Depart from Moshi in the morning and drive to Nalemoru Gate on the northern side of Kilimanjaro. After registration and briefing, begin your hike through farmlands and a dense pine forest. This initial stage is short but rewarding, giving you a chance to adjust to the trail’s rhythm. The path is relatively gentle, offering ample opportunities to spot colobus monkeys and birds in the trees. Arrive at Simba Camp in the late afternoon, where you’ll enjoy a warm meal and your first night under canvas.
Start your day with a steady ascent across moorland terrain with sweeping views of the plains and Mawenzi Peak in the distance. The trail leads you through heath zones dotted with giant heathers and volcanic rocks. You’ll arrive at Second Cave Camp by early afternoon, offering time to rest, rehydrate, and acclimatize. After lunch, take a short acclimatization walk to a higher elevation before descending back. The tranquil setting and incredible sunset views make for a memorable evening on the mountain.
Today’s hike is shorter but steeper, allowing further acclimatization. The trail winds through open moorland toward the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, with striking scenery all around. You’ll arrive at Kikelewa Camp by midday, nestled in a sheltered valley with dramatic views. Spend the afternoon relaxing, followed by a hearty dinner prepared by your cook. The altitude gain is modest, aiding your body’s adjustment to the thinning air as you prepare for the higher elevations ahead.
A short but demanding day takes you up a steep ridge with panoramic views of the Kenyan plains. As you climb, the vegetation becomes sparse, and the landscape transforms into alpine desert. You’ll reach Mawenzi Tarn Camp, tucked beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi Peak, by lunchtime. This camp, beside a small mountain lake, is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic overnight spots. Use the afternoon for rest and acclimatization hikes to nearby ridges.
Trek across the barren Saddle—a high-altitude desert plain connecting Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Though not steep, the trail is exposed and can be mentally demanding due to the desolate environment and thinning air. Reach Kibo Hut in the early afternoon, where you’ll rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt. Your guides will brief you on the climb, check your gear, and ensure you’re ready for the long night ahead. Eat early and try to get a few hours of sleep.
Wake around midnight for your summit attempt. The trail to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) is steep and rocky, with switchbacks across scree and ice. With perseverance, you’ll reach Gilman’s by sunrise. From here, it’s another hour along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After savoring the summit, begin your descent back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for your final night on the mountain. This is a long and rewarding day that will stay with you forever.
After breakfast, continue descending through the moorland and lush rainforest to reach Marangu Gate. Celebrate your achievement with certificate presentations at the gate, then transfer back to Moshi for a hot shower, well-deserved rest, and celebratory dinner. You’ve just completed one of the greatest adventures on the African continent!
Nederlands
Русский
Español
Français
中文
