School of St Jude - Kilimanjaro 2026
Summit the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro, conquer Africa’s greatest challenge, and help change lives - your journey supports free, life-changing education for students at The School of St Jude in Arusha, Tanzania
5-16 July 2026
Travel Dates
$390 $240
Registration Fee
$TBC
Trip Cost
Paid upfront or in instalments
76.5km
Trekking Distance
5/5
Challenge Grade
$3,750
Fundraising Target
Separate to Registration fee and Travel Cost
Early bird offer: sign up before 17 October 2025 and save $150 on your registration fee!
The Difference You'll Make
Challenge Yourself. Change a Life.
Seven out of ten secondary school-aged children in Tanzania are not in school, missing out on the chance to gain skills, find employment, and break the cycle of poverty.
Join us on a unique fundraising adventure that begins with a visit to The School of St Jude in Arusha, followed by a once-in-a-lifetime trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, and an optional safari to round off your journey.
At St Jude’s, you’ll witness the power of education in action. The school provides free, quality education to 1,800 bright students from poor backgrounds and supports over 400 graduates into higher education. These young people are becoming the engineers, doctors, scientists, and teachers Tanzania urgently needs.
By signing up for this incredible trip, you're not only taking on an epic personal challenge - you’re helping raise vital funds to support the education of future Tanzanian leaders. Every dollar raised brings a life-changing opportunity to students from poor backgrounds. Take the first step towards an unforgettable journey that changes lives - including your own.
Fighting poverty through education - Every step you take helps empower the next generation of Tanzanian leaders.
How it works
Secure your place
Start Fundraising
Using the fundraising page we build for you, and book a call with your fundraising coach.
Meet the team
Meet like-minded travellers and hear from the charity about the difference you're making.
Your Adventure Begins
Set off on your adventure! Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.
Trip notes
Upon arrival in Kilimanjaro, you will be met at the airport by a driver and transferred to The School of St Jude. Once we arrive and settle down, a welcome briefing will be held to go over health and hygiene, safety, diet, do’s and don’ts around the school, and the itinerary for the next couple of days. This afternoon, we’ll go on a village walk guided by one St Jude’s students to see the local sights and the world surrounding St Jude’s, as well as being shown around Moivaro Boarding Campus. After some drinks at a local bar and dinner at St Jude’s, we’ll turn in for the night.
Accommodation: Sisia Campus
Meals: D
After breakfast this morning, we’ll be taken on a tour of the Sisia Primary Campus, Girls’ Secondary, and Art Gallery, where we’ll learn about the history of the school. You will get the opportunity to sit down with Gemma, St Jude’s Founder to learn about the future plans of the school. For the rest of the morning, we’ll have music and art class visits to see the progression and creativity of the students. After reading, and some lunch with the primary students, we have the opportunity to learn more about the Beyond St Jude’s Scholarship Program (BSJSP), where graduates give back by teaching in local government schools during their Community Service Year. You'll visit one of these schools to see the impact firsthand, then return to St Jude’s to meet the Sponsor Relations team to explore how student sponsorships transform lives.
There is an optional activity of hopping on a school bus to enjoy a ride with the students as they get dropped off at home. This activity provides the opportunity to see where the students live, sing songs and learn what they’ve done that day. Dinner tonight is at Khan’s BBQ, a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Sisia Campus
Meals: B L D
Today will consist of a tour of Smith Secondary Campus after breakfast, which is located at Usa River. Here, we’ll get the chance to meet some of the older students and hear about their dreams and ambitions for the future. Later this morning we’ll visit a farm project that supports sustainability by reducing food costs and providing a regular supply of fresh vegetables to the students. We’ll return to Sisia Primary Campus to participate in a Swahili and Cultural lesson, where students take on the role of the teacher and we learn from them.
A St Jude’s student will take us to their home and introduce us to their family, where we get to experience Tanzanian hospitality firsthand. This unique insight into the lives of the students and their families is a great opportunity to ask questions and learn more. They’ll be equally as curious about your lives too, so you’ll be answering questions too!
Returning back to Sisia Campus, for a cooking lesson. Learn to cook traditional Tanzanian food with the guidance of some of the Community Service Year volunteers and after that get a chance to eat the food that you’ve made.
Accommodation: Sisia Campus
Meals: B L D
After breakfast this morning, we will be transferred to our accommodation in Moshi. You have the day to spend at your leisure. The guide will deliver a full briefing as well as carry out equipment checks and help with hiring additional equipment if needed. Moshi is located in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro and is known as a coffee-producing hub as they boast vast coffee plantations.
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: B
This morning we will have a 2-3 hour transfer to the Rongai Nale Moru Gate near the Kenyan border. After arrival, we will begin our climb to Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa, hiking through forests where we will see wildlife such as White and Black Colobus Monkeys, and the exotic Hartlaub's Turaco, a large bird with a violet blue tail, red wing tips, a blue-black head, and eyes surrounded by white. This peak has an elevation gain of 800m or 2,500ft. We will have lunch together on the trail before continuing on to our first campsite of the trek where we will rest for the night.
