• Relatively gentle, but still challenging, ascent and breathtaking scenery.
• The only route on Kilimanjaro in which you sleep in huts.
• Satisfaction of an accomplishment few have achieved in the short 5-day timeframe.
29 Aug: Mandara Huts (2,710m) to Horombo Huts (3,720m). Hiking distance: 11,6 km.
30 Aug: Horombo Huts (3,720m) to Kibo Huts (4,710m). Hiking distance: 9,2 km.
31 Aug: Kibo Huts (4,710m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Huts (3,720m). Hiking distance: 21,1 km.
1st Sept: Horombo Huts (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m). Hiking distance: 22,2 km. Chanya Lodge, Moshi Town.
2nd Sept: Moshi Town tour. Departure.
28th Aug: Marangu Gate (1,860m) to Mandara Huts (2,710m)
After breakfast, we walk the 15 minutes from the Mbahe Farm cottages to the Marangu Gate to check in. We begin our climb by hiking along a wide and well- maintained trail. Eventually the path narrows and the forest closes in and the unique flowering red-and-yellow impatiens first make their appearance. Along the way keep your eyes open for the ubiquitous blue monkeys along the path, a parallel stream that periodically comes into view, and points along the trail where you may spot tumbling waterfalls. Lunch is at the Kisamboni picnic spot. Beyond this point the trail steepens and you will notice giant heathers and camphorwood draped in lichen; soon thereafter we arrive at our overnight destination – the Mandara Huts. After a rest we take a short pre-dinner conditioning hike to the Maundi Crater, where wildflowers abound and we have splendid views over the border town of Taveta and Lake Chala.
Overnight: Mandara Huts
Meals: B,L,D.
Hiking distance: 7,9km.
29th Aug : Mandara Huts (2,710m) to Horombo Huts (3,720m)
The climbing day begins with a short jaunt through the remaining forest zone before entering the moorland zone – much drier, bleaker, and noticeably cooler. As we proceed through the heather you will see off to the right Kifunika Hill, the source of water for many of villages below. Once out of the forest, you may also get your first views of Kibo and Mawenzi if the weather is clear. The trail begins to bend westward and we encounter our first lobelias and senecios, two distinctive giant groundsels found only in the East African highlands. After crossing a bridge, several dry stream beds, and Kambi ya Taabu Valley (where we break for lunch), we will reach Horombo Huts. As this is also the overnight spot on the descent you will meet many climbers with their tales of summiting. Enjoy a hearty dinner, prepared by our SENE cooks and a well-deserved night’s rest after the long day’s hike.
Overnight: Horombo Huts
Meals: B,L,D.
Hiking distance: 11,6km.
30th Aug: Horombo Huts (3,720m) to Kibo Huts (4,710m)
We start with a steep climb before crossing the great Maua River, which is just a small mountain stream at this elevation. The vegetation noticeably thins and we ascend to the saddle, the low flat area between Kibo Peak to the west, and Mawenzi Peak, a spiky remnant lava peak 5,149 meters in height to the east. The saddle is barren and windswept – a true alpine desert landscape. Despite the moderate incline, at this elevation the path can weary even the strongest trekkers. Our guides will keep your spirits up with their expert knowledge of the mountain, good humor, and stories of climbs past; they also continue to encourage you to drink plenty of water and snack heartily to maintain your energy. We soon arrive at the Kibo Huts. After an early dinner we have a summit briefing and prepare our equipment before resting. At midnight, ideally under the stars and a brightly shining moon, we begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Overnight: Kibo Huts
Meals: B,L,D.
Hiking distance: 9,2km.
The summit ascent that began at midnight is a steep 5 to 6 hour climb to Gillman’s Point (5,680m) before the route flattens out along the crater rim. We climb pole pole (meaning “slowly” in Kiswahili), drink plenty of water, and refuel with small snacks as we enjoy this final leg of the climb. A further 1 to 2 hours takes us to our goal – Uhuru Peak, the summit of Kilimanjaro! After a brief stay for photos, we descend to Kibo for lunch and rest before continuing down to Horombo, more than 2,000 meters below the summit. Eat, share your experiences of the climb, and sleep soundly. Congratulations, you touched the Roof of Africa!
Overnight: Horombo Huts
Meals: B,L,D.
Hiking distance: 21,1km.
1st Sept: Horombo Huts (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m). Moshi
Enjoy the descent through the thick montane forest on Kilimanjaro’s southern flank as we hike four hours and drop 1,900 meters back to the Marangu exit, encountering legions of climbers beginning their ascent. After a hearty celebration lunch with the whole team on private SENE land near the exit gate to say goodbye to the mountain crew, the trip leaders bring you to the Ameg Lodge in Moshi Town to relax, have dinner, and enjoy its spacious garden and swimming pool.
Overnight: Chanya Lodge
Meals: B,L,D.
Hiking distance: 22,2km.
2nd Sept: Moshi Town/Departure
Those heading out on safari or to Zanzibar will depart after breakfast to continue your African adventure. For those returning home, we offer you a guided tour of Moshi Town with its colorful market and curio shops. You may eat lunch in town or back at the lodge (lunch not included). Transfer to the Kilimanjaro Airport.
Meals: B.
- All accommodations for 6 days / 5 nights.
- All meals as indicated (B,L,D) with all drinks.
- On climb, filtered water (by Katadyn Expedition® filter) and coffee, teas, cocoa.
- Services of trip leader, climbing guides, and mountain crew.
- Kilimanjaro National Park entrance, camping, and rescue fees.
- All camping and dining equipment (excluding sleeping bag and pad).
- Gamow bag (portable hyperbaric chamber) and supplemental oxygen for emergency descents.
- Transfers to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
- Guided Moshi Town walking tour.