Need some sugestions for this last minute idea. I did the climb 10 years ago with Zara, but I'm sure everythign has chnages. Whats the best value without breaking the bank, but also without chasing up and down the mountain at breakneck speed. Would setting this up locally (Nairobi or Moshi) work better?

Cheers,
J

Our Kilimanjaro travel guide might be useful to you.

You can only climb Kilimanjaro with an organized trek and along established routes, so you have to go with an operator. The operators vary from excellent to downright negligent so be selective. Break in your hiking boots and walk the dog; climb stairs; hike some hills with a pack on -- walking is the best way to prepare yourself for the long hike up Kilimanjaro. You need to build up stamina. It's a good idea to get a basic medical check-up before you go. Pack light but make sure you have everything you need to deal with altitude and variation in temperatures. Don't worry about carrying it yourself since a porter will take up to 30lbs (15kg) of your personal gear in a duffel bag.

Thanks for the info. When I went up 10 years ago I did the Coca Cola trail and had a local friend from Nairobi set everythign up. It was pretty cheap and pretty well run as we went with Zara tours. Now, I'm sure things are a bit different.

In terms of gear and shape I think I'm good. My boots have plenty of PNW dirt on them.