Itinerary

Nestled on the lower slopes of mighty Mt Kilimanjaro, this lively town is a great base to explore the surrounding area. Set off on an optional cultural walk for an insight into local Chagga culture or simply relax in town and admire the cloud-covered summit of tomorrow's challenge.

Enticing bird calls and glimpses of different monkey species make this rainforest walk incredibly rewarding. For those after an extra challenge, why not make the trek to nearby Maundi Crater. The views from the top are sure to provide plenty of inspiration for the upcoming journey.

Get muscles pumping on the trek to Horombo Hut and watch as rainforest gives way to rolling alpine meadows dotted with giant heather trees. Spend the night overlooked by the twin snow-tipped peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi.

Hike through hauntingly beautiful moorland forests full of hanging moss then traverse the Saddle’s surreal lunar landscape to reach Kibo Hut. Take the opportunity to rest before setting off on the final ascent.

At midnight, zigzag up a scree slope by torchlight to reach Gillman’s Point. Savour the phenomenal sight of the sun rising majestically behind Mawenzi Peak and watch as the landscape below is slowly revealed. For those still with energy, it is a further two hours along the rim of the crater to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. From here, there are vistas of the crater, the ice fields and the vast and distant East African plains below.

Descend through alpine meadows and rainforest.