Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,870 m) to Mandara Hut (2,700 m)

• Distance: 8 km
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 830 m
• Vegetation Zone: Rainforest

After registering at Marangu Gate, you begin your climb through the enchanting montane rainforest. The trail is rich in biodiversity—listen for tropical birds and look out for black-and-white colobus monkeys leaping through the treetops. The path steadily ascends to Mandara Hut, a cluster of A-frame huts tucked into the forest. If time allows, an optional walk to Maundi Crater offers panoramic views over the plains of Kenya.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

• Distance: 12 km 
• Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1,020 m
• Vegetation Zone: Moorland

Leaving the forest, you enter the heather and moorland zone, where the trail opens up to sweeping mountain views and unique flora like giant lobelias and groundsel. As the altitude increases, so does the pace, with frequent rest stops for hydration and photos. Upon arrival at Horombo Hut, you’ll settle in, enjoy a hearty dinner, and rest amid a scenic alpine setting beneath Mawenzi Peak.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

• Distance: 5–6 km (optional hike)
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Today is dedicated to acclimatization, a key component to increase your chances of a successful summit. After breakfast, you’ll take a guided acclimatization hike to Zebra Rocks (approx. 4,000 m), a distinctive geological formation along Mawenzi’s slopes. This hike helps your body adapt to higher altitudes, improving circulation and oxygen efficiency. Afterward, return to Horombo Hut for a warm lunch and a restful afternoon before dinner and overnight.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700 m)

• Distance: 10 km
• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
• Elevation Gain: 980 m
• Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

The trail now ascends through the alpine desert, where vegetation is sparse, and the terrain is dusty and rocky. You’ll cross the Saddle, a wide barren plateau that connects Mawenzi and Kibo. The hike is steady but more physically challenging due to the thin air. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, you’ll prepare your gear for the summit attempt and rest after an early dinner. Hydration and rest are essential at this stage.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), then down to Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

• Distance: 6 km ascent + 16 km descent
• Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1,195 m
• Elevation Loss: 2,175 m
  Vegetation Zones: Arctic to Moorland

Summit day begins around midnight under the stars. The steep switchbacks up Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) demand mental and physical endurance, especially in the cold, thin air. After reaching the rim, continue along the crater edge to Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa. Celebrate with breathtaking views, then descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest. After lunch, continue your descent to Horombo Hut for a well-earned night of sleep.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,870 m)

• Distance: 20 km
• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
• Elevation Loss: 1,850 m
• Vegetation Zones: Moorland to Rainforest

After breakfast, begin your final descent through moorland and lush rainforest, retracing your steps to Mandara Hut and onward to Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, you’ll receive your summit certificate and bid farewell to your mountain crew. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel for a hot shower and celebration.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch