Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Elevation: 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Your journey begins with a drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate, where park formalities are completed before starting the trek. The hike takes you through a lush tropical rainforest, home to blue monkeys and elusive Colobus monkeys. The trail gradually ascends through rolling hillsides before reaching Mandara Hut, a tranquil retreat nestled in a forest clearing.

Where you’ll be staying: Mandara Hut
Meals included: All meals

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Heath

The trek continues through the rainforest before transitioning into the expansive high moorland. As the vegetation thins, breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi, two of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic peaks, emerge on the horizon. The day concludes at Horombo Hut.

Where you’ll be staying: Horombo Hut
Meals included: All meals

Day 3: Acclimatization Day – Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge and Back

Elevation Gain: 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft
Distance: 5 km (one way)
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours to Mawenzi Ridge, 1-2 hours return
Habitat: Heath

This acclimatization day includes a short trek to Mawenzi Ridge, offering stunning panoramic views of Mawenzi and Kibo. After exploring the dramatic landscape, you return to Horombo Hut for the night.

Where you’ll be staying: Horombo Hut
Meals included: All meals

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Ascending through the desolate “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo, the landscape transforms into an alpine desert. Kibo Hut, located at the base of the crater wall, serves as the final camp before the summit attempt. The afternoon is reserved for rest and an early dinner in preparation for the summit push.

Where you’ll be staying: Kibo Hut
Meals included: All meals

Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Elevation Gain: 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft (Uhuru Peak)
Distance: 6 km ascent
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours ascent
Habitat: Arctic

Descent: Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation Loss: 19,341 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 16 km descent
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours descent
Habitat: Heath

Departing Kibo Hut at midnight, you embark on the most demanding section of the trek, climbing in the dark to Gilman’s Point (18,600 ft). Witness a breathtaking sunrise before making the final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, you descend to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest and dinner.

Where you’ll be staying: Horombo Hut
Meals included: All meals

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation Loss: 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

The final leg of your trek takes you downhill through lush rainforests. Upon arrival at Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates before a transfer back to Moshi.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch