Rongai Gate (1950m) – 1st Caves Camp (2600m)

Mount Kilimanjaro - Hiking duration: 5 hours

Distance: Around 8 kilometers

Habitat: Montane Forest

After enjoying an early breakfast at the hotel, the operator will be picked up from Arusha (1400m) and driven to the Marangu Gate (1980m). At the gate, porters will organize and pack the hiking gear while the operator and guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). A vehicle will then transfer them to the Rongai trailhead, approximately 2.5 hours from the Marangu Gate. The trail starts in tall cornfields and leads into a pine forest. This path has a gentle ascent, allowing hikers to appreciate their surroundings. Midway through the trail, there will be a lunch break, and the 1st Caves Camp (2600m) will be reached by late afternoon or early evening. The porters and chef, who ascend the mountain quickly, will arrive at camp ahead of the hikers to set up tents, boil drinking water, and prepare snacks. After freshening up, a hot dinner will be served. Overnight temperatures on the mountain may drop to freezing, so be prepared!

1st Caves Camp (2600m) – Kikelewa Cave (3600m)

Mount Kilimanjaro - Hiking duration: 6-7 hours

Habitat: Moorlands

After a hot breakfast, hikers will continue their journey to Kikelewa Cave (3600m). The trail passes Second Cave (3450m), an ideal spot for a lunch break. As with the first night, tents will be set up before the hikers arrive at camp, and porters will prepare drinking and washing water. Evening snacks and dinner will be prepared by the chef. Prepare for a chilly night as temperatures drop below freezing at this exposed camp.

Kikelewa Cave (3600) – Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m)

Mount Kilimanjaro - Hiking duration: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Moorlands

On this day, hikers will enjoy a short but steep trail to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m). In the moorland, exotic plants such as giant lobelia and groundsel can be seen. At camp, hikers will enjoy breathtaking views and allow their bodies to acclimate. A hot dinner and washing water will be prepared for hikers as they enjoy the stunning sunset.

Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m) – Kibo Hut (4700m)

Mount Kilimanjaro - Hiking duration: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

After breakfast, hikers will continue ascending east for a half-day hike to Kibo Hut. Kibo is situated in the “Saddle,” the area between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo in an alpine desert. There is no water at this camp, but hikers can purchase mineral water and soft drinks at the camp office. An early dinner will be served so hikers can rest before attempting the summit the same night. The guide will provide a detailed briefing on how to prepare for summit night. Aim to sleep by 19:00!

Summit Attempt

Mount Kilimanjaro - Kibo Hut (4700m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Horombo Hut (3720m)

Hiking duration: 8 hours to Uhuru and 6 hours to Horombo

Habitat: Stone scree / ice-cap summit

Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers ascent and 21 kilometers descent

The guide will wake the hikers around 23:30 for tea and biscuits before beginning the summit attempt. The trail is rocky up to Hans Meyer Cave (5150m). The ascent continues to Gillman’s Point (5681m). Reaching this section is a remarkable achievement as the trail is steep, rocky, and at high altitude. Gillman’s is located on the crater rim. From here, a snow-covered trail usually leads to the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m). Reaching the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro is a lifetime achievement! A short time will be spent at the summit taking photographs and drinking tea before descending to Barafu. The hike down to Kibo Hut takes about 3 hours.

At Kibo Hut, hikers will rest and enjoy a hot lunch in the sun. After eating, the descent continues to Horombo Hut (3720m). Dinner, washing, and a restful night await at the hut after a challenging day.

Horombo Hut (3720m) – Marangu Gate (1980m)

Mount Kilimanjaro - Hiking duration: 6 hours

Distance: Approximately 27 kilometers

After a well-deserved breakfast, the staff will host a big celebration filled with dancing and singing. It is on the mountain that tips will be presented to the guide, assistant guides, chef(s), and porters. After celebrating, the descent back to Marangu Gate (1980m) takes 6 hours. The National Park requires all hikers to sign their names to receive certificates of completion. Hikers who reached Gillman’s Point (5681m) receive green certificates, and those who reached Uhuru Peak (5895m) receive gold certificates. After receiving certificates, the journey back to Moshi Town begins for long-awaited showers and further celebrations.

• Private airport transfers to/from accommodations
• 2 nights in Moshi with breakfast
• Park entry and camping fees included
• 3 delicious hot meals daily on the mountain
• Ample filtered drinking water during trek
• Pro mountain guides, cook, and porters
• Transportation to/from Kilimanjaro gate
• Quality 4-season mountain tents
• Hot water for washing
• Emergency medical kit and rescue fees
• Oxygen tanks and oximeter available
• Government taxes and VAT included
• Double-layered sleeping mats

• Travel insurance
• Flights
• Tips for guides, porters and cook

Secure Travel

The safety and comfort of you and your family is our first priority. Regardless of whether you are on a safari experience, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or abounding on any African shoreline, Kilisa Tours and Safari and its delegates are always planning for your prosperity. Our numerous long periods of experience and neighbourhood information empowers us to plan and flawlessly execute any risks that may emerge. Our experts are glad to talk about in detail any inquiries or concerns you may have as for your safety and/or comfort while you are on safari.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.