Our Pro Guides

Tusker is one of the most experienced outfits climbing Kilimanjaro. We've been leading our own climbs for 30 years. We DO NOT subcontract our climbs. We run our own climbs with our own guides and all our own climbing gear. We are constantly updating our guide training and equipment.

Our primary concern is for your safety, and Tusker's safety record is impeccable. Eddie Frank has worked closely with Wilderness Medical Associates to develop a rigorous Medical Training Course for our guides. Every year, our 18 guides must complete this 50-hour course and pass the exam, both written and practical. This course is not required by the authorities, but is required by Tusker. No other guides on Kilimanjaro receive this type of intensive training.

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Why is there such a price difference between companies?

THE LOW END:

Most companies DO NOT operate their own climbs. They contract with a local tour operator to run their climbs, so they have little or no control of the trip standards and guide qualifications. They then mark up the climb, and sell it as their own. In order to maximize profits their tour operators pay their crew low wages, and use old substandard gear. This is how they are able to offer cheap climbs.

THE HIGH END:

A lot of the US outfits are very large companies and operate a variety of trips worldwide -- they do not specialize in Kilimanjaro (unlike Tusker). Some operate their own climbs, but most of them subcontract. These companies have multiple partners as well as a large staff to support, so they charge what they think the market will bear.

You need to ask the hard questions about guide training, type of emergency equipment carried, experience and track record. You should also contact the references provided by the climbing company.

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What's included on a Tusker climb?

Just about everything except airfare, visa fees, tips to crew, and your preferred drinks.

Our Kilimanjaro climb costs include:

Park fees.
Kilimanjaro (JRO) airport transfers (to/from).
4x4 transfers to/from park gate.
3 hotel nights in Moshi.
Orientation meeting in Moshi to familiarize you with the climb and gear.
All meals at the hotel and on the climb.
As much purified water as you can drink while climbing.
2 medically qualified guides with groups of 2 or more.
1 medically qualified guide if you're climbing alone.
Twice-daily medical health monitoring with pulse-oximeter and stethoscope.
Plenty of oxygen.
2" foam and air camping mattress.
4-season mountain tents.
Use of heavy duty waterproof duffel bag.
4-5 porters per climber, which includes a porters to carry up to 30 lbs of your personal gear.
Chairs and table in private dining tent.
Water for washing up daily.
100+ page climb preparation manual.
Private toilet tent with custom "throne."
Tusker's own evacuation protocol and capability - (National Park evacuation is highly unreliable).
31 years of climbing expertise and knowledge only a phone call or email away.

Safety Standards on Every Climb:

2-5 623-liter oxygen tanks (with groups of 2 or more).
"Gamow" hyperbaric bag.
Pulse-oximeter and stethoscope monitoring twice daily.
Custom-designed portable stretcher for emergency evacuation.
Tusker's own evacuation protocol and rescue procedure.
Best trained guides on Kilimanjaro.

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Are there any other expenses besides the climb & the airfare?

Yes, but not much. You will need to pay for drinks at the hotel, plus laundry, phone calls and tips to the crew.

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What if I have to cancel or postpone my trip?

If you postpone more than 60 days before departure, we'll give you a RAINCHECK, at no extra cost. There are nominal fees for rainchecks less than 60 days.

If you cancel, there are cancellation fees:

More than 60 days before you leave: US$250.
30-60 days before you leave: 25% of the land cost.
Less than 30 days before you leave: No refund unless we fill your space.

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What is the typical group size?

We keep our group sizes small:

Our scheduled Kili climbs have a maximum group size of 10 climbers.

Groups are typically 6-8 climbers.

You can climb alone, join an existing group, or form your own group of any size that you wish. If you'd like your own group please check with us soon, as our schedule tends to fill 6-8 months in advance.

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How many guides will be on my climb?

All other companies have only 1 head guide per group. For Tusker groups of 2+ you will have 2 medically qualified guides leading your climb. In the event someone has to be evacuated they will be evacuated by a medically certified guide with oxygen. this also enables us to perform our own rescues, and NOT rely on the park service. Most outfits send you down with a non-english speaking porter who is not qualified to administer any medical care whatsoever. And they'll leave you in the hands of the highly unreliable park service. If you're climbing alone, you'll be with one medically trained & certified guide.

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How many porters will be on my climb?

This depends on the size of your group. We use more porters than other companies, as we carry extra safety and camping gear. For a group of 10 climbers, there will be approximately 45-50 porters, depending on the length of your trip. So it's about 4-5 porters per climber. Smaller groups will have 6-9 porters per climber.

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Are kids allowed to climb?

Yes. Kids are not affected any differently by the altitude than adults. The main problem for kids is the mental toughness required as the breathing gets harder.

The National Park authorities have set a minimum age of 12. However, we have received permission for a 10-year old to climb.

Tusker Trail has set the record for the youngest person to reach the summit - 10 years old!

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Are airport transfers included?

All transfers to and from Kilimanjaro Int'l Airport (JRO) are included in the price. There is extra cost for Arusha and Nairobi transfers. We can handle these arrangements for you.

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What's the hotel accommodation like?

Very good. We stay at the Keys Hotel. You spend 2 nights at the hotel before the climb, and 1 night when you come down. This is a family run hotel, owned by some very old friends of Eddie Frank. Their hospitality and food is excellent!

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Can Tusker organize a safari for me after my climb?

Absolutely. From Kilimanjaro you are within a few hours drive from some of the finest wildlife reserves on the planet - Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Lake Manyara.

Tusker specializes in running excellent wildlife safaris. You should spend a minimum of 3 days, but if you want to go to the Serengeti, you should plan on at least 6 days.

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Is Victoria Falls near Lake Victoria in Tanzania?

No, it's not. Victoria Falls is on the southern border of Zambia, and is the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. It takes about 2 days to fly there. You have to fly from Tanzania to Johannesburg, South Africa, spend the night there, and then fly to Livingstone the next day. These flights can cost a total of US$800-$1200 depending on the season and availability.

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Does Tusker Trail do any community and environmental work?

Absolutely.

We run fundraising climbs for the Make-a-Wish Foundation; CARE International; Breast Cancer Foundation. Since our first charity fundraising climb in 2001, over $1,000,000 have been raised on our climbs.

If you'd like to join a charity climb, and do some good while climbing, click here.

Click here for more details on the community work we do in Africa.

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Do I have to pay for the hotel if I come down early from my climb?

Yes.

If you come down early you will settle the bill for those extra hotel nights and your meals with our hotel in Moshi.

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Will I need a Visa to enter Tanzania?

Yes, you need to purchase an entrance visa for Tanzania. The visa is easily obtained upon arrival at any major airport or border entrance in Tanzania. You may also obtain a visa from the Taznanian embassy in your resident country by sending them your passport.

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What innoculations will I need?

In our pre-departure manual, we have a detailed section on medical requirements. Curently in Tanzania there are no requirements unless you travel from an endemic Yellow Fever zone. We suggest you get Yellow Fever shots anyways, as you never know when the authorities in Taznania may change the rules. We also suggest that you make sure your Tetanus is up to date. You can choose to get a whole barrage of other shots, which are listed online at www.cdc.gov. We'll be happy to talk to you about this once you sign up. You will also need to take anti-malaria pills, and we suggest the use of Diamox to help your body acclimatize on Kili.

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When is the best time of year to climb?

We used to advise people to avoid climbing from mid-March to mid-April, and mid-October to mid-November, due to the rains. However, over the past 15 years, the weather has become extremely unpredictable. We now recommend climbing all year-round.

Keep in mind that Kilimanjaro is a freestanding mountain with no buffers. Because of this it has unique weather patterns and you should count on rain within the first 2-3 days regardless of when you climb.

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What's the weather like on the mountain?

On your climb you will experience humid and hot weather at the base in the rain forest, with temps around 80-90 F. Temps on your first night may drop to freezing. Days 2-3 can be dry and warm, with temps around 60-70 F. At night be prepared for freezing and snow. .As you climb the temperatures decrease. The top is considered Arctic weather, where you will find permanent ice. Temperatures at the summit can get as low as 0 degrees F. to minus 15 F.

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What routes does Tusker climb?

We climb MACHAME and LEMOSHO-LAVA TOWER routes with extra days for acclimatization. With us you can climb from 6-10 days. None of these routes require any technical skills or mountain climbing experience. 95-98% of the people climbing these longer routes make it to the top.

On the Machame route the summit ascent is done at night, whereas on the Lemosho-Lava Tower, there is no night climbing.

We do not climb the Marangu Route. Over 22,000 people climb this route every year. It's a 3 1/2 day climb to the summit. Not only is it too crowded, but climbing this fast can be very dangerous. Less than half the people climbing this route make it to the top, as the fast altitude gain makes them extremely ill.

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Is it a technical climb?

Nope.

You don't need any climbing experience. Any person in good physical condition can make the climb.

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Can I pay by credit card?

You bet. We take all major credit cards for both land and air. You can also pay by check.

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How do I know you won't take a hike with my money?

Tusker Trail has been around for 30 years. We have a long list of happy clients which we recommend you contact. Our reputation in the industry is second to none.

We are a registered Seller of Travel with the State of Nevada, and have a US$50,000 bond posted with them in the event of fraud or bankruptcy. Our Nevada Seller of Travel registration number is 20030379.

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What happens when I sign up?

You will receive our 100+ page pre-departure packet. In the packet you will find a 70-page manual, which tells you ALL you will need to know to prepare for your climb, including a gear list, photographic tips, work-out program, info on life in Tanzania and much more. You will also receive a map of Kilimanjaro and a Kilimanjaro National Park guide to the history, flora and fauna.

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Why is definitive guide training so important?

CLIMB SAFELY
If your guide has not been medically trained to deal with a high altitude emergency, your climb above 14,000 ft. could be life threatening. This is no joke. Each year 5-15 climbers die on Kilimanjaro, and these are NOT Tusker clients. Each of these deaths could BE avoided if the "licensed" guide had received high-altitude medical training, and had oxygen and a portable hyperbaric bag on the climb. The Tanzanian authority does not require their "licensed" guides to undergo any definitive medical training, so very few guides do.

THE FIRST
Tusker Trail was the first company to establish a Definitive Medical Training Course for their guides. Since then, some of our competitors have realized the value of medical training, and advertise this. However, if you dig deep, you’ll find that none of this training measures up to Tusker’s standards of DEFINITIVE MEDICAL TRAINING. "First Aid" is not enough.

MEDICALLY QUALIFIED GUIDES
Only with Tusker Trail's professionally certified guides can you safely immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful and strikingly diverse habitats on our planet. You trek to extreme altitude with the knowledge and assurance that each one of them has undergone the most rigorous and comprehensive high altitude medical training available.

CLIMBER-TO-GUIDE RATIO
Our climber-to-guide ratio is 5-to-1. And with smaller groups our climber-to-guide ratio is 2-to-1.

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What guide qualifications are required by the Tanzania Authorities?

All guides must be licensed by KINAPA, the National Park Authority. Anyone can get a license. The guides receive a bare minimum of first aid instruction, and must be familiar with the various routes up Kilimanjaro. Beyond this, no formal training or English language skills are required.

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What gear will I need to bring?

You will get the detailed list in the pre-departure manual which is sent to you when you book your climb with Tusker. However, in general, you'll need wet-weather gear; layered cold weather gear; a good pair of waterproof boots; sleeping bag (or you can rent one from us); hiking poles & gaitors (also rentable); Diamox and personal meds; and a medium sized daypack.

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How's the food?

It's excellent!

Our cooks go through annual training and we make sure our gear is 100% up to snuff.

You eat two delicious hot meals a day - breakfast & dinner. Lunch is a pack lunch which you carry with you during the day. All camp meals are served up in our dining tent. If you have special dietary needs, let us know, and we'll be happy to oblige. If you'd like a sample menu, contact us.

Our cooks do just that - cook. They're specially trained, and whip up amazing meals for you. There is a great variety of food which is prepared over kerosene and gas stoves in the kitchen tent. Feel free to pop in to the tent for some cooking tips! We do not burn any firewood on the mountain.

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Do you provide for special diets?

Certainly. Just let us know what your needs are, and we'll work with you.

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Is there a weight limit for my gear on the climb?

You will be issued a heavy duty waterproof Tusker bag for the climb. It's big enough to hold all your gear, and then some. As we limit the weight each porter carries, we ask that you limit your bag weight to approximately 30 pounds. This will be plenty.

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What tents do you use?

We use Eureka "Summit XT" and "K2 XT" tents for sleeping. These are 3-person tents, but we sleep 2 to a tent. These are rugged 4-season mountain tents.

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What are the sleeping arrangements on the climb?

You will be paired up with a tent mate, if you don't have one already. You can also pay a little extra and have a hotel room and tent to yourself. If you'd rather not bring a sleeping bag, you can rent a bag and a fleece liner from us at a reasonable price.

You sleep on a 2" mattresses which combine foam and air to make for THE best night sleep on the mountain. We refer to them as the "serta perfect sleeper of the mountain" as they are EXTREMELY comfortable.

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What do I do with my valuables?

You will deposit them in the hotel safe. It's extremely safe there. You won't need any valuables on the mountain other than a few dollars to buy a soft drink or beer (if you can't wait) on your last night at Millennium camp.

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Can I store my clothes for the safari after the climb?

Good question. You will be issued a heavy duty waterproof duffel bag for the climb. As there's no need to carry your safari clothes on your climb, just put them in your own bag and store them in the hotel for when you return.

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Will I have time to wash my dirty clothes after the climb?

Yep!

On your last day at Millennium camp, gather your dirty clothes and give them to your guide. The following morning a porter will leave early and deliver your clothes to the hotel laundry. They'll be clean and dry for your safari or your flight home the next day.

Be sure to make a list of the clothes being laundered.

You will pay the hotel seperately for your laundry service.

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Is oxygen really necessary?

Absolutely!

A lot of problems at altitude arise from the ever-decreasing amount of oxygen in the atmosphere. So having oxygen on board alleviates a lot of problems and prevents minor problems from developing into serious emergencies. It can and has saved lives. With groups of 2-8 we carry two 623-liter tanks of oxygen. One always goes down with an evacuation. The other remains on the climb for the rest of the group.

