Frequently Asked Questions
The best time is in the dry season. It used to rain in November and from March - May. So best time to visit is December - February ( summer = hot!) and June - October. However, climate is changing and rain becomes unreliable.
Road conditions vary from impeccable tarmac to bumpy dirt roads. You have to drive left on the road. In traffic the law of the jungle applies: be careful as biker / pedestrian. Cycle tours try to avoid as much as possible the main tarmac roads: you will be on clay or gravel roads.
Some cash USD for occasional payments (eg Visa at the airport cost 50 USD). But you can use your debit/credit card to retrieve money from one of the numerous ATM machines. Check whether your Bank allows you to use your card in Africa.
For the Tour the Kilimanjaro Classic: You need to be in good health and be well prepared to bike under challenging circumstances of both heat and cold and long tracks (6-10 hours). We do not have any age limits, but we discourage persons below 18 and above 70.
The single day rides are doable for anyone accustomed to riding a mountain bike.
It is recommended to ask professional travel health advice prior to booking a tour. The physician should give you proper advice a.o. about needed vaccinations, malaria prophylaxis as well check your fitness for the tour. Biking and your stay is at your own risk. You will need to (agree to and) sign a waiver of liability together with your booking.
Bicycles for hire – refurbished MTB’s – are available at Arusha. Quality is fair to good. We need the size of your MTB at home to prepare a bike suited for you. However, for the 6-7 day Tour de Kilimanjaro Classic we advise you to bring your own gravel -/ mountainbike in a cardbox or bicycle carrier. Consult your Air company for special bagage. You should make a reservation for the transport as early as possible and no later than 48 hours before departure.
Biking clothes, including raincoat (in case of)
In case of bike hire: maybe click pedals and/or your own seat
Camelback or water bidons
High energy snacks
Warm clothes, long trousers, socks, shirts with long sleeves for the possible cold evenings and as a protection against mosquitos
Swim wear and microfiber towel
Power pack for recharging your mobile and navigation equipement
Mosquito repellent (DEET)
Suncream
Visa
Vaccinations
Insurance including repatriation coverage
Tanzania has put a ban on plastic bags : “The Government of Tanzania wishes to make an official note to travellers planning to travel to Tanzania that from 1st June 2019 all plastic carrier bags, regardless of their thickness will be prohibited from being imported, exported, manufactured, sold, stored, supplied and used in mainland Tanzania.”