Mount Kilimanjaro Routes Compared: Which Route Is Best, What to Pack & Vaccinations You Need
Mount Kilimanjaro at a Glance
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest mountain, rising to 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) above sea level. It is located in northern Tanzania and is one of Africa's most iconic trekking destinations.
Choosing the right Kilimanjaro route is important because routes differ in duration, scenery, difficulty, accommodation, traffic and acclimatization opportunities. Kilimanjaro National Park identifies several established approaches, including Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, Rongai and the Northern Circuit. All summit routes ultimately lead toward Uhuru Peak, but the experience of getting there can be very different.
For most first-time climbers, Lemosho and Machame are excellent choices, while the Northern Circuit is particularly attractive to travellers who have more time and want a longer acclimatization profile. Marangu is the only major route with mountain huts, while Rongai approaches from the quieter northern side.
Which Kilimanjaro Route Should You Choose?
There is no single best Kilimanjaro route for everyone. The best route depends on your available time, budget, fitness, preferred scenery, tolerance for crowds and, importantly, how much time you want to allow your body to acclimatize.
Kilimanjaro Route Comparison
| Route | Typical Duration | Accommodation | Scenery | Crowds | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lemosho | 7–8 days | Tents | Excellent | Low–Medium | First-time climbers & best overall experience |
| Machame | 6–7 days | Tents | Excellent | Medium–High | Scenic trekking & adventurous climbers |
| Northern Circuit | 8–10 days | Tents | Exceptional | Low | Maximum acclimatization & quieter trails |
| Rongai | 6–7 days | Tents | Very good | Low | Quiet trekking & northern approach |
| Marangu | 5–6 days | Mountain huts | Good | Medium–High | Climbers who prefer huts |
| Umbwe | 6–7 days | Tents | Excellent | Low | Experienced trekkers seeking a steeper challenge |
Important: Summit-success percentages published online vary considerably between operators and depend on itinerary length, climber preparation, weather, altitude response and guiding practices. It is therefore better not to promise a particular success percentage. The consistent principle is that longer itineraries generally provide more opportunity for acclimatization.
1. Lemosho Route – The Best All-Round Choice
The Lemosho Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the western side and is widely chosen by climbers looking for a combination of beautiful scenery, a gradual approach and additional time on the mountain.
The route crosses the spectacular Shira Plateau before joining the southern circuit toward the summit.
Why choose Lemosho?
Excellent scenery and varied ecological zones
Generally quieter during the early stages
7- or 8-day itineraries allow more time for acclimatization
Suitable for many first-time Kilimanjaro climbers
Excellent choice for photographers and nature lovers
Best choice for: travellers who want a balanced combination of scenery, acclimatization and a rewarding trekking experience.
Mangi Africa recommendation: Our 8-day Lemosho Route is particularly suitable for travellers who want to avoid rushing their Kilimanjaro experience.
2. Machame Route – The Scenic Adventure
The Machame Route is one of Kilimanjaro's most popular trekking routes. It is famous for dramatic scenery, changing landscapes and the spectacular Barranco Wall.
The route is often called the "Whiskey Route", in contrast to Marangu's traditional nickname, the "Coca-Cola Route."
Why choose Machame?
Spectacular and varied landscapes
Beautiful rainforest
Barranco Wall
Excellent trekking atmosphere
Good option for travellers with around one week available
The 7-day Machame itinerary is generally preferable to rushing the mountain in fewer days because it gives the climber more time to adapt to altitude.
Best choice for: adventurous travellers who want a scenic and physically rewarding trek.
3. Northern Circuit – The Longest and Quietest Experience
The Northern Circuit is Kilimanjaro's longest major trekking route. Instead of taking a more direct approach toward the summit, it makes a broad circuit around the northern side of the mountain.
Its additional days provide a longer acclimatization profile, and the northern section is generally quieter than the most popular southern approaches.
Why choose Northern Circuit?
Longer acclimatization opportunity
Lower traffic on many sections
Exceptional mountain scenery
Unique views of Kilimanjaro's northern slopes
Ideal for travellers who have 9–10 days available
Best choice for: climbers who prioritize time, scenery and a more gradual mountain experience over completing Kilimanjaro as quickly as possible.
