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The Ultimate Kilimanjaro Journey

Embark on the Lemosho Route, often hailed as the most picturesque path up Kilimanjaro. Your adventure begins at the Lemosho gate, where you’ll ascend swiftly through a lush rainforest teeming with life. As you continue, the landscape transforms, leading you to the Shira Plateau in the Heather/Moorland zone. A highlight of your trek is the acclimatization day, where you’ll hike up to Shira Cathedral, offering breathtaking views of the Tanzanian landscape far below.

From here, the route takes you to the dramatic Lava Tower, before descending into the stunning Barranco Valley, where you’ll camp amidst the beauty of Barranco Camp. The next morning, you’ll tackle the daunting Barranco Wall, a challenging yet exhilarating climb that marks your entry into the Alpine zone. The journey continues to Karanga Camp and then to Barafu Camp, your final stop before the summit push.

In total, you’ll spend six and a half days ascending the mountain and one and a half days descending to Mweka gate.

Arrival: Preparing for the Climb

To ensure you’re well-prepared, we recommend arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) at least a day before your climb begins—preferably two evenings prior. This gives you time to rest and attend the trip briefing without feeling rushed. The airport is a 45-minute drive from your hotel, and we offer pick-up services for a fee, or you can take a taxi.

During the trip briefing, we’ll ensure you have all the necessary gear, conduct an initial health check, and confirm that you have the required medical coverage and travel insurance.

Kilimanjaro: Day 1 – Into the Forest

Time: 2-3 hours · Distance: 2.9 miles · Elevation Gain: +1,700 ft

Your adventure begins with a drive to the Londorossi National Park gate, where you’ll be officially signed onto the park. While the porters weigh the gear, you’ll enjoy a lunch break. Afterward, you’ll continue driving through the cultivation zone to the Lemosho trailhead at 7,000 ft. From here, your trek begins, leading you through a vibrant rainforest to Lemosho Forest Camp at 8,700 ft, where you’ll spend the night. We’ll perform a daily health check and brief you on the next day’s trek, including how much water you’ll need.

Kilimanjaro: Day 2 – Into the Moorland

Time: 6-7 hours · Distance: 4.9 miles · Elevation Gain: +3,000 ft

Day two takes you deeper into the rainforest, until suddenly, the jungle gives way to the giant heather shrubs of the Moorland zone. As you ascend, the trail offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll continue climbing steadily until you reach the Shira Plateau and your camp at Shira I, sitting at 11,600 ft.

Kilimanjaro: Day 3 – What a View

Time: 4-5 hours · Distance: 9.9 miles · Elevation Gain: +1,000 ft

Today is a gentler day, designed to help your body acclimatize to the higher elevation. You’ll start with a climb to the volcanic rock formations of Shira Cathedral at 12,800 ft, where you can rest and take in the stunning views. After a snack, you’ll descend slightly to Shira II camp at 12,600 ft. This camp offers some of the best views of the summit and an unforgettable sight of Mount Meru floating on the clouds.

Kilimanjaro: Day 4 – Into the Barranco Valley

Time: 5-7 hours · Distance: 6.3 miles · Elevation Gain: +200 ft

From Shira II camp, you’ll ascend to Lava Tower (15,100 ft.), the highest point of the day, with views of the treacherous Western Breach. After lunch, you’ll descend into the Barranco Valley to Barranco Camp at 12,800 ft, one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic campsites. Nestled along a cliff face, this camp offers a mesmerizing view of clouds swirling up from the valley below.

Kilimanjaro: Day 5 – Conquering Barranco Wall

Time: 4-6 hours · Distance: 3.2 miles · Elevation Gain: +300 ft

Your day begins with a challenging ascent up the 800-foot Barranco Wall, a climb that will leave you breathless—in more ways than one. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Barranco Valley below. As you continue, you’ll pass below the Southern Icefield before reaching Karanga Camp at 13,100 ft. This is the last water point before the summit, and from here on, porters will bring water from below.

Kilimanjaro: Day 6 – Barafu Hut, Summit Base Camp

Time: 3-5 hours · Distance: 3.4 miles · Elevation Gain: +1,700 ft

On day six, you’ll follow an easy trail on volcanic scree with expansive views of the countryside below. The elevation gain is rapid as you ascend to Barafu Hut at 14,800 ft, your final camp before the summit. If you’re feeling up to it, there’s an optional acclimatization hike to a plateau at the bottom of the southeast valley. The rest of the day is spent preparing for the summit push. It’s important to rest as much as possible before heading to bed early.

