Moshi to the Kilimanjaro Gates: Getting to Your Route Start

Kilimanjaro has several established routes, and each begins at a different gate on the mountain. The town of Moshi sits at the foot of the mountain and is the base for most climbers.

This guide explains how the transfers work and how to prepare for the morning of your start.

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.

Why Moshi

Moshi is a pleasant town at the base of Kilimanjaro, with cafes, shops and hotels that suit climbers. It is close to the international airport and to the road network that leads to the mountain gates. Many operators offer a pre-climb briefing here, and a night in town allows you to check equipment and meet your guides.

The town also offers a chance to rest after your flight and to adjust to the heat before the cold of the upper mountain. For general planning, see the Kilimanjaro climbing guide.

Which Gate for Which Route

Because the gates are on different sides of the mountain, the length of the transfer differs. Your operator will tell you the departure time on the morning of your start. See Kilimanjaro routes compared for the character of each route.

The Morning of the Climb

Expect an early breakfast, a final check of your bags and the loading of equipment into the vehicle. Porters and guides usually travel with you or meet you at the gate. At the gate, you sign in with park officials, your bags are weighed to protect porters and you set off after a short briefing.

Dress in layers, keep water and snacks in your daypack and bring a hat and sunscreen. The first hours of the trek are usually through forest, and it can be warm or damp, so prepare for changing conditions.

Road Conditions and Timing

The roads to most gates are a mix of sealed and dirt surfaces, and conditions can vary after rain. Transfers are usually planned with a buffer, but delays happen. Allow time for registration at the gate, which can take a while when many groups arrive.

If you are joining a route that begins far from Moshi, ask about the departure time and breakfast arrangements. Your operator should also give you a packing list and advice on what to keep in your daypack and what to leave with porters.

Preparing Before You Leave Moshi

Check your boots, layers, sleeping bag and water system, and rent or buy any missing gear in town. Consider altitude carefully, because acclimatisation is the single most important factor in success. Longer routes with gradual ascents generally give better results.

Read our Kilimanjaro best time and altitude sickness guide and the best time to climb Kilimanjaro page before you travel, and check the official health guidance for your journey.

Combining the Climb With a Safari

Many travellers climb first and then go on safari, or the other way round. A safari after the climb is a gentle way to rest tired legs, while a safari first helps with acclimatisation at moderate altitude. Whichever you choose, allow a buffer day in case of delays.

The first leg of a typical safari is from Moshi or Arusha, and our Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha guide covers the transfer between the two. See Kilimanjaro itineraries for how to structure your days.

Practical Tips

Keep a small bag of valuables and documents at your Moshi hotel rather than carrying them on the mountain. Tip guides and porters according to the guidance provided by your operator, and carry some cash for this. Bring spare batteries or a power bank, because cold drains devices quickly.

See East Africa packing list for general kit, and ask your operator for a specific Kilimanjaro list. Follow all park rules, including those on waste and wildlife, to protect the mountain.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

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