Trek Kilimanjaro for Charity: Conquer the Challenge and Make an Impact
Join the adventure of a lifetime when you trek Kilimanjaro for charity.
Discover how you can conquer one of the world's greatest challenges and make a truly meaningful impact.
This is your chance to do something incredible for a cause you care about. Read more to start your journey!
The Ultimate Charity Challenge: Climb Kilimanjaro
Embark on an extraordinary journey to climb Kilimanjaro, the iconic, dormant volcano that majestically rises from the dusty African plains of Tanzania.
This is so much more than just a trek; it's a profound opportunity to stand on the roof of the African continent and make a lasting difference for others.
Our charity challenges are meticulously designed to blend personal achievement with purpose.
They allow you to push your physical and mental limits while fundraising for a cause you are passionate about.
Imagine the feeling of witnessing a glorious sunrise from the snow capped summit. It is a truly unforgettable reward for your commitment, hard work, and dedication to your chosen charity.
This is your opportunity to take on one of the world's most sought-after adventures. The Kilimanjaro trek is a demanding but incredibly rewarding experience that will undoubtedly stay with you forever.
By choosing to climb Kilimanjaro for charity, you join a special community of dedicated individuals.
You will be alongside people transforming their love for adventure into tangible, life-changing support for those in need.
Why Climb the Highest Freestanding Mountain in the World?
Mount Kilimanjaro is not just any mountain; it is a world icon. As the highest freestanding mountain on the planet, it soars to an awe-inspiring altitude of 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) at its highest point, Uhuru Peak.
Climb the Highest Freestanding Mountain
Unlike sprawling mountain ranges, it stands completely alone. It is a solitary giant whose peak is adorned with huge permanent glaciers. To climb the highest freestanding behemoth is a unique challenge.
From the Dusty African Plains to an Arctic Summit
The journey to the top is a remarkable passage through multiple, distinct climate zones. This ecological journey is one of the things that makes the Kilimanjaro trek so unique.
Your trek takes you from the lush, thick forest at the base, an environment teeming with life, through alpine meadows that seem otherworldly.
You will then cross a surreal lunar-like desert, and finally onto the arctic conditions of the summit. This incredible transition through different eco systems is a remarkable experience in itself.
A Testament to Your Spirit
Taking on this challenging trek is a true testament to your determination and spirit.
It requires resilience, but the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit is unparalleled.
The spectacular views across the clouds and the vast plains below provide a perspective-shifting experience that few will ever know.
When you combine this personal victory with the knowledge that your efforts are supporting a vital cause, the journey becomes even more meaningful. It's one of the most impressive mountains you will ever encounter.
The Machame Route: A Scenic Path to Success
To maximize your chances of summiting successfully and safely, our Kilimanjaro trek typically follows the renowned Machame route.
Affectionately known as the "Whiskey Route," it is favoured for its stunning scenery and excellent profile for gradual acclimatisation.
The route is longer than some alternatives, but the extra time spent on the highest mountain is crucial. It is key for allowing gradual acclimatisation to the altitude, which significantly boosts your summit success rate.
The path of the Machame route will guide you along overgrown forest paths in the beginning. It then transitions onto a steeper rocky trail as you gain altitude.
You will cross the vast Shira Plateau and tackle the impressive Barranco Wall, all under the expert supervision of your local guides.
This route ensures your journey to the summit is as breathtaking as the destination itself, offering a comprehensive experience of one of the world's impressive mountains.
Your Adventure Itinerary
Our itineraries are carefully planned to ensure the trip runs smoothly. We focus on balancing steady trekking with essential rest and the gradual acclimatisation your body needs.
Day 1: Arrival and Preparation
Your adventure begins upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Our team will greet you and transfer you to a comfortable hotel in Moshi. Here, you'll meet your fellow participants - a group of like minded people, often of a similar age, ready to share this incredible journey. You'll receive a full expedition briefing from your head guide.
Day 2: Park Formalities and First Steps
After breakfast, we drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. While our team finalises the necessary park formalities, you can take in the bustling atmosphere as porters and guides prepare. Today’s gentle trek takes you into the montane rainforest towards the first camp, Machame Camp.
Day 3: Machame Camp to Shira Camp
The journey continues as you leave the forest behind and enter the moorland zone. The trail steepens, and the vegetation thins, revealing incredible views. Your destination is the Shira Camp, located on the broad Shira Plateau with panoramic vistas. This is your first real taste of the high-altitude environment on your Kilimanjaro trek.
