DIFFICULTY
Easy – Moderate
DURATION
8 Days
BEST TIME
Jul-Oct | Dec-Mar
COST
$ 2500 – $ 3675
OVERVIEW
Mount Kilimanjaro is situated in Tanzania, a country that boasts several national parks and a diverse range of wildlife. This majestic mountain, referred to as “jebel” by the locals, towers over the savannah to become the highest peak in Africa and the only one in the continent covered in snow. Among the various routes leading to the summit, the Marangu route is the oldest and most popular, offering hikers dormitory huts instead of camping.
Despite being a dormant volcano, Mount Kilimanjaro presents a mesmerizing assortment of landscapes to explorers. The journey starts in the cultivated zone and gradually progresses through rainforested regions dominated by giant heather, wild grasses, and a rocky trail. As hikers ascend higher, the adrenaline-triggering adventurous moorland transforms into a highland desert, providing a breathtaking view of the vast icy glaciers that cling to the peak.
The final stretch of the climb is known as the Arctic Zone, where hikers cross frozen ice and reach the Uhuru peak, aptly named the “Roof of Africa.” Along the way, Tanzanian porters, who act as joyful companions, offer to share their cultural quirks, captivating stories of their indigenous communities, and, of course, the famous “Hakuna Matata” spirit.
The journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is not only a physical challenge but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the breathtaking beauty of Tanzania’s natural environment and cultural heritage. Hikers can witness firsthand the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the different ecological zones of the mountain and interact with the local people, who are proud of their rich cultural traditions.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport and Transfer to Moshi
Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your trek team and prepare for the climb.
Day 2: Marangu Gate (1,830m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Start your trek through lush rainforest. 4–6 hrs hike to Mandara Hut. Chance to see colobus monkeys and birds.
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Hike 6–8 hrs through heathland. Elevation gain: 1020m. Beautiful views of Kilimanjaro.
Day 4: Acclimatization hike to Mawenzi Hut (4,300m)
Trek to Mawenzi and return. 4–6 hrs. Rugged alpine desert terrain.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,730m)
Cross the high-altitude Saddle. 6–8 hrs hike. Rest at Kibo before summit push.
Day 6: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo
Start midnight. 7–8 hrs to summit, 5–6 hrs descent. Pass Stella & Gilman’s Point.
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,800m)
Descend through rainforest. 5–7 hrs. Receive summit certificate. Return to Moshi.
Day 8: Departure or Safari Extension
Fly home or continue to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire for wildlife safari.
ROUTE MAP
KILIMANJARO TRIP IS DONE IN 3 PARTS, I.E. MOUNT KILIMANJARO TREK (COSTING $2600), WILDLIFE SAFARI (COSTING $700) & MOUNT MERU TREK (COSTING $475), IN THAT ORDER. YOU CAN BOOK FOR FIRST, FIRST TWO OR ALL 3 PARTS OF THE TRIP.
Moshi to Tarangire National Park
Distance: 200 km | Drive: 3 hrs (non–game viewing)
After breakfast, drive from Moshi to Tarangire National Park. This park is famous for its giant baobab trees and large elephant population — over 6,000 elephants roam here, along with wildebeest and zebras.
The Tarangire River and Lake Burunge are key water sources, attracting lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffalo, giraffes, kudu, oryx, and rare Ash starlings.
Birdwatchers will love this place — over 400 species recorded, including ostriches, herons, and secretary birds.
Enjoy a packed lunch inside the park before heading to your lodge.
ITINERARY
Day 1
Moshi to Meriakamba Hut
Drive from Moshi to Momela Gate, followed by a short registration. The trek begins with an armed ranger escort, offering chances to spot wildlife like elephants, giraffes, zebras, monkeys, and antelope. The trail winds through montane forest to Meriakamba Hut. Dinner and overnight stay at the hut.
Elevation: 1,387 m to 1,500 m (4,921 ft to 4,921 ft)
Distance: 10 km | Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Day 2
Meriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut
A shorter but steeper climb leads to Saddle Hut, offering stunning views of the Meru Crater and Ash Cone. After lunch, there’s an optional short hike to Little Meru (3,820 m) for amazing sunset views. Dinner and overnight at Saddle Hut.
Elevation: 2,514 m to 3,570 m (8,250 ft to 11,712 ft)
Distance: 8 km | Time: 3–5 hours
Habitat: Forest and Moorland
Day 3
Summit Day and Descent to Momela Gate
Start early around 1:30 a.m., trekking via Rhino Point and Cobra Point to reach the summit (4,566 m) at sunrise. If skies are clear, you’ll see Kilimanjaro above the clouds. The ridge to the summit is dramatic and narrow. After a short rest and brunch at Saddle Hut, descend to Momela Gate. Transfer back to Moshi follows.
