After registration at Marangu Gate, begin trekking through dense rainforest. The trail is well-maintained and passes under the canopy of giant trees, with opportunities to spot colobus monkeys and tropical birds. Arrive at Mandara Hut in the late afternoon.

• Distance: 8 km | 4–5 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest

• Overnight at Mandara Hut (shared hut accommodation).

The path climbs steadily out of the forest and into heather and moorland. On clear days, you’ll have beautiful views of Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second peak. The vegetation becomes sparser as altitude increases, with giant lobelias along the trail. Arrive at Horombo Hut.

• Distance: 12 km | 6–7 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

• Overnight at Horombo Hut.

Spend an extra day at Horombo for acclimatization. Options include a short hike to Zebra Rocks (around 4,000m) or climbing towards Mawenzi Hut. This day allows your body to adjust better to the altitude, improving summit chances.

• Distance: 5–8 km (optional hike) | 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

• Overnight at Horombo Hut.

Today the trail ascends through alpine desert, crossing the Saddle, a barren stretch between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The air becomes thinner and the landscape stark. Arrive at Kibo Hut by afternoon and rest in preparation for the summit attempt.

• Distance: 10 km | 6–7 hours

• Habitat: Alpine desert

• Overnight at Kibo Hut.

Wake around midnight and begin the final ascent. The steep switchbacks lead to Gilman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim, often reached by sunrise. Continue around the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrations, descend back to Kibo for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut.

• Distance: 21 km | 12–15 hours

• Habitat: Arctic zone to moorland

• Overnight at Horombo Hut.

Descend steadily through moorland and lush rainforest back to Marangu Gate. Collect summit certificates before being transferred to Moshi for a well-earned celebration.

• Distance: 20 km | 5–7 hours

• Habitat: Moorland and rainforest