We begin our adventures amongst the tea, coffee, and banana fields on the lower slopes of Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro in Arusha, Tanzania. Our climb of Kilimanjaro ascends Machame Route, which is also known as the Whiskey Route for its “intoxicating” views of the mountain.
The altitude makes our Kilimanjaro guided climb challenging, but the support of local porters allows our team to carry only light packs throughout the trip, letting us focus on the climb and appreciate the experience of climbing Kilimanjaro.
Following the Kilimanjaro climb we return to Arusha before departing on our safari. Over the course of four days we watch herds of Africa’s greatest animals amidst the scenery of the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Parks. Each evening we return to the comfortable luxuries of our secluded safari lodges, located right along the edges of the parks we visit. Watching the sun set across the African landscape from the porch of our safari lodge is the perfect way to finish our climb of Kilimanjaro.
RMI Expeditions' Kilimanjaro guides have extensive experience on Kilimanjaro and around the world. Together they have reached the summit of Kilimanjaro over 53 times and over 1,147 summits of Mt. Rainier. They have records for the most summits on Mt. Rainier, Vinson Massif, and Mt. Everest (by a non-sherpa). Read more about our Kilimanjaro guides and discover how our guides set this Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari apart from our competitors.
Our Kilimanjaro climbs are led by RMI’s foremost U.S. guides, who bring years of climbing experience on not only Kilimanjaro but on mountains all over the world, from the Andes to the Alaska Range to the Himalayas. As you reach higher elevations and test the limits of your experience, the value of an accomplished, highly trained RMI Guide held to our standards and who can effectively communicate with you cannot be understated. Our professional guides often make the difference between safely reaching the summit or not. We have cultivated a close relationship with our local outfitter on Kilimanjaro whose years of organizing Kilimanjaro climbs is evident in the outstanding local staff we climb with. Our relationships there are the key to our trip’s success.
During our time in Arusha and while on safari we stay at select lodges that are intimate, comfortable, and wonderfully run; they have been hand picked by our guides over the course of the years as their favorites. On the mountain we provide the highest quality food and facilities for keeping our spirits elevated and health in order. Our professional, experienced cooks adhere to strict standards of hygiene while fresh, clean fruits and vegetables complement our diverse menu. With spacious sleeping tents, private toilets, and dining tents complete with tables and chairs that accompany us up the mountain, our highly sought after mountain staff has thought of every detail – from the candles at dinner to the hot cup of tea in bed each morning!
Our standard program is 15 days and includes a safari program after our climb. We welcome family and friends not keen on climbing Kilimanjaro but interested in experiencing the safari afterwards with you to join our team during this portion of our adventure. For climbers pressed for time we offer a Kilimanjaro Climb only that is 12 days long and includes the climbing portion of the program only. Please contact our office for more details.
From watching herds of wildebeest traverse the Serengeti to walking the white sand beaches of Zanzibar, East Africa offers a lifetime of adventures for visitors; we can help you tailor your visit to capture the very best of the region. If you are interested in extending your visit please contact our office for more details.
Safety has always been RMI's top priority and we strive to create the safest mountain experience possible. RMI's experienced team of guides focus on leading a fun and successful climb without compromising safety. We apply the same standards of safety we bring to Alaska and the Himalayas to our climbs of Mt. Kilimanjaro. While Kilimanjaro is a non-technical mountain, we do reach high altitudes. Our guides are trained, experienced, and certified by rigorous American standards in wilderness and high altitude medicine, avalanche training, and leave no trace techniques. We have spent considerable time in the mountains and know how to do so safely and comfortably; we don’t rush to the top but instead focus on using techniques that allow us to adjust and even excel in the thin air. Comprehensive medical kits, rescue equipment, and radio and satellite communication equipment are carried with the team throughout the climb.
As you prepare for your upcoming adventure please feel free to contact our office and speak directly to one of our experienced guides regarding equipment, conditioning, the route, or any other questions you may have about our programs. We are available Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at (888) 89-CLIMB or [email protected].
10/02/2024
Guide Casey is the key man and assist everyone to submit.
Pei Tung W.