Elevation: 3,570 m to 4,566 m to 2,514 m (11,712 ft to 14,977 ft to 8,250 ft)
Distance: 5 km ascent, 13 km descent | Time: 12–14 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert, Moorland, and Montane Forest
INCLUSIONS
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation at hotel With Breakfast
- Park fees for all the days during Trekking
- Entry fees
- 3 Meals a day while on the Mountain (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Salary for Guides, Cook and Porters
- Transport from Hotel to Marangu gate & Marangu Gate to the Hotel after trekking
- Oxygen Cylinder throughout the expedition
- Pulse Oximeter will be available for all days on the mountain for your health checkup.
- Hut fees for all the days during Trekking
- Rescue Fees
- Professional, experienced, mountain guides
- Senior Mountain Team Leader
- Participants will get an exclusive discount on all Fast&Up products
EXCLUSIONS
- International flights
- Any extra day while on Mountain
- Visa fee & formalities
- Clothing & equipment
- Lunch & Dinner while in Hotel
- Single room supplement at Hotel
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
- Personal insurance
- Compulsory tips to Porter & Guide ($300)
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions of the package
THINGS TO PACK
For Your Head:
- Woolen warm cap to protect against cold winds
- Balaclava for extra warmth
- Bandana (can be used as a sweatband or to cover your face from dust)
For Your Feet:
- 2-3 pairs of regular socks
- 1 pair of thick woolen socks for warmth
- Trekking boots with ankle support and good grip
- Extra pair of comfortable sneakers or shoes to wear at the campsite
For Your Hands:
- 1-2 pairs of warm inner gloves
- 1 pair of waterproof gloves to keep your hands dry
- Hand warmers (optional, but useful in very cold weather)
- A pair of fleece gloves for extra insulation
Clothing: The Armor of the Adventurer:
- 1 pair of thermal innerwear (top and bottom) for base warmth
- 2 pairs of lightweight, quick-dry trekking pants
- 1 pair of windproof and waterproof Gore-Tex trousers
- 1 Gore-Tex or waterproof jacket for wind and rain protection
- 1 poncho (optional) for sudden rain
- 1 fleece jacket for light warmth
- 3–4 full-sleeve dry-fit T-shirts for layering
- 1 heavy down or padded jacket for extreme cold
Navigational & Survival Gear:
- 20L backpack (for water, snacks, fleece, etc.)
- Duffel bag (provided by us; carried by mules/porters)
- 1 trekking pole (or 2 for better balance)
- Tiffin box for packed lunch
- Filter water bottle
- Thermos flask (for warm water or tea)
Personal Care Compact:
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Face towel, tissues & wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer & lip balm
- Moisturizer (optional but helpful in dry climate)
- Personal medication kit
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Illumination & Eye Protection:
- Headlamp with extra batteries – a must-have for night treks and early morning starts
- Sunglasses – Polarized, Category 4 with 100% UV protection and a wrap-around fit to guard your eyes from harsh sun glare and snowy reflections. Carry a backup pair just in case.
Soul Nourishment:
- Camera – capture the beauty and magic of the mountains
- Music player or earphones – enjoy peaceful moments with your favorite tunes
- Books or playing cards – perfect for downtime and relaxing at camp
BASIC SWAHILI PHRASES
Here is a list of common Swahili phrases (the primary language spoken in Tanzania) translated into English that might be useful for climbing Kilimanjaro:
1. Jambo – Hello
2. Habari – How are you?
3. Asante – Thank you
4. Karibu – Welcome
5. Pole pole – Slowly, slowly (a common phrase used on Kilimanjaro to encourage a slow pace)
6. Hakuna matata – No worries / No problem
7. Twende – Let’s go
8. Chakula – Food
9. Maji – Water
10. Baridi – Cold
11. Moto – Hot
12. Mchana mwema – Good afternoon
13. Usiku mwema – Good night
14. Kweli? – Really?
15. Sawa – Okay / Fine
16. Msaada – Help
17. Daktari – Doctor
18. Mlima – Mountain
19. Mwongozo – Guide
20. Kambi – Camp
21. Choo – Toilet
22. Nguo za joto – Warm clothes
23. Miguu – Legs
24. Kichwa – Head
25. Mapafu – Lungs
26. Kunywa – Drink
27. Kupumzika – Rest
28. Kupanda – Climb
29. Kushuka – Descend
30. Kuangalia – Look
