Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Moshi

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a Lucky Moon Adventure representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi, the charming base town nestled at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. In the evening, meet your guide for a detailed trek briefing and final gear check before the adventure begins.

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Elevation: 1,870 m to 2,700 m (6,135 ft to 8,858 ft)
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate for registration and briefing. The trek begins through lush rainforest filled with birdlife, exotic plants, and possibly sightings of Colobus monkeys. Arrive at Mandara Hut by mid-afternoon and enjoy a short acclimatization hike to Maundi Crater for scenic views.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 2,700 m to 3,720 m (8,858 ft to 12,205 ft)
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

The trail gradually climbs through the moorland zone, offering spectacular views of Mawenzi Peak. You’ll hike past giant lobelias and other unique alpine vegetation. Arrive at Horombo Hut in the afternoon, where you can rest and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding peaks and plains.

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 3,720 m to 4,700 m (12,205 ft to 15,419 ft)
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

Today’s trail crosses the alpine desert, passing through the Saddle—an expansive, windswept plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut, the base for your summit attempt, by early afternoon. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the final ascent, which begins just before midnight.

Day 4: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak & Descent to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 4,700 m to 5,895 m (15,419 ft to 19,341 ft) then down to 3,720 m (12,205 ft)
Distance: 6 km ascent + 16 km descent (14 miles total)
Hiking Time: 12–16 hours

The climb to the summit begins under the stars. You’ll trek up steep switchbacks to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m), reaching the crater rim at sunrise. Continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for your final night on the mountain.

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi

Elevation: 3,720 m to 1,870 m (12,205 ft to 6,135 ft)
Distance: 20 km / 12 miles
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

After breakfast, descend through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your official summit certificate. From the gate, transfer back to Moshi for a well-earned shower and a celebratory dinner with your trekking team.

Departure Day

After breakfast, we’ll arrange your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward journey. Or, if you’re not ready to leave, let us help you plan a Tanzania safari or Zanzibar beach holiday to round out your adventure.