Is there WIFI on Kilimanjaro?
In August 2022, the Tanzania Telecommunications Corporation made a remarkable stride by introducing broadband connectivity for Kilimanjaro climbers up to an altitude of 3,720 meters (12,200 feet). This breakthrough brought internet access to one of Africa's most iconic natural wonders.
Currently, this service is available on the Marangu route, with WiFi access points at Mandara Hut, Horombo Hut, and Kibo Hut. These are solar-powered, although occasionally turned off to conserve energy for lighting, the WiFi signal remains strong. WiFi calls and even video calls were possible during the climb.
The plan ahead involves extending WiFi coverage to Kilimanjaro's summit, followed by laying cables along the Lemosho route. The ultimate goal of the national park is to establish WiFi service across all routes on Kilimanjaro.
Mobile Reception on Kilimanjaro
Consistent and dependable cellular service isn't guaranteed on Mt. Kilimanjaro. Nonetheless, this doesn't mean you won't have chances to reach out to your loved ones. Throughout your Kilimanjaro climb, you should have at least one daily opportunity to make contact.
To make the most of this communication window, feel free to inquire with our helpful guides about the best areas for signal. They'll gladly point out signal spots along the journey. Additionally, keep an eye out for the local porters—when you see them dashing uphill from camp, it's likely they're heading toward a signal zone!
For optimal battery usage, we recommend putting your phone in airplane mode to prevent constant signal searching. This will save your battery from draining, ensuring you won't miss out on capturing those unforgettable moments due to a dead phone.
Mobile Signal Interference on the Mountain
Expect mobile signal interference while ascending the mountain due to the extreme climate. Water vapour, particularly during rainfall, snowfall, fog, and high humidity, can obstruct cellular signals. Water's conductivity allows it to affect radio waves, leading to signal disruption.
Getting a Local SIM Card
Acquiring a local SIM card is possible upon arrival in Tanzania, requiring passport registration. However, this process can be time-consuming, so it's advisable if you're staying for over two weeks.
A local SIM card typically costs around TSh 1,000, which is roughly US$0.41 - affordable indeed!
Internet Providers in Tanzania
Tanzania hosts various internet service providers (ISPs) offering cellphone services, and you can purchase a local SIM card in Arusha or Moshi Town. A few of the prominent ISPs include:
1. Vodacom Tanzania: Leading the mobile network operators, Vodacom provides diverse cellphone internet services, including data plans and bundles.
2. Airtel Tanzania: Airtel is another major telecom operator offering internet services for cellphones, with a range of data plans and bundles.
3. Tigo Tanzania: Known for its mobile network services, Tigo provides different data packages and plans for cellphone users.
4. Halotel: This telecommunications company offers mobile and internet services, including cellphone internet plans with various data options.
5. Zantel: Zantel, a telecom operator, extends cellphone internet services through a variety of data plans.
These examples highlight the range of providers available in Tanzania. To make an informed decision, assess offerings and coverage in your specific area.
Charging Your Mobile Phones on the Mountain
Charging devices conventionally isn't feasible on the mountain, as there are no charging spots available. Alternatives include:
1. Power Banks: Carrying fully charged power banks enables you to charge phones and cameras via USB cable. Note that some airlines have restrictions on lithium batteries, so consider carrying power banks in your carry-on baggage.
2. Solar Chargers: While solar chargers are popular for remote charging, they're not very efficient on the mountain. They have limited power storage and are slow, as well as being heavy and cumbersome.
Ensuring your devices stay charged on Kilimanjaro requires careful planning and preparedness for the mountain's unique conditions.