Kilimanjaro: Day 7 – Summit Night

Time: 11-15 hours · Distance: 10.4 miles · Elevation Gain: +4,155 ft · Elevation Loss: -9,300 ft

You’ll be woken around 11 pm for the final ascent. Guided by your headlamp, you’ll slowly and steadily make your way up the switchbacks for 5-6 hours, aiming to reach the crater rim by sunrise. Once you arrive at Stella Point (18,800 ft), you’ll take a brief rest before the final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro at 19,341 ft. The views of the Southern Glaciers and Kibo’s dormant crater are awe-inspiring. After celebrating at the summit, you’ll descend quickly back to Barafu Hut for a meal, then continue down to Mweka Camp at 10,000 ft.

Kilimanjaro: Day 8 – The Final Descent

Time: 4-6 hours · Distance: 5.14 miles · Elevation Loss: -4,800 ft

Your final day on Kilimanjaro begins with a descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate at 5,400 ft. Along the way, you’ll be serenaded by the calls of birds and watch playful primates swinging through the trees, bidding you farewell. Once your guide checks you out at the gate, you’ll travel through coffee plantations and fields of bananas and avocados on your way back to your hotel.

Departure: Homeward Bound or Safari Adventure

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll either be driven back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your journey home or picked up for the start of a thrilling safari.

Kilimanjaro’s Hidden Gem

The Northern Circuit is one of Kilimanjaro’s most extraordinary routes, offering an unparalleled adventure on the Roof of Africa. This incredible path is the only one that circles clockwise around the mountain’s north side, providing an experience like no other. The journey begins at the Lemosho gate, where you’ll quickly ascend through the vibrant rainforest, following the Lemosho route for the first few days. As you climb higher, the landscape opens up into the desolate yet captivating Shira Plateau in the Heather/Moorland zone.

The adventure truly begins as the Northern Circuit veers away from the other trails, leading you to the prominent Lava Tower before heading north, where few climbers venture. Here, you’ll feel as if you have the entire mountain to yourself, with spectacular views of the Kenyan plains unfolding below. As you continue to circle Kilimanjaro’s remote northern flank, the solitude and serenity of the landscape are unmatched. The trail eventually turns toward the northeast side, where your final ascent to the summit begins.

In total, the Northern Circuit offers nine unforgettable days on the mountain: eight and a half to the summit and one and a half to descend to the Mweka gate.

Arrival: Setting the Stage for Success

To ensure you’re fully prepared for this epic journey, we recommend arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) at least the morning before your climb begins—preferably two evenings prior. This allows ample time for rest and to attend the trip briefing without feeling rushed. The airport is a 45-minute drive from your lodging, and we offer convenient pick-up services, or you can take a taxi.

At the trip briefing, we’ll ensure you have all the necessary gear, perform an initial health check, and confirm that you have the required medical coverage and travel insurance.

Kilimanjaro: Day 1 – Into the Wilderness

Time: 2-3 hours · Distance: 2.9 miles · Elevation Gain: +1,700 ft

Your journey begins with a drive to the Londorossi National Park gate for registration, followed by a drive through the cultivation zone to the Lemosho trailhead. After a lunch break, you’ll start your trek, winding through a lush rainforest until you reach Lemosho Forest Camp at 8,700 ft, where you’ll spend your first night under the stars.

Kilimanjaro: Day 2 – Entering the Moorland

Time: 6-7 hours · Distance: 4.9 miles · Elevation Gain: +3,000 ft

On day two, the trail continues through the rainforest, until the towering trees give way to the giant heather shrubs of the Moorland zone. As you climb steadily, the landscape transforms, offering expansive views as you reach the Shira Plateau and make your way to Shira I Camp at 11,600 ft.

Kilimanjaro: Day 3 – Amazing View

Time: 4-5 hours · Distance: 9.9 miles · Elevation Gain: +1,000 ft

Today’s journey is designed to help your body acclimate to the increasing altitude. You’ll hike west to the volcanic rock formations of Shira Cathedral at 12,800 ft, where you’ll take a break to admire the stunning views. Afterward, you’ll continue to Shira II Camp, slightly lower at 12,600 ft, which offers some of the most breathtaking views of the summit, including the unforgettable sight of Mount Meru floating on a sea of clouds.

Kilimanjaro: Day 4 – Venturing Northward

Time: 5-7 hours · Distance: 7.2 miles · Elevation Gain: +1,000 ft

As you continue following the Lemosho route, you’ll ascend to the striking Lava Tower at 15,150 ft. After lunch and an optional climb to Arrow Glacier, you’ll descend to your next camp at Moir Hut (13,800 ft), nestled in a remote valley.

Kilimanjaro: Day 5 – Into the Wilderness

Time: 4-7 hours · Distance: 4.4 miles · Elevation Gain: +1,800 ft · Elevation Loss: -1,800 ft

Day five begins with a climb out of the Moir Valley and an acclimatization hike to the summit of the Lent Hills at 15,400 ft. After taking in the views, you’ll return to the trail, heading east across a unique field of slab rock. The day’s hike continues over rolling hills until you reach Buffalo Camp at 13,600 ft, where stunning views of Kenya stretch out before you.

Kilimanjaro: Day 6 – Into the Barren Beauty

Time: 5-7 hours · Distance: 5.1 miles · Elevation Loss: -800 ft

From Buffalo Camp, the trail leads you to the top of Buffalo Ridge, continuing over ridges and into gullies as you trek through the stark yet beautiful landscape. By the end of the day, you’ll arrive at Third Cave Camp at 12,800 ft, ready to rest and prepare for the days ahead.

Kilimanjaro: Day 7 – Reaching for the Sky

Time: 4-5 hours · Distance: 3.0 miles · Elevation Gain: +2,700 ft

Today’s hike takes you steadily upwards to the saddle, a lunar-like landscape between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. As you cross this barren expanse, the trail climbs steeply to School Hut at 15,500 ft, where you’ll spend the afternoon resting in preparation for your summit night.

Kilimanjaro: Day 8 – Summit Day: Uhuru Peak

Time: 11-15 hours · Distance: 9.6 miles · Elevation Gain: +3,845 ft · Elevation Loss: -9,300 ft

Your summit attempt begins around midnight, under the glow of your headlamp. The most challenging part of your journey, this trek will see you navigating switchbacks on loose volcanic scree as you ascend toward the crater rim at Gilman’s Point (18,600 ft). As you reach the rim, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak.

The final leg to Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft), Kilimanjaro’s highest point, takes about an hour and a half. Along the way, you’ll pass by spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs. After celebrating your achievement at the summit, you’ll begin the descent, first to Stella Point, then down to Barafu Camp for a brief rest, before continuing to Mweka Camp at 10,000 ft.

Kilimanjaro: Day 9 – The Last Stretch

Time: 4-6 hours · Distance: 5.14 miles · Elevation Loss: -4,800 ft

Your final day on the mountain takes you through the rainforest to Mweka Gate at 5,400 ft. Along the way, you’ll be serenaded by birds and entertained by playful primates, providing a lively send-off as you complete your journey. Once checked out, you’ll travel through lush coffee plantations and fields of bananas and avocados on your way back to your hotel.

Departure: Onward to New Adventures

After a well-earned breakfast, you’ll either be driven back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or whisked away on a new adventure, like a thrilling safari.

Journey on the Quiet Side of Kilimanjaro

The Rongai Route offers a unique and quieter path up Kilimanjaro, starting from the remote northeast side of the mountain, near the Kenyan border. As you ascend through this less-traveled wilderness, you’ll gradually make your way toward the majestic Mawenzi Peak. The landscape here is stark and wild, with the trail leading you across the barren, lunar-like saddle—an otherworldly stretch devoid of vegetation. Your summit approach comes via the eastern crater wall, offering a gentler climb compared to other routes, making it an excellent choice for those new to trekking or short on time. But don’t be fooled by its relative ease—this route is no less exhilarating for seasoned adventurers.

With four and a half days to reach the summit and one and a half days to descend, the Rongai Route packs an unforgettable experience into a shorter timeframe.

Arrival: Preparing for the Adventure Ahead

We recommend arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) at least the morning before your climb or, better yet, two evenings prior. This will give you time to rest and attend the trip briefing without feeling rushed. The airport is just a 45-minute drive from your lodging, and we offer convenient pick-up services to make your arrival seamless.

During the trip briefing, we’ll ensure you have all the necessary equipment, conduct your initial health check, and confirm that you have the required medical coverage and travel insurance.

Kilimanjaro: Day 1 – Into the Forest

Time: 3-4 hours · Distance: 4.3 miles · Elevation Gain: +2,100 ft

Your journey begins with a drive to Marangu, where your guide will register you with the park. From there, it’s on to the Rongai trailhead at Nale Moru (6,400 ft). As the guides and porters prepare the gear, you’ll start your trek, winding through fields of corn and potatoes before entering the lush rainforest. The trail climbs gently but steadily through this verdant environment, home to various wildlife, including the striking black-and-white Colobus monkeys.

As the forest begins to thin, you’ll transition into the Heather/Moorland region, where expansive views of Kenya open up below. Your first night will be spent at Rongai One Camp (8,500 ft), under a sky full of stars.

Kilimanjaro: Day 2 – Ascending to the Moorland

Time: 6-7 hours · Distance: 5.7 miles · Elevation Gain: +3,300 ft

Day two starts with a steady climb up to Second Cave (11,300 ft), offering stunning views of Kibo and the Eastern Icefields on the crater rim. After a well-deserved lunch, you’ll leave the main trail, heading southeast across the moorland on a lesser-known path toward the jagged Mawenzi Peak. The day ends at Kikelewa Caves (11,800 ft), where your camp is nestled in a sheltered valley.

Kilimanjaro: Day 3 – Into the Wilderness

Time: 3-4 hours · Distance: 2.3 miles · Elevation Gain: +2,400 ft

Today’s journey, though short, is steep, rewarding you with breathtaking 360-degree views as you climb higher into the wilderness. The vegetation gradually fades away as you reach Mawenzi Tarn (14,200 ft), a camp set in the shadow of the towering Mawenzi spires. The afternoon is yours to rest or explore the surrounding area as your body acclimatizes to the altitude.

Kilimanjaro: Day 4 – Across the Lunar Landscape

Time: 5-6 hours · Distance: 5.5 miles · Elevation Gain: +1,200 ft

The trail today takes you across the barren, lunar-like saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, en route to Kibo Hut (15,400 ft). This desolate stretch feels like a journey across another planet. Once at Kibo Hut, you’ll rest and prepare for the early morning ascent to the summit.

Kilimanjaro: Day 5 – Summit Night: Uhuru Peak

Time: 11-15 hours · Distance: 12.3 miles · Elevation Gain: +3,945 ft · Elevation Loss: -7,145 ft

Your summit attempt begins around midnight. In the darkness, guided by your headlamp, you’ll ascend the steep, switchbacking trail of loose volcanic scree. As you climb, the anticipation builds until you finally reach Gilman’s Point (18,600 ft) at the crater rim, just in time to witness a spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi Peak.

The final push to Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft)—Kilimanjaro’s highest point—takes about an hour and a half. Along the way, you’ll pass by awe-inspiring glaciers and ice cliffs. After celebrating your achievement and taking photos at the summit, you’ll begin your descent, first to Stella Point and then back down to Kibo Hut. After a short break, the day ends with a descent to Horombo Huts (12,200 ft), where you’ll rest for the night.

Kilimanjaro: Day 6 – The Final Descent

Time: 5-6 hours · Distance: 12.4 miles · Elevation Loss: -6,200 ft

Your final day on Kilimanjaro begins with a descent through the moorland to Mandara Huts (8,900 ft). As you re-enter the rainforest, the sounds of singing birds and playful primates will accompany you as you make your way to the Kilimanjaro National Park gate at Marangu (6,000 ft). After your guide checks you out, you’ll travel through coffee plantations and fields of bananas and avocados on your way back to your hotel.

Departure: New Horizons Await

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be driven to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or picked up for your next adventure, perhaps a thrilling safari to celebrate your incredible achievement.

Your Adventure Begins Here

The Machame Route, fondly known as the “Whiskey” route, is Kilimanjaro’s most popular trail, and for a good reason. Starting at the Machame Gate on the mountain’s southern side, this route offers an unforgettable journey. Like the Lemosho and Northern Circuits, you’ll begin in the lush rainforest, ascending to the breathtaking Shira Plateau before merging with the Lemosho Route to summit from the southeast. Due to its popularity, you’ll find this route bustling with fellow adventurers, especially during peak seasons, where campsites are shared among many groups. It’s an ideal choice for those who crave a scenic, challenging hike and don’t mind the camaraderie of other climbers.

The Machame Route is a six-day trek to the summit, followed by a one-day descent to the gate.

Arrival: Getting Ready for the Climb

We recommend arriving at least the morning before your climb begins, or better yet, two evenings prior. Arriving late leaves little time for a trip briefing and much-needed rest. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is just a 45-minute drive from your lodging. We’ll be there to pick you up and take you to your hotel, or you can opt for a taxi.

