Day 1: Marangu gate to Mandara hut
Elevation: 1842m to 2700m
Distance: 8km
We depart early in the morning to Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins by ascending a beautiful, tropical rainforest. At the upper edge of the forest line, we have the opportunity to see blue monkeys. The trail then winds its way along the beautiful hillsides until we reach the Mandara Hut.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 2700m to 3720m
Distance: 12 km
After breakfast, we will begin today’s trek through the forest until we reach the moorlands. 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.
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 3720m to 4390m to 3720m
Distance: 5km to and 5km back
This day is specifically designed for acclimatization. We will enjoy a pleasant hike to the Mawenzi Ridge which offers expansive views over Kibo and Mawenzi. After enjoying a few moments exploring the area, we’ll then head back to Horombo Hut.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Elevation: 3720m to 4700m
Distance: 10km
Today is a 10km walk but it is gradual. We will cross over the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo before we reach the Kibo Hut. The camp sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall and once we get there, we’ll enjoy an early dinner before preparing for the summit push.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 4700m to 5895m to 3730m
Distance: 6km to Uhuru and 16km from Uhuru to Horombo Hut
Very early in the morning (around midnight), you will be gently woken up with a hot cup of tea and a snack before we begin our final push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging part of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. While taking short, frequent breaks, we’ll be walking in darkness for several hours.
Once we reach Gilman’s Point, you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we 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 Tanzania and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we will enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Elevation: 3730m to 1842m
Distance: 20km
On our last day, we’ll have a long, steady trek down through the tropical forest. Please note that this section can be wet and slippery and another reason why trekking poles can be helpful! Our driver will be waiting to meet us at Marangu gate and transport us back to the hotel in Arusha/Moshi Town. Upon arrival at the gate, we will collect our summit certificates.
