Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport – Arusha

Our transfer driver will take you to Meru View Lodge upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport. After relaxing or exploring Arusha town, our team will provide you with a technical briefing for your upcoming trek. You’ll learn about the route, gear, and safety procedures. After the briefing, enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at Meru View Lodge.

Day 2: Arusha – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Mandara Hut (2,700 m)

After breakfast, we’ll take you to the Kilimanjaro National Park gate. Your trek will begin in the dense rainforest, and after 3-4 hours, you’ll reach the Mandara Hut for a rest. Your guide will then lead you to the Maundi Crater to enjoy stunning views of Kenya. You’ll have dinner and stay overnight at Mandara Hut.

Day 3: Mandara Hut (2,700 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m)

The day commences with an early morning meal, after which you will proceed to the tree line, a short distance from Mandara Hut. The vegetation en route gradually transitions into shrubs. After approximately 5 to 6 hours, the Horombo Hut comes into view, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mawenzi, Kibo Peak, and the Masai steppe. Here, you will enjoy an evening meal and spend the night.

Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Zebra Rocks (4,020 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m)

Today’s objective is to acclimate the body to the altitude, significantly increasing the likelihood of reaching the summit. The trek to Zebra Rocks, named for its characteristic black and white stripes, is recommended after a relaxing breakfast. Upon returning to Horombo Hut, a cooked lunch will be served. The afternoon should be spent unwinding and recharging for the next day’s hike. An overnight stay and evening meal will be provided at Horombo Hut.

Day 5: Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)

The current stage of the trek is arduous and extensive. The route will take you past the final water source, followed by the saddle, an almost barren plateau that connects Kibo’s summit with Mawenzi. Kibo Hut is estimated to be reached within 5 to 6 hours. This evening, it is recommended that you rest early to prepare for the summit stage. You will be roused at approximately 11 pm.

Day 6: Kibo Hut (4,700 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m)

Today is the pinnacle of your journey. The ascent begins at night on frozen lava ash. You’ll climb to the summit in the dark, passing Hans Meyer Cave (5,220 m) as the path gradually ascends. At sunrise, you’ll reach Gilman’s Point (5,681 m) on the crater rim. Soon after, you’ll attain Uhuru Peak, standing on the “Roof of Africa.” The descent retraces your steps, with thawed lava ash allowing rapid descent. Upon returning to Kibo Hut, enjoy a warm meal and a brief respite before descending to Horombo Hut.

Day 7: Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Arusha

Upon reaching the final leg of your journey, you’ll traverse the heather and moor terrain, which will lead you to the Mandara Hut. Here, a well-prepared cooked lunch awaits you. After six to seven hours of trekking, you’ll return to the lush and vibrant tropical rainforest. Upon reaching the Kilimanjaro National Park gate, it’s time to bid farewell to your mountain crew and proceed with your transfer back to the Meru View Lodge. Enjoy a refreshing shower and bask in your accomplishment of conquering Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy an evening meal and an overnight stay at the Meru View Lodge.

Day 8: Arusha – Kilimanjaro Airport or Extend Your Journey

After breakfast, we’ll take you to Kilimanjaro Airport. Or, stay longer and go on a safari or to the beach.