Day 4: Journey to Barranco Camp
Today is a crucial day for acclimatisation as you climb to a high point at the Lava Tower (4,600m) before descending to Barranco Camp (3,976m). This "climb high, sleep low" strategy is a key part of allowing gradual acclimatisation. The landscape becomes more rugged and sparse.
Day 5: Barranco Wall to Barafu Camp
After breakfast, you'll tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a fun and challenging scramble. The trek takes you through the Karanga Valley before the final push to Barafu Camp (4,673m). This is the base camp for your summit attempt. You will rest and eat, preparing for the night ahead.
Day 6: Summit Night - The Ultimate Challenge
Your summit attempt begins shortly after midnight from Barafu Camp. This is the most demanding part of the challenging trek. It is a steep ascent over loose volcanic scree en route to the crater rim. Guided by your headtorch and the stars, you’ll push towards Stella Point (5,756m) on the crater rim.
The reward for this grueling effort is watching the sunrise over the African continent. From Stella Point, it's a final push to the true summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
Witnessing the Beautiful Ice Formations
At the summit, you are surrounded by the remnants of Kilimanjaro's majestic ice cap.
You'll stand in awe of the beautiful ice formations and the huge permanent glaciers that cling to the volcanic cone.
The view of the summit glaciers against the sky is unforgettable. This is the highest point on the African continent, a moment of pure triumph and wonder.
Where the huge permanent glaciers flow slowly down the mountain is a sight to behold.
Day 7 & 8: Descent, Celebration, and Departure
The descent is much faster.
After a final night stop on the mountain at Mweka Camp, your last trek takes you back through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate.
Here, you will complete park formalities and receive your official summit certificates. That evening, a big celebration dinner awaits at the hotel in Moshi.
On Day 8, you'll be transferred back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your journey home, or to begin a new adventure.
Extend Your Adventure
Why stop at the summit? Consider extending your trip to experience more of what Tanzania has to offer.
Safari in Tarangire National Park
Add a safari to your trip and explore the incredible wildlife of Tanzania. The Tarangire National Park is famous for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. It's the perfect way to witness the animals of the savanna after your time on the highest mountain in Africa.
Relax on the Indian Ocean's Swahili Coast
After your demanding Kilimanjaro trek, unwind on the tropical island of Zanzibar. Relax on the white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean's Swahili Coast. Swim in the clear azure sea and explore the historic streets of Stone Town for a perfect end to your African journey.
The Financial Commitment: Your Registration Fee & Fundraising
Your journey to climb Kilimanjaro is made possible through a combination of a registration fee and dedicated fundraising.
Challenge Dates
Our charity challenges run on various dates throughout the year. Please check with our team for available challenge dates that fit your schedule.
Registration Fee and Your Self-Funding Option
To secure your place, a registration fee is required upon booking. A typical registration fee is $599. This initial payment confirms your commitment.
For those who prefer to cover the full cost of the trip themselves, a self funding option is available.
Opting for the self funding option means you pay for the trip directly, and any funds you raise go entirely to the charity.
Many participants choose the self funding option to ensure 100% of their donations support the cause.
The registration fee still applies to the self funding option. Contact us to learn more about this and the initial registration fee.
Reaching Your Fundraising Target
The primary path is to meet a fundraising target. Participants commit to raising a minimum sponsorship amount, which generally varies between $6,500 and $7,500. This fundraising target covers both your expedition costs and a substantial donation. It’s a significant goal, but one that is achievable.
It is important to note that at least 80% of your fundraising target is required to be submitted to the charity ten weeks prior to your departure date.
This ensures we can finalize trip logistics. We require this portion of the minimum sponsorship to confirm your place after you pay the registration fee. Your fundraising target is a key part of the challenge.
Proven Fundraising Tips and Unwavering Support
Meeting your minimum sponsorship goal is an integral part of your Kilimanjaro for charity challenge. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Our Events Team is Here to Help
Tom Van Ruitten, founder of WAT, smiling confidently - leading our team in supporting Kilimanjaro charity treks.
Our dedicated events team has a wealth of experience.
From the moment you pay your registration fee, our events team will provide you with a comprehensive fundraising pack.
It will be full of ideas, resources, and advice. We are always on hand to help you succeed.
Your success is our success, and the events team is committed to helping you reach your fundraising target.
Effective Fundraising Tips
Our pack is full of effective fundraising tips. Start early and create a plan.
Break down your minimum sponsorship goal into smaller chunks.
Use online platforms to share your story and collect donations.
Host events like bake sales or quiz nights.
The key is creativity and persistence, and our fundraising tips will guide you.