4. Rongai Route – The Quiet Northern Approach
The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the northern side near the Kenyan border. It offers a different perspective of the mountain from the southern routes.
The northern slopes can be drier than the southern approaches, making Rongai an interesting option depending on the season and current trail conditions.
Why choose Rongai?
Quieter trekking experience
Northern approach
Distinctive views of Mawenzi
Good option for travellers seeking a less crowded route
Best choice for: travellers who value solitude and want to experience a different side of Kilimanjaro.
5. Marangu Route – The Hut Route
The Marangu Route is unique because it uses mountain huts instead of camping tents. The main huts include Mandara, Horombo and Kibo.
It is sometimes called the Coca-Cola Route and has relatively straightforward walking compared with some other approaches.
However, the shorter 5-day version provides less time for acclimatization. Climbers choosing Marangu should carefully consider the longer itinerary when possible.
Why choose Marangu?
Mountain hut accommodation
No need to sleep in a tent
Established trail
Suitable for travellers who prefer huts
Best choice for: climbers who specifically prefer hut accommodation and have a suitable itinerary for acclimatization.
6. Umbwe Route – For Experienced Trekkers
The Umbwe Route is considerably steeper and more direct during its early stages.
It is generally more appropriate for experienced trekkers who understand the physical demands of steep mountain terrain.
Best choice for: experienced hikers looking for a challenging route rather than travellers simply seeking the easiest path to Uhuru Peak.
What Should You Pack for Mount Kilimanjaro?
Packing correctly for Kilimanjaro is essential because you experience several climate zones during the climb, from warm lower elevations to extremely cold conditions near the summit.
Your exact equipment requirements depend on the route, season and operator, but a practical Kilimanjaro packing list should include:
Clothing
Moisture-wicking base layers
Hiking trousers
Fleece or warm mid-layer
Insulated/down jacket
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Waterproof trousers
Warm trekking socks
Thermal underwear
Warm hat/beanie
Sun hat
Gloves and warm summit gloves
Buff or neck gaiter
Footwear
Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots
Lightweight camp shoes
Gaiters if recommended for the season
Extra hiking socks
Never start a Kilimanjaro climb with brand-new boots. Blisters can turn an otherwise enjoyable trek into a painful experience.
Trekking Equipment
Daypack
Duffel bag
Sleeping bag suitable for cold mountain temperatures
Trekking poles
Headlamp
Spare batteries or charging solution
Water bottles or hydration system
Waterproof backpack cover
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Personal and Medical Items
Personal prescription medication
Basic first-aid supplies
Blister treatment
Personal hygiene products
Hand sanitizer
Insect repellent for lower elevations
Small towel
Wet wipes
Toiletries
CDC travel guidance also recommends appropriate first-aid supplies, blister protection, insect-bite treatment, oral rehydration salts, sunscreen and important health documents when travelling in Tanzania.
Documents
Bring:
Passport
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contact details
Copies of prescriptions
Relevant vaccination documentation
Flight and accommodation information
What Vaccinations Do You Need for Kilimanjaro and Tanzania?
This is one of the most important questions to discuss with a qualified travel-health professional before travelling.
The exact vaccinations recommended or required depend on your country of departure, travel history, itinerary and individual health circumstances.
According to the CDC's current Tanzania traveller guidance, international travellers should be up to date with routine vaccinations, including vaccines such as MMR, tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis and polio where appropriate. The CDC also lists typhoid vaccination as recommended for most travellers to Tanzania.
What about Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever vaccination is generally not recommended solely because you are travelling directly to Tanzania from a country without yellow-fever transmission risk.
However, Tanzania can require proof of yellow-fever vaccination depending on where you are travelling from or transiting through. For example, the CDC states that travellers arriving from countries with yellow-fever transmission risk may need proof, including certain airport transits of more than 12 hours.
Therefore:
Do not assume that you need—or do not need—a yellow-fever certificate. Check the requirements for your specific journey before departure.
If vaccination is required for your itinerary, carry your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) with your travel documents.
What About Malaria?