09/28/2024
I don't know if it's RMI or Casey or both, but the amount of time spent explaining our impact on the local environment and what we do to help support the Tanzanian people was the best part of the trip. I felt very immersed in the culture and it was such a humbling part of the journey.
Maggie W.
08/26/2024
Dave Hahn is an incredible resource, a highly seasoned guide, we all enjoyed. He provided help that improved my climbing technique, told great stories, and was always vigilant of our health and wellness. In all, this was an incredibly well-balanced trip between serious climbing, safari touring, and immersion into the local culture.
Jack D.
08/22/2024
The climbing experience was remarkable (but hard). The support from Barking Zebra was great.
Alan J.
02/13/2024
1) Our first meeting with Casey & Jess. We had an opportunity to talk about what was important to see on the trip and we hoped to accomplish. It was different for all of us.
2) Our daily update on what was going to happen the next day, what to wear, what to expect, what was on the agenda. Casey & Jess prepared us for everything.
3) How engaged our guide & porter teams were with regard to our safety, our comfort, and our success.
Robert C.
02/08/2024
Casey and Jess work so well together. Casey has such amazing ties to the community and that made this trip so amazing. We stopped at an orphanage after the climb to give away our extra food and it was an amazing experience.
Julienne C.
01/21/2024
Experiencing the African culture was amazing, although I realize we were only exposed to a small portion. Adding on the safari really pushes this trip over the top!
Marc M.
10/12/2023
I most enjoyed hiking up Kili. It has been something I haven't wanted to do for a long time and I am glad I could accomplish it with some of my best friends. I loved every single day on the mountain.
Regan L.
10/09/2023
There wasn't a dull moment with this trip, I'd go back and do it all over again soon just to go through that experience again. I gained so many great memories and met so many wonderful people on this trip. With that being said, I enjoyed everything immensely from start to end.
Kelsey B.
09/23/2023
achieving the goal of climbing Kilimanjaro and the safari to follow.
Thomas S.
09/23/2023
The trek was fantastic and the safari was also amazing. The whole experience from getting off the plane to leaving Tanzania was a trip of a lifetime.
Dylan R.
02/09/2023
The cultural experiences both on and off the mountain
Kaitlin R.
02/09/2023
I liked that all the little details were taken care of and we only needed to focus on the climb.
Andrew C.
09/14/2022
All of details were sorted out and there were no surprises. Also, every one of the participants arrived prepared for the task at hand.
John M.
08/09/2022
RMI is not the cheapest provider out there but I wouldn't want to do an expedition with anyone else. The industry's best and most experienced guides - years of doing it the right way shows!
Glen G.
02/18/2022
The group dynamics. Like I said we were a group of 5 and the other 3 team members fell right in and meshed right away. I've been on several group outdoor trips and I've never experienced a trip where the group meshed so well in spite of a large difference in ages, experience and backgrounds. Throughly enjoyed the entire crew. I also credit Casey with helping to build this dynamic through his leadership.
William G.
02/18/2022
The trip was more or less seamless. The preparation by RMI was great. The climb was an amazing experience and having the safari after really brought it to another level it terms of enjoyment. I can’t say enough good things about Casey and all that he did to help make the trip successful, and enjoyable.
Matthew K.
02/14/2020
Just having everything taken care of and not have to worry about anything. The food was amazing both on the climb as well as the safari.
Sheldon S.
02/07/2020
What I enjoyed most about the trip was that despite being a lot younger than people on the trip, I still got to know them all very well and had a lot of fun. Getting to experience the summit with my Dad and my Aunt was one of my favorite moments ever because not only did I accomplish something amazing, I got to share it with my family. My Dad and I have been talking about this trip for so long and it lived up to all my expectations and more.
Gabrielle G.
02/05/2020
I pick RMI because of the experience. That is a huge factor in making a climb so enjoyable. You guys let us focus on the hike or the climb and provide accommodations.
The tents provided are nice, a little cramped for backpack and duffel bag -
Rene G.
08/14/2019
Everything!! The whole trip was a pleasant and exciting trip. The climb was the bomb. Our hotels and transportation met and exceeded expectations!
Patti S.
08/13/2019
I give this trip an A++++! The climb and Safari was amazing. I had the best time getting to know my new climbing friends, hanging with the Barking Zebra crew, and learning about hiking from the best guide ever, Brent.
Elizabeth H.
08/13/2019
The mountain experience was amazing. It was a once in a lifetime trip.
Andrea G.
01/29/2019
You are the best and I recommend you to everyone.
John G.
01/27/2019
The sense of accomplishment of making it to the top and back, loved safari and my experiences with our African support team.
Julie B.
10/04/2018
Entire trip for me was surreal. My birthday on the Summit of Kili, the friends and guides, porters and all the safari days, and the overall fun and adventure was beyond what was expected, and it all just fell into place. Great trip!
Daniel C.
10/02/2018
loved it!! Life-time memory
Colleen M.
08/25/2018
This trip was very organized and made traveling far to climb less stressful. The guides and staff in Tanzania absolutely made this trip. We loved meeting new people and really got along well with our whole team!
Emily S.
08/07/2018
The comradery that was quickly established amongst the team members. Dave structured the trip from the outset in that everyone was on the same schedule. As a result everyone got to know each other during breakfast, lunch, and dinner before we hit the mountain. This made the climb and safari very enjoyable, because it felt like I was there with many of my closest friends.
Kevin K.
02/19/2018
We will forever remember our experience and have memories to last a lifetime. Thank you for everything!
Christine C.
02/19/2018
This was a trip of a lifetime for me. It was a challenge and a huge accomplishment. I loved every minute of it. Both the Kilimanjaro climb and the safari were fantastic. If/when I do another climb, I will definitely look to RMI for that adventure. Thanks for putting together such a great trip!
Laura W.
02/19/2018
Logistics were planned to perfection. The exquisite lodges after the hike were an incredibly nice surprise.
Darrin C.
02/15/2018
The guides and staff on the mountain. These guys are top notch in every regard. Even during the difficult times, Casey was a leader and lightened the mood. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to climb with him.
Darla S.
10/07/2017
Being with Dave Hahn. We also loved our whole climbing group. Everyone was like-minded and respectful and supportive of each other.
Lynn M.
10/07/2017
Many things rate as most enjoyable... The extraordinary opportunity to climb with and learn from Dave Hahn... The exceptional safaris... Visiting the Massai tribe... Staying at the exceptional Plantation Lodge and Balloon Camp... Making new friends... Challenging myself to get to 19,340 and with Davie's expert coaching making it and enjoying it!
Steve M.
08/30/2017
The adventure. Having our family together and doing something so amazing. The lodging on the safari was outstanding and I wish we could have stayed for longer. Barking Zebra is an outstanding partner for RMI.
Adriana B.
08/23/2017
Experiencing the location, people, and geography. I think the route on Kilimanjaro is a good choice.
David M.
02/08/2017
I enjoyed the interactions we had as a Team with each other, and the friendships we made with our guides and porters.Reaching the summit and seeing the sun come up was special ,and rates as one of my most memorable experiences to date. When you get the opportunity to do something like this with other Family members it enhances the achievement. I know 4 other people who want to do this climb and will share with them why RMI is the Best .
Kim G.
02/08/2017
Where to begin? I went there to hike/climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, but knew that I couldn't pass up the chance to take in the Safari. My enduring memory of the experience will be our ascent of this beautiful mountain, the friendships I made with fellow climbers, but the guidance and instruction we all received from our RMI guide Casey ensured this trip exceeded all our expectations. No doubt he was working as hard behind the scenes to ensure our smooth transition between locations, managing logistics etc., but this trip I just can't boil down to one single more enjoyable moment - reaching Stella Point? Getting to know our incredible local porters and guides? Meeting regular Tanzanians along the way? Seeing wild game? Summitting? It's a cliche to say this was a trip of a lifetime, but I think this really was. Unforgettable.
John H.
02/06/2017
While I really appreciated the victory, opportunity and experience of summit day, it was the 6 days leading up to it that I enjoyed most - the sleeping outside, the hours of hiking in a new environment every day, the rock scrambling, the team bonding, etc. I had a FABULOUS time on this trip and immediately started planning my next adventure with RMI. I had never done anything like this before. Preparing for and achieving a physical challenge was entirely new for me. Now I see why people get hooked on it. I felt that RMI had my back the whole time and was actively creating a supportive context in which I could succeed.