Accommodation: Camping
Transfer time: 2-3 hours
Trekking distance: 6km
Elevation gain: 800m
Meals: B L D
Today’s trekking will take us through Kilimanjaro’s moorland, where the morning of hiking is steep and you will begin to feel the altitude. You will notice the growing altitude today in your legs and the rhythm of your breathing. Your guide will advise you to go “pole, pole” (“slowly, slowly”) if they think your pace is too fast for the altitude.The total elevation gain for today will be 1,000m or 3,400ft. We will stop to rest at a cave and take some time to explore, before resuming our hike and having lunch at Second Cave, a natural cave formed by the cooling of lava. The afternoon of hiking is easier as we cross the moorland and approach our campsite for the night, which is in a sheltered valley at Kikelewa.
Accommodation: Camping
Trekking distance: 15km
Elevation gain: 1,000m
Meals: B L D
Today will mainly be an acclimatisation day, where we will hike in the morning then rest in the afternoon and evening. The hike in the morning is rather short, but it is steep, though we will be rewarded with superb all-round views and a tangible sense of wilderness. The elevation gain of today will be 730m or 2,400ft. We then make our way to our campsite at Mawenzi Tarn, which is situated below Mawenzi Peak and offers stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo.
Accommodation: Camping
Trekking distance: 7km
Elevation gain: 730m
Meals: B L D
This morning we will have a small sleep in and do another acclimatisation walk. We can pick between two walks depending on how we are feeling - a steep walk toward the peak of Mawenzi, or a gentle climb to the ridge of the lunar desert. After embarking on one of these walks, we will return to Mawenzi Tarn for a hot lunch and restful afternoon.
Accommodation: Camping
Trekking distance: 2km
Meals: B L D
We depart our camp for the last 2 nights and make our way across the lunar landscape of the saddle between Kibi, the summit cone and Mawnezi. The crossing is exposed and can be very windy, though it is spectacular. The elevation gain for today is 370m or 1,200 ft. Today we are hiking towards Kibo Huts Camp, our home for the night, which is situated directly below the summit, offering amazing views over the Kenyan plains and Mawenzi. After lunch and a full summit briefing, we will spend time resting to prepare for our summit tomorrow.
Accommodation: Camping
Trekking distance: 11km
Elevation gain: 370m
Meals: B L D
Today is the big summit day, where we will begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. We will begin hiking at around midnight and use the light of our head torches to navigate our way for the next six hours. The most challenging part of the entire trek is the ascent to the crater rim. The trail consists mostly of steep switchbacks known as Jamaica Rocks, which we will scramble over as we approach the crater rim at Gilman’s point, which sits at 5,756m. The hike from Gilman’s to Uhuru Peak is a gradual climb and not too difficult, though the altitude makes the hike long and tiring. The sun rises and the plains of Africa are stretched out below us - we did it! After summit celebrations, we will descend to Kibo Huts, where we will eat and replenish our energy before continuing our descent to Horombo Huts, our campsite for the night. The elevation gain is 1,195m or 3,940ft and elevation loss is 2,175m or 7,140ft.
Accommodation: Camping
Trekking distance: 16.5km
Elevation gain: 1,195m | Elevation loss: 2,175m
Meals: B L D
After a well deserved sleep, we have breakfast and finish off the trek with a descent to Marangu Gate today. This last hike on Kilimanjaro is a beautiful one as we pass through Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest. The elevation loss for today is 1,890m or 6,200ft. Once we reach the end, we will be transferred back to Moshi.
Accommodation: Lodge accommodation
Trekking distance: 19km
Elevation loss: 1,890m
Meals: B L D
Today we say our goodbyes to our team mates and crew as we are transferred back to Kilimanjaro airport to fly back home.
Meals: B
Optional Safari
TBC
TBC
TBC
Package Inclusions: Transfers as per itinerary • Airport transfers (on days 1 and 12 only) • Accommodation in 3-star lodge and camping based on twin-share, and single rooms at The School of St Jude • Meals as per itinerary • Water on trekking days • English-speaking guides • Park, camping and rescue fees • Tents • All activities at The School of St Jude.
Package Exclusions: International flights • Airport transfers outside the travel dates • Travel insurance (compulsory) • Visas • Sleeping bag and mat • Personal hiking equipment • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities • Home pack for home visit (Can be purchased from The School of St Jude for USD $32).
Fundraising for good
New to the wonderful world of fundraising, or worried you won't hit your fundraising goal? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. The Inspired Adventures team will support you with a personalised plan, regular coaching, and plenty of resources. From online campaigns to trivia nights, bake sales and creative ideas, we’ve got tried-and-tested tips to help you reach your goal.
