Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be greeted by a Lucky Moon Adventure representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi—the gateway town to Mount Kilimanjaro. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a detailed trek briefing and final gear check to prepare for the climb ahead.

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

Elevation: 2,625 m / 8,610 ft
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Your journey begins with a scenic drive to the Rongai Gate, located near the Kenyan border on the northern side of the mountain. After completing registration, you’ll start your trek through lush forest trails. Keep an eye out for Colobus monkeys and forest wildlife as you make your way to Simba Camp, your first overnight stay on the mountain.

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

Elevation: 3,450 m / 11,319 ft
Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Today’s hike leads you out of the forest and into the heather zone with sweeping views of the eastern glaciers and Kenya’s plains. The gradual ascent provides ample time for acclimatization. You’ll reach Second Cave Camp, a peaceful site with spectacular views of Kibo Peak.

Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

Elevation: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
Distance: 9 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

As the landscape opens up, you’ll trek across moorlands and rocky terrain. The trail becomes steeper as you approach Kikelewa Camp, nestled in a sheltered valley. This day offers great opportunities to adjust to higher altitude and enjoy the scenic beauty of Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes.

Day 4: Kikelewa to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Elevation: 4,330 m / 14,206 ft
Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Today is a short but steep climb that takes you to the alpine desert zone. Arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area around the tarn lake.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 4,700 m / 15,419 ft
Distance: 9 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

The trail leads across the Saddle, a lunar-like desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut, your base for the summit attempt. Rest and hydrate, as the midnight summit push begins soon after dinner.

Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak & Descent to Horombo Camp

Summit Elevation: 5,895 m / 19,341 ft
Camp Elevation: 3,720 m / 12,205 ft
Distance: 6 km ascent + 16 km descent (14 miles total)
Hiking Time: 12–16 hours

You’ll begin the final ascent around midnight. The route heads up steep switchbacks toward Gilman’s Point (5,685 m), where you’ll witness an unforgettable sunrise. From there, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

After celebratory photos at the summit, begin your descent back to Kibo Hut for rest and snacks, then continue downward to Horombo Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Day 7: Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi

Elevation: 1,800 m / 5,906 ft
Distance: 20 km / 12 miles
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

Enjoy your final breakfast on the mountain before descending through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your official summit certificate. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Moshi. In the evening, gather with your guides for a celebratory farewell dinner.

Departure Day

After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home—or assist you with extensions to a Tanzania safari or Zanzibar beach escape.