Kathleen D.
02/05/2017
Excellent support in all forms on the mountain; and high quality lodging on the safari portion
Elaine M.
02/02/2017
We had a group of 9 come together like a group of friends. We all enjoyed meal times and having some laughs and telling stories. Swapping around in the safari vehicles to spend time with one another, while enjoying the amazing scenery and views.
Andrew M.
02/01/2017
This was a first for me, not having climbed anything higher than 4,000 ft in my home state of NH and current home in Maine. It was the challenge that, at age 60, was my driving force. It was an opportunity for me to step out, get away from my business, get in shape and challenge my physical being. I loved our team, the area was beautiful, the safari was awesome. I loved it all
Catherine S.
02/01/2017
The Summit--just loved the experience followed by having a really interesting and fun team to spend time with in Africa.
Jeffrey M.
01/26/2017
Having all the logistics so carefully, thoughtfully planned out, so all I had to do was sit back and enjoy what was happening in the moment. That's what you pay a guide service for, of course, but to have everything start to finish run so smoothly was great. I really, really loved the down-times that Casey built into the schedule...after arriving at the hotels, before dinner...as world-class introverts, my two traveling companions and I were all worried about too-much together time. I didn't have every manifest itself. He did a great job providing social buffers along the way so that by the time we all reconvened, it was great. ALSO? I LOVED the spiral-bound booklet we got before the climb. It was the same info on the website, but to have it so nicely presented, small, and handy while on the mountain to refer to (and now a souvenir!) was great. Nice touch
Deborah R.
11/30/2016
I loved that RMI took care of all the logistical details (itinerary, transportation, tips, lodging), which allowed us to focus on ourselves when needed and the overall experience. Having two safari vehicles was great. It was also great having Mark on the safari,
Michael W.
10/14/2016
This was a very well-run program from start to finish. Thank you!
Jennifer O.
10/12/2016
Both the climb and safari were excellent. I especially enjoyed the group I was climbing with. We had a great time together.
David S.
08/15/2016
Mark Tucker rocks!
Carol C.
02/23/2016
The experience in visiting Africa, hiking on Kilimanjaro, and the wildlife parks were all outstanding. It is difficult to pick one thing as the best experience since it was all so good. I believe the guide and local staff made significant contributions to the success of the trip.
Dale F.
02/15/2016
The summit. The views. The weather. The challenge. Tuck's faces while losing at Pepito Dos!
Robert S.
02/11/2016
I enjoyed every aspect about this trip.
Jason B.
02/09/2016
As a whole the trip was fantastic but I really enjoyed the itinerary and being immersed in the African culture from the porters on the mountain to interacting with the Masai people on safari.
Sarah B.
02/08/2016
LOVE LOVE LOVE!!! The people were my favorite part of the trip. Seth took time to visit with each of us individually and make sure we were taken care of. The guides and porters were wonderful! Of course I did have my favorites but the group as a whole went above and beyond to care for us! Crossing the wall and living to talk about it was remarkable. But my most favorite moment was looking down from near the first summit to see my fellow climbers' headlamps as they made their way up. The ONLY reason I was abel to reach that point ahead of them is because I got an hour head start!!! We did the final summit together ( well....almost)!!
Karen R.
01/31/2016
The work that RMI does to create a cohesive and supportive group is exceptional. Seeing the whole group successful at reaching the summit of the mountain was a highlight. Thank you for an exceptional experience. Trip of a lifetime for sure!
Annie D.
01/28/2016
Everything being clearly described and taken care of as promised on the trip. There was never confusion on what was going to happen. Another great experience with RMI.
Eileen M.
09/22/2015
Dave Hahn was an outstanding group leader with a perfect mix of expertise/experience that he shared throughout the trip with the group to his calming and fun personality. He was admired and appreciated by all and did a fantastic job all the way through.
Erwin M.
09/22/2015
Everything !
Chris W.
09/11/2015
Talking with the African guides and staff, they were all very friendly, supportive, and knowledgeable. They offered great advice and assistance on difficult parts of the mountain. Despite spending 6 nights in a tent, I felt pampered.
Catarina M.