Meet Lucy - your personal fundraising expert, who will be with you every step of your fundraising journey!
Sample Fundraising Plan
Online Direct Donations
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Send out personal emails to your network with a clear, specific ask. For example: “My goal is to have 50 people donate $20 each to my cause. Can you help by donating $20?”
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Use the Grassrootz fundraising platform to share your page on social media, copy your unique URL, and download your QR code in just one click, it’s that easy!
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Ask your family and friends to reach out to their networks and help spread the word.
Sausage Sizzle
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Host a BBQ at your local Bunnings, Woolworths, sports club, or workplace.
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Advertise in your local newspaper and invite everyone you know to come along.
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Offer vegetarian or gluten-free options to maximise your sales.
Why you'll love this adventure
- Feel the elation of standing on top of the world’s highest freestanding mountain, the mighty Kilimanjaro (5,895m) and gazing out over the stunning East African plains.
- Climb through rainforests, ice fields and alpine meadows and camp in the shadow of glaciers.
- Visit St Jude's, where you will meet the students, take part in some of their classes, seeing first hand the work you are supporting.
- Build lifelong friendships and camaraderie with like-minded teammates, all united by your passion to fight poverty through education, and the desire to travel for good.
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventures.com.au
How challenging is this adventure?
The Kilimanjaro trek is ranked 5/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are reasonably fit and willing to train. The Kilimanjaro trek is a physical challenge with long, consecutive days of trekking at high altitudes. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. Reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro does not require mountain climbing skills. The actual climb is more like a very long walk up stairs, however, we cannot stress enough the importance of having the right trekking equipment and proper training.
You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.
How many people will be on my adventure?
We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.
Do I have to carry my own bag?
On most adventures, you'll only need to carry a day bag with essentials for your day of activities. Your luggage/big backpacks will either stay at your accommodation, be transferred to your next accommodation, or will be carried by porters.
Who is Inspired Adventures?
School of St Jude has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 20 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $50 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and School of St Jude, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.
How do I train for this adventure?
It is essential that you prepare for this challenge. We will provide you with a training guide when you register, but we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a personalised training plan that will prepare you for the challenge. The best physical preparation for a Kilimanjaro climb is any activity that simulates, as far as possible, the demands on your body during your ascent and descent.
You should aim to make walking up and down hills the main part of your training. Take regular and increasingly long walks to develop your muscles. You should be able to walk with a small pack for up to 8 hours a day for a number of consecutive days, and you will be walking for up to 15 hours on summit day.
How do I fundraise?
Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.
What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target?
It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined.
By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together?
Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
The funds raised for The School of St Jude are tax-deductible (conditions apply).
What is the accommodation like?
At St Jude’s you will have your own motel-style room with ensuite.
While in Moshi, you will be staying in a basic but comfortable 3-star hotel which has all the usual facilities you would expect.
You will be camping in twin-share tents for the six nights on the mountain. Sleeping bags and mats are not included but can be hired at an additional cost. All your gear, except that which you’ll carry in your day pack, will be carried for you by the porters, who will run ahead of you so when you arrive in the late afternoon, the campsite will be set up for you already.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share for your Kilimanjaro and safari. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
You will have a single room at The School of St Jude at no extra cost.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.
How is my luggage transported?
You will only need to carry a day-pack with you each day. Your main luggage will be transported by porters between campsites.
For the full trip, days 1-15 the cost to participate is $X,XXX which is inclusive of:
- Registration fee: $390 (non-refundable after 5 days)
- Travel cost: $X,XXX (includes a $950 non-refundable travel deposit)
In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,750 (per person) for The School of St Jude.
For days 1-12 the total cost to participate in this adventure is $X,XXX which is inclusive of:
- Registration fee: $390 (non-refundable after 5 days)
- Travel cost: $X,XXX (includes a $950 non-refundable travel deposit)
In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,750 (per person) for The School of St Jude.
What happens if I need to cancel?
If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.
- Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund (less card transaction fees).
- Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit, $390 registration fee and card transaction fees.
- Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.
Do I need to have insurance?
Travel insurance is required for international travel to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained. Our guides carry satellite phones to be used if further assistance is required.
Do I need a visa to travel to Tanzania?
It is a requirement that Australian and New Zealand passport holders have a valid visa to enter Tanzania. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.
Take this new and exciting corporate social responsibility initiative and see your staff and brand take on this adventure as a team.
An Inspired Adventure with The School of St Jude offers the following benefits:
- Employee engagement opportunities to attract and retain staff
- Long-term partnership with The School of St Jude and increased community engagement
- Improved employee wellness through the impact of paying it forward
- Increased brand value through unique PR opportunities
- Improved workplace mental and physical health with a focus on fitness and training for the challenge
- Increased visibility through an innovative approach to corporate social responsibility
- Team building opportunities across departments through the achievement of a common goal
- Great networking opportunities
Find out more by downloading our corporate sponsorship pack HERE.
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
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