Arrival:
- You will be collected from airport.
- Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1: Moshi to Rongai Gate - Simba Camp
After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll set off on a 2 to 3-hour drive toward the Rongai Gate, passing through scenic farmlands and rural villages. Upon arriving at the gate, you’ll complete the registration process before beginning your trek through lush farmlands and pine forests. The trail starts with a gentle ascent, allowing you to gradually adjust to the altitude. Along the way, you might spot wildlife such as colobus monkeys. The peaceful surroundings offer a great introduction to Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes. Once you arrive at Simba Camp, you’ll enjoy a hot meal and settle in for the night, resting up for the days ahead.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 2: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp
Ascend steadily to the Second Cave for lunch. From there, continue across the moorland on a smaller path toward Mawenzi’s jagged peaks. This section of the trek offers beautiful views and a sense of isolation. After about 10 km, you’ll reach Kikelewa Camp, situated in a sheltered valley surrounded by giant Senecios and near the Kikelewa Cave. The camp provides a perfect spot to rest and acclimate to the altitude. Take this time to relax and prepare for the upcoming hike, enjoying the stunning scenery and preparing yourself for the challenges of the next day.
Meals: All meals
Accommodation: Camping
Day 3: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut
Today’s trek is shorter but steeper, taking you through grassy slopes that lead to the stunning Mawenzi Tarn, nestled beneath the towering cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. The campsite is set in a dramatic, picturesque landscape with breathtaking views in every direction. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a hot lunch and have time to relax or take a short acclimatization hike to help your body adjust to the altitude. In the evening, you’ll be served dinner, followed by an informative briefing from your guide to prepare you for the next day’s trek to higher altitudes.
Meals: All meals
Accommodation: Camping
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn Hut
This extra day at Mawenzi Tarn is essential for acclimatization. Use this time to hike up toward Mawenzi Peak, which provides a splendid acclimatization opportunity and aids in your body’s adjustment to the higher altitude. The hike offers stunning views and helps your body adapt to the thinner air, preparing you for the more demanding stages of your trek. After your hike, return to Mawenzi Tarn to rest and relax. This rest day is crucial for building the stamina needed for the challenging trek ahead to Kibo Hut. Ensure you stay well-hydrated and focused, as this preparation will be key for your summit attempt.
Meals: All meals
Accommodation: Camping
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Hut
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a trek across the vast, barren lunar landscape known as the “Saddle,” which stretches between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The terrain is desolate yet mesmerizing, with rugged vistas and the summit looming ahead in the distance. Though the trail is long, it maintains a gentle incline, allowing for a steady pace as you approach the final stage of your journey. Upon arriving at Kibo Hut, you’ll rest and enjoy an early dinner to conserve energy for the summit attempt. Your guide will provide a detailed briefing, as the ascent to Uhuru Peak begins shortly after midnight.
Meals: All meals
Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Day 6: Kibo Hut - Summit Attempt - Horombo Hut
Around midnight, you’ll be awakened to begin the final ascent toward Uhuru Peak. The journey to Gillman’s Point, at 5,685 meters, is steep and strenuous, typically taking around six hours of steady climbing. This challenging section will test your endurance, but your guide will offer support along the way. Once you reach Gillman’s Point, you’ll traverse the crater rim toward Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. If the weather cooperates, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over the continent. After celebrating your incredible achievement at the summit, you’ll descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing onward to Horombo Hut for the night.
Meals: All meals
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate - Return to Moshi
After breakfast, you’ll start your descent through the diverse moorland and lush rainforest zones, making your way back to Marangu Gate. As you trek downward, take in the final views of the landscape and reflect on your accomplishment. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll be presented with your well-earned summit certificate as a testament to your achievement. From there, you’ll be driven back to your Hotel in Moshi, where a hot meal, a refreshing shower, and a comfortable bed await.
