7 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb
When Dr. Ludwig Krapf became the first European to set eyes on Kilimanjaro in 1849, his awed reports of snow on the equator met with ridicule in academic circles in Europe. A century and a half later, 'Kili' continues to strike awe into visiting hearts-but the sense of wonder is never challenged.
At 5,895 metres, Kilimanjaro is the highest free standing mountain in the world. To reach the summit and look out across the plains below is to view the world from an entirely different perspective. It's no wonder that tourists and serious mountaineers alike regard this as one of life's most memorable experiences.
Day 1 - Arusha
Travel to Arusha by bus from Nairobi (or join in Arusha). Continue to your base lodge for dinner before an evening briefing and final equipment check.
Day 2 - Mandara Hut
After an early breakfast, meet your porters and guide at the gate to the National Park. A leisurely 4hr trek through the primeval forest takes you to Mandara Hut at 2,765 metres, where you camp for the night.
Day 3 - Horombo Hut
The trail ascends through forest that skirts the base of Maundi Crater, crossing a meadow an a wooded stream before emerging into grassland. A 6hr walk brings you to Horombo Hut at 3,790 metres.
Day 4 - Kibo Hut
Traverse the moon-lit 'saddle' between the two peeks of Mawenzi and Kibo. After an early dinner, it's straight to bed to prepare for the final push tomorrow.
Day 5 - The Summit
Depart in chilly darkness at 0200hrs. The first part of the accent is a rocky trail, then a path up frozen scree to Gilman's Point at 5,600 metres. Rest while waiting for the sun to rise, then it's just a short scramble to the summit and to the legendary 'Roof of Africa' at 5,895 metres,. Return to Horombo Hut later in the day.
Day 6 - Marangu, Moshi or Arusha
A long but easy decent along familiar paths into the forest to Marangu Gate. Enjoy a welcome hot shower at your lodge or hotel before dinner and a comfortable bed.
Day 7 - Arusha or Nairobi
After breakfast, travel to Arusha or Nairobi. Please contact us to discuss your options for climbing East Africa's other snow capped giant, Mount Kenya.
©2005 GoWalkabout Travel Ltd. All rights reserved.
