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Day 1 : Nale Moru to Simba Camp
Upon arrival in Moshi, you will be transferred to the Rongai Gate, where your Kilimanjaro trek officially begins. After registration and a briefing, you will begin your journey through the beautiful landscapes of Tanzania, as you pass through cultivated fields and pine forests. This part of the trail is a gradual climb, and the area is rich in wildlife, including the chance to see monkeys and various bird species. The trek continues through lush forest and ascends 1,200 meters over 6 km to reach Simba Camp, where you will set up camp for the night. Enjoy a hearty dinner before settling in for the evening, ready for the next day’s adventures.
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Day 2 : Simba Camp to Kikelewa Caves
After breakfast, begin your trek towards Kikelewa Caves, where the landscape changes from lush rainforest to moorland. As you ascend, you will witness breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding wilderness. The trail covers 6-7 km and ascends 3,200 feet, giving you the opportunity to experience the varying ecosystems of Kilimanjaro. Upon reaching Kikelewa Caves, you will set up camp and have time to rest and acclimatize. Dinner will be served at the camp, and you will have a chance to relax and prepare for the day ahead.
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Day 3 : Kikelewa Caves to Mawenzi Tarn
Following breakfast, continue your ascent to Mawenzi Tarn, a stunning alpine desert located beneath the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. This portion of the trek involves a steady climb, covering approximately 4 km and gaining 1,500 meters in elevation. The terrain becomes more rugged as you approach Mawenzi, offering views of volcanic rock formations and the surrounding mountain glaciers. Upon arrival at Mawenzi Tarn, enjoy the spectacular vistas and rest, allowing your body to acclimatize to the higher altitude. This is a great spot for photography, as you’ll capture the dramatic landscape of Kilimanjaro’s eastern side. A warm meal will be served, and you’ll settle into camp for the evening.
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Day 4 : Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
After breakfast, the trek continues across the "Saddle" between Mawenzi and Kibo, the highest peak on Kilimanjaro. This section covers approximately 6 km and ascends 1,200 meters, crossing a desolate and barren landscape that feels like another planet. As you approach Kibo Hut, the terrain becomes rocky and barren, and you will begin to feel the altitude more keenly. Kibo Hut is located at 4,700 meters, the final campsite before the summit attempt. This camp provides magnificent views of Kibo’s crater and offers a final rest before the challenging summit climb. After dinner, rest and hydrate in preparation for the midnight ascent.
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Day 5 : Kibo Hut to Summit to Mweka Camp
Your summit attempt begins early, as you set off under the cover of darkness with headlamps on. The trek is steep and challenging, but the reward at the top is worth every step. The goal is to reach Stella Point by sunrise, where you will witness a stunning sunrise over the glaciers and plains below. After a brief rest at Stella Point, you will continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters. After celebrating the accomplishment, you will begin your descent to Mweka Camp, located at 3,100 meters. The descent is long but provides a much-needed break from the strenuous summit attempt. Mweka Camp offers a comfortable resting point where you can enjoy a celebratory dinner and rest after the long day.
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Day 6 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
After breakfast, descend through the rainforest, retracing the path you initially took to the Machame Gate. This part of the trail is well-defined and offers glimpses of the lower elevations’ flora and fauna. The descent covers 10 km, with an elevation loss of 1,000 meters, and takes approximately 4-5 hours. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you will sign out and receive your summit certificate, a memento of your achievement. Afterward, transfer back to Moshi to relax and reflect on your incredible Kilimanjaro trek.