Distance: 8 km (5 miles)

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Montane Forest

Morning: Transfer to Rongai Gate & Register

You will be picked up from Moshi or Arusha after breakfast. Enjoy a 3-4 hour scenic drive to the Rongai Gate (1,950m). Along the way, you shall pass through some coffee farms, Maasai villages, and beautiful farmland which surrounds the entry point of the Park. Prepare yourself for a wonderful day. You will have to register at Kilimanjaro National Park. Following registration, meet with your trekking team (guides, porters, cooks, and the team). Each hiker will weigh their duffel bag at the registration desk. The porters can take a maximum of 15kg per hiker. Afternoon: Departure to the Montane Forest.

The trek begins with gentle elevation through rainforest. The black-and-white colobus, along with a wide variety of birds, and wildlife reside in the Evergreen rainforest. Gradual ascend makes the trek all the more enjoyable. Following this 3-4 hour journey, you will reach the Simba Camp 2650 meters in the treetops, on the edge of the forest, where you can see the great Kenyan savannah.

At Simba Camp: After a long day, have a warm meal, listen to your guide’s briefing, and sleep well.

Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Morning: Transition from Rainforest to Moorland

After breakfast, a clear view of Kibo Peak, the main summit of Kilimanjaro, comes into sight as the path ascends from the rainforest to the moorland. The region becomes drier, with hefty Heaths, wild flora, and the remnants of volcanic activity scattered across the terrain.

Noon: Arriving at Second Cave Camp This is a short trek, comparatively easier than the previous one. This extra time gives climbers an opportunity to adapt to the altitude. Arrive at Second Cave Camp (3,450m), located in a broad open valley with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Enjoy lunch at Second Cave Camp: Take a tour of the place during the day or simply rest before the next part of the hike.

Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Morning: Gradual Approach Towards Mawenzi Peak

A trek towards Mawenzi, the secondary and sharper peak of Kilimanjaro, starts off today’s hike on a gentle incline. The path is a bit rougher and more open than before, but is still doable and pleasant when approached with a strong mindset.

Entering Kikelewa: Arrival at Kikelewa Camp

The path widens as you get closer to Kikelewa. Upon reaching, gartnerons along the large valleys and the Maweni peak will greet you. You shall arrive at Kikelewa Camp located at the height of 3600m, which offers privates' amongst giant groundsels and plants of moors. Spend the night: Relasx at Kikelewa Camp with some warm meals before preparing your next adventure.

Distance: 6 Km (3.7 miles)

Time Hiked: 4-5 hours

Primary Environment: Abandoned Desert

Morning: Stepping Into The Abandoned Desert Due to a decline in both the amount of plants and the levels of oxygen, the landscape begins to shift drastically. In addition, as the altitude increases, the level of oxygen begins to dwindle.

Afternoon: Reaching Mawenzi Tarn

Located at a height of 4315 meters and right below the Mawenzi Peak sits the beautiful Mawenze Tarn Camp. Stated to be one of the most beautiful campsites of Mount Kilimanjaro, this area is well known for their steep cliffs surrounding the shining, broad lakes completely perfect for taking scenic views. Spending the Night: Relax, try to acclimatize to the temperature there, and let the ambiance instill peace in you.

Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Morning marks the departure from Mawenzi Tarn, where you’ll begin crossing an expansive alpine desert en route to Kibo Hut. This barren stretch is characterized by loose gravel, hardy shrubs, and the occasional volcanic rock formation—a stark contrast to the moorland and forest ecosystems traversed on previous days. As you ascend, temperatures drop and the wind can pick up, making it essential to maintain a steady pace and stay hydrated. The higher altitude may cause mild headaches or shortness of breath, so listen to your body and take breaks as needed.

Arriving at Kibo Hut by early afternoon provides time to rest, refuel, and mentally prepare for the summit bid. Your guides will recommend a hearty meal despite any altitude-related appetite loss. Review your gear to ensure headlamps, warm layers, and snacks are ready for the midnight climb. Conserve energy by resting in your sleeping bag, although sleeping can be challenging due to the anticipation of reaching Uhuru Peak. This evening sets the stage for the most demanding part of the trek, so use the downtime at Kibo Hut wisely before starting the unforgettable journey to the top of Africa.

Distance: 22 km (13.7 miles)

Hiking Time: 10–16 hours

Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest

At midnight, the ascent from Kibo Hut begins in temperatures that can be well below freezing, with thin air and rugged terrain testing every ounce of determination. Stepping into the darkness, climbers rely on headlamps and unwavering focus to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Sunrise often coincides with arrival at the summit, illuminating panoramic views over the snowy crater and beyond. After celebratory photos and a brief rest, descend back to Kibo Hut for breakfast before continuing down to Marangu Gate. This transition spans from arctic conditions near the summit to lush rainforest at the base, showcasing Kilimanjaro’s remarkable ecological variety. Upon reaching the gate, check out of the park, collect summit certificates, and return to Moshi or Arusha for well-deserved relaxation.