Arrival Day in Tanzania:

Arusha - Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where an Aardvark Expeditions representative will greet you and transfer you to the Arusha Planet Lodge. The hotel offers all the essentials for a comfortable stay: cozy rooms, hot water, friendly staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening, there will be a briefing with our managers to ensure you are ready to begin the climb.

Arusha – Marangu gate (1,860 m) – Mandara Hut (2,700 m):

Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast, you will be driven to the Kilimanjaro National Park gate at 1,840 m. Once the necessary paperwork is completed, your trek begins, and you will soon be hiking through the dense rainforest of Marangu. You might spot the thumbless black and white colobus monkeys as you look up. After approximately 4 hours, you will reach the Mandara Hut (2,700 m) and have some time to rest. You can then join a walk to the Maundi Crater, where you can enjoy stunning views towards Kenya and over the lakes that border Kenya and Tanzania. You will spend the night at Mandara Hut.

Mandara Hut (2,700 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m):

Mount Kilimanjaro - An early breakfast prepares you for the trek ahead. Shortly after leaving Mandara Hut, you will reach the crossroads between Horombo Hut and Maundi Crater. Heading towards Horombo Hut, the vegetation changes to shrubs, and you will cross the open moorland, reaching your destination in approximately 4 to 6 hours. Looking back, your path will be shrouded in clouds, and looking forward, you will catch glimpses of Mawenzi, Kibo peak, and the Masai steppe. After your evening meal, you will sleep at Horombo Hut.

Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Zebra Rocks (3,980 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m):

Mount Kilimanjaro - Today, you will visit Zebra Rocks to help your body acclimatize to the altitude. Acclimatization is crucial for improving your chances of reaching the summit, and this 2 to 4-hour trek offers you the opportunity to stretch your legs and breathe in the fresh air. Zebra Rocks (3,980 m) is named for the distinct black and white stripes covering the rock formation. A hot lunch will await you upon your return, and the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy the spectacular views and regain your strength for tomorrow’s hike. You will spend another night at Horombo Hut.

Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Kibo Hut (4,700 m):

Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast, a long and challenging journey to Kibo Hut awaits you. The vegetation gradually changes into alpine desert, and you will pass the “last waterpoint” on your way to the “saddle,” a plateau situated between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. You will arrive at Kibo Hut in about 5 to 6 hours and go to bed right after dinner, as the summit climb starts early, at approximately 11 pm.

Kibo Hut (4,700 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m):

Mount Kilimanjaro - The summit day has finally arrived. Around midnight, when the lava ash is still frozen, you will start your ascent. The path will be strenuous, with only your headlights lighting the way. You will pass the Hans Meyer Cave at 5,200 m and slowly make your way up. Gilman’s Point at 5,715 m will be reached as the sun rises over the crater rim. You will continue for another 1 to 2 hours to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). The cold will soon be forgotten as you stand on the “Roof of Africa,” basking in the sun. After a well-deserved photo opportunity, you will descend along the same path. The lava ash will have thawed, allowing for a faster descent. Upon your arrival at Kibo Hut, a warm meal and approximately 2 hours of rest await you before you continue down to Horombo Hut, where you will spend the night.

Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Drive Back to Arusha:

Mount Kilimanjaro - The surrounding vegetation becomes greener as you continue your descent, and soon you will arrive at Mandara Hut (2,700 m), where a hot lunch awaits you. The journey back to the park gate gives you another chance to observe the beautiful tropical rainforest and spot anything you missed on the way up, like the Impatiens kilimanjari flower, which is endemic to the rainforest on the slopes of Mt Kilimanjaro. Upon arriving at the gate, you will say goodbye to your mountain crew and be taken back to Arusha Planet Lodge to overnight on a bed and breakfast basis. At the lodge, you can enjoy a shower and celebrate your success in reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Departure Transfer:

Arusha - If your time in Africa ends today, our transfer team will drive you back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure. If you have booked a safari or a few days to relax on the pristine sandy beaches and in the tropical waters of Zanzibar, we will help you transition comfortably from your climb to your next Tanzanian adventure.

Please Kindly Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. If you need a late check-out due to an evening flight, there is an option to extend your hotel stay for an extra cost.

• Vegetarian, Vegan, Lactose-free, Gluten-free, Halal and other meal plans are available.
• 2 nights accommodation at Arusha Planet Lodge Bed and Breakfast basis.
• All park/entry fees collected by KINAPA.
• Professional and experienced climbing crew (porters, camp masters, cooks).
• All ground transportation.
• Accommodation in huts on Kilimanjaro (shared as per the national park rules - 8-16 people per hut)
• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) pickups and drop-off transfers.
• Sleeping mats, Chairs, Crockery & cutlery, etc.
• Drinks on Mount Kilimanjaro (tea, coffee, juices, etc.)
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast

• Air tickets - the cost of getting to Tanzania is not included.
• Your hiking outfit, boots, sleeping bag, etc) that you need for the hike. Will be available for hire
• The hotel rate includes breakfast only. Average price for lunch or dinner is USD 15 per person.
• Insurance. Highly recommended! Should cover mountain trekking activities
• Tips for your crew (the climbing team).
• Single accommodation at the hotel is available at extra charge.