Altitude: 1,870m to 2,720m

Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

After breakfast at your hotel in Arusha, you’ll be picked up by your mountain guide and transferred to Marangu Gate (approx. 3–4 hours’ drive). At the gate, you’ll register with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities before beginning your trek. The hike starts through a beautiful rainforest with a high chance of spotting blue monkeys and exotic birds. After 4–5 hours of walking, you’ll arrive at Mandara Hut, a collection of wooden A-frame huts nestled in a forest clearing.

Accommodation: Mandara Hut (shared dorm-style huts)

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Highlights: Rainforest trek, wildlife, Mandara Hut stay

Altitude: 2,720m to 3,720m

Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

After breakfast, the trail ascends out of the rainforest into moorland. You’ll pass through wide open heath with stunning views of Mawenzi Peak and the saddle between the two peaks. Expect a gradual but steady incline. You’ll reach Horombo Hut, your base for the night, surrounded by giant groundsels and ever-present alpine views.

Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Highlights: Scenic moorland, views of Kibo and Mawenzi

Altitude: 3,720m to 3,960m and back

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours (optional hike)

This is a crucial acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the altitude. After a late breakfast, take a short acclimatization hike to Mawenzi Ridge (approx. 3,960m) for panoramic views and an introduction to the higher altitudes. Return to Horombo for lunch and rest for the summit days ahead.

Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Highlights: Acclimatization hike, photography, alpine vegetation

Altitude: 3,720m to 4,703m

Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Today, you’ll trek through the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The landscape becomes more alpine desert with very little vegetation. This path is dry and dusty, but the views of Kibo summit ahead are incredibly motivating. You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut in the afternoon for an early dinner and rest – the summit attempt starts around midnight.

Accommodation: Kibo Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Highlights: Alpine desert zone, final summit prep

Altitude: 4,703m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) and down to 3,720m

Hiking Time: 12–14 hours

You’ll wake around midnight for a hot drink and light snack before starting your summit push. The trail leads to Gilman’s Point (5,685m), then continues along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the Roof of Africa! After celebrating and taking photos, descend back to Kibo Hut for a rest and hot meal, then continue down to Horombo Hut for your final overnight on the mountain.

Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Highlights: Sunrise at Gilman’s Point, reaching Uhuru Peak, descending into lush alpine

Enjoy your last breakfast on the mountain before descending through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. After signing out, you’ll receive your summit certificates. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Arusha, where you’ll check in at your hotel or be dropped at the airport depending on your plans.

Accommodation: Not included (can be arranged)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Highlights: Certificate ceremony, return to warm weather