Upon arriving at Marangu Gate, you will be given the time to check-in and register. This is where you begin your ascent of Kilimanjaro. The first leg of this route takes you through the woods and the rainforest where you will be able to take in the eucalyptus trees and various species of birds. If you are lucky, you may just spot a Colobus monkey or two – keep an eye out for black or white fur! Make sure you have the appropriate equipment and footwear because the low altitudes can produce wet, muddy soil.

Hiking: 5-7 hours

Overnight Altitude: ~8,858

Habitat: Rainforest

You’ll set off bright and early today, as you’ve got a long day of hiking ahead of you. Today’s hike takes you from the verdant rainforest into the stark alpine zone, as you’ll cover more than 11 kilometres on your way to the Maundi Crater. If the weather is clear, you’ll find stunning views of Kibo Glacier from here before settling down for the evening.

It’s another big day of hiking today, as you’ll make your way to Kibo Hut to set up camp ahead of your summit attempt.

Climbing almost 1,000m, you’ll pass your last watering point at the 4,130m mark before arriving at Kibo Hut in the afternoon.

Remember to drink plenty of water during your early dinner, as you’ll be up bright and early tomorrow to begin your ascent to the summit!

Excitement is building as morning comes with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. We continue our way to the summit in a switchback formation through trying to stay warm and focused of the amazing sense of accomplishment that lies ahead. With a switchback motion we ascend through heavy scree and possibly snow towards Gillman's Point on the crater rim. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit. From here on your remaining 1-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak, you are likely to encounter snow all the way.

Congratulations, one step at a time you have now reached Uhuru Peak the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa! After photos, celebrations and maybe a few tears of joy we take a few moments to enjoy this incredible accomplishment. We begin our steep descent down to Horombo huts, stopping at Kibo for lunch and a very brief rest.

After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down stopping at the Mandara Huts for lunch. Remember to tip your guides, cooks, and porters, since you will be leaving them here. You return back to the Marangu Park Gate and receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles.

From the gate, a vehicle will meet you to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 45 minutes). Enjoy a long over due hot shower, dinner and celebrations!