Know before you go — Visas and Vaccinations for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro

It’s the last stage of gearing up for your an incredible experience in Kilimanjaro, but some of the most vital tasks of your trip are right here in the details. Those things like Visa’s for travelling to Tanzania for smooth travelling there, getting the vaccinations that’ll protect you from diseases you might not have heard of — we’ll cover it all here so that you don’t have to go it alone.

Visas

You’ll need a visa for entering/staying in Tanzania, but they’re not too difficult to get thanks to the great tourism industry opening up the locals hospitality to climbers and trekkers from around the world. There are two main options: number one is to check out your local Tanzanian Embassy website for individual information on getting one. For most western citizens this will mostly just require a quick appointment visit/waiting period to getting your visa, and then you’re good to go!

Your second option is to get your visa then and there at the entry point of the airport — however this can be more expensive and a little risky in terms of your time-keeping.

It’s recommended again if you have any low-key questions about the whole process then ask your guide with us. We’ll provide a prompt and quick response, and you’ll likely be able to sort out meeting your guide/transportation right from the airport!

Vaccinations

We’ve listed below the quick view guide to what vaccinations and diseases you’ll need to know about when arriving in Tanzania — it’s important to note that once you’re on the ascent you’ll have less to worry about as most are contracted below 2000ft, but preparation is crucial!

• Yellow Fever is a viral disease that’s spread by the bite of a female mosquito. If you stop in transit at an airport along your route then you don’t require a vaccination. If you leave the airport you’ll need a Yellow Fever vaccination card though, so it’s important to keep in mind.
• Hepatitis A & B. Hep A is transmitted by direct person-to-person contact or through exposure to contaminated food or water, particularly uncooked foods like salad, fruit, or ice in bottled water. You are at highest risk of Hep B if you work in the healthcare field or require medical treatment.
• Diphtheria/Tetanus/Polio. It’s a good idea to go get a Diphtheria/Tetanus/Polio booster if you’ve not had one in the last 10 years in preparation for being in Tanzania.
• Typhoid is spread via contaminated water and food. It is worthwhile getting a typhoid inoculation before coming to Tanzania.

Medication

You can consult with your doctor about any pre-exisiting medical needs before you go on your trip to Kilimanjaro. You’ll have plenty of porters when climbing with us so carrying items is never a worry. Issues such as AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) can happen at any altitude above 8000 ft, and can be treated with Oxygen and regularly rehydrating — so if you’re filling up on the mountain remember to take some water purification tablets!

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