These fundraising tips have helped countless others achieve their goal.
Preparing for the Highest Mountain on the Continent
Success on the highest mountain in Africa depends heavily on preparation. This is graded as a "very tough" trek and it should not be underestimated. Your preparation is key to ensuring the trip runs smoothly.
You Must Train Sufficiently
Physical fitness is paramount. While you don't need to be an athlete to climb Kilimanjaro, good fitness is essential.
Inadequate training is a primary reason people fail to summit. Your training program should focus on cardiovascular endurance and strength.
Spend long days walking in hills, wearing the walking boots you'll use on the trek. It is vital that you train sufficiently to handle the demands.
Health, Insurance, and Documentation
Your health and safety are our top priorities. It is compulsory for all participants to have comprehensive travel insurance. Your travel insurance must cover high-altitude trekking up to 6,000m.
We also strongly recommend visiting a travel clinic or your GP at least two months before departure to discuss necessary vaccinations for Tanzania.
We handle all park formalities within the Kilimanjaro National Park. We need you to arrange your own visa and book your own flights.
Your Expert Support Crew
You will be accompanied by an incredible support crew of local guides, chefs, and porters.
These individuals are the heart of the expedition. The professional support staff and experienced local guides are the primary reason the trip runs smoothly.
Their experience and encouragement from the entire support crew are invaluable. The support staff ensures your camp is set up and your journey is safe.
Life on the Mountain
Living in remote locations on the slopes of Kilimanjaro is a unique expedition style experience.
Accommodation and Meals
In Moshi, you'll stay in a hotel on a twin share basis. On the mountain, you'll be camping.
We provide high-quality tents and mattresses. There is no formal sleeping room; you will be in shared tents.
The camps have communal dining areas where you will socialize. The food provided is plentiful and designed to give you energy.
Expect hearty breakfasts, packed lunches or a hot buffet style lunch stop, and multi-course dinners. The food provided is a highlight for many.
Gear and Packing
Pack your personal gear in a soft bag or duffel bag, which will be carried by porters (weight limits apply).
Avoid hard sided luggage. You will carry a daypack with essentials. A detailed kit list will be provided, but essential items include broken-in walking boots, layered clothing, and good quality camping equipment, including a four-season sleeping bag.
While some camping equipment is provided, personal gear is your responsibility.
This journey to climb the highest freestanding mountain in the world is more than an adventure - it’s a chance to achieve something extraordinary for yourself and for others. Are you ready to take the first step?
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro for charity?
The cost involves two main parts. First, a non-refundable registration fee, typically around $599 USD, secures your spot. Second, you must raise a minimum sponsorship amount, usually between $6,500 and $7,500. This covers your trip costs and a large donation to your chosen charity. Alternatively, a self funding option is available where you pay the trip costs yourself (after the registration fee) and 100% of your fundraising goes to the charity.
How fit do I need to be for this challenging trek?
You need to have a good level of fitness. This is a challenging trek to extreme altitude. We strongly recommend that you train sufficiently. Your training should include long-distance hiking, cardiovascular exercise (like running or cycling), and strength training. The better prepared you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.
What route do you use and why?
We typically use the Machame route. It offers fantastic scenery and, most importantly, has an excellent profile for acclimatisation. The longer route allows your body more time to adjust to the altitude, significantly increasing your chance of reaching the snow capped summit safely.
What is the accommodation like on the mountain?
You will be camping in high-quality, two-person mountain tents which the support crew will set up for you. Campsites are basic but are situated in stunning remote locations. There are communal dining areas in a larger tent where you'll eat meals and socialize with your fellow participants.
What support is provided during the trek?
You will be fully supported by a team of expert local guides, cooks, and porters. This support staff is highly experienced and trained in first aid and altitude sickness management. They handle all the logistics, from carrying your main bag to cooking your meals, so you can focus on the climb.
What about the paperwork and park formalities?
Our team on the ground will handle all the necessary park formalities at the Kilimanjaro National Park gates. You will need to arrange your own Tanzanian visa, book your flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), and ensure you have adequate travel insurance.
Can I choose which charity to support?
Yes. While we partner with a number of incredible charities, these charity challenges are designed for you to support a cause that you are passionate about. You can often choose from a list of approved charity partners.
What happens if I don't reach my fundraising target?
Reaching your fundraising target is a condition of your participation. We provide extensive fundraising tips and support from our events team. If you are struggling, it is vital to contact us early. You must submit 80% of the minimum sponsorship 10 weeks before departure to confirm your place on the Kilimanjaro trek.
