Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,860m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Distance: ~8 km | Time: 4–5 hours
Climate: Rainforest – humid and warm
Acclimatization: First gradual altitude gain
Terrain: Dense forest trails with gentle inclines
Begin your trek through Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for colobus monkeys and vibrant birds. Overnight in Mandara huts.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Distance: ~12 km | Time: 6–8 hours
Climate: Transition from rainforest to moorland – cooler, breezy
Acclimatization: Significant gain; pace is essential
Terrain: Open moorland with giant heathers and volcanic rock
Enjoy wide views as you climb past Maundi Crater and continue toward Horombo with views of Mawenzi Peak. Overnight in Horombo huts.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
Distance: Optional 5–8 km to Zebra Rocks (3,980m)
Climate: Cool and dry
Acclimatization: Crucial day for adjusting to altitude
Terrain: Rocky slopes with sparse vegetation
A short hike to Zebra Rocks enhances acclimatization. Return to Horombo for rest and prep for higher altitude.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Distance: ~10 km | Time: 5–6 hours
Climate: Alpine desert – dry, windy, colder
Acclimatization: Slow pace helps avoid altitude sickness
Terrain: Barren, rocky paths with little vegetation
Trek through a moonscape passing the “Last Water Point.” Arrive at Kibo for an early dinner and summit briefing.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut
Distance: ~6 km up + 15 km down | Time: 12–16 hours
Climate: Arctic at the summit – freezing temps, wind
Acclimatization: Challenging ascent – steady rhythm needed
Terrain: Steep switchbacks on loose scree to crater rim, then snowy paths to summit
Start at midnight and reach Gilman’s Point, then Uhuru Peak for sunrise. Celebrate and descend to Horombo for a well-earned rest.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Distance: ~20 km | Time: 6–7 hours
Climate: Warmer as you descend into rainforest
Acclimatization: No longer needed – rapid descent
Terrain: Forest trails, possibly muddy
Descend through moorland and back to the forest. At the gate, receive your certificate and say goodbye to the crew. Transfer to hotel.
Day 7: Departure / Optional Extension
Distance: N/A
Climate: Depends on your post-climb destination
Acclimatization: N/A
Terrain: N/A
Relax at your hotel or head to Kilimanjaro Airport. Optional extensions include safari adventures or a Zanzibar beach holiday.
END OF TREK
