We always recommend you have at least 1 day in town before starting your trek. This gives you time to rest, relax and prepare. On this day we make sure you meet your guide(s) so that they are able to check all your gear, we can rent anything else that you require and you have the opportunity to ask them any questions you may have!
Day 1
Marangu Gate (1905m) to Mandara Huts (2720m)
Total Distance:
8.75 km
Hiking Time (approx.):
3 hours
Your adventure begins at Marangu Gate, Kilimanjaro National Park’s headquarters, located about 45 minutes from Moshi. Upon arrival, you’ll register (this may take up to an hour depending on the number of climbers). The trail starts with a steady uphill walk through a lush rainforest filled with blue monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, and the bright red Kilimanjaro impatiens flower. You’ll pause at Kisamboni for a picnic lunch before continuing to Mandara Huts. As the trail steepens, the forest gives way to heather and lichen-covered landscapes. If you have the energy, a short walk to Maundi Crater offers panoramic views toward Kenya and Mawenzi Peak, along with stunning wildflowers. Mandara Huts provide a surprising touch of comfort with flush toilets and running water from a nearby spring.
Day 2
Mandara Huts (2720m) to Horombo Huts (3720m)
Today’s hike transitions from forest into the moorland zone, a unique terrain dotted with giant heathers and lobelias. Weather permitting, you’ll get your first full view of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks—perfect backdrops for memorable photos. After a scenic picnic lunch, you’ll continue to Horombo Huts, one of the busiest spots on the mountain since it also serves climbers descending from other routes. The communal dining area here is a great place to share stories and connect with fellow trekkers.
Total Distance:
12km
Hiking Time (approx.):
6-8 hours
Day 3
Horombo Huts (3720m) to Kibo Huts (4715m)
Total Distance:
9km
Hiking Time (approx.):
4-6 hours
Today you’ll traverse the alpine desert zone across the saddle that links Kibo and Mawenzi. This barren but stunning landscape is known for its dramatic light and geological features like parasitic cones—small volcanoes formed by past eruptions. It’s crucial to monitor for signs of altitude sickness today and keep a slow, steady pace behind your guide. As you approach Kibo Huts, the summit trail comes into view. The huts are more basic here, with stone buildings and no flush toilets. After a late lunch, you’ll rest early in preparation for your summit attempt.
Day 4: Summit Day
Midnight Ascent: Kibo Huts (4715m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) and Back to Kibo Huts
Total Distance:
6.25km
Hiking Time (approx.):
6 hours
Your final morning on the quieter Lemosho route before joining up with the Machame trekkers later on. You will emerge from the valleys peppered with lobelia and heather covering the ground to find yourself in the alpine desert ecosystem, with lichen covering every rock. The first few hours are steady uphill walking. This is best taken slowly as today is often the first day some may feel the symptoms of altitude sickness. Although after joining up with Machame route there is a shorter route to camp (which you will see porters and chefs running along) we take you on a diversion to Lava Tower Rock (alt. 4600m) to give you extra acclimatisation. From Lava Tower it’s all downhill to Barranco camp- feeling the chill where that cup of warm soup to start your dinner will be all the more welcome.
Afternoon Descent: Kibo Huts to Horombo Huts (3720m)
Total Distance:
9km
Hiking Time (approx.):
3-4 hours
After your rest at Kibo, you’ll continue descending to Horombo Huts. Although tired, most trekkers find this leg surprisingly quick—some even “ski” down the scree using their poles. A hot meal and a good night’s sleep await.
Day 5
Horombo Huts (3720m) to Marangu Gate (1905m)
Total Distance:
20.75km
Hiking Time:
7-8 hours
Though long, your final descent feels much easier after summit day. If time allows, your guide may take you along the scenic Marangu Nature Trail, a quieter path with a lovely waterfall and plenty of bird and monkey sightings. Once back at the gate, you’ll sign out of the park and have the chance to browse local souvenirs. From there, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel for a hot shower, a cold drink, and maybe even a massage—well deserved!
What's in the Price?
Inclusive
- Pick-ups and drop offs from the Airport
- Accommodations (One night Before Trekking and One night After Trekking)
- Mountain guide(s)
- Personal chef(s)
- Porters
- All meals and drinking water
- Park entrance fees, all camping fees
- Camping equipment – tent, foam mattress (Not needed for the Marangu route)
- First aid kit
- Pulse oximeter
Exclusive
- Alcoholic beverages or sodas
- Sleeping bag (can arrange hire if necessary)
- Tipping gratuities.
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- International and domestic flights
Available supplements
- Flying Doctor’s Emergency rescue or Kili Made Air
- Portable toilet
- Oxygen cylinder
- Massage after the climb