The 7-day Kilimanjaro Hiking Safari follows the only route that approaches the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro from the north, on the northeastern side of Kilimanjaro National Park. The route offers a chance to see wildlife such as antelopes, elephants, and buffalos in the early stages of the climb.
Kilimanjaro Hiking Safari Highlights
- Day 1: NaleMoru Gate to Simba Camp (1,990 – 2,625m)
- Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave (3,450m)
- Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp (3,650m)
- Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m)
- Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
- Day 6: Summit Day! Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Descend to Horombo Hut (3,700m)
- Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,860m)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: NaleMoru Gate to Simba Camp (1,990 – 2,625m)
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Your hike begins at NaleMoru Gate, where you start walking gently through farmlands and pine forests at the base of the mountain. You may spot monkeys and other wildlife along the way. As you move higher, you reach the moorland zone, where Simba Camp is located. From here, you can enjoy wide views of the Kenyan plains.
Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave (3,450m)
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
After breakfast, continue your gradual ascent with clear views of the Kibo peak through the moorland zone. You may also catch glimpses of the ice fields on the eastern crater rim. You will spend your second night at Second Cave Camp.
Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp (3,650m)
Hiking time: 2–3 hours
Today, you will hike toward Kikelewa Camp. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful sight of the eastern ice fields as you get closer. Spend the night at Kikelewa Camp.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m)
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
This is a shorter hike that takes you to Mawenzi Tarn, located beneath the jagged Mawenzi Peak. You will reach the camp in the afternoon and can use the rest of the day to rest or take a short walk up the ridge to help your body adjust to the altitude.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Today, you cross the ridge between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks to reach Kibo Hut at the base of Kibo. This is your last camp before the summit. In the evening, prepare for the final climb by getting your warm clothes, gloves, hiking poles, and headlamp ready. Have an early dinner and rest well for the night.
Day 6: Summit Day! Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Descend to Horombo Hut (3,700m)
Hiking time: 5–7 hours
The most exciting day of your climb starts at midnight with a hot drink and snacks. Put on your headlamp and begin your final ascent slowly through the cold night. This part of the climb is challenging and will test your strength and determination.
You will first reach Gilman’s Point, then Stella Point, and finally the top of Africa — Uhuru Peak. Spend some time celebrating, take photos, and enjoy the view before starting your descent to Horombo Hut for your last night on the mountain.
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,860m)
After breakfast, thank your team of guides, porters, and cooks before starting your descent through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. Here, you will receive your climbing certificate to mark your achievement. You will then be transferred to Arusha or Moshi for a well-deserved rest and celebration.
