range of adventure and travel experiences in Tanzania, which include safaris, cultural tours & trekking expeditions on Mount Kilimanjaro.

The company has gradually become one of Kilimanjaro’s key players, running expeditions during high seasons on a daily basis. This operator takes great pride in educating their clientele to ensure hikers joining their climb are well-informed and prepared for the undertaking.

Climbing Kilimanjaro provides airport transits, accommodations, before and after treks, as well as meals, tents and dining facilities during the climb.

The company’s efforts have earned them a solid 5-star rating on Trustpilot and TripAdvisor, respectively.

Foreign Tour Operators That Have A Strong Local Presence

1. Team Kilimanjaro 🇬🇧

Team Kilimanjaro is a family-run business office that was founded by John Rees-Evans, a British expat in Tanzania, who happens to be an avid mountain enthusiast. The company prides itself on its commitment to the ethical treatment of porters and guides, ensuring all climbers have a responsible climbing experience.

Team Kilimanjaro only specializes in Kilimanjaro treks, which gives them an edge over other tourism companies in the country.

The company provides essential climbing and outdoor camping equipment, as well as a list of items that climbers should have, with gear available for purchase or rent.

Team Kilimanjaro has 230 positive reviews on TripAdvisor.


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2. Altezza Travel 🇷🇺

Altezza Travel is a tour operator founded by two Russian brothers, Alexander and Dimitri, who chose to settle in Tanzania in 2016.

Their expertise extends beyond arranging successful climbs since they also provide advice on the best routes for acclimatization and gear requirements. Altezza Travel also caters to famous celebrities and organizes record-breaking summits, such as Wings of Kilimanjaro, RedBull and National Geographic.

The company provides comfortable resort accommodations, before and after the trek, as well as quality hiking equipment and dining items.

Furthermore, Altezza Travel has one of the largest rental storage in the tourism industry, ensuring climbers have all they need for the climb.

Altezza Travel has a perfect 5/5 rating on TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings.


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3. Tanzania Specialist 🇳🇱

Tanzania Specialist was founded by Robbin Meuliemans, a Dutch entrepreneur, who aimed to provide exclusive private tours. The company boasts a team of expert safari and trekking guides, who speak fluent English. To ensure peace of mind, Tanzania Specialist has established their headquarters in Europe and their subsidiary in Tanzania to guarantee clients a once-in-a-lifetime trekking vacation, filled with cultural exchanges, tourist attractions and fun activities.

The company offers some camping gear but they highly recommend hikers bring their own equipment to ensure they’re well prepared for the climb. Amenities provided include tents, mattresses, tables and chairs.

Tanzania Specialist has an average 5/5 rating on TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings.


Even though hikers rave about World Nomads on TripAdvisor and Reddit in 2023 and 2024, a good travel insurance for climbing Kilimanjaro is Redpoint, which provides comprehensive coverage for high-altitude trekking. Their climb policies include medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and coverage for emergency services up to 6,000 meters, making it ideal for Kilimanjaro. Redpoint specializes in adventure travel insurance, ensuring that climbers are protected throughout their trek to the summit.

World Expeditions and Mountain Madness both arrange package holidays for climbing peaks like Mount Meru, Mount Everest and K2 in 2024 and 2025 at an affordable price. These agencies also offer cheap guided climbs with a length of full logistical support for high-altitude trekking and mountaineering in the United Kingdom. Both companies provide expertly led expeditions for seasoned climbers seeking to challenge themselves on some of the world’s tallest mountains. 

XPATS International Travel, Altezza Travel, and Thompson Safaris all offer trekking safaris as part of their holiday packages in 2024 and 2025. These companies provide guided treks through key African destinations like Kenya and Tanzania, combining wildlife viewing with hiking adventures. Their national park packages include comprehensive group itineraries that feature both succeeding trekking and safari experiences.

From XPATS International Travel, the Kilimanjaro trailheads vary in distance: the Machame Route is about 1.5 to 2 hours away from the travel agency, the Rongai Route takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours and the Lemosho Route is around 2.5 to 3 hours’ drive from the operator. The distances from the agency are approximately 60-140 kilometers depending on the route. Travel times can vary based on road conditions and traffic.


Travel Agents That Outsource Their Climbing Trips To Local Businesses

1. Ultimate Kilimanjaro 🇺🇸

Ultimate Kilimanjaro is an American travel agency that has been working with local tour operators for more than 15 years, providing personalized services with safety being a top priority. The travel agency maintains limited climbing spots to ensure every climber gets attentive care, which is different from other international travel agencies that allow up to 80 climbers per trip. Ultimate Kilimanjaro gives climbers the flexibility to climb with their group of friends or meet new people along the way.

The travel agency provides top-notch camping equipment and basic climbing amenities on all camping routes, as well as decent accommodation at a hotel, before and after the trek, run by a school on the outskirts of Moshi.

Ultimate Kilimanjaro’s years of dedication to the industry have earned them a 5/5 rating on TripAdvisor and Facebook.


