Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Your journey begins with a drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate, the starting point of the trek. Upon arrival at the gate, we will complete all the necessary registration and park formalities before starting the hike. The trail ascends gradually through a beautiful tropical rainforest, where you may encounter blue monkeys swinging through the trees. The lush greenery and fresh mountain air create an invigorating atmosphere as we make our way towards Mandara Hut. This scenic hike takes approximately four to five hours, covering a distance of 8 km (5 miles). Mandara Hut is located at an elevation of 8,858 ft and provides basic but comfortable accommodation for the night. Upon arrival, you can explore the nearby Maundi Crater, which offers stunning views of Kenya’s interior. Dinner will be served, followed by an early night’s rest to prepare for the next day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

After an early breakfast, we continue our ascent towards Horombo Hut. The trail initially winds through the remaining rainforest before opening into the expansive heath and moorland zone. As we climb higher, the landscape changes dramatically, revealing breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi, two of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic peaks. The trek covers a distance of 12 km (7 miles) and takes approximately six to eight hours. Horombo Hut, situated at an elevation of 12,205 ft, offers incredible panoramic views and a chance to acclimatize. Upon arrival, you will have time to relax and enjoy the surrounding scenery before dinner is served.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Today’s journey takes us further up the mountain towards Kibo Hut, located at an elevation of 15,430 ft. The trail ascends gradually before crossing the “Saddle,” a vast alpine desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The landscape is stark and lunar-like, with little vegetation due to the high altitude. The trek covers a distance of 10 km (6 miles) and takes approximately six to eight hours. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, we take time to rest and enjoy an early dinner. This is crucial in preparation for the final push to the summit, which begins just after midnight.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak – The Summit Attempt

In the early hours of the morning, around midnight, we begin our final ascent to the summit. This is the most physically and mentally demanding part of the climb. The trail is steep and rocky, and the altitude makes each step challenging. We ascend slowly in the darkness, taking frequent but short breaks.

After several hours of climbing, we reach Gilman’s Point at 18,600 ft. Here, we are rewarded with an awe-inspiring sunrise over Mawenzi Peak, a sight that makes the strenuous journey worthwhile. From Gilman’s Point, we continue along the crater rim, pushing towards our ultimate goal—Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa at 19,341 ft. Upon reaching the summit, you will have time to take photos and soak in the incredible views before beginning the descent.

The descent back to Horombo Hut is long but much faster than the ascent. We cover a total distance of 22 km (14 miles) today, with the summit climb taking six to eight hours and the descent an additional four to five hours. Upon arrival at Horombo Hut, we enjoy our final dinner on the mountain and a well-earned rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

On our final day, we descend from Horombo Hut back to Marangu Gate. The trail leads through the heath zone and back into the lush rainforest, where we can once again enjoy the vibrant flora and fauna. The descent covers a distance of 20 km (12 miles) and takes approximately five to seven hours.

Upon arrival at Marangu Gate, you will receive your summit certificates, recognizing your incredible achievement. A vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can relax, enjoy a hot shower, and celebrate your successful Kilimanjaro climb.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After the trek, you can opt to explore more of Tanzania, including a safari in Serengeti or a relaxing getaway in Zanzibar. Our team is happy to assist in planning any post-climb adventures. Congratulations on conquering Africa’s highest peak!