Malaria is present in parts of Tanzania, particularly at lower elevations. Kilimanjaro's summit environment is far above the altitude where malaria transmission is a major concern, but travellers normally spend time in lower-altitude areas before and after climbing.
The CDC recommends discussing malaria prevention medication with a healthcare professional based on your complete itinerary. Options listed in its Tanzania guidance include atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine, depending on individual circumstances.
Important: Do not choose malaria medication or other prescription medicines based only on an online article. Speak with a doctor or travel-health clinic.
When Should You See a Travel Doctor?
Ideally, arrange a travel-health consultation at least one month before your Tanzania trip. The CDC specifically recommends visiting a doctor at least a month before travelling so that you can discuss vaccines and medications appropriate for your journey.
This is especially important if your itinerary combines:
Kilimanjaro + Tanzania Safari + Zanzibar
because your exposure to different environments and elevations can change the health advice you receive.
How Do You Prepare for Kilimanjaro Altitude?
Altitude is one of the most important factors to understand before climbing Kilimanjaro.
At 5,895 metres, Uhuru Peak is an extreme high-altitude environment. Altitude illness can occur because atmospheric oxygen availability decreases as elevation increases.
The CDC recommends gradual ascent and emphasizes acclimatization as an important strategy for reducing altitude-illness risk.
Practical Kilimanjaro altitude tips
Choose a route with sufficient acclimatization time.
Walk slowly—pole pole.
Stay hydrated.
Tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell.
Do not ignore severe headache, vomiting, confusion, difficulty walking or breathing problems.
Follow your professional mountain crew's instructions.
Do not attempt to "push through" serious altitude symptoms.
A longer itinerary does not guarantee that you will summit, but it gives your body more time to adapt.
Which Kilimanjaro Route Is Best for a First-Time Climber?
For many first-time climbers, Lemosho and Machame are strong choices.
Choose Lemosho if you want:
More time + beautiful scenery + a gradual experience + fewer crowds at the beginning.
Choose Machame if you want:
Dramatic scenery + an adventurous trek + approximately one week on the mountain.
Choose Northern Circuit if you want:
Maximum time for acclimatization + quieter trails + a longer mountain adventure.
Choose Rongai if you want:
A quieter northern approach + a different perspective of Kilimanjaro.
Choose Marangu if you want:
Mountain huts rather than camping.
Choose Umbwe if you want:
A steep and challenging route and have appropriate trekking experience.
What Is the Best Number of Days to Climb Kilimanjaro?
There is no magic number that guarantees reaching Uhuru Peak.
However, rushing the mountain is generally not the best strategy. Longer itineraries give climbers more time to acclimatize and can make the overall experience more manageable. Current Kilimanjaro route comparisons consistently emphasize the relationship between itinerary length and acclimatization.
For many travellers, 7–8 days is an excellent balance between time, cost and acclimatization.
For those with more time, a 9-day Northern Circuit can provide an even longer mountain experience.
Why Climb Kilimanjaro with Mangi Africa Tours & Safari?
At Mangi Africa Tours & Safari, we are a locally owned Tanzanian tour company based in Arusha, specializing in Mount Kilimanjaro trekking, Tanzania safaris and Zanzibar holidays.
Our Kilimanjaro experiences are designed around the traveller—not simply around selling a route.
We help you choose a trekking itinerary according to your:
Available time
Fitness and trekking experience
Budget
Preferred scenery
Accommodation preference
Desired acclimatization profile
From the first step in the rainforest to the final sunrise at Uhuru Peak, our goal is to provide a professionally organized and memorable Tanzanian adventure.
Your mountain. Your pace. Your dream. Our local experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mount Kilimanjaro
What is the best Kilimanjaro route?
There is no universally best route. Lemosho is an excellent all-round option, Machame is ideal for scenic adventure, Northern Circuit offers a longer acclimatization experience, Rongai is quieter, and Marangu is the main hut-based route.
Is Lemosho better than Machame?
Not necessarily. Lemosho generally offers a quieter western approach and longer itineraries, while Machame is a popular scenic route with dramatic terrain. The better route depends on your time, budget and preferences.
Is Machame difficult?
Machame is physically demanding but is suitable for many reasonably fit trekkers when properly prepared and guided. The 7-day itinerary is generally more appropriate than rushing the climb into fewer days.
Is Marangu easier than Machame?
Marangu has a more gradual trail in sections and uses huts, but that does not mean it is automatically easier. Altitude remains a major challenge, particularly on shorter itineraries.
What should I pack for Kilimanjaro?
Pack layered clothing, waterproof clothing, warm insulation, good hiking boots, sleeping equipment, trekking poles, headlamp, water containers, sun protection, personal medication and appropriate first-aid supplies.
Do I need vaccinations for Kilimanjaro?
You should be up to date with routine vaccinations and discuss Tanzania-specific recommendations with a travel-health professional. Typhoid is recommended for many travellers, while yellow-fever requirements depend partly on your travel history and countries visited or transited.
Do I need a yellow-fever vaccination to enter Tanzania?
Not necessarily. Requirements depend on your itinerary and previous travel. Travellers arriving from yellow-fever-risk countries, including certain long airport transits through such countries, may need proof of vaccination. Always verify the requirements for your particular journey before departure.
Can beginners climb Kilimanjaro?
Yes. Many first-time mountain trekkers successfully climb Kilimanjaro, but proper preparation, an appropriate route, professional guiding and sufficient acclimatization are important.
How high is Mount Kilimanjaro?
Uhuru Peak is 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) above sea level.
How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?
Most trekking itineraries take approximately 5–10 days, depending on the route. Longer itineraries generally provide more time for acclimatization.
Final Advice: Choose the Route, Not Just the Price
The cheapest Kilimanjaro itinerary is not automatically the best value.
When comparing Kilimanjaro tours, look beyond the headline price and ask:
How many days are included?
What acclimatization opportunities are provided?
What accommodation is included?
What equipment is supplied?
Is the operator licensed and professionally organized?
How are guides and porters treated?
What happens if I become sick or need to descend?
A successful Kilimanjaro experience is about much more than reaching a number on a map. It is about arriving prepared, respecting the mountain, acclimatizing properly and having a professional team beside you.
Kilimanjaro Route Facts at a Glance
| Route | Typical Duration | Accommodation | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lemosho | 7–8 days | Tents | Scenic trekking, gradual acclimatization and first-time climbers |
| Machame | 6–7 days | Tents | Scenic landscapes and adventurous trekkers |
| Northern Circuit | 8–10 days | Tents | Longer acclimatization and a quieter experience |
| Rongai | 6–7 days | Tents | A quieter approach from the northern side |
| Marangu | 5–6 days | Mountain huts | Trekkers who prefer hut accommodation |
| Umbwe | 6–7 days | Tents | Experienced trekkers seeking a steeper route |
There is no single best Kilimanjaro route for everyone. Lemosho is often an excellent all-round choice, while Northern Circuit offers more time for acclimatization, Machame combines scenery with adventure, Rongai is quieter, and Marangu provides hut accommodation.
What Is Included in a Kilimanjaro Trekking Package?
A professional Kilimanjaro package normally includes the services and logistics required to safely complete the trek. Depending on the operator and package, inclusions may include:
Kilimanjaro National Park fees and permits
Professional mountain guides
Porters
Park camping or hut fees
Meals during the trek
Tents and camping equipment
Airport or hotel transfers
Pre- and post-trek accommodation when included
Emergency and mountain-support arrangements
Drinking water during the trek
Cook and camp support on camping routes
: Always ask your tour operator for a written list of inclusions and exclusions before booking. Equipment such as sleeping bags, trekking poles, private transfers and hotel nights may be optional depending on the package.
Kilimanjaro Best Time to Climb: Month-by-Month Guide
| Period | General Conditions | Trekking Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| January–February | Generally dry and relatively clear | Excellent and popular period |
| March | Increasing rainfall | Conditions become less predictable |
| April–May | Long-rain season | Wet, muddy and less suitable for most trekkers |
| June–October | Generally dry | Excellent trekking season; popular |
| November | Short rains | Weather can change quickly |
| December | Variable conditions | Good opportunities, but weather can be unpredictable |
The best months to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are generally the drier periods, especially January–February and June–October. However, Kilimanjaro can be climbed throughout much of the year, and weather conditions vary by altitude.