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2. G Adventures 🇨🇦

G Adventures is a well-established Canadian travel agency that boasts 30 years of experience creating unforgettable trips for travelers around the world. Unlike international travel agencies, who specialize exclusively in Kilimanjaro treks, G-Adventures offers a variety of package tours that are outsourced to trusted local outfitters. They are often able to create a fun and diverse group dynamic, offering an excellent opportunity to team up with like-minded individuals from around the world.

The travel agency offers meals and accommodations however, you’ll need to bring your own sleeping bags, pads and hiking gear.

Thomson Safaris has an average review rating of 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor and Tourradar.


6 people hiking the lemosho route
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3. Thomson Safaris 🇺🇸

Thomson Safaris is an American-based travel agency that has gained recognition for its unique approach to adventure tourism, whether you prefer a scheduled day trip, private or custom itineraries, or even luxury 8-day climbs. The company prides itself on its high standards of service, which attests to the quality of safety and comfort during their trips. Rather than operating package tours, they outsource their work to local outfitters, in tourist destinations within the African continent, to ensure clients are accompanied by guides who have an intimate knowledge of the native location and culture.

The international travel agency provides Kilimanjaro luxury campgrounds in unique settings, in addition to restaurant meals, tents and other basic amenities. Thomson Safaris also provides a comprehensive Kilimanjaro packing list, outlining exactly what clients need for their trip and how they should pack their bags.

Thomson Safaris has an average review rating of 5/5 on TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings.

4. M.T Sobek 🇺🇸

Mountain Travel Sobek is an American adventure travel company that specializes in organizing sport expeditions to some of the world’s spectacular mountains, including the base camp of Mount Everest. It has established itself as a trusted name in the tourism industry, working with local Kilimanjaro outfitters who are trained to navigate challenging conditions to better ensure the safety and well-being of their clients.

They handle logistics, including accommodations, transportation and camping equipment. To make things even easier, they provide a downloadable link for packing tips and a checklist to make sure that clients are fully prepared for their Kilimanjaro hike.

Mountain Travel Sobek has an average review rating of 4.5 on Trustpilot, TripAdvisor and Facebook.


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5. Intrepid Travel 🇦🇺

Intrepid Travel is an Australian travel agency that takes great pride in prioritizing the safety and well-being of its travelers. The travel agency’s risk-management protocols and continuous staff training, guarantee confidence and peace of mind. From well-maintained equipment to emergency plans, every aspect is carefully considered to mitigate risks and maximize the safety of their climbers.

Intrepid Travel offers essential camping equipment, as well as a list of items that climbers should have, with gear available for rent.

Intrepid Travel has an average review rating of 5/5 on TripAdvisor and TourRadar.

6. World Expeditions 🇦🇺

World Expeditions is an esteemed Australian travel agency that has been providing Kilimanjaro treks for more than 25 years. The company has built an outstanding reputation in the tourism industry, outsourcing its work to local outfitters who have a long-standing knowledge of the mountain and its surrounding area.

World Expeditions provides mattresses, tables, chairs, sleeping tents, mess tents, eating utensils and other dining equipment. Climbers can expect decent accommodation and breakfast, before and after the trek, as well as comfortable camping equipment during their trips.

World Expeditions has an average 4.5/5 review rating on TripAdvisor and Tourradar.


Yes, on most Mount Kilimanjaro routes, your tour guide and personal porter will assist you along the trekking path leading up to Lava Rock. The Lava Tower, located at approximately 4,600 meters on routes like Machame and Lemosho (formerly Shira Route), is a key landmark. Your guide will ensure you navigate the route safely and help with acclimatization, while the porter will manage your gear and assist with any personal needs. For fair treatment, make sure your porters are well compensated according to TPO or KPAP organizational standards, especially on hard terrains such as the Northern Circuit or Umbwe Route.

For a fair price on group trips after a Kilimanjaro trek, consider the Mount Meru Hotel and Arusha Coffee Lodge in Arusha for comfortable accommodations and convenient locations. The Four Seasons Safari Lodge at the Serengeti offers luxury and a memorable walking safari experience, though it is more expensive. These options provide group discounts on TripAdvisor and can work with a team of operators or travel agencies for tailored wildlife packages.

Cheap Kilimanjaro tour packages are often frowned upon in 2024 because they may compromise on safety, quality, and ethical standards. Lower rates can lead to cost-cutting measures, such as inadequate gear, insufficiently trained guides, or poor acclimatization practices, increasing the risk to trekkers. Additionally, budget packages may exploit local porters and staff, failing to ensure fair wages and proper working conditions.

The price to climb Kilimanjaro varies based on distance, difficulty, and time on the trail. Longer Kilimanjaro routes like Lemosho Route, Rongai Route, Machame Route and the Northern Circuit Route are more challenging climbs, requiring additional resources, such as more days of guiding, extra food, and specialized equipment compared to shorter trails like Marangu Route. Extended treks also involve a higher cost for logistics, accommodation and staffing.


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5-Day Marangu Trek
6-Day Marangu Trek
6-Day Machame Trek
7-Day Machame Trek
7-Day Rongai Trek
7-Day Lemosho Trek
8-Day Lemosho Trek
9-Day Northern Circuit Trek
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