Click here for more info on oxygen.

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What if I need to be evacuated?

The service provided by the National Park is terrible.

So Tusker Trail has designed our own evacuation protocol and rescue procedure. We carry all our own rescue gear ON EVERY CLIMB, and train our guides intensely on how to use it efficiently and correctly.

You're in extremely safe hands.

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What happens if I have to come down early?

If you come down early, you will NOT be penalized with extra costs such as transfer to Moshi

You are responsible for any extra hotel nights and meals, and if you have to go to the hospital, we will get you there, but you will be responsible for the hospital expenses.

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What about acclimatization to the altitude?

As you climb, the amount of oxygen in the air, and the oxygen pressure decreases. Every individual's reaction to this is different. There is no way to predict how well you will do at altitude. You will get short of breath -- this is normal. However, you can stack the deck in your favor by being in good physical condition, planning a longer climb, staying well hydrated, taking it very slowly as you hike, and using diamox if you start getting altitude sickness.

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Can I climb if I have a medical problem?

Most often, yes.

Eddie Frank, Tusker's owner, has placed a lot of emphasis on medical training not only of our crew, but of our US office staff as well. This is so that we can discuss your condition with you and your doctor intelligently.

We also have a consulting physician with whom we communicate regularly. When you sign up you will be required to complete a detailed medical questionnaire. If you have a medical condition, we'll talk to you about it, and if necessary have a discussion with your doctor.

What we're after is to find out the worst case scenario, so that we can prepare for it in the event of an emergency.

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What inoculations will I need?

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Is the water on the climb safe to drink?

All your drinking water is filtered by our guides through KATADYN filters. We recommend you drink at least 4 quarts/liters per day. Gatorade is a good additive for you to keep your electrolytes replenished. This is important.

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Can Tusker organize my air travel?

Absolutely.

We get extremely good prices because of the volume we do. Prices depend on when you travel and where you travel from. Airfare can vary from US$1600 - $2500 in the US. For all other countries please contact our office for info about your flights.

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Can Tusker organize my air if I live outside the US?

We can give you plenty of advice on flight schedules, but we cannot make your booking or issue your tickets.

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Does Tusker offer medical evacuation insurance?

If you have a medical emergency and need to be evacuated home for reliable medical care, GLOBAL RESCUE will get you back home if necessary. GLOBAL RESCUE is the finest medical evacuation outfit in the business, and is staffed with ex US airforce personnel. Tusker Trail works closely with Global Rescue to develop detailed evacuation procedures from all the areas of the world in which we operate.

If you are not enrolled in the program and need an emergecy evacuation home, it could cost you more than $150,000. We feel it’s well worth the cost of signing up.

You will find details and costs on the Global Rescue website.

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What’s the difference between the CSA Travel Protection and Global Rescue?

CSA Travel Insurance is an INSURANCE POLICY. We recommend it for Trip Cancellation and Trip delay.

Global Rescue are SEARCH AND RESCUE SPECIAISTS. They will evacuate you back home for reliable medical care from just about any place on earth, if no medical care is available locally.

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Does Tusker offer trip cancellation insurance?

We strongly advise you to buy insurance coverage for Baggage Loss, Trip Cancellation, Non-refundable Airfare and Medical Expenses. Please note that trip cancellation insurance is not available for all countries in Africa. The company that we recommend is CSA Travel Protection.

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GENERAL -

How much weight can I bring along

How are the treks run?

What’s included in the trip cost?

How much horse-riding experience do I need?

Is there an age limit?

How do I get to Mongolia?

What about a single supplement?

Do I need a visa?

What’s not included in the trip cost?

Is there any risk?

What are the sleeping arrangements?

How about the weather?

FOOD -

What’s the food like?

How much weight can I bring along

The flight that we take from Ulaan Bataar to Olgi to start the trek has a limit of 15 Kg per person, however you can pay the airline for additional Kgs, it's about $3 per Kg extra.

Once we're trekking our camels will carry 20 Kgs of your personal gear, so you will only be carrying a daypack with 4-8 Kgs during the trek.

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How are the treks run?

The Mongolia Trek is a remote wilderness camping trip, guided by a team made up of a Tusker guide and a local Mongolian guide, who is an expert on the Kazakh area of northwest Mongolia. The ancient history of Mongolia was built by nomads on horseback. A love of wilderness trekking and horses is what we share with these nomadic people. So by riding with the nomads, you will tap into one of the most colorful traditions on the Asian continent. We supply all the campgear, except for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat, which you must bring. All our gear is loaded onto camels. Our professional camp-cook prepares the meals over a propane stove in a kitchen tent, and normally we dine “al fresco”. In the event of rain we set up a dining tent. For showers, you have a choice of glacier-fed ice-cold rivers or a solar shower. For the toilet, we dig a communal pit latrine, and provide a private throne with a spectacular view. We use 4x4 vans to get to the start of our trekking point. You have two guides - an English speaking Tusker guide who is medically trained as a Wilderness First Responder and a local guide. We also bring a cook, a camp assistant and a small group of nomadic camel and horse handlers.

