Itinerary

1. Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

   • Depart from Moshi for Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning the trek. 

   • Hiking trail begins by ascending a beautiful, tropical rain forest. 

   • At the upper edge of the forest line, have the opportunity to see blue monkeys. 

   • Trail then widens to expose beautiful hillsides until Mandara Hut.

   Elevation (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft

   Distance: 8.5 km/5 miles

   Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

   Habitat: Rain Forest

2. Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

   • Begin the day hiking through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. 

   • Admire the views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks – two of the three volcanic peaks that make up the summit of Kilimanjaro.

   Elevation (ft): 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft

   Distance: 12 km/7 miles

   Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

   Habitat: Heath

3. Day 3: Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge

   • This is an extra day meant for acclimatisation that can be spent hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. 

   • After spending a few moments exploring the area, head back to Horombo Hut.

   Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge

   Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft

   Distance: 5 km/3 miles

   Hiking Time: 2-3 hours

   Habitat: Heath

   Mawenzi Ridge to Horombo Hut

   Elevation (ft): 14,400 ft to 12,205

   Distance: 5 km/3 miles

   Hiking Time: 1-2 hours

   Habitat: Heath

4. Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

   • Climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Kibo Hut sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. 

   • Once here, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.

   Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft

   Distance: 10 km/6 miles

   Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

   Habitat: Alpine Desert

5. Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

   • Very early in the morning (around midnight), begin the push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. 

   • Ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent but short breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. 

   • Finally, arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.

   • After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, descend to Horombo Hut. 

   • Later in the evening, enjoy the last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

   Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak

   Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft

   Distance: 6 km/4 miles

   Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

   Habitat: Arctic

   Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

   Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft

   Distance: 16 km/10 miles

   Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

   Habitat: Heath

6. Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

   • On the last day, have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. 

   • Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, collect summit certificates.

   • Vehicle will meet here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

   Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft

   Distance: 20 km/12 miles

   Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

   Habitat: Rain Forest