Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,870m) – Mandara Hut (2,700m)

After breakfast and a short drive to Marangu Gate, complete registration and begin the trek through dense rainforest, passing waterfalls and wildlife like blue monkeys. Arrive at Mandara Hut, located in a forest clearing.

• Trek time: 4–5 hours

• Vegetation: Rainforest

• Main highlight: Lush forest and Maundi Crater (optional short hike)

Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Trek out of the rainforest into the moorland zone, where you’ll pass giant heathers and volcanic features. On clear days, enjoy views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Arrive at Horombo Hut, with dramatic vistas across the plains.

• Trek time: 5–7 hours

• Vegetation: Moorland

• Main highlight: Transition into moorland and distant views of the summit

Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut

Spend an extra day at Horombo Hut to acclimatize, which significantly improves your chance of reaching the summit. Take a day hike to Zebra Rocks (4,020m) or higher for better adaptation, then return to Horombo for rest.

• Trek time (acclimatization hike): 2–4 hours

• Main highlight: Improved acclimatization and stunning rock formations

Day 4: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,703m)

Ascend through alpine desert along the Saddle, a barren plain between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Reach Kibo Hut, the base for your summit attempt. Rest, eat an early dinner, and prepare for the midnight climb.

• Trek time: 5–6 hours

• Vegetation: Alpine desert

• Main highlight: Spectacular views across the Saddle toward the summit

Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Around midnight, begin your summit attempt via Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak — the highest point in Africa. After a short time at the summit, descend back to Kibo Hut for a break, then continue down to Horombo Hut.

• Trek time: 12–14 hours

• Main highlight: Sunrise from the Roof of Africa and lifetime achievement

Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha

Complete your descent through moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest and hot shower.

• Trek time: 5–7 hours

• Vegetation: Moorland to rainforest

• Main highlight: Celebration and return to civilization