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 Hotel in Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in the town of Moshi. Moshi, located in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, is a vibrant town with a mix of Tanzanian culture and international influences. The transfer from the airport to your hotel typically takes about an hour. After checking in at your hotel, you’ll have a chance to meet your trekking team, review the trip details, and make final preparations for your climb.
Day 2: Marangu Gate (1,830m) to Mandara Hut
Your trek begins at Marangu Gate, which is the starting point for the Marangu Route, one of the more popular trails up Kilimanjaro. The hike to Mandara Hut, located at an elevation of 2,700 meters, usually takes around 4-6 hours. You’ll pass through lush rainforests, where you might spot colobus monkeys and various bird species. The trail is well-maintained and gradually ascends.
Day 3: Mandara Hut (2,700m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m). Elevation Gain: 1020m
On this day, you’ll continue through the rainforest before reaching the heathland zone. The hike typically takes around 6-8 hours, and you’ll ascend approximately 1,020 meters in elevation. As you gain altitude, the landscape changes, offering breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s slopes and the surrounding scenery. Horombo Hut, situated at 3,720 meters, provides a comfortable place to rest and acclimatize.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Hut (4,300m) to Horombo Hut. Elevation Gain: 580m
This day offers a chance to explore the Mawenzi area, providing you with impressive views of the rugged Mawenzi Peak. The trek to Mawenzi Hut and back to Horombo Hut usually takes 4-6 hours. The route is challenging, and the landscape is characterized by alpine desert terrain with unique flora adapted to the harsh conditions.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,730m). Elevation Gain: 990m
The journey to Kibo Hut involves hiking through the Saddle, a high-altitude desert area situated between Mawenzi and Kibo. The day’s hike takes approximately 6-8 hours and covers an elevation gain of about 430 meters. Kibo Hut, at an elevation of 4,730 meters, is the last stopping point before your summit attempt. It’s a stark and rugged environment, but it’s essential for acclimatization.
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Summit (5,895m) to Horombo Hut. Elevation Gain: 1165m. Elevation Loss: 2075m
Summit day is both challenging and rewarding. You’ll start your ascent in the middle of the night, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. The hike typically takes 7-8 hours to reach the summit and an additional 5-6 hours to descend to Horombo Hut. The trek involves passing Gilman’s Point and Stella Point, both important milestones before reaching the highest point in Africa. The descent to Horombo Hut allows you to rest and recover.
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,800m). Elevation Loss: 1,920m
The final day of your trek involves a descent from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, which usually takes about 5-7 hours. As you descend, you’ll transition through various ecological zones, from alpine desert back to the lush rainforest. Once at Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your well-deserved summit certificate and be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi for a celebration dinner.
Day 8: Fly back or continue with part 2 of the tour, i.e. Wildlife Safari
Your expedition concludes on the 8th day, and you can either choose to fly back home, having accomplished the incredible feat of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, or continue your journey with part 2 of the tour, which may involve exploring the iconic national parks of Tanzania, such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire, on a thrilling 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 – Tarangire National Park
Distance: 200 km
Non – game viewing drive: 3 hrs.
After breakfast we pick you up from your lodge in Arusha and drive to Tarangire National Park. The drive is along Arusha town so any last minute
purchase can be done on the way. Tarangire National Park is known for its large elephant population & giant baobab trees. 6000 elephants, 2,500 wildebeest & 3,000 zebra were recorded in this park.
This huge population of ungulates are movesaround Tarangire Lake Manyara ecosystem. Tarangire River & Lake Burunge dam is the permanent source of water in the entire park serving the larger number of wildlife especially
during the dry season. You may expect to spot lion, leopard hyena, jackals, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffe, wildebeest, Zebras & the three rare species of Great kudu, Oryx & the Ash stalling. Bird life is ubandant in this park over 400 bird
species were recorded here which includes ostrich, herons, cori bastard, secretary birds & lots of aquatic birds. Parked lunch will be served inside the park.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Moshi – Meriakamba Hut (Full board)
We drive from Moshi to Momela Gate. After a short registration at the Gate our walk will begin with full armed ranger escorting us, simply we can see along the way the wild animals including elephants, zebras, and giraffe, monkeys, antelope, and often elephants along the route. Dinner and overnight night at Miriakamba Hut.
Elevation (m): (1,387 m to (1,500 m)
Elevation(ft): 4,921 ft) to 3,000 ft )
Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest.
Day 2: Meriakamba – Saddle Hut (Full board)
The walk from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. The walk will take us slowly along the ridge for a spectacular view of the Meru Crater and the impressive Ash Cone. After hot lunch at Saddle Hut we can make a short climb to the summit of Little Meru (3,820m) for superb views just before sunset. Dinner and overnight at Saddle Hut.
Elevation (m): 2,514 m to 3,570 m
Elevation(ft): 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft
Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Habitat: Forest and Moorland.
Day 3: Saddle Hut – Summit Day (Full board)
We start early at around 1:30 a.m. to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.) and on to Cobra Point (4350m). We reach the summit (4,566 m) on time for sunrise there is a possibility to see Kilimanjaro Peak above the clouds. The final part of the climb is along a spectacular narrow ridge line between the sheer inner cliffs and the sloping outer wall of the crater. We take a short rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to the Momella gate. The returning transfer will be waiting at Momella Gate to pick you to Moshi town.
