Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the seven summits and the tallest mountain on the African continent. It’s the easiest to climb among the seven summits because it can be trekked by both experienced and inexperienced hikers. Most of the other summits are ranges of mountains, but Kilimanjaro rises on its own above the plains, making it the highest free-standing mountain in the world.
The mountain is located 205 miles from the equator in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania. Despite being close to the equator, ice can be found on top of Kilimanjaro, and it has five distinctive ecological climate zones from the slopes to the summit. There are three volcanic cones on Mount Kilimanjaro: Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo.
Do you need insurance to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
While it’s not a must to have travel insurance to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, it’s advisable for trekkers to at least buy travel insurance that covers up to 6000 meters high if you’re planning a trip to hike Mount Kilimanjaro. The mountain is located in a remote area where medical services might not be easily accessible.
Mount Kilimanjaro is a massive mountain with very high altitude, and most people experience altitude sickness while on the mountain. Accidents can also happen on Mount Kilimanjaro, although they are not common. Travel insurance is recommended just in case something goes wrong, so it can cover doctor visits, unexpected injuries, and emergency evacuation expenses in case you need to be airlifted from the mountain if any fatalities arise. However, it should be noted that a helicopter cannot land on some parts of the mountain.
When buying travel insurance for Mount Kilimanjaro, it’s advisable to inquire and check very well what the insurance covers and doesn’t cover. Several standard health insurance policies cover losses, unnecessary expenses, and theft while in Tanzania.
You should know what kind of insurance you need, why you need the insurance, and the costs of the insurance. Many companies sell travel insurances, but you should check and compare prices to select the one that suits your budget and preferences.
Some travel insurance companies provide cover for only walking up to 2500 meters above sea level.
There are also some travel insurances that cover the cost of getting back home in case you get an injury, miss a flight, or encounter unavoidable circumstances.
You need insurance to cover accidents that occur on the mountain, which includes the cost of evacuation and hospital charges. Sometimes, non-mountain-related sickness can arise while climbing the mountain, and some companies may not provide cover for other illnesses.
In conclusion, you need travel insurance that can cover your entire trip ascending and descending Mount Kilimanjaro. You need to check the terms and policies of the insurance before paying any insurance company.
The best time for visiting Mount Kilimanjaro is from June to September and December to February when the trails are in good condition, and you will be rewarded with outstanding views.