09/08/2015
Being in Africa and meeting the locals! Getting along with 10 strangers that were very nice people!
Giulia G.
08/31/2015
Seth and the local guides really made this trip. Everything was well organized and everyone was accommodating.
Rachel P.
08/24/2015
Everything was amazing
Thom C.
08/24/2015
I though the trip was amazing!! Camp life was fun... the journey to the top was the best for me
Kim P.
08/24/2015
This was a trip of a lifetime, enjoyed every moment. The mountain was incredible, the safari was better than I could have imagined, just an overall great trip.
Molly R.
08/24/2015
I've referred 10 people already and more planning on climbing Rainier. Convinced some from Elbrus climb to sign on for McKinley with us in May.
Todd H.
08/24/2015
The overall itinerary and accommodations were awesome. Didn't have to think about anything just did what JJ said. LOVED the Plantation Lodge.
Ashley J.
08/23/2015
We had a really great group of climbers that got along with each other. People make and break a trip like this.
David R.
08/22/2015
The entire trip! The Kili itinerary is perfect!
Jared E.
08/19/2015
i couldn't have better things to say. and not only was the trip awesome for me, apparently my mom got in touch with the front office and they were very friendly and helpful (so, major brownie points for getting the seal of approval from mama briggs).At one point, someone on our team asked my cousin Ryan Sollinger if RMI was paying him to speak so highly of the company - we had a good laugh, but after my experience with you guys, I have a much better understanding of what he's talking about and will also be raving about my experience. it was such a great experience i'm looking forward to getting on another trip because of what a great time i had on Mt. K
Bailey B.
08/18/2015
Our team meshed really well, which is difficult to predict but certainly appreciated when present. Casey's preparation and ability to manage various personalities and situations helped smooth any potential sore spots and bring the whole team together.
Casey B.
08/14/2015
Reaching the summit with my friends!
Charlie S.
08/05/2015
I have already recommended RMI and this trip to several people with whom I have shared my pictures. I am also hoping to bring my children on this trip in a couple of years.
Scott F.
08/03/2015
RMI has it laid out perfectly. Right amount of time, right equipment list, right places to stay, right porters, right guides, right travel agents....obviously at this point you really have it dialed in. Great experience.
Thomas D.
07/28/2015
Climbing with me family, followed by safari with my family
Peter R.
07/28/2015
Getting to know the Tanzanians who were such an integral part of our experience.
Bonny R.
07/28/2015
The list is endless. Mark TuckerAccommodationsDik Dik HotelSafariFoodTransportGuidesPortersWeatherorganizationplanningwebsitepacking list
Jonathan R.
02/20/2015
The timing and pace of the Kili climb and safari was excellent, the hotels and lodges were superb. The food on the climb and safari was always great, well prepared.We could have saved money using another organization, but we're glad we didn't, RMI was worth every penny. And we will use you again.
Kevin P.
02/20/2015
The whole thing was great, just the right amount of safari time and plenty of time to get souvenirs and take photos, etc.
Shannon M.
02/18/2015
Climbing on the mountain was amazing! The experience of a life time, and then the "cherry on top" was the safari! We were so close to some of my favorite animals! This trip was truly amazing!
William M.
02/18/2015
Group & guide got along very well.This made for a very enjoyable group dynamic, which kept things fun and exciting.I enjoyed the camaraderie of our team the most as well as my experience on the mountain.It was my first, but very enjoyable.
Jessie M.
02/10/2015
The awesome guides, awesome food & awesome hotels!
Lourdes G.
01/29/2015
I enjoyed everything about the trip. Seth's experience and knowledge on climbing the mountain was probably the best, he always had some tips for making it a little easier. I also like the balance of climbing and safari on this program.
Matt M.
01/27/2015
A trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro followed by a safari in Africa is an experience of a lifetime. The flawless details planned by RMI were beyond our wildest imaginations. A wonderful and worry free way to reach one of the seven summits! Thank you for helping us enrich our lives culturally and attain our goal of climbing above the clouds.The McCullough Family
Marylyn M.
11/02/2014
The camaraderie that developed among everyone - not only among the RMI climbing group from the US however among all of the staff at the Dik Dik and staff that accompanied us on the climb and safari. The memories of the people will remain with me forever.
Marilyn B.
10/31/2014
ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING - trip of a lifetime. Seth was great and so were the other team members. Of course the Porters - each and every one of them are to be highly commended for their support and camaraderie. They were great - especially Eric, Charles, Joseph, Alfred, and of course Samuel who was responsible for my daughters and my belongings. Special thanks to all of them.
Dudley R.
09/26/2014
Due to the nature of the climb we had a lot of time to get to know each other including our guides.
Myles L.
09/17/2014
I don't really know where to start. Seth was completely terrific as were the five Tanzanian guides (Charles, Eric, Valentin, Joachin, Francis) and the porters. The climb was hard but beyond rewarding, and doing it to with a great RMI team, under Seth's able leadership, was amazing. I really enjoyed the other "clients" too! The safari and the safari lodges were beyond my wildest expectations.
Mary M.
09/16/2014
Enhancing my friendship with Seth, meeting and working with all the clients on our team, and coming into contact and sharing time with the excellent Tanzanian people. And doing it all with my wife, my brother and one of my best friends.
Wilder L.
08/25/2014
The guides.
Pierre C.
08/24/2014
The trip was amazing. I was very impressed with the local organization. The Dik-Dik comes in for a special shout-out for their attention and kindness.
Melissa M.
08/23/2014
Hard to pick out one thing. Simple to say it was a trip of the lifetime.
John S.
08/12/2014
The mix of climbing, culture and time with our team members. The balance was great on the Kili trip. Mark did great work for all of us, taking care of every detail. Lots of laughs but a great respect for the task ahead of us each day. He is a great cheerleader, encourager and teacher. He set a great tone for the mix of people in our group. Every situation was handled in a great, professional manner. As usual, RMI does it best!
Brian M.
08/10/2014
Mt Kilimanjaro climb was a sweet balance of challenge, camaraderie, culture and climate zones!
Laura V.
03/09/2014
The pace made the trek were enjoyable and allowed for endless viewing possibilities
Michael V.
03/02/2014
The satisfaction of getting to the top of the mountain, especially when I felt so sick. I proved to myself that morning that I could do anything when I put my mind to it. Jeff was a big part of keeping me focused and keeping me mentally strong.
Jo W.
02/28/2014
Summiting and then the safari. The Plantation Lodge was an oasis and I loved it there.
Holly B.
02/17/2014
The climb and safari were great experiences. An unexpected positive experience was getting the opportunity to observe and interact with the local people. My expectations were very high going into this trip. My expectations were exceeded!
Terry A.
02/17/2014
Incorporating in the local culture during our Safari
Tony C.
02/15/2014
Summitting Kilimanjaro and seeing the Big 5 on safari. Those were the most amazing things! I also really enjoyed the other clients and of course our guide, Jeff Martin. This was the trip of a lifetime!
Conor C.
10/14/2013
The Dik Dik staff did an amazing job. I never wanted for anything.
Jesse L.
10/01/2013
This trip was fantastic. Everything about it was great.
Eric Y.
10/01/2013
Well organzied, professional staff
Kimberly Z.
09/22/2013
Very well organized
Dan O.
09/21/2013
Summiting Kilimanjaro was the highlight of the trip for me. The safari was very special and the Tarangire National Park was my favourite part of the safari.
Fatima W.
09/09/2013
Getting to know Seth and the other climbers. Friends for life!
Kalin M.
09/09/2013
everything was organized and timely. No stress about itinerary or equipment. The big dome made dining luxurious
Bruce F.
08/22/2013
the sunrise when we summited.
Susan U.
08/22/2013
Every detail was professional
Phillip U.
08/22/2013
Summit day
Shelley G.
08/19/2013
Getting to know everyone, to experience a fabulous part of the world and to have a great hike to the top!
Gayle H.
08/16/2013
Ten to the TOP. We all made it to the summit.
John G.
08/16/2013
Meeting the people and the culture
Dave J.
08/16/2013
The achievement of summiting, and the great group of folks to share a great experience with
Charles T.
08/03/2013
Excellent mountain guidance by Mark. The satisfaction of achieving a goal.
Juan B.
03/23/2013
not one thing was most enjoyable-.
Holly C.