Kilimanjaro Route: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Lemosho if you want beautiful scenery, a longer itinerary and a gradual approach.
Choose Machame if you want dramatic scenery and a more adventurous trekking experience.
Choose Northern Circuit if your priority is additional acclimatization time and a quieter route.
Choose Rongai if you prefer a less crowded northern approach.
Choose Marangu if you prefer mountain huts instead of camping.
Choose Umbwe if you are experienced and comfortable with a steeper and more demanding route.
For many first-time climbers, a 7–8 day itinerary is preferable to rushing the mountain because additional time can provide more opportunity for acclimatization.
Kilimanjaro Altitude: Why Acclimatization Matters
Mount Kilimanjaro reaches approximately 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) above sea level. Altitude is one of the biggest challenges of the climb.
The body needs time to adapt to decreasing oxygen levels as elevation increases. A longer itinerary generally provides more time for acclimatization.
Key Kilimanjaro Acclimatization Rules
Climb gradually.
Walk slowly — pole pole.
Follow your guide's instructions.
Stay properly hydrated.
Avoid rushing during the ascent.
Report symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea or unusual weakness.
Serious or worsening altitude symptoms require immediate descent.
The best protection against altitude illness is appropriate acclimatization through a gradual ascent and sufficient time on the mountain.
What Happens If You Cannot Reach Uhuru Peak?
Not reaching the summit does not mean the trek has failed.
Kilimanjaro safety always comes first. If a climber develops serious altitude symptoms, becomes exhausted or is judged unable to continue safely, the mountain team may recommend turning around and descending.
A responsible operator should never pressure a client to continue when doing so creates a serious health or safety risk.
Important: No responsible Kilimanjaro operator should guarantee that every climber will reach Uhuru Peak. Summit success depends on weather, altitude, fitness, acclimatization and individual health.
Kilimanjaro Travel Insurance: What Should It Cover?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for a Kilimanjaro trek.
Before travelling, check that your policy specifically covers:
High-altitude trekking
Medical treatment
Emergency evacuation
Mountain rescue where applicable
Trip cancellation or interruption
Baggage and personal belongings
Standard travel insurance may not automatically cover high-altitude trekking, so climbers should confirm the altitude and activity limits of their policy before travelling.
Responsible Kilimanjaro Trekking and Porter Welfare
A responsible Kilimanjaro experience should protect both people and the mountain.
Choose an operator that supports:
Fair and respectful treatment of porters
Appropriate equipment and working conditions
Safe workloads
Proper food and accommodation for the mountain crew
Responsible waste management
Protection of Kilimanjaro's natural environment
Leave-No-Trace trekking principles
Choosing a responsible Kilimanjaro operator helps protect the mountain environment and supports the welfare of the guides, porters and other crew who make trekking possible.
Kilimanjaro Gate and Arrival Logistics
Most international travellers arrive through Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Arusha and Moshi are the main bases for many Kilimanjaro climbs.
Before the trek, travellers should confirm:
Airport transfer arrangements.
Pre-trek accommodation.
Trek starting date and route.
Starting gate.
Required equipment.
Final payment arrangements.
Emergency and communication procedures.
Planning your airport transfer and pre-trek accommodation in advance makes the transition from international travel to Kilimanjaro trekking much easier.
Kilimanjaro + Safari + Zanzibar: The Complete Tanzania Adventure
Kilimanjaro can easily be combined with a Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach holiday.
Popular combinations include:
Kilimanjaro → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Zanzibar
Perfect for travellers who want mountains, wildlife and tropical beaches.
Safari → Kilimanjaro → Zanzibar
A good option for travellers who want to experience Tanzania's wildlife before climbing the mountain and relaxing on the coast.
Kilimanjaro → Safari → Zanzibar
Ideal for combining physical adventure, wildlife and a relaxing beach holiday.