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What’s included in the trip cost?

Three hotel nights in UB – bed & breakfast; all meals while camping; internal travel (air and land); horses and tack, camels for gear; group camping gear; professional Tusker guide; local guide and animal handlers.

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How much horse-riding experience do I need?

No experience is necessary. Experienced riders and beginners travel well together on our trips. We fit the horse to your ability and give you lots of leeway in terms of how, when and where you ride and trek. On our first day we give beginners plenty of riding lessons and guidance so that you feel totally comfortable on horseback. Our treks are not nose-to-tail rides. The point of the trip is to enjoy the freedom of the Mongolian wilderness, so you can ride as much or as little as you wish. Prior to your trek, it can be helpful to take a basic riding course, but this is not essential. We want to know that you are comfortable around horses and like riding and/or trekking all day.

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Is there an age limit?

All trip members are evaluated on a case by case basis. However if you are 60 or over, we will need to discuss your health and activity level prior to signup. You must call us before signing up.

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How do I get to Mongolia?

Gateways to Mongolia are Beijing, Frankfurt, Moscow, Osaka, Tokyo, Berlin and Seoul. Mongolian International Airlines (MIAT) and Air China both operate Boeing and Airbus planes on flights to Ulaanbaatar. We can help you arrange your international airfare.

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What about a single supplement?

You can have single accommodation. The cost is $350. This will allow you to have a single tent and a single room at Ulaan Bataar. However, you must share a room or ger in Ulgii and at Hovd, if air schedules force us to overnight there.

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Do I need a visa?

If you are a US citizen, you do not need to obtain a visa before arrival. Canadians are required to obtain a visa before departure. For other nationalities, please check with the Mongolian embassy.

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What’s not included in the trip cost?

Laundry, tips to staff, preferred drinks, lunch and dinner in UB, visas and international flights.

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Is there any risk?

Trekking in remote wilderness and horse riding are outdoor activities that have inherent risks. However we prepare each trip with impeccable detail with regards to your comfort and safety. We ride our horses conservatively, and trek slowly. There are times where we are several days from any type of roads and medical care. That is why we require all members of this trip to join Global Rescue.

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What are the sleeping arrangements?

We normally stay at the 4-star Ulaan Bataar hotel in the capital. This is the best hotel there with full western amenities. In Bayan Ulgii, we stay at a local “Ger Camp”. On the trail you will share a four-season tent with either a friend or another member of the same gender.

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How about the weather?

Our trips all occur in the northern summer months. Mongolia is known as the “Land of the Blue Sky”. Mongolia enjoys 250 days of sunshine a year. Temperatures can drop to 36ºF/2ºC at night, so a warm sleeping bag is necessary. In the daytime the sun can be intense, so bring sunscreen. Temps can rise to 85ºF/32ºC in the day. It’s important to keep your raingear and sunscreen handy at all times. Summer in the Altai mountains is the magical time when the wild flowers explode in color.

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What’s the food like?

Excellent. In camp you’ll enjoy a hot breakfast and dinner, with a picnic lunch. The food is prepared by our professional camp cook and assistant. Meals are of the western variety in camp, and consist of a variety of pasta, stews, soups, vegetables, rice and some beef and chicken. While visiting the gers of nomads, they will always offer you an assortment of cheeses, yogurts, fermented milks from goats, yaks and horses. If we attend any local celebration, a sheep or goat is usually slaughtered, and you will be able to get your taste buds active on new flavors. A lot of westerners do not like the sheep fat which is used for a lot of Mongolian food prep. You can make up your own mind. In Ulaan Bataar there are a myriad of fine restaurants with reasonable rates at which to dine.

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How tough is the Trekking Safari?

Not tough at all. We have blended a safari on foot through the bush, with game drives in 4-wheel drive, and the comforts of well placed tented camps along the way. We have specially designed "sky tents," with two cots, mattresses and bedding. At night you can see the stars from inside your tent. From our trekking camps, you go out on leisurely full-day and half-day treks. Between trekking camps, we stay in more luxurious Classic Tented Camps. Here we mix up the game-drives with short treks. You will have all the amenities of a luxury camp here, including showers.

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What's the difference between a Trekking Safari and a Kilimanjaro Climb?

A lot. A Kilimanjaro climb is probably the toughest thing you will ever do. Almost every day you hike 6-8 hours uphill. As you gain altitude, breathing gets more difficult, making the hike extremely tough.

The Trekking Safari is not nearly as strenuous. It's much more leisurely and the focus is not on "getting to the summit," but rather to experience the African wilderness at your own pace.

