Itinerary

1. Day 1- Moshi - Marangu Gate - Mandara Hut

   • Connect with your tour guide in Moshi and transfer to Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The 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. The trail then widens to expose beautiful hillsides until we reach Mandara Hut.

   Elevation (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
   Distance: 8 km/5 miles
   Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
   Habitat: Rain Forest

2. Day 2- Mandara Hut - Horombo Hut

   • Start the trek through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. We may get our first views of the 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 - Mawenzi Ridge - Horombo Hut

   • This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. 
   • After spending a few moments exploring the area, we head back to Horombo Hut.

   Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft
   Distance: 5 km/3 miles
   Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
   Habitat: Heath

4. Day 4- Horombo Hut - Kibo Hut

   • Climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. 
   • Once here, have some 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 - Uhuru Peak - Horombo Hut

   • Very early in the morning (around midnight), begin the hike 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 our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

   Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft
   Distance: 19km
   Hiking Time: 7-9 hours
   Habitat: Arctic

6. Day 6- Horombo Hut - Marangu Gate - Moshi

   • On the last day, have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. 
   • Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

   Trip ends.

   Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
   Distance: 21 km/12 miles
   Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
   Habitat: Rain Forest