A Kilimanjaro trek combined with a Tanzania safari and Zanzibar holiday creates a complete Tanzania itinerary covering mountains, wildlife, culture and tropical beaches.
How to Choose the Right Kilimanjaro Tour Operator
Before booking, ask your operator:
Who will guide the trek?
How experienced are the mountain guides?
What is included in the price?
How are porters treated?
What equipment is provided?
What happens if I cannot summit?
What is the emergency procedure?
Are airport and hotel transfers included?
Is the itinerary designed for proper acclimatization?
Can the itinerary be customized?
The best Kilimanjaro operator is not necessarily the cheapest. Look for safety, experienced guides, transparent pricing, responsible porter treatment, proper acclimatization and clear inclusions.
Quick Kilimanjaro Decision Guide
| If Your Priority Is… | Consider |
|---|---|
| Best all-round experience | Lemosho |
| Scenic and adventurous trek | Machame |
| More acclimatization time | Northern Circuit |
| Quieter experience | Rongai |
| Mountain huts | Marangu |
| Steeper, challenging approach | Umbwe |
| First Kilimanjaro climb | Lemosho or Machame |
| Combining trekking with safari and Zanzibar | 7–8 day Kilimanjaro itinerary + safari + Zanzibar |
What is the best Kilimanjaro route?
For many travellers, Lemosho is an excellent all-round option because it combines scenic landscapes with a longer itinerary that allows more time for acclimatization.
How many days should I spend on Kilimanjaro?
A 7–8 day itinerary is a strong choice for many climbers because it provides more time to adapt to altitude than very short itineraries.
When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The generally drier periods are January–February and June–October, although conditions can vary and trekking is possible outside these periods.
What is the biggest challenge on Kilimanjaro?
Altitude is one of the major challenges. Proper acclimatization, a gradual pace and following your guide's safety advice are essential.
Can I combine Kilimanjaro with a safari and Zanzibar?
Yes. Kilimanjaro, a northern Tanzania safari and Zanzibar can be combined into one Tanzania adventure.
What should I look for when booking?
Prioritize safety, acclimatization, experienced guides, transparent pricing, responsible porter treatment and clearly stated inclusions rather than choosing solely by the lowest price.
How Much Does It Cost to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
The cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro depends mainly on the route, number of trekking days, group size, accommodation, operator, and level of service.
For 2026, a professionally organized 7–8 day Kilimanjaro trek commonly costs around US$1,700–$2,500+ per person for standard group or private camping packages. Premium and luxury climbs can cost significantly more.
What Does the Kilimanjaro Price Usually Cover?
A professional package may include:
Kilimanjaro National Park fees
Mountain permits
Professional guides
Porters and mountain crew
Cook on camping routes
Meals during the trek
Tents and camping equipment
Park and camping fees
Rescue or emergency arrangements
Trekking transfers
Pre- or post-climb accommodation, depending on the package
What Is Usually Not Included?
Travellers may need to budget separately for:
International flights
Tanzania visa
Travel and trekking insurance
Personal trekking equipment
Sleeping bag, if not provided or rented
Tips for guides, porters and crew
Personal expenses
Additional hotel nights
Optional airport or private transfers
Why Are Kilimanjaro Prices Different?
A longer route generally costs more because it involves additional park days, meals, crew support and accommodation. Private climbs also normally cost more per person than group departures.
Important: Extremely cheap Kilimanjaro packages should be examined carefully. A low price may mean that important services, proper crew support, safety equipment or park-related costs are excluded. Government and park fees form a substantial part of the total cost.
How Much Money Should I Budget for Kilimanjaro?
For a 7–8 day standard Kilimanjaro climb, a realistic starting budget is approximately US$1,700–$2,500+ per person, excluding international flights and personal expenses. The final price depends on the route, group size, accommodation, inclusions and service level.
Best value does not always mean the cheapest price. A good Kilimanjaro package should balance safety, proper acclimatization, experienced guides, responsible porter treatment, quality meals and transparent inclusions.
Ready to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
Mangi Africa Tours & Safari can help you choose between Lemosho, Machame, Marangu, Rongai, Northern Circuit and other Kilimanjaro options according to your travel dates, budget and trekking goals