• Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles)

• Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) to 2,700 meters (8,858 feet)

• Duration: 4-5 hours

The trek begins at Marangu Gate after registering with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities. Hikers will embark on a gradual ascent through the lush rainforest, encountering diverse flora and fauna along the way. After about 4-5 hours of hiking, climbers will reach Mandara Hut, where they can relax and acclimatize. Overnight accommodations are provided in the hut.

• Distance: Approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles)

• Elevation Gain: 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) to 3,720 meters (12,205 feet)

• Duration: 5-7 hours

After breakfast, the trek continues to Horombo Hut, a more exposed area that provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail ascends through moorland and heather zones, offering a striking contrast to the lush rainforest. Upon arrival at Horombo Hut, hikers can rest and take in the views of Kibo Peak. Overnight accommodations are available in the hut.

• Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles)

• Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) to 4,703 meters (15,432 feet)

• Duration: 6-8 hours

On the third day, hikers will make their way to Kibo Hut, situated at the base of the summit. This trek takes you through the alpine desert zone, where the vegetation becomes sparse, and the environment becomes more challenging. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, climbers will have the remainder of the day to rest and prepare for the summit attempt, which will begin in the early morning. Overnight accommodations are in the hut.

• Distance: Approximately 22 kilometers (13.7 miles) round trip

• Elevation Gain: 1,195 meters (3,900 feet) to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet)

• Duration: 10-15 hours

Climbers will start the summit ascent around midnight, trekking through the night to reach Uhuru Peak at dawn. The route to the summit involves a steep ascent along the Gilman’s Point, followed by a final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the mountain. After taking in the breathtaking views and celebrating the achievement, hikers will begin the descent back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut for the night. This will be a long and tiring day, taking about 10-15 hours in total.

• Distance: Approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles)

• Elevation Loss: 1,000 meters (3,280 feet)

• Duration: 5-7 hours

The final day of the trek involves descending back to Marangu Gate. The descent is relatively straightforward as hikers pass back through the rainforest, enjoying the scenery that they may have missed on the way up. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, climbers will check out, receive their certificates of achievement, and can reflect on their incredible journey to the summit of Kilimanjaro.