Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

• Distance: 8 km
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Elevation Gain: 2,000 m to 2,650 m
• Vegetation Zone: Forest

Your adventure begins with a drive through rural villages and farmlands to the remote Rongai Gate, near the Kenyan border. After registration, the trek begins through lush pine forest and gradually ascends along a well-trodden path. This region is home to colobus monkeys and a variety of mountain birds. You’ll arrive at Simba Camp, located on the edge of the moorland zone, in time for your first night under the stars.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

• Distance: 6 km
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Elevation Gain: 2,650 m to 3,450 m
• Vegetation Zone: Moorland

Today’s trek continues steadily upward through heath and moorland, with stunning views of Kibo Peak dominating the horizon. The path is drier and more open here, offering excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. You’ll reach Second Cave Camp by early afternoon, with time to rest and enjoy the silence of the northern slope.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

• Distance: 9 km
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 3,450 m to 3,630 m
• Vegetation Zone: Moorland

The trail veers east toward Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second highest peak, providing a dramatic backdrop. As you move into higher moorland terrain, the air becomes thinner and the landscape more rugged. After a gentle climb and crossing undulating terrain, you reach the Kikelewa Camp, a scenic and quiet site nestled in a sheltered valley.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

• Distance: 6 km
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Elevation Gain: 3,630 m to 4,330 m
• Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

This is a shorter but steeper day as you climb to the base of Mawenzi Peak, one of Kilimanjaro’s striking volcanic cones. The trail rises quickly into the alpine zone, offering awe-inspiring views and cooler air. You’ll camp beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi, beside a beautiful alpine tarn.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn – Acclimatization Day

• Activity: Optional acclimatization hike
• Elevation: Remains around 4,330 m
• Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

Today is a rest and acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the altitude, improving your chances of summit success. Your guide will lead a short acclimatization hike in the surrounding area, often toward Mawenzi Ridge. The dramatic landscape and extra time at altitude are both rewarding and important for the days ahead.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

• Distance: 8 km
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 4,330 m to 4,700 m
• Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

Crossing the desolate and windy Saddle, a high-altitude desert between Mawenzi and Kibo, you approach Kibo Hut, your final base before the summit attempt. The landscape is stark and lunar. You’ll arrive by mid-afternoon to eat, rest, and prepare your gear for the early morning climb to Uhuru Peak.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak – Descend to Horombo Hut

• Distance: 6 km ascent + 15 km descent
• Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
• Elevation: 4,700 m → 5,895 m → 3,720 m
• Vegetation Zones: Arctic to Moorland

Your summit bid begins shortly after midnight under the stars. The trail ascends steeply via Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) on the crater rim, then continues around the rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)—the highest point in Africa. After a brief celebration and breathtaking views, descend carefully back to Kibo Hut, rest briefly, then continue down to Horombo Hut for your final overnight.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha

• Distance: 20 km
• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
• Elevation Loss: 3,720 m to 1,870 m
• Vegetation Zone: Moorland to Rainforest

The final descent takes you through the heath and rainforest zones as you head toward Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, you’ll sign out, receive your summit certificate, and meet your transfer vehicle. A return drive brings you back to your hotel for a hot shower and celebration.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch