We recommend $300 USD per climber, in cash, handed over on your final day. That single figure covers your tip contribution to the entire mountain crew, guides, assistant guides, cook, and porters, and it is the number I tell every Legend climber before they fly out. The rest of this article explains why that amount works, how we distribute it, and the reasoning behind a practice that catches a lot of first-time climbers off guard.

Tipping on Kilimanjaro is not a loose social convention. It is a core part of how the mountain economy functions, and it is the single most important financial decision you will make outside of choosing your operator. Done properly, it is a straightforward handover. Done poorly, or skipped, and you have materially underpaid the people who carried your kit, cooked your meals, and kept you safe at 5,895 metres.

For years, the story of Kilimanjaro's ice was a story of loss. Scientists warned it would be gone entirely by 2060. Tour operators marketed the mountain as something to see before it disappeared. That narrative is now wrong, and the data to prove it has just been published.

According to GIS analysis from Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA), the glacier coverage on Kilimanjaro has increased from 2.2 square kilometres in 2000 to 5.92 square kilometres — nearly a tripling of the ice that was there at the turn of the millennium. Park ecologist Swahib Massawe, who announced the findings at a press briefing at KINAPA's headquarters in Marangu, called it a significant turnaround. That is, by the standards of conservation science, an understatement.

This is one of the most consequential environmental stories to come out of East Africa in a decade. And it has direct implications for anyone considering climbing Kilimanjaro in 2026.

We are monitoring the situation in the Middle East closely, and we are going full throttle into the next dry season. Over 150 climbers are booked with Legend this year, and we intend to get every single one of them to the summit of Kilimanjaro. That is not bravado. It is where we are. Tanzania is open, safe, and operating entirely normally. The mountain is waiting.

That said, I know a number of you have questions. Some of you are booked to fly via Doha and are watching the news with a degree of understandable concern. This article is my attempt to give you a clear, honest picture of the situation: what is happening, what it means for your travel, and what your options are. I will update it as circumstances change.

We have been nominated for Tanzania's Leading Tour Operator 2026 at the World Travel Awards, and I want to take a moment to explain why this matters far more to me than any trophy ever could.

Tarangire National Park is one of the most rewarding places to start a safari in northern Tanzania, combining huge elephant herds, ancient baobab trees and a calmer atmosphere than many of the country’s headline parks. As a guide, it is a favourite location for introducing guests to the African savannah: wide open views, reliable game viewing along the Tarangire River and the feeling of being properly away from the crowds without the highest price tag.

In this Tarangire National Park safari guide, you will find everything needed to decide whether to include the park in your itinerary: where it is and what it feels like, the best time to visit, the wildlife you are likely to see and the types of lodges that work well for different travellers. It is written for first-time Northern Circuit visitors, families, elephant lovers, photographers and anyone who prefers a slightly more laid-back, less congested safari experience.

I would like to start this email by saying a huge thank you. By receiving this email, you have supported our business in some form, whether that is by coming on an adventure with us, booking one in the future, or simply interacting with the content we have been sending out. Thank you for your support.

If you are thinking about booking a Kilimanjaro climb or a safari with us, it is helpful to know exactly what the journey looks like from the moment you sign up until the moment you arrive in Tanzania. Below is a clear walkthrough of each stage so you know what to expect and how we support you every step of the way.

One of the questions I get asked most often is, “How do I stay connected in Tanzania?” Whether you are climbing Kilimanjaro, heading out on safari or exploring Zanzibar, having reliable connectivity makes a huge difference. It helps you stay in touch with home, access maps, keep your family updated, post your journey or contact us easily while you are travelling.

This is why we have partnered with Airalo, the world’s most trusted global eSIM provider, to offer our clients and blog readers the Legend eSIM for Tanzania. It is simple, fast and works instantly. No queues at the airport. No fiddling with plastic SIM cards. Just download, activate, and you are online within minutes.

You can purchase your eSIM here:
👉 Get Your Legend Tanzania eSIM
Use code LEGEND10 for 10 percent off your first purchase.

Mambo vipi (how are you)?

I’m Jack Fleckney, founder of Legend Expeditions and a guide throughout East and Southern Africa. If you are reading this, you are probably thinking about doing a safari after your Kilimanjaro climb. That alone makes me excited for you. Kilimanjaro is a powerful experience, and finishing it with a safari in Tanzania is something I truly believe every climber should consider.

My goal here is to give you clear, honest advice so you can plan the right safari for your timeline, budget and travel style. If you would like personalised help, you are welcome to book a free 30-minute call with me (click here).

When preparing for Mount Kilimanjaro, the real challenge often isn’t just physical. It’s mental. Trekkers frequently focus on gear and altitude, but experienced adventurers know that mindset is a major factor in summit success.

Introducing Jack Fleckney

Co-Founder Jack Fleckney has faced and overcome some of the toughest adventures in the world. From rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, kayaking the Okavango Delta, to setting 24-hour fitness world records, Jack’s unique mindset strategies have helped him and countless others reach their expedition goals.

If you’re dreaming of summiting Kilimanjaro, understanding the mountain’s weather is absolutely essential for your safety and success. At Legend Expeditions, we guide our treks only during Kilimanjaro’s best weather windows. All so you get amazing views, a high chance of success, and the most comfortable experience possible.

Planning your Kilimanjaro climb requires choosing the right clothing and equipment to stay comfortable, safe, and prepared for all conditions. At Legend Expeditions, we specialise in guiding climbers to the summit with maximum support and expert advice. This comprehensive Kilimanjaro packing list covers every essential item for a successful expedition.

When clients ask me the single most important decision they will make before setting foot in Tanzania, the answer is always the same: Choose the Lemosho Route, and commit to the 8-day itinerary.

At Legend Expeditions, our 98.5% summit success rate on the Lemosho Route speaks for itself. It’s higher than any other route we offer. This incredible statistic isn't luck; it's a direct result of prioritising a safe, strategic, and gradual approach to altitude.

This is why, from a guide’s perspective, the 8-day Lemosho is the smartest way to climb the roof of Africa.

At Legend Expeditions, we often say that the journey to Uhuru Peak is about more than just physical endurance; it's about cultural immersion. The stunning geology and high-altitude challenge of Mount Kilimanjaro are undeniable, but the true magic lies in the warmth and dedication of the Tanzanian people who guide you.

You might encounter driving rain. There could be sideways sleet. Maybe there’s a chance of snow? Or perhaps searing heat will burn down on you from above. There’s a lot that’s unknown about the environmental stressors you’ll encounter on expedition. However, there is one certainty. Altitude.

We've teamed up with the Altitude Centre to bring you this blog!

If you’re wondering what a typical day on Kilimanjaro is really like, this blog will give you a clear picture. Of course, this is written from our perspective when trekking with Legend Expeditions. For many climbers, the summit is an unforgettable and emotional achievement. But when people return to the hotel, the stories and memories they share usually come from the build-up days and the journey “pole pole” (slowly, slowly) up the mountain. Here’s exactly what it feels like.

Introducing our new brand identity and website

When most people think of Kilimanjaro, they picture snow-capped peaks, rugged trails, and the thrill of reaching Africa’s highest summit. But what many don’t realise is that the mountain is also home to a surprising variety of wildlife. As you ascend through five dramatically different ecosystems, from dense rainforest to alpine desert, you’ll encounter a fascinating mix of animals and birds, each adapted to life at a specific altitude.

In this blog, I’ll guide you through the types of wildlife you’re likely to see in each zone, share insider tips on how to spot them, and include a few quirky facts you won’t hear from just any guidebook. Whether you’re a nature lover or just curious about what’s rustling in the bushes, Kilimanjaro has plenty of wild surprises waiting along the trail.

Like anything in life, we are always looking to improve and progress, and nothing changes when it comes to adventure. I first started climbing mountains in the UK and quickly found myself seeking out more challenges. This began in the military across the Middle East, and then I wanted to take on bigger mountains - those where reaching the summit would take time, and where altitude was a consideration.

This is where Kilimanjaro comes in. Here is all the information you need to know.

In the military, you are taught about the importance of planning. Every single detail is considered and every eventuality is prepared for. No matter what happens, we will be able to react stress-free and complete the task at hand.