How to Get to Kilimanjaro: Airports, Moshi, Arusha and Trailheads
Most climbers fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport, which sits between Moshi and Arusha, and are transferred to a hotel before driving to the trailhead on the first day of the climb.
Kilimanjaro is among the easiest of the great African mountains to reach, because an international airport serves the region and the main gateway towns have a wide range of hotels.
The key decisions are where to base yourself before the climb and which route gate you will use, because trailheads are on different sides of the mountain.
This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.
At a glance
- Airport: Kilimanjaro International, near Moshi and Arusha
- Gateway towns: Moshi and Arusha
- Trailheads: Different gate for each route
- Arrive: At least a night before the climb
- Alternative: Fly via Nairobi or Dar es Salaam
Flying In
International and regional flights connect Kilimanjaro International Airport with several hubs, and some travellers prefer to arrive via Nairobi or Dar es Salaam on domestic or regional links. The airport is a short drive from both Moshi and Arusha, so transfers are quick. Arrange pickup with your operator in advance. Read getting around East Africa for domestic travel, and check the East Africa visa guide before departure.
Moshi or Arusha as a Base
Moshi lies at the foot of the mountain and is the traditional climbing base, with views of the peak on clear days. Arusha is larger and better connected to the safari circuit, and it works well if you plan a safari before or after the climb. Both have comfortable hotels, restaurants and shops for last-minute gear. See Arusha safari gateway guide.
Route Gates and Trailheads
Each route begins at its own gate on a different side of the mountain, and the drive from your hotel to the trailhead can take from under an hour to a couple of hours. Machame and Lemosho start on the south and west, Marangu on the south-east and Rongai on the north. Your operator handles permits and park formalities. Compare options in Kilimanjaro routes compared.
Arrival Day and Acclimatisation
Plan to arrive at least one night before the climb so luggage delays do not threaten your schedule. Many climbers add a few extra days at altitude, for example in Arusha National Park or on a short walk, to adjust gently. The altitude advice in Kilimanjaro altitude sickness guide explains why a slower pace helps.
Combining With Safari or Zanzibar
The most common post-climb plan is a few days on safari in the northern circuit, or a rest on Zanzibar. See northern circuit safari and Zanzibar and Stone Town guide.
Before You Travel
Check passport validity, visa requirements and travel insurance that covers trekking at altitude. Speak to a travel clinic about vaccinations and malaria prevention, and read East Africa health and vaccinations. Pack your boots and sleeping layers in hand luggage in case checked bags are delayed, because replacing technical gear at short notice can be difficult.
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Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
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