Kilimanjaro Fullmoon Climbs: A Magical Ascent
The allure of Kilimanjaro, the highest freestanding mountain in the world, is already undeniable. But imagine scaling its majestic heights under the enchanting glow of a full moon. Kilimanjaro Full moon Climbs are a truly unique and magical experience that every adventurer should consider. In this guide, we will provide you with appropriate dates and prices per person based on group size with our recommended routes of full moon ascents on Kilimanjaro. And finally uncover the extraordinary moments and the preparation required for this unforgettable journey with Safari Nuggets.
Why Choose a Fullmoon Climb?
For many, the concept of a full moon climb may seem unconventional, but there are several compelling reasons to embark on this adventure. Firstly, a full moon ascent offers a distinctive perspective of Kilimanjaro, revealing its breathtaking landscapes in an entirely new light. The night sky, adorned with the brilliance of the moon, sets the stage for an ethereal experience that words can hardly describe.
The Magical Aura of a Fullmoon Ascent
Full moon climbs add a layer of mystique to the already awe-inspiring mountain. As the moon rises over Kilimanjaro, it casts an enchanting glow on the surrounding terrain, creating a surreal atmosphere. The mountain’s silhouette against the moonlit sky is a sight to behold, and the experience is nothing short of magical.
Preparing for Your Kilimanjaro Adventure
Before setting off on your Kilimanjaro full moon adventure, meticulous planning is essential. You need to choose the right route and gather the appropriate gear for the climb. Selecting a route that aligns with your experience and preferences is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Additionally, packing appropriately, including essentials like warm clothing and suitable footwear, is paramount.
Choosing the Perfect Timing
Understanding the full moon calendar is essential for planning your Kilimanjaro climb. Full moon climbs are strategically timed to provide climbers with the most captivating lunar views. Considering the moon’s phases and choosing a climb date that aligns with a full moon is a vital aspect of your preparations. Check your desired dates below for a full moon climb and see the prices on the next table to assist you on deciding on booking your upcoming Kilimanjaro tour today.
Kilimanjaro Full Moon Dates 2024, 2025 & 2026
The following is a representation of estimated Kilimanjaro Full Moon Dates for the years 2024, 2025, and 2026:
Month |
Year 2024 |
Year 2025 |
Year 2026 |
January |
25th |
14th |
3rd |
February |
24th |
12th |
2nd |
March |
25th |
14th |
3rd |
April |
23rd |
13th |
2nd |
May |
23rd |
12th |
1st, 31st |
June |
21st |
11th |
30th |
July |
21st |
10th |
29th |
August |
19th |
9th |
28th |
September |
17th |
7th |
26th |
October |
17th |
7th |
26th |
November |
15th |
5th |
24th |
December |
15th |
5th |
24th |
When planning your Kilimanjaro expedition, it is essential to establish a clear budget in advance and take into account additional expenses such as tips for guides and concierge staff.
Safari Nuggets is a reputable local tour operator that helps you plan a safe and successful climb with a successful summit rate of over 95%.
Below is a price list for the Full Moon Kilimanjaro routes against the group size of climbers. Look for your desired route and date, compare prices, then make a booking for your upcoming adventure with Safari Nuggets.
Full Moon Kilimanjaro Climbing Cost Per Climber |
||||||||||
Route /
Number of Climbers (Cost per Climber) |
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10+ |
Lemosho Route-7 Days | $2,942 | $2,411 | $2,340 | $2,277 | $2,237 | $2,215 | $2,204 | $2,202 | $2,191 | $2,174 |
Lemosho Route-8 Days | $3,224 | $2,665 | $2,621 | $2,598 | $2,579 | $2,556 | $2,536 | $2,538 | $2,519 | $2,491 |
Northern Circuit Route-8 Days | $3,224 | $2,665 | $2,621 | $2,598 | $2,579 | $2,556 | $2,536 | $2,538 | $2,519 | $2,491 |
Northern Circuit Route-9 Days | $3,504 | $2,975 | $2,935 | $2,909 | $2,870 | $2,843 | $2,824 | $2,819 | $2,800 | $2,774 |
The Trekking Package Price Includes:
- Airport pick up and drop off – Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) – Moshi
- Hotel accommodations in Moshi one night before the trek and the night that you finish the trek
- All park fees for the national park including taxes
- All meals and unlimited drinking water while on the mountain
- Private toilet tent included (1 toilet for every 7 climbers)
- All salaries for guides, assistant guides, chef, porters
- Transport to and from the park gate
- Oxygen for altitude sickness emergencies
- All camping equipment (tents, tables, chairs, cooking equipment, dining tent, sleeping mattress — but not sleeping bag)
The Trekking Package Price Excludes:
- Extra JRO airport pickups and drop offs ($40 per car)
- Sleeping bag – please bring your own or rent one from our equipment rental shop
- International flights & visas
- Travel Insurance
- Mountain climb staff tips
- Alcoholic drinks
- Personal travel and baggage
- Telephone/internet bill
- Laundry service
- Any personal items
- Activities not mentioned in the program
Note: For private groups with an even number of participants, the price is based on double occupancy in the hotel in Moshi and in the tents on the mountain. Private rooms/tents are available at an added price. For odd numbered participants, the price for one single hotel room and tent is already factored into the quoted price. Our default policy is to divide the entire price evenly. If you prefer, we can calculate a separate price for those with double occupancy and the person with single occupancy.
Everything you need to know about mountain crew tipping
How many crew members will there be on my climb?
While we will know in advance how many guides, assistant guides and cooks you will have for a climb, we will not know how many porters will be used until the morning of the climb. The maximum weight allowed for each porter to carry is 20kg plus their own gear. Of course, they also need 3 meals a day and a mattress (not all companies supply these for porters, but we do). So once the total weight of all items being brought on the mountain is weighed, we will know the definite crew numbers. Typically for a small group (4 climbers or less), a rough estimate of the number of porters is 4 porters/climber. For larger groups, approximately 3 porters per climber. Marangu route (overnights in huts) will use about 1 porter per climber less. While we can accommodate group sizes of any number, the national park treats groups over 10 people as 2 climbs. This means that for more than 10 in your group, there will be 2 head guides, 2 cooks, etc. The group will still be together as one group on the mountain though. Comfort add-ons such as portable toilet tent or mattress upgrade add to the number of porters needed.
How much is a recommended tip?
It is through the accumulation of feedback from our clients that the guidelines below have been suggested.
Recommended tipping rates range from
- $20 – $30/day for head guide
- $15 – $20/day for each assistant guide
- $15 – $20/day for cook
- $5 – $7/day for each porter
Out of the group of porters, some will have additional duties during the entire climb such as tent master, waiter and toilet attendant (if using private toilet tents). We suggest giving an additional amount of $3/day to these porters. There will also be summit porters who will have additional duties during summit day only. We suggest $20/trip for the summit porters. These are only guidelines. It is up to you and your budget if you want to vary from this.
Meals during Kilimanjaro climb
While on the mountain, eating a good diet is essential for a successful climb. The food must be high energy, plentiful, appealing and easy to digest. These are important components since a great amount of energy is required. The most common symptoms of altitude sickness are nausea and loss of appetite. Food that will not disturb the stomach further is essential and since climbers at times have to force themselves to eat. The food must be appealing.
A typical breakfast may have combinations of the following:
Porridge, breads/chapati, plantains, pancakes, eggs, sausage, hot chocolate/ tea/ coffee, fruit
Lunches and dinners:
Pasta, rice, plantains, potatoes, vegetables, meat, bread, soup/stew, fruit, popcorn, peanuts
Our cooks can accommodate special diets such as vegetarian/vegan, food allergies, gluten free, etc. We welcome special requests (before we are on the mountain, please).
There is no food preservation method on the mountain (this gets less important as the temperature gets colder) but we resupply the food part way through the climb to insure freshness.
Booking Your Full Moon Kilimanjaro Climb
You can book your Full Moon Kilimanjaro climb by filling this form and submit your request. Our tour consultant will get back to you shortly with a quote proposal for your climb. Also see what other customers say about Safari Nuggets on TripAdvisor. Read our Kilimanjaro FAQs and Kilimanjaro Packing List.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is climbing Kilimanjaro under a full moon safe? Climbing under a full moon is generally safe, but it requires careful planning and experienced guides to ensure safety. Read what other people say about Safari Nuggets on TripAdvisor.
- What is the best route for a full moon climb? The best route depends on your preferences and experience level, but the Lemosho route and Northern Circuit route are popular choices for full moon climbs.
- What gear do I need for a full moon climb? You’ll need warm clothing, proper footwear, and other essentials. What Are the Kilimanjaro Hiking Gears That One Must Have?
- Can beginners attempt a full moon climb? While Kilimanjaro is a challenging climb, beginners can attempt it with proper preparation and guidance. It’s essential to be in good physical shape.
- How do I book a Kilimanjaro full moon climb? To book a full moon climb, you can fill our booking form or fill the form below and submit your inquiry.