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Accommodation?

We stay in a combination of Trekking Camps and Classic Camps. Trekking camps are comfortable but basic. The Classic Camps are more luxurious and offer more amenities like showers and toilets and very large, walk-in tents.

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Do I need any special experience or equipment?

No. All you need is a desire to experience and learn about the African bush on its own terms. And the only way to do that is on foot. Your expert guides will amaze you with their bush craft and knowledge of the environment.

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Can I do a Trekking Safari as well as a Kilimanjaro climb?

We wouldn't recommend it, unless you're used to doing a LOT of hiking. After the climb, most people are extremely tired with very sore muscles. They usually like to take a more relaxing Wildlife Safari at the famous lodges. There is no trekking on the Wildlife Safari.

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Where do we go on the Trekking Safari?

Amazing places. We have designed 3 different itineraries, and based them on the seasonal movement of the wildlife. Olmolog is a private conservancy run by Hoopoe Safaris. It sits between Kilimanjaro and Amboseli National Park, and is a fantastic elephant corridor. We will also utilize the south and northeastern corners of the Serengeti, depending on season, as well as animal rich areas of Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

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Can I customize my departure date?

Yes. If you have 4 or more people in your group, and give us sufficient notice.

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Will I need a Visa to enter Tanzania?

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Where should I go on my safari?

Most people who climb Kilimanjaro with us usually travel to the northern parks in Tanzania, such as Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti. However, if you have more time, and want to explore other areas, we have some great ideas for you in southern Tanzania as well as in Kenya, Zambia, and Botswana.

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How many days should I spend on safari?

Most Kilimanjaro climbers spend 3-10 days on safari after their climb. However, more is better. So if you have more time, we can get really creative and take you to different areas of Africa.

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What are the accommodations like?

Accommodations are first class. But there are different types of places to stay.

Wildlife Lodge:

Wildlife Lodges are permanent facilities and resemble hotels in the bush. The Lodges are designed to accommodate large numbers of people - around 200. The food is usually very good. But if you want an intimate experience, then you should stay at a Luxury Tented Lodge/Camp or a Mobile Classic Tented Camp.

Luxury Tented Lodge/Camp:

We prefer these, as they're not crowded. They are also a lot smaller than the Lodges, and much more intimate. As a result, they are more expensive. You stay in very large luxurious walk-in tents, with en-suite bathrooms. The owners put a lot of effort into making the tents very warm and comfortable, with double beds, mosquito netting, side tables, comfy chairs, and African artifacts. There is a central dining area, usually designed in a traditional luxurious African style, and the food is excellent.

Mobile Classic Tented Camp:

These are our favorites. Why? Because you share this private camp with a very small group of people. The camp is set up a few days ahead of time in a specially chosen area. The food in camp is prepared by experienced safari chefs, and is superb.

There are two main advantages to staying in a Mobile Classic Tented Camp. Firstly, we get to choose the areas to set up our camps. This allows us the flexibility to place the camp in areas where there is lots of wildlife. Secondly, due to the size of the camp, you are truly in the middle of the bush, unencumbered by other people and vehicles. You've got the vast plains of Africa all to yourself. These Classic Tented Camps are normally the most expensive type of accommodation.

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Are my Kilimanjaro guides the same as the safari guides?

No.

Our mountain guides are specialists on Kilimanjaro and only lead our climbs up the mountain. The safari guides have different skills. They have studied the wildlife, and are excellent at spotting and identifying the species in the game parks.

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What vehicles are used?

We always use 4-wheel-drive Landcruisers and Landrovers, which are maintained in impeccable condition.

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What is the best time of year to go?

It depends on where in Africa you want to go. The seasons and weather determine the animal movements. So we can tailor the dates and the location to suit you.

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What's the difference between Kenya and Tanzania?

A lot.

There are lots of great animal parks in both countries. However, if you want to see the large migratory herds, you're best off going to Tanzania's Serengeti during the months of December through June; and to Kenya's Maasai Mara from August to October.

If you're planning a safari after your Kilimanjaro climb, you'll need to have enough time to visit the Serengeti or the Maasai Mara, as it takes more time to get there.

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Can I customize my safari itinerary and dates?

Absolutely.

You can either join an existing trip or customize your trip. We'll work very closely with you to put together your dream safari.

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Can I do any walking or trekking on my safari?

Yes.

But it depends on the safari you're planning to join. You can either join a Wildlife Safari, where we do all our game viewing from vehicles. Or you can join our new and exciting Trekking Safari. This exciting trip combines trekking in pristine wildlife areas with drives in Tanzania's famous wildlife reserves.

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Will I need a Visa to enter Tanzania?

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What's the difference between Tusker Trail & other safari companies?

Experience.

