Transfer  to the attractive wooden village of Nale Muru. After signing in and preparing the porters, you will begin the hike on a wide path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes before entering pine forest. The track then starts to climb consistently but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. The forest begins to thin out and the first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone with extensive views over the Kenyan plains.

• 6,400 ft / 1,950 m to 8,695 ft / 2,650 m
• 3-4 hours
• 4 miles
• Meals: LD
• Budget Lodging: Simba Camp

The morning hike is a steady ascent up to the Second Cave with superb views of Kobo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim.

• 8,695 ft / 2,650 m to 11,320 ft / 3,450 m
• 3-4 hours
• 4 miles
• Meals: BLD
• Budget Lodging: Second Cave

Head out across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The campsite is in a sheltered valley with giant Senecios nearby.

• 8,500 ft / 3,450 m to 11,800 ft / 3,600 m
• 3-4 hours
• 4 miles
• Meals: BLD
• Budget Lodging: Kikelewa Camp

A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb views. Leave the vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn, spectacularly situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or explore the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatization.

If you are spending an extra day on the mountain, you will camp for two nights here. You can hike up and around Mawenzi for your acclimatization hike.

• 11,800 ft / 3,600 m to 14,200 ft / 4,330 m
• 3-4 hours
• 3 miles
• Meals: BLD
• Budget Lodging: Mawenzi Tarn

Cross the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent very early.

• Meals: BLD
• Budget Lodging: Kibo Camp

Begin the final and by far the steepest and most demanding part of the climb beginning around 1 a.m. proceed very slowly in the darkness on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman’s Point. Rest here for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the three hour round trip to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The descent to Kibo is surprisingly fast to the final campsite at Horombo.

• 15,600 ft / 4,750 m to 19,340 ft / 5,895 m
• 19,340 ft / 5,895 m to 12,200 ft / 3,720 m
• 6-8 hours / 5 miles for ascent
• 3-4 hours / 6 miles for descent
• Meals: BLD
• Budget Lodging: Horombo Hut

After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest paths to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).

A vehicle will meet you at Marangu village to drive you back to your hotel in Arusha. Overnight at Tulia hotel and spa. Don’t forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!

• 12,200 ft / 3,720 m to 5,500 ft / 1,700 m
• 5-6 hours
• 11 miles
• Meals: B,L

Today you will be picked up and transferred to the Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight to back home.