5 Days Kilimanjaro climbing on budget

Your journey begins in Moshi, where you will meet your guides and finalize preparations. After a short drive to Marangu Gate, you will register and start your ascent. The trail takes you through lush rainforests teeming with wildlife, including colobus monkeys and exotic birds. Enjoy the serene surroundings as you make your way to Mandara Hut, your first overnight stop.

• Elevation: 1,870m (6,135ft) to 2,720m (8,923ft)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Highlights: Rainforest scenery, diverse flora and fauna

After a hearty breakfast, you will continue your trek. The trail transitions from dense rainforest to open moorland, offering panoramic views of the mountain’s majestic peaks. You’ll pass through fascinating landscapes, including the Maundi Crater, a perfect spot for photographs. Horombo Hut, situated in the moorland zone, will be your resting place for the night.

• Elevation: 2,720m (8,923ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Highlights: Maundi Crater, scenic moorland vistas

On the third day, you’ll leave the moorland and enter the alpine desert as you approach Kibo Hut. This part of the trail is marked by vast, barren landscapes and a sense of remoteness. The saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks provides a dramatic backdrop. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, you’ll have an early dinner and rest in preparation for the summit attempt.

• Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 4,700m (15,420ft)
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Highlights: Alpine desert landscapes, views of Mawenzi and Kibo

Summit day begins around midnight. Guided by headlamps, you will ascend steep switchbacks toward Gilman’s Point, where you’ll witness a spectacular sunrise. From there, you’ll continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. Celebrate your achievement before descending back to Horombo Hut for the night.

• Elevation: 4,700m (15,420ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) (Uhuru Peak) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
• Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
• Highlights: Sunrise at Gilman’s Point, reaching Uhuru Peak, glacier views

The final day involves descending back to Marangu Gate, retracing your steps through the moorland and rainforest zones. After signing out at the gate, you will be transferred back to Moshi. Reflect on your incredible journey and celebrate your accomplishment with your fellow climbers.

• Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 1,870m (6,135ft)
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Highlights: Farewell to the mountain, rainforest revisited