Eddie Frank built Tusker Trail's reputation with his knowledge of Africa, and by getting behind the wheel and running trips there. Almost thirty years after his first expedition, he's still behind the wheel.

Tusker Trail is not a travel agent. We were born in Africa, we specialize in Africa, it's what we do. Tusker is an intimate, nimble, highly personalized operation. Tusker has built success in Africa - for almost thirty years.

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How do I organize a fundraising climb?

Most charities are only too happy to have someone like you organize a fundraising event. In fact, that's how they survive. A very common event for charities to organize is a golf tournament. Kilimanjaro is a lot more exciting than a golf game, and draws a lot more attention. The great thing about climbing for charity is that you are climbing for yourself as well as for others. It's a win-win event.

Once your charity gives you the okay, contact us and we'll set a date for your climb. Once you've signed up, we'll send you our in-depth Fundraising Packet. We'll also walk you through the details of how to sign up more people on your climb, and how to galvanize your team into fundraising action. It's a whole lot of fun.

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Does Tusker Trail have any climbs I can join?

Yes.

Every year in February, Tusker Trail runs a climb for Breast Cancer research. It's open to all comers, and is led by Eddie Frank, Tusker's founder, along with his wife Amy, a breast cancer survivor. Remember, that you will be responsible for raising a minimum amount of money.

You may also join other charity climbs we are running. Give us a call and we'll put you in touch with the organizers.

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Can I use the money I raise to pay for my climb?

No.

The money you raise must go directly to the charity for which you are climbing. You are responsible for the cost of your climb.

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Do I have to raise a minimum amount?

Yes.

This varies from charity to charity, and can vary from $1,000 to $10,000.

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How will Tusker help me once I decide to organize a climb?

We will provide you with all the material you'll need to get more climbers, such as brochures, itineraries and DVD's. We'll also provide you and your fellow climbers with a detailed Fundraising Manual, which will turn you into a fundraising expert overnight. It's full of tips and tools and good advice. It also contains a sample sponsor letter, donation certificate and donation forms.

Eddie Frank, Tusker Trail's founder, is a renowned public speaker. If you decide to organize a gala fundraising event, Eddie will be happy to give one of his exciting, motivational talks at the event. He will donate his time for your event. If you're interested you should contact us well in advance. Eddie's schedule tends to fill up 12-18 months ahead.

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Can I organize a Webcast from Kilimanjaro during the climb?

Absolutely.

This is a fantastic way for your friends, family and donors to follow the climb. We have perfected the art of broadcasting a Webcast from Kilimanjaro. You'll be able to broadcast voice as well as daily pictures. As part of your detailed fundraising packet, you will receive a sample CD of one of our previous Webcasts.

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TRAVEL DETAILS -

Do I need a Visa for Argentina?

Where do I fly to start the trip?

How do I get to Mendoza?

HOW DOES ACONCAGUA COMPARE TO KILIMANJARO? -

Is Aconcagua a longer trip?

Will porters carry the camp gear and some of my personal gear?

If I made it up Kilimanjaro can I make it up Aconcagua?

Will the gear I used on Kili work for Aconcagua?

Does Tusker provide a mess tent and toilet tent in camp?

Is Aconcagua harder than Kili?

How do the temperatures compare?

ROUTE -

What is the difference between the Normal Route and Valle de Vacas?

Which route does Tusker climb?

HOTEL SINGLE SUPPLEMENT -

What is the hotel single supplement price?

RECOMMENDED TIP AMOUNT -

What is the recommend tip amount?

Do I need a Visa for Argentina?

For those travelers holding US, Canadian, AND UK passports, no visa is required, as long as your stay in the country is less than 90 days.

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Where do I fly to start the trip?

The Aconcagua climb starts and stops at Mendoza airport, Argentina. We'll meet you there when you land, and get you back at the end of the climb.

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How do I get to Mendoza?

Flights usually route through Buenos Aires, Argentina, and then on to Mendoza, where the climb starts.

You can also fly into Santiago, Chile, and then continue on to Mendoza.

Flights from Santiago to Mendoza are approximately US$150 per person. Flights from Buenos Aires to Mendoza are approximately US$220 per person.

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Is Aconcagua a longer trip?

Yes. Aconcagua is taller than Kilimanjaro. So we need to spend more time getting acclimatized to handle the higher elevation. The Aconcagua itinerary is 19 days in length, which is about 7-10 days longer than our Kilimanjaro itineraries.

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Will porters carry the camp gear and some of my personal gear?

Our Aconcagua climb includes 1 porter per person. Your porter will carry 20 KGs of gear. This includes 10 KGs of shared camp gear (tents, food, etc.), and 10 KGs of your personal gear.

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If I made it up Kilimanjaro can I make it up Aconcagua?

Absolutely. If you are in the same or better physical condition you stand just as good a chance of success on Aconcagua.

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Will the gear I used on Kili work for Aconcagua?

