Itinerary

1. Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

   • Elevation: 1,387 m / 915 m to 1,950 m to 2,750 m
   • Distance: 7 km
   • Hiking Time: 3 hours
   • Habitat: Montane Forest
   • Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Moshi/Arusha to Rongai Gate, the starting point of your trek. The hike kicks off from Nale Moru Village, gradually ascending through the lush rainforest zone. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including elephants and buffalos, as you make your way to Simba Camp for dinner and overnight rest.

2. Day 2: Simba Camp to Mawenzi Tarn via Kikelewa Tarn

   • Distance: 16 km
   • Hiking Time: 9 hours
   • Habitat: Semi-Desert
   • Today’s trek is longer but rewarding, offering breathtaking views as you ascend through the moorland and semi-desert landscapes. A mid-way stop at Kikelewa Tarn allows you to enjoy a hot lunch before continuing to Mawenzi Tarn, located beneath the striking peaks of Mawenzi. Rest, have dinner, and spend the night at camp.

3. Day 3: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut (Summit Night Preparation)

   • Elevation: 4,330 m to 4,695 m
   • Distance: 5 km
   • Hiking Time: 5 hours
   • Habitat: Alpine Desert
   • After an early breakfast, the trek takes you across the lunar-like desert saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, arriving at Kibo Hut by early afternoon. This is a crucial rest and preparation day for the upcoming midnight summit ascent. Spend the remainder of the day hydrating, eating, and preparing your gear.

4. Day 4: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut

   • Elevation: 4,695 m to 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak) – Descend to 3,690 m
   • Distance: 5 km ascent + descent to Horombo Hut
   • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours ascent + descent
   • Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert
   • Your summit push begins at midnight, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak by sunrise. Trek up steep scree and switchbacks, reaching Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) before continuing along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa.
   • After capturing unforgettable sunrise views and summit photos, descend back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest before continuing further down to Horombo Hut, where you'll enjoy dinner and a well-deserved rest.

5. Day 5: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Moshi/Arusha

   • Elevation: 3,690 m to 1,830 m to 1,387 m
   • Distance: 18 km
   • Descending Time: 5-7 hours
   • After a good night’s sleep, enjoy breakfast before descending through the moorland and lush rainforest to Mandara Hut for lunch. The final stretch leads to Marangu Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your climbing certificate. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Moshi/Arusha, where celebrations await!