Tanzania - frequently asked questions

Know more about trips in Tanzania.


What is the best time of year to visit Tanzania?

You can visit any month of the year. However, the warmest months with the clearest trekking days, are from mid to late December, January, February, September and October. The rains often come in April and the start of May with the possibility of some snow. June through to August are superb trekking months, though evening temperatures tend to be colder. The wettest months are November and early December, where snowfalls are likely.

What do Visas cost?

USD 60 per visa.

Do I need any Inoculations for Tanzania?

Yes, a Yellow Fever inoculation is required for entry to Tanzania.

If I am on trek, how much weight will I have to carry during the day?

You will carry a day pack of about 3-5kg. This will hold your camera, snacks, emergency medicine, water, fleece and headlamp etc.

How much must my gear weigh and what must I bring it in?

The kit bags should be about 33 x 33 x 75cm bag. This one can take everything including your sleeping bags and an extra thermal mattress if you wanted. The weight limit is 15kg but we ask clients to try and keep it at no more than 12kg. This must be packed in a waterproof duffel bag or large rucksack for the porters to carry.

What kind of help is available in case of an emergency?

We always have a first aid kit close at hand. More serious injuries are rare. Porters will assist injured climbers to the base of the mountain and onward to a clinic or hospital. Those that cannot walk will be carried down by porters or on stretchers.

Can one be emergency airlifted off the mountain?

There are only two places on the mountain that helicopters can reach, Karanga Valley and Barafu. Emergency vehicles can come up to Shira Camp but response time of the Parks Authorities is notoriously low. Often the quickest way off the mountain, is on foot or stretcher.

Can I charge my camera equipment on the mountain?

Sadly, no, no electricity on the mountain, though you can buy a beer or soda at some camps like Barafu and Mweka. However, for the camera batteries, remember that altitude diminishes battery life so please go armed with more batteries that you would normally use over a 10 day period, for a standard 6/7 day trek.

Can I train for altitude?

No, unless you already live at a high altitude e.g. 4000m, you cannot train. All you can do is go on climbs to higher altitude than you are to determine how you will react. You must stick by the rules: a) walk slowly b) breath at the pace you walk, i.e. two breaths in for two paces, two breaths out per two paces etc c) drink 3-5 litres of water a day d) carry Diamox with you, which is optional, but cannot be taken if you are allergic to Sulphur.

More Questions?

If you have further questions, then please feel free to contact us anytime.

E-mail: info@makaluadventure.com

 

Among world's finest routes

From the Mount Kilimanjaro to the sun-kissed beaches of Zanzibar, and the vast herds of game grazing on the Serengeti plains, it’s no wonder that Tanzania has lots to see.

About Tanzania

Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa see inside