Yes, and you'll need a few extras. You will need a serious down layer to handle the colder temps. You will also need double insulated hard plastic mountaineering boots. The last 300 yards to the summit is a low angle ice field, so you'll need to bring (or rent) crampons. No technical skill is required. You will also need to bring along your own sleeping mat and sleeping bag. You can rent a good sleeping bag in Mendoza, cheap.

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Does Tusker provide a mess tent and toilet tent in camp?

Yes, only at base camp though. Camps 1, 2 and 3 are much more simple because weight is such a concern. Above base camp we cannot bring along a mess tent, or toilet tent. Meals are served outside, or in your tent if the weather's bad.

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Is Aconcagua harder than Kili?

Yes. For two reasons:

1. It's taller, so you have more ground to cover, and you are dealing with more altitude.

2. It's further from the equator, so lower barometric pressure. This makes the altitude seem stonger than the same elevation on Kili. 16 K on Aconcagua may seem more like 18 K on Kilimanjaro.

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How do the temperatures compare?

Temps on Acon are much colder. You'll need to be prepared for -30 F on Aconcagua. This means you'll need some serious down layers, and double insulated, hard plastic mountaineering boots to stay warm.

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What is the difference between the Normal Route and Valle de Vacas?

While both routes are non technical high altitude trekking routes, they do differ in some ways. The Normal route is the most common way that climbers ascend Aconcagua and is typically climbed on a 17 day itinerary. Valle de Vacas is far less traveled, and 2 days longer. We feel Valle de Vacas is a much better way to climb Aconcagua than the Normal route.

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Which route does Tusker climb?

We climb the Valle de Vacas route. This is far less crowded than the "Normal" route. It is also 2 days longer than the Normal Route, thus we are able to get far better acclimatized, which means you'll enjoy the climb more, and have a much higher chance of success.

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What is the hotel single supplement price?

The single supplement for hotel accommodation price is $153USD.

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What is the recommend tip amount?

The recommended tip amount for a group size of 1 climber is $450. A group size of 2 or more climbers is $160-$200 per climber. This is only a recommendation. The tips will be collected at the end of the climb and distributed amongst the guides, personal porters, and other crew members.

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FAQ

GENERAL -

SEASONS -

TUSKER'S ROUTES -

SIGN-UP -

GUIDE TRAINING -

THE CLIMB -

SAFETY -

AIR TRAVEL -

INSURANCE -

Why Tusker Trail?

Why is there such a price difference between companies?

What's included on a Tusker climb?

Are there any other expenses besides the climb & the airfare?

What if I have to cancel or postpone my trip?

What is the typical group size?

How many guides will be on my climb?

How many porters will be on my climb?

Are kids allowed to climb?

Are airport transfers included?

What's the hotel accommodation like?

Can Tusker organize a safari for me after my climb?

Is Victoria Falls near Lake Victoria in Tanzania?

Does Tusker Trail do any community and environmental work?

Do I have to pay for the hotel if I come down early from my climb?

Will I need a Visa to enter Tanzania?

What innoculations will I need?

When is the best time of year to climb?

What's the weather like on the mountain?

What routes does Tusker climb?

Is it a technical climb?

Can I pay by credit card?

How do I know you won't take a hike with my money?

What happens when I sign up?

Why is definitive guide training so important?

What guide qualifications are required by the Tanzania Authorities?

What gear will I need to bring?

How's the food?

Do you provide for special diets?

Is there a weight limit for my gear on the climb?

What tents do you use?

What are the sleeping arrangements on the climb?

What do I do with my valuables?

Can I store my clothes for the safari after the climb?

Will I have time to wash my dirty clothes after the climb?

Is oxygen really necessary?

What if I need to be evacuated?

What happens if I have to come down early?

What about acclimatization to the altitude?

Can I climb if I have a medical problem?

What inoculations will I need?

Is the water on the climb safe to drink?

Can Tusker organize my air travel?

Can Tusker organize my air if I live outside the US?

Does Tusker offer medical evacuation insurance?

What’s the difference between the CSA Travel Protection and Global Rescue?

Does Tusker offer trip cancellation insurance?

GENERAL -

FOOD -

How much weight can I bring along

How are the treks run?

What’s included in the trip cost?

How much horse-riding experience do I need?

Is there an age limit?

How do I get to Mongolia?

What about a single supplement?

Do I need a visa?

What’s not included in the trip cost?

Is there any risk?

What are the sleeping arrangements?

How about the weather?

What’s the food like?

How tough is the Trekking Safari?

What's the difference between a Trekking Safari and a Kilimanjaro Climb?

Accommodation?

Do I need any special experience or equipment?

Can I do a Trekking Safari as well as a Kilimanjaro climb?

Where do we go on the Trekking Safari?

Can I customize my departure date?

Will I need a Visa to enter Tanzania?