This remote and less frequently used route is the second easiest route to Kilimanjaro. The approach to the mountain is from the less-forested north side and the descent is by the Marangu Route. There are several variations, the one described below is a longer route taking in Mawenzi Tarn. The second day on this variant is quite long and could be broken up into two days walk allowing more time for acclimatisation. The ascent to Uhuru Peak is almost the same as for the Marangu Route from the Kibo Hut.
Accommodation on the mountain is in tents (even on descent) which the porters will pitch for you. You will need a sleeping bag, warm clothes and walking poles. This is a steep, tough trek within the limits of a fit individual used to walking in mountain areas.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Moshi to Nale Muru to Simba Camp
Transfer by Land Rover to the attractive wooden village of Nale Muru. After signing in and preparing the porters, you will begin the hike on a wide path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes before entering pine forest. The track then starts to climb consistently but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. The forest begins to thin out and the first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone with extensive views over the Kenyan plains.
-6,400 ft / 1,950 m to ~8,650 ft / ~2,600 m
-3 to 4 hours
-4 miles
-
Meals: BLD
-
Overnight: Simba Camp
Day 2 : Simba Camp to Second Cave
The morning hike is a steady ascent up to the Second Cave with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim.
-8,650 ft / 2,880 m to 11,320 ft / 3,450 m
-3 to 4 hours
-4 miles
-
Meals: BLD
-
Overnight: Second Cave
Day 3 : Second Cave to Third Cave
Today we continue our hike from the Second Cave to the Third Cave.
-11,320 ft / 3,450 m to 12,700 ft / 3,870 m
-4 hours
-
Meals: BLD
-
Overnight: Third Cave
Day 4 : Third Cave to Kibo Camp
Hike to Kibo campsite at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent and a very early day!
-12,700 ft / 3,870 m to 15,600 ft / 4,750 m
-5 hours
-
Meals: BLD
-
Overnight: Kibo Camp
Day 5 : Kibo Camp to Summit and Horombo Huts
Begin the final and by far the steepest and most demanding part of the climb beginning around 1 a.m. Proceed very slowly in the darkness on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman's Point. Rest here for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the three hour round trip to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The descent to Kibo is surprisingly fast to the final campsite at Horombo.
-15,600 ft / 4,750 m to 19,340 ft / 5,895 m
-19,340 ft / 5,895 m to 12,200 ft / 3,720 m
-6-8 hours / 5 miles for ascent
-3-4 hours / 6 miles for descent
-
Meals: BLD
-
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 6 : Horombo Huts to Moshi
After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest paths to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
A vehicle will meet you at Marangu village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Don't forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!
-12,200 ft / 3,720 m to 5,500 ft / 1,700 m
-5 to 6 hours / 11 miles
-
Meals: BL
-
Overnight: Hotel in Moshi