At the trip briefing, we’ll ensure you have all the necessary gear, conduct your initial health check, and confirm that you have the required medical coverage and travel insurance.

Kilimanjaro: Day 1 – Into the Wilderness

Trek Time: 5-6 hours · Distance: 6.7 miles · Elevation Gain: +4,400 ft

Your adventure kicks off with a drive from the hotel to the Machame National Park gate. After signing in, while the guides and porters prepare the gear, you’ll start your trek. Depending on the timing, lunch will be either at the trailhead or along the way to Machame Camp (9,800 ft), where you’ll spend the night. We’ll conduct a daily health check and provide a briefing on the next day’s journey, including how much water you’ll need.

Kilimanjaro: Day 2 – Into the Highlands

Trek Time: 4-5 hours · Distance: 3.3 miles · Elevation Gain: +2,800 ft

On day two, you’ll continue through the enchanting rainforest until you reach the Shira Plateau. The trail steadily climbs up rolling hills, offering expansive views. As you cross into the Moorland zone, you’ll be surrounded by the giant heather shrubs. The day ends at Shira Hut (12,600 ft), where the view of Mount Meru floating on the clouds is simply spectacular.

Kilimanjaro: Day 3 – To the Lava Tower

Trek Time: 7-9 hours · Distance: 7.5 miles · Elevation Gain: +200 ft

Today’s journey takes you to the iconic Lava Tower (15,150 ft), where you’ll stop for lunch. As you rest, you might witness a rock slide along the Western Breach trail. The afternoon descent into the Barranco Valley (12,800 ft) brings you to one of the most stunning campsites on Kilimanjaro, nestled against a cliff face where clouds swirl up into camp. Here, you’ll join the Lemosho trail and prepare for tomorrow’s challenge.

Kilimanjaro: Day 4 – The Barranco Wall

Trek Time: 4-6 hours · Distance: 3.2 miles · Elevation Gain: +300 ft

The day begins with a thrilling ascent of the 800-foot Barranco Wall. It’s a short but lung-burning climb to the top, where you can admire your achievement as you look back down into the Barranco Valley. The trail then leads you below the Southern Icefield, eventually arriving at Karanga Camp (13,100 ft), the last water source before the summit.

Kilimanjaro: Day 5 – Summit Prep

Trek Time: 3-5 hours · Distance: 3.4 miles · Elevation Gain: +1,700 ft

Today’s trail is a gradual ascent on scree with broad views of the countryside below. As you gain elevation, you’ll reach Barafu Hut (14,800 ft), your final camp before the summit. If you’re up for it, a short acclimatization hike awaits. The rest of the day is dedicated to preparing for the summit night—rest as much as possible before heading to bed early.

Kilimanjaro: Day 6 – Summit Night

Trek Time: 11-15 hours · Distance: 10.4 miles · Elevation Gain: +4,155 ft · Elevation Loss: -9,300 ft

Around midnight, your guide will wake you for the final ascent. Under the light of your headlamp, you’ll begin the slow, steady climb up switchbacks, aiming to reach the crater rim by sunrise. After about 5-6 hours, you’ll arrive at Stella Point (18,800 ft), where a short break prepares you for the final push to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Kilimanjaro (19,341 ft). The round trip from Stella Point to the peak takes about two hours, offering close-up views of the Southern Glaciers and the dormant crater of Kibo. After celebrating at the summit, the descent to Barafu Hut is swift, followed by a continuation to Mweka Camp (10,000 ft) for the night.

Kilimanjaro: Day 7 – Final Descent

Trek Time: 4-6 hours · Distance: 5.14 miles · Elevation Loss: -4,800 ft

After breakfast, the final leg of your adventure takes you through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (5,400 ft). Along the way, you’ll be accompanied by the lively sounds of singing birds and playful primates. Once you’ve checked out, the journey back to your hotel takes you through coffee plantations and fields of bananas and avocados, a perfect ending to your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Departure: What’s Next?

After breakfast, you’ll either be driven to JRO for your flight home or picked up for your next adventure—a safari perhaps? The choice is yours.

Kilimanjaro’s Classic Adventure

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure up the majestic slopes of Kilimanjaro, taking on the legendary Marangu Route—also known as the “Coca-Cola” route. As the first established commercial path to Kilimanjaro’s summit, Marangu carries a rich history that every mountaineer will appreciate.

One of the unique aspects of the Marangu Route is the comfort it offers. Unlike other routes where camping is a must, you’ll rest in dormitory-style huts along the way, adding a layer of convenience to your climb. Because of this, we offer this route exclusively as a private climb, making it an excellent choice for those planning to summit during the rainy seasons (mid-March through May and November).

What makes Marangu truly special is its gentle, gradual ascent, making it a popular choice for climbers seeking a slightly less demanding route. However, with popularity comes a trade-off—the trail can be crowded, and both ascent and descent follow the same path, leading to fewer moments of solitude. But remember, the true magic of Kilimanjaro lies not just in the views, but in the incredible achievement of reaching its peak.

Arrival: Setting the Stage for Success

To ensure you’re fully prepared for the climb, we recommend arriving at least the morning before your adventure begins or, ideally, the night before. Arriving early allows you to rest and participate in the trip briefing without feeling rushed. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is conveniently just 45 minutes from your lodging. If you’ve arranged a private transfer, our team will be ready to welcome you and transport you to your hotel. Alternatively, a taxi service is available.

During the trip briefing, we’ll ensure you have all the necessary gear. We will perform an initial health check. We will also confirm that you have the required medical coverage and travel insurance—ensuring you’re well-prepared for the journey ahead.

Kilimanjaro: Day 1 – Heart of the Forest

Trek Time: 4-5 hours · Distance: 4.3 miles · Elevation Gain: +2,100 ft

Your adventure begins with a departure from Arusha, heading to the Marangu Gate where you’ll complete registration formalities. The climb starts at an elevation of 6,000 ft, leading you through a lush, vibrant forest filled with diverse wildlife, including the charming blue monkey. As you ascend, the forest gradually gives way to your first stop—Mandara Hut, situated at 8,800 ft.

Kilimanjaro: Day 2 – Peaks and Moorlands

Trek Time: 6-8 hours · Distance: 5.7 miles · Elevation Gain: +3,400 ft

Day two brings an exhilarating trek through the captivating moorland. If the weather cooperates, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi. These are two of the three volcanic peaks that crown Kilimanjaro. By evening, you’ll arrive at Horombo Hut, resting at 12,200 ft, under the dazzling canopy of the African night sky.

Kilimanjaro: Day 3 – Acclimatization Day

Trek Time: 3-4 hours · Distance: 3.1 miles · Elevation Gain: +2,200 ft

Today is all about acclimatization. A short hike to the Mawenzi Ridge, towering at 14,400 ft, offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. After soaking in the majestic scenery, you’ll descend back to Horombo Hut. This will give your body time to adjust to the altitude.

Kilimanjaro: Day 4 – Crossing the Lunar Landscape

Trek Time: 5-6 hours · Distance: 5.5 miles · Elevation Gain: +1,200 ft

The trek continues across the otherworldly lunar desert that lies between Mawenzi and Kibo. By the end of the day, you’ll reach Kibo Hut at 15,400 ft, nestled at the base of the crater wall. The remainder of the day is reserved for rest, preparing you for the final, exhilarating push to the summit.

Kilimanjaro: Day 5 – Summit Night and Descent

Trek Time: 11-15 hours · Distance: 12.3 miles · Elevation Gain: +3,945 ft · Elevation Loss: -7,145 ft

As the anticipation builds, you’ll start the most challenging part of the climb. At around 1 a.m., you’ll begin, guided by the soft glow of headlamps. The ascent is a slow, steady journey through switchbacks and loose volcanic scree. After several hours, you’ll reach Gillman’s Point at 18,600 ft—just in time to witness a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi. For those who wish to push further, Uhuru Peak (19,345 ft), is a three-hour round trip. Along the way, marvel at the towering glaciers and ice cliffs that dominate the summit region.

The descent back to Kibo Hut is swift, and after a short rest, you’ll continue down to Horombo Hut (12,200 ft), relishing every moment of your incredible journey.

Kilimanjaro: Day 6 – The Final Descent

Trek Time: 5-6 hours · Distance: 12.4 miles · Elevation Loss: -6,200 ft

The final day of your adventure takes you through the enchanting moorland back to Mandara Hut (8,900 ft). From there, the path continues into the lush forest. The trees around you are alive with the sights and sounds of nature. The sounds will follow you until you reach the Kilimanjaro National Park gate in Marangu (6,000 ft). We’ll then arrange your transfer back to your lodge in Arusha. There you can reflect on the incredible achievement of summiting Kilimanjaro.

Departure: What’s Next?

After a well-earned breakfast, we’ll arrange a private transfer or taxi service to take you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). If you’ve booked a safari, your next adventure begins now!