$1,300 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateMarangu Gate to Mandara Hut
After breakfast and a briefing, embark on a one-hour drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, where you'll register and begin your ascent. The trek kicks off with a stroll through the rainforest en route to the Mandara encampment. For an excellent vantage point of the local area, including Northern Tanzania and Kenya, consider a detour to Maundi Crater. Keep your eyes peeled for soaring Eucalyptus trees, avian species, and Colobus monkeys amid the lush rainforest.
Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: LD.
Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
As you depart from the rainforest glades, you'll ascend along an upward path through the exposed moorlands toward the Horombo encampment. Along the way, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of Mawenzi and the Kibo summit. Keep an eye out for colossal lobelias and groundsels. However, it's important to note that you may begin to experience altitude sickness as you climb higher.
Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 12km/7.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Meals: BLD.
Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
As we ascend, we'll eventually reach the final watering point before crossing over to the saddle of Kilimanjaro that lies between the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The terrain transforms from upper heathland to a barren "moonscape" devoid of vegetation. After reaching this point, we'll have dinner, rest up, and prepare for the final climb to the summit.
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
Distance: 9km/5.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: BLD.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Kibo Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Kibo Hut to Summit and down to Horombo Hut
Between midnight and 2 am, we'll embark on the final ascent to the summit, navigating steep scree or snow terrain up to Gilman's point, situated on the rim of the crater. We'll continue our ascent towards Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, reveling in the spectacular views along the way. Snap photos at the summit to share with loved ones back home! After reaching the top, we'll make our descent, stopping for lunch and a well-deserved break at Kibo before proceeding to the Horombo Hut.
This portion of the climb takes place in darkness, so headlamps or flashlights are essential. The weather will be extremely cold until we begin our descent, so be sure to layer up to stay warm. The trek is challenging, with numerous switchbacks, along with a positive attitude, which will ultimately lead to success.
Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: BLD.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Horombo Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Horombo Hut to trail head, drive to Kilimanjaro Airport
After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through the moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through the lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and T-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
A vehicle will be waiting for you at Marangu gate to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 1 hour).
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
Distance: 20km/12.5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: B.
- Main Destination:
- Kilimanjaro Airport
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks: