Mount Kilimanjaro

On arrival at Kilimanjaro airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel located in Moshi Town close to the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Here you will have a climb briefing and time to prepare.

The National Park Gate (1,830m) lies at the edge of Marangu. After completing the entrance formalities, you will climb up through attractive and unspoilt forest to reach the clearing containing Mandara Hut (2,700m), a group of comfortable 'A' frame wooden huts. The volcanic remains of Maundi Crater are nearby and make a good afternoon excursion. An alternative is to rest and enjoy the beautiful forest. There is a rich birdlife at the huts and monkeys are often seen as well. (3-5 hours walking). (B)(L)(D)

The first part of the walk is a steep ascent through the forest, but the path soon opens out into grassy moorland and in clear weather, there are good views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. You will climb steadily through the moorland zone, containing giant heathers and occasional stands of groundsel, to eventually reach the hut complex at Horombo (3,720m). Sunrises and sunsets here are often spectacular and the site is close to the glaciated dome of Kibo. There is a real sense of being above the clouds here. (4-6 hours walking). (B)(L)(D)

Climb very gradually towards the lunar desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. You should reach Kibo Hut (4700m) at the bottom of the crater wall by midday. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final climb. (4-5 hours walking) (B)(L)(D)

You will start your ascent by torchlight at about 1.00am, aiming to be up at Gillman's Point by sunrise. The initial climb is steep over loose volcanic scree but there are some well-graded zig-zags and a slow but steady pace will have you up to Gillman's (5,685m) in about five or six hours. You will rest here and spend some time taking in the sunrise. For those who are still feeling strong, they can make the three hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896m), passing close to the spectacular glaciers that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent is surprisingly fast and you will return to Horombo for the night. (11-15 hours walking). (B)(L)(D)

Retrace your steps with a pleasant moorland walk to Mandara and then a lovely forest walk to the National Park gates. (5-6 hours walking). You will then transfer back to your hotel for the night. (B)

After breakfast you are transferred to Kilimanjaro airport for your departure flight and end of the tour services.