Climbing Kilimanjaro

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will meet an African Big Cats Safaris representative, and transfer to the hotel. The hotel will provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay: cozy rooms, hot water, polite staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access.

In the evening there will be a briefing with our managers, who will also make sure you are ready to begin the climb.

After breakfast, you'll drive to the Rongai Gate (1,950 m / 6,398 ft) near the Kenyan border - a scenic 3-4 hour journey through local villages and farmland. This is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north.

The trek begins through beautiful pine and heather forest. You may spot Colobus monkeys and blue monkeys in the trees. The trail is gentle and well-graded, perfect for the first day. Arrive at Simba Camp (2,625 m / 8,612 ft) with views toward Kenya.

Today you continue through the moorland zone with increasingly spectacular views. The landscape opens up as you leave the forest behind, revealing the dramatic peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo.

You'll pass through Second Cave and Third Cave before arriving at Kikelewa Camp (3,600 m / 11,811 ft). The evening brings stunning sunset views over the Kenyan plains.

A shorter but steeper day as you climb to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m / 14,206 ft), nestled at the base of the dramatic Mawenzi Peak. The tarn (mountain lake) provides a stunning setting for camp.

In the afternoon, take an acclimatization hike toward Mawenzi Peak to help your body adjust. The views of both Mawenzi and Kibo from here are absolutely spectacular.

Today you cross the lunar landscape of the Saddle - the high-altitude desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This is one of the most unique landscapes on the mountain.

Arrive at Kibo Hut (4,700 m / 15,420 ft) in the early afternoon. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the summit attempt. Your guides will brief you on what to expect during the night climb.

The big day! You'll wake around midnight and begin the final ascent. The trail zigzags up scree slopes toward Gilman's Point (5,681 m) on the crater rim. Watch the sunrise over Mawenzi - an unforgettable moment!

Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft) - the Roof of Africa! Celebrate your incredible achievement with photos at the famous summit sign.

After summiting, descend all the way to Horombo Hut (3,720 m) on the Marangu route for your final night on the mountain.

Final descent through the beautiful rainforest to Marangu Gate (1,860 m). The lush vegetation is a welcome sight after the barren alpine desert. Keep an eye out for Colobus monkeys!

At the gate, receive your well-deserved summit certificates and say goodbye to your amazing mountain crew. Transfer back to your hotel to celebrate with a hot shower and celebratory meal!