Day 1:Rongai Gate – First Cave Camp (8,695 ft)

For this ‘Wilderness Route” we would pick you up very early in the morning, as the trailhead is near the Kenyan border on the northern side of Kilimanjaro. The climb begins at the wooded village of Nale Moru (altitude: 1,950 m), on a path which winds through vegetable fields before entering the pine forest. A 3 to 4 hour walk brings you to First Cave Camp on the edge of the moorland zone.

Day 2: Rongai Gate – First Cave Camp (8,695 ft)

Your hike to Second Cave Camp takes approximately 4 hours, across open grasslands, with stunning views of Amboseli and Tsavo parks as you get closer to camp. The Rongai Route, with its moderate gradients, offers a very gentle ascent of Kilimanjaro with maximum opportunities for acclimatization.

Day 3: Second Cave Camp – Third Cave Camp (12,713 ft)

Superb views of Kibo and the eastern ice fields greet you today as you make your steady way along this dry and open trail, located in the mountain’s rain shadow. Allow yourself at least 4 hours for this section; a slow approach will significantly enhance your chances of reaching the summit successfully and without altitude sickness.

Day 4: Third Cave Camp – Kibo Hut on Marangu trail (15,463 ft)

Your ascent today is on the eastern side of Kibo, crossing the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo as you gradually approach Kibo Hut. After this 4 to 5 hour hike you are advised to relax and rest in preparation for your summit attempt which will start at midnight.

Day 5 : Third Cave Camp – Kibo Hut on Marangu trail (15,463 ft)

Carry as little as possible for this, your final ascent, which starts with approximately 2 hours scramble up the long scree slope. From Hans Meyers Cave, the gradient becomes steeper and it should take you another 3 hours to reach Gilman’s Point just as the sun rises. Continue carefully around the icy crater rim for another 2 to 3 hours and, lo and behold!

You are now on top of the world at Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, among the sparkling glaciers, icecaps and fabled snows of Kilimanjaro. Hike down to Kibo Hut (a relatively quick descent) for a hearty breakfast before returning to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved spot of rest and recreation - and a good night’s sleep.

Day 6: Third Cave Camp – Kibo Hut on Marangu trail (15,463 ft)

Take time, as you trek down from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, to appreciate the very different flora, fauna and thick forest on this, the other face of Kili. Your certificate of achievement will be presented at the gate and your beaming driver will be waiting with his congratulations and his vehicle to drive you to Arusha.