NALE MORU TO SIMBA CAMP

After completing the necessary registration formalities at Marangu National Park gate, We transfer by landrover to Rongai. The climb begins from the attractive wooden village of Nale Moru (1950m) on a small path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes before entering pine forest. The track then starts to climb consistently, but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife, including the beautiful Kilimanjaro Colobus monkey. These monkeys are black with a long cape of white hair and a flowing white tail. The forest begins to thin out and our first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone (2600m) with extensive views over the Kenyan plains.
Elevation (ft): 6,400ft to 8,700ft
Distance: 4 miles
Hiking Times: 3 – 4 hours
Habitat: Rain forest.

Main Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro

SIMBA CAMP TO KIKELEWE CAVES

The morning is a steady ascent up to the ‘Second Cave’ (3450m) with a Superb view of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim. After lunch, we leave the main trail and strike out across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. Our campsite is in a sheltered valley with giant senecios near kilelewa Caves.
Elevation (ft): 8,700ft to 11,800ft
Distance: 5.6miles
Hiking Times: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Moorlands.

Main Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro

KELEWE CAVES TO MAWENZI HUT

A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offers superb views of this wilderness area. The vegetation zone ends shortly before you reach your next camp at Mawenzi Hut spectacularly situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area.
Elevation (ft) 11,800ft to 14,210ft
Distance: 3.7 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Heath Zone.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

MAWENZI TO KIBO HUT

After breakfast we cross the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite, situated at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night.
Elevation (ft): 14,210ft – 15,420ft
Distance: 5.6miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Main Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro

KIBO HUT TO SUMMIT HOROMBO HUT

Guides rouse climbers before midnight for tea and cookies, preparing for the summit attempt in bitter cold. Setting out at 12 a.m., the trail zigzags up a steep scree slope, headlamps illuminating the climbers in the dark.

Placing one foot in front of the other, the ascent under the infinite black sky is an unforgettable experience. Many reach Gillman’s Point (18,685 feet) by 6:30 a.m., witnessing the sunrise over the plains of Africa.

Some consider this a valid summit, while others continue to Uhuru Peak (19,340 feet). The descent from Gillman’s Point is swift, about 2 hours. After a brief rest at Kibo Hut, climbers descend to Horombo Hut, reaching it by late afternoon.
Elevation (ft): 15,520ft to 19,340ft
Distance: 3.5 miles ascent plus 9.5 miles descent
Hiking Time: 8-10 hours ascent plus 4-5 hours descent
Habitat: Arctic.

Main Destination: Uhuru Peak (Mt Kilimanjaro)

HOROMBO TO MARANGU GATE

Today brings another extensive hike, primarily downhill, lifting our spirits with the satisfaction of yesterday’s ascent. Returning to Marangu gate at the park headquarters, we collect our certificates validating our success and bid farewell to numerous porters and guides. Transferring to our hotel in Moshi, a hot shower is a welcome indulgence, followed by enjoying a refreshing cold beverage and commemorating the climb with a celebratory dinner.
Distance: 12.5 miles
Hiking Time: 5 hours.

Main Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro