How much does it cost
Briefly, it does not take spending a fortune for a safe, comfortable and successful climb. However, the price below USD 1600 should alert you, as it is the first signal that your tour operator forsakes basic safety measures and hires semi-qualified (or unqualified altogether) guides and porters, who agreed to work for a pay far below the market average. Some tour operators do not pay their crews at all, who sign up for the expedition relying on tips only.
In addition to that, “budget” means poor diet, second-rate obsolete equipment and no operations in place. Thus, though embarking on a cheap trip may seem attractive financially, in reality, it jeopardizes your safety and perpetuates porters mistreatment.
Which route to choose?
There are several routes to get the summit.
Those seeking seclusion, scenic value and good acclimatization transition should consider Lemosho or Northern Traverse. A pocket-friendly and picturesque Machame provides good acclimatization transition, though it is a bit crowded during the high season.
Due to a popular misconception of being the easiest, Marangu route is the most popular and cheapest option. It is the only route providing hut accommodation (all other routes are camping only), which are handy during the rainy season. Marangu, however, features poor acclimatization and scenic value, as the trail is used for ascent and descent.
Rongai is one of the least crowded and the only route approaching the Mount from the North. It is a physically challenging option and is ideal for those who value remoteness. This route is recommended during the rainy seasons (Northern side of the Mountain protects the climbers from precipitation).
Umbwe route is the for the real adventurers. The steepest and shortest option, Umbwe is a challenging test of your endurance, stamina and determination. The route offers unique panoramic sceneries. The cost of that is, however, the weakest acclimatization transition.
