Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Moshi

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a representative from Lucky Moon Adventure will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi—the vibrant base town for Kilimanjaro climbers. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a detailed trek briefing, safety overview, and gear check as you prepare for your upcoming adventure.

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

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

Your journey begins with a scenic drive to Rongai Gate, located near the Kenyan border on the quieter northern side of the mountain. After registration at the park gate, you’ll start your trek through dense forest trails. This remote route offers excellent chances to spot wildlife, including black-and-white Colobus monkeys. You’ll spend your first night at Simba Camp, enjoying the tranquility of the forest.

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

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

Today’s gentle ascent takes you out of the rainforest and into the open moorland zone. The trail offers panoramic views of Kibo Peak and the Kenyan plains to the north. As you arrive at Second Cave Camp, you’ll find yourself in a serene landscape surrounded by heather and volcanic scenery—perfect for continued acclimatization.

Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

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

The trail continues through scenic moorlands and becomes steeper as you approach Kikelewa Camp, which sits in a protected valley with sweeping views of the surrounding terrain. This is a great day for acclimatization, with increased elevation gain balanced by shorter hiking hours.

Day 4: Kikelewa to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

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

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll climb steadily into the alpine desert zone, leaving vegetation behind. Your destination is Mawenzi Tarn Camp, tucked beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi Peak—one of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones. Spend the afternoon resting, exploring the area, and preparing your body for higher altitudes.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

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

Today you’ll cross the barren Saddle—a wide, wind-swept expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. The trail is gradual but steady, and by midday you’ll reach Kibo Hut, your base for the final summit push. After an early dinner, you’ll rest before the midnight wake-up call for summit day.

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)
Trekking Time: 12–16 hours

At midnight, begin your challenging ascent under the stars. Navigate switchbacks and icy terrain toward Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) on the crater rim—arriving around sunrise for a spectacular view. From there, continue around the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

After celebrating your incredible achievement, descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue the descent 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
Trekking Time: 5–7 hours

After breakfast, trek through lush rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificate. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Moshi, where you’ll enjoy a well-earned hot shower and a celebratory farewell dinner with your guides.

Departure Day

After breakfast, we’ll arrange your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or assist with plans to extend your trip to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or the beaches of Zanzibar. Your Kilimanjaro adventure may end here—but your memories will last a lifetime.