• Elevation: 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Distance: 12 km | 7 miles

Today’s trek takes you out of the rainforest and into the open moorland zone. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with your first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, two of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones. The trail winds through rolling hills and heather-covered landscapes before reaching Horombo Hut, where you’ll spend the night.

• Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge:
  • Elevation: 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft
  • Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
• Mawenzi Ridge to Horombo Hut:
  • Elevation: 14,400 ft to 12,205 ft
  • Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
• Distance: 5 km | 3 miles (each way)

This day is dedicated to acclimatization. You’ll take a day hike to Mawenzi Ridge, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of Kibo and the surrounding landscape. The hike is relatively short but steep, offering an excellent opportunity to adjust to the altitude. After exploring the ridge, you’ll return to Horombo Hut for a second night.

• Elevation: 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Distance: 10 km | 6 miles

Today’s trek takes you across the Saddle, a vast, lunar-like desert between Mawenzi and Kibo. The trail is steady but challenging, with breathtaking views of both peaks.

You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut, located at the base of Kibo’s crater wall, in the afternoon. Rest early and prepare for the summit push tonight!.

• Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak:
  • Elevation: 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft
  • Hiking Time: 7-9 hours
  • Distance: 6 km | 4 miles
• Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut:
  • Elevation: 19,341 ft to 12,205 ft
  • Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: 16 km | 10 miles

Summit day begins around midnight with a steep, challenging ascent under the stars. After several hours of hiking, you’ll reach Gilman’s Point (18,600 ft), where you’ll witness a spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. From there, it’s a final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 19,341 ft. Celebrate your achievement and take in the breathtaking views before descending to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.

• Elevation: 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Distance: 20 km | 12 miles
• Habitat: Rainforest

On your final day, descend through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush vegetation and may encounter wildlife. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate before being driven back to your hotel in Moshi for a celebration and reflection on your incredible achievement.