Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Kilimanjaro National Park - Following breakfast and a briefing, travel to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (a 45-minute drive), register, and begin the ascent.

Trek through the rainforest to reach the Mandara encampment. A detour to Maundi Crater offers a great opportunity to view the surroundings, including Northern Tanzania and Kenya. In the rainforest, keep an eye out for towering Eucalyptus trees, diverse birdlife, and Colobus monkeys.

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Altitude: 1,700 m to 2,740 m

Distance Covered: 7 km (4-5 hours)

Accommodation: Mandara Hut

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Kilimanjaro National Park - Depart the rainforest glades and follow an ascending trail through the open moorlands to the Horombo encampment. The views of Mawenzi and the Kibo summit are breathtaking. Look for giant lobelias and groundsels. The altitude may start to affect you.

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Kilimanjaro National Park - As you ascend, pass the last watering point and walk onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Vegetation starts with upper heathland but fades into a “moonscape.”

Enjoy dinner, rest, and prepare for the summit climb.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Altitude: 3,700 m to 4,700 m

Distance Covered: 10 km (6-8 hours)

Kibo Hut to Summit then Horombo Hut

Kilimanjaro National Park - In the early morning (midnight to 2 am), begin the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim.

Continue ascending to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The views are incredible at every turn. Capture a photo at the summit to share with friends and family.

Descend, pausing for lunch and rest at Kibo before proceeding to the Horombo encampment. The initial climb is done in darkness, requiring headlamps or flashlights. It will be very cold until descent begins, so all warm layers are necessary. This is the most challenging part of the trek with numerous switchbacks. Proceed slowly “pole pole” and maintain a positive attitude to succeed!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Altitude: 4,700 m to 5,895 m then 5,895 m to 3,700 m

Distance Covered: 4 km up / 14 km down (10-15 hours)

Horombo Hut to Moshi

Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, a steady descent leads through moorland to the Mandara Hut.

Continue descending along the lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, conditions may be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. Shorts and t-shirts are likely sufficient (keep rain gear and warmer clothing accessible).

Meet a vehicle at Marangu Gate for transport back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Remember to tip your Tanzanian guides and porters. It’s time to celebrate!

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Altitude: 3,700 m to 1,700 m

Distance Covered: 18 km (5-7 hours)

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Gate transfer
• Accommodation in huts during the climb
• Crew wages: Guide, Cook, Porters
• Fair and sustainable salary for crew

• Flights
• Tipping the crew
• Visas
• Park Fees and Tax
• Items of a personal nature
• Laundry Services

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.