Having organised its first Kilimanjaro trek in 2005, Choose a Challenge is a professional tour operator with over 15 years experience. Our in-country partners are carefully selected based on their experience and track record. We work very closely with each ground partner and supplier to ensure all accommodation and transport included in your itinerary is of a high standard.

We regularly check with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for up-to-date travel advice to ensure accurate information is delivered to you in a timely manner. Each challenge is comprehensively risk assessed: These assessments account for all manner of situational variables and are updated annually.

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While you are in-country, we operate a 24-hour emergency telephone line, so that you know you'll always have someone to call in case of emergency. The number to call is +44 (0) 208 798 0080.

Our guides have been leading expeditions at their destinations for years and years, each one having hiked the trail dozens of times over. They are highly experienced in first aid and mountain rescue and have intimate knowledge of the location. Please follow their advice. Should you have any concerns during the trek, it is imperative that you communicate them to your guide.

On some of our international treks, the guides are accompanied by porters and cooks. At least one member of staff will remain at the start/finish point of your trek so that you have Choose a Challenge representatives at your disposal throughout the duration of your itinerary. If you are attending a Kilimanjaro trek, we employ doctors who are placed on the mountain during the peak trekking season, for additional support.

Whilst we do make every effort to prepare you for the physical (and mental) rigours ahead, multi-day high altitude treks always carry an element of risk. You can actively mitigate that risk by arriving to your challenge fit and healthy, as well as heeding the advice of your guides, however all participants attending international treks must take out their own personal travel insurance prior to departure. This should cover any unexpected medical and/or travel-related costs, so that you can travel with confidence.

Either side of the main trek, you will likely have some free time at your destination. Our support staff will be on hand to offer tips and local knowledge. When exploring the area, please remain vigilant at all times, even in areas that appear safe. General precautions we recommend taking include:

  • Avoid wearing expensive jewellery.
  • Keep your money, passport and valuables secure and well-hidden. 
  • Avoid external money pouches, dangling backpacks and camera bags. 
  • When bargaining or discussing prices, keep your money out of sight. 
  • Don't wander around at night. Always stay in a group and use licensed taxis. 
  • Keep your bags close to you at all times. 
  • Only exchange money using authorised banks or money-changers and always insist on a receipt.
  • Be sceptical of any strangers who approach you asking if you remember them from the airport, hotel, etc. no matter how friendly they seem.
  • Try to learn at least a few phrases in the local language - it will be appreciated and can help you be more aware of your surroundings.
  • Don't become involved in drugs of any kind. The penalties for smuggling, possession and use of prohibited substances are severe in many of our destinations. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

 

As adventure travel specialists, we’ve been doing this year-on-year for a long time now, so we’re always happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have in the build-up to your challenge. Many of the team have visited these destinations and can dispense first-hand advice, so please feel free to contact us any time.