Elevation(m): 3,570 m to 4,565m to 2,514m
Elevation(ft): 14,977ft to 11,712 ft to 8,250ft
Distance: 5 km up 13 km down | Hiking 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:
A woolen warm cap and balaclava offer warmth and protection against the cold Everest winds, while a bandana serves multiple purposes, from a sweatband to a dust mask.
Footsteps of an Explorer:
Your feet are your foundation. Multiple pairs of socks—lightweight for mobility, heavyweight woolen for warmth—ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable. Waterproof, breathable gaiters to prevent snow from getting inside your shoes.
Ankle-high, heavy sole trekking boots are indispensable, crafted for the rugged terrain, with regular sneakers as a backup, allowing your feet to rest and breathe in the evenings.
Hands That Conquer:
Protect and preserve your hands with two pairs of warm liner gloves and a pair of waterproof gloves. This combination keeps your hands warm, dry, and ready to grip your next challenge.
Clothing: The Armor of the Adventurer
Begin with a thermal innerwear set, your first defense against the cold.
Add lightweight, quick-dry trekking pants for your daily marches, with Gore-Tex windproof trousers and jacket as shields against the biting winds and sudden downpours.
A waterproof jacket or poncho is your emergency layer, ready at a moment’s notice. The fleece is your comfort layer, offering warmth without weight.
Rotate through 3-4 full-sleeve T-shirts, the backbone of your layering system, topped with a heavy jacket for that crisp Everest cold.
Navigational and Survival Gear:
A 20-litre backpack is essential for keeping items like your water bottle, snacks, and perhaps a fleece within easy reach, while a duffel bag (provided by us) serves to carry your main luggage, transported by mules or porters.
Trekking poles become extensions of your will, aiding your ascent and descent.
A Filter Water bottle and a thermos flask, essential to keep you hydrated on your trek.
Personal Care Compact:
A personal hygiene kit and medicine kit are your wellness companions, holding everything from toothbrush and paste to sanitizers and personal medications.
50+ SPF Sunscreen against the harsh sun rays. Towels, tissues, and wipes to keep you clean and dry.
Illumination and Vision:
A headlight, backed by extra batteries, pierces the darkness, guiding your steps under starlit skies or pre-dawn treks.
Polarized, Category 4 sunglasses with 100% UV protection and wrap-around design are most recommended for with a backup pair, protect against the glare of the sun, reflected by snow and ice.
Soul Nourishments:
Embrace moments of joy and peace with a camera, music player, books, and cards, lightening your spirit as you lighten your load.
THINGS TO PACK
For Your Head:
A woolen warm cap and balaclava offer warmth and protection against the cold Everest winds, while a bandana serves multiple purposes, from a sweatband to a dust mask.
Footsteps of an Explorer:
Your feet are your foundation. Multiple pairs of socks—lightweight for mobility, heavyweight woolen for warmth—ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable. Waterproof, breathable gaiters to prevent snow from getting inside your shoes.
Ankle-high, heavy sole trekking boots are indispensable, crafted for the rugged terrain, with regular sneakers as a backup, allowing your feet to rest and breathe in the evenings.
Hands That Conquer:
Protect and preserve your hands with two pairs of warm liner gloves and a pair of waterproof gloves. This combination keeps your hands warm, dry, and ready to grip your next challenge.
Clothing: The Armor of the Adventurer
Begin with a thermal innerwear set, your first defense against the cold.
Add lightweight, quick-dry trekking pants for your daily marches, with Gore-Tex windproof trousers and jacket as shields against the biting winds and sudden downpours.
A waterproof jacket or poncho is your emergency layer, ready at a moment’s notice. The fleece is your comfort layer, offering warmth without weight.
Rotate through 3-4 full-sleeve T-shirts, the backbone of your layering system, topped with a heavy jacket for that crisp Everest cold.
Navigational and Survival Gear:
A 20-litre backpack is essential for keeping items like your water bottle, snacks, and perhaps a fleece within easy reach, while a duffel bag (provided by us) serves to carry your main luggage, transported by mules or porters.
Trekking poles become extensions of your will, aiding your ascent and descent.
A Filter Water bottle and a thermos flask, essential to keep you hydrated on your trek.
Personal Care Compact:
A personal hygiene kit and medicine kit are your wellness companions, holding everything from toothbrush and paste to sanitizers and personal medications.
50+ SPF Sunscreen against the harsh sun rays. Towels, tissues, and wipes to keep you clean and dry.
Illumination and Vision:
A headlight, backed by extra batteries, pierces the darkness, guiding your steps under starlit skies or pre-dawn treks.
Polarized, Category 4 sunglasses with 100% UV protection and wrap-around design are most recommended for with a backup pair, protect against the glare of the sun, reflected by snow and ice.
Soul Nourishments:
Embrace moments of joy and peace with a camera, music player, books, and cards, lightening your spirit as you lighten your load.
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
