Overview
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
- Elevation: $1879text{ m}$ to $2720text{ m}$
- Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Mandara Hut
Begin the ascent from Marangu Gate through a lush, vibrant rainforest. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including Colobus monkeys, in the canopy. After arriving at Mandara Hut, take a short walk to explore the nearby Maundi Crater for your first panoramic views of the region.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
- Elevation: $2720text{ m}$ to $3720text{ m}$
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Leave the forest behind as you enter the moorland zone, characterized by giant heather and striking lobelias. As you push higher, the dramatic, rocky spire of Mawenzi Peak comes into view. Arrive at Horombo Hut, sprawling on a high plateau, to settle in for the night.
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Elevation: $3720text{ m}$ to $4703text{ m}$
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Cross the sweeping, lunar landscape of the “Saddle”—the high-altitude alpine desert that bridges Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Arrive at Kibo Hut, situated directly below the main summit cone. The afternoon is dedicated to eating, hydrating, and resting early ahead of the midnight summit push.
Day 4: Summit Night & Descent to Horombo Hut
- Elevation: $4703text{ m}$ to Uhuru Peak ($5895text{ m}$), then down to $3720text{ m}$
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Wake up around midnight for the grueling, steep switchbacks up the volcanic scree of Kibo. Reach Gilman’s Point on the crater rim, then push along the snow-lined edge to Uhuru Peak ($5895text{ m}$)—the Roof of Africa. After witnessing a spectacular sunrise, begin the long descent back down to Kibo Hut for a quick rest, then continue down to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved night’s sleep.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Elevation: $3720text{ m}$ down to $1879text{ m}$
- Meals Included: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Arusha Hotel / End of Tour
Complete the final leg of the trek with a steady descent through the moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate. Collect your official gold summit certificate to commemorate your achievement, say goodbye to your mountain crew, and transfer back to Arusha.