$1,210 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateArusha to Marangu Gate to Marangu Hut
Day One: Marangu Gate (1,800m/5,905ft) to Mandara Hut (2,743m/9,000ft)
Altitude Gain: 915 meters, 3,000 feet
Commence your Kilimanjaro expedition with a departure from Arusha at 8 am, heading towards Marangu Gate. The journey to Marangu spans approximately 4 hours, and upon reaching the gate, you'll be introduced to our guides, cooks, and porters. Once gate registration is completed, your Kilimanjaro trek begins.
Your path will lead you along a slender trail that winds through the enchanting Kilimanjaro rainforest for the majority of the hike. Midway through day one, take a break for a picnic lunch at Kisambioni. Following lunch, continue your forested journey until you reach Mandara Hut.
The remainder of the day allows for relaxation or, if you prefer, a brief excursion to Maundi Crater. On a clear day, the vistas to the east, looking out over Taveta, and to the northwest, gazing at Mawenzi Peak, are simply breathtaking, making this short hike a rewarding experience.
Hike Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
In the early morning, following breakfast, the group will set out from Mandara Hut for a moderate trek towards the second high-altitude camp, Horombo Hut, situated at 3,720 meters. Upon reaching the camp on this day, you'll be rewarded with simultaneous views of two impressive volcanoes: Kibo and Mawenzi.
Several hours after lunch, an acclimatization hike in the direction of Kibo Hut, involving a 200-meter elevation gain, will be undertaken. Subsequently, you'll descend back to Horombo Hut, where a nourishing dinner awaits.
Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Day Three: Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft) to Kibo Hut (4,750m/15,580ft)
Altitude Gain: 1,030 meters, 3,380 feet
Embark on your journey from Horombo Hut after a hearty breakfast, making your way through the moorland and the alpine desert of Kilimanjaro's elevated regions. Approximately an hour into your hike, you'll come upon the Maua River, a meandering mountain stream.
Beyond Maua, the landscape becomes more level, and the verdant surroundings start to recede. Pause for a nourishing lunch break at Middle Red Hill. Post-lunch, continue your ascent at a consistent incline for another two hours, venturing through Kilimanjaro's Saddle.
While the terrain on the path to Kibo may seem like a stark desert with limited vegetation, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Your arrival at Kibo Hut, scheduled for around 3 pm, will mark the time to rest and prepare for your midnight ascent.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Kibo Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Hike Kibo Hut to Summit, and down to Horombo Hut
Continuing onward, you'll make your way to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in all of Africa. Along this arduous journey, you'll be greeted by breathtaking vistas at every turn. Don't forget to capture a photo at the summit to share with your friends and family.
Following this triumphant achievement, the descent begins, with a well-deserved break for lunch and rest at Kibo before proceeding to the Horombo encampment. The initial part of this descent is executed in darkness, necessitating the use of headlamps or flashlights.
The temperature will remain quite cold until the descent commences, so having all your warm layers is essential. This segment of the trek is unquestionably the most demanding, characterized by numerous switchbacks. Taking it slow with the "pole pole" approach and maintaining an optimistic attitude will help you overcome this challenging leg of the journey.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Horombo Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Hike Horombo Hut to trail head, drive to Arusha
Following breakfast, embark on a gradual descent that guides us through the moorland until we reach the Mandara Hut. The journey continues with a descent through a verdant forest trail, leading us to the Marangu National Park gate. As you descend to lower elevations, be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions. Wearing gaiters and using trekking poles can prove helpful. You may find that shorts and t-shirts are suitable attire, but it's advisable to keep your rain gear and warmer clothing readily accessible.
Upon reaching the Marangu gate, a vehicle will be ready to transport you back to Arusha for an overnight stay or to the airport for your departure.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks: