Leave the rainforest behind and ascend through open moorlands to the Horombo encampment. Marvel at the breathtaking views of Mawenzi and Kibo. Keep an eye out for giant lobelias and grounsels. Altitude effects may become noticeable.

Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 12km/7.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Continue ascending, passing the last watering point and reaching the Kilimanjaro saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Vegetation transitions to upper heathland and then gives way to a barren "moonscape." Prepare for the summit climb after dinner and rest.

Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
Distance: 9km/5.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Begin the summit climb very early (midnight to 2 am), navigating steep scree or snow to Gilman’s point on the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend to Kibo for lunch and rest before proceeding to the Horombo encampment.

Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 6-8 hours down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, descend steadily through moorland to the Mandara Hut, then through a lush forest path to the Marangu National Park gate. Lower elevations may be wet and muddy. A vehicle will be waiting at Marangu gate to drive you back to your Moshi hotel (approximately 1 hour).

Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
Distance: 20km/12.5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast