Kilimanjaro Climbing Expedition & Safari

Kilimanjaro Climb & Safari Itinerary

Season: June – October & December – February
Duration: 14 days (plus optional Zanzibar extension)
Highest Point: Uhuru Peak – 19,341 ft / 5,895 m

Travel Day – Depart the United States

Flights depart for Tanzania. You’ll lose a day traveling across time zones. Please confirm flights with SWS Mountain Guides before booking. Extra hotel nights in Moshi are available on request ($70 per person, B&B).

Day 1 – Arrival in Moshi (2,953 ft / 900 m)

Arrive in Tanzania, transfer to Springlands Hotel in Moshi. Rest and relax after the long journey. Overnight in hotel.

Day 2 – Rest & Acclimatization in Moshi

Full recovery day. Options include exploring Moshi, taking a jungle walk, or simply relaxing at the Springlands Hotel. Overnight in hotel.

Kilimanjaro Climb – Rongai Route

Day 3 – Rongai Gate (6,562 ft / 2,000 m) → First Cave / Simba Camp (9,449 ft / 2,880 m)

Elevation Gain: 2,887 ft / 880 m
Distance: 5 mi / 8 km
Time: 4–5 hrs
A gradual ascent through forest with wildlife signs, including elephants. Overnight in tents at Simba Camp.

Day 4 – First Cave (9,449 ft / 2,880 m) → Third Cave (12,713 ft / 3,875 m)

Elevation Gain: 3,264 ft / 995 m
Distance: 6 mi / 10 km
Time: 6–7 hrs
Cross open moorland, passing Second Cave en route. Camp at Third Cave.

Day 5 – Third Cave (12,713 ft / 3,875 m) → Mawenzi Tarn Hut (14,206 ft / 4,330 m)

Elevation Gain: 1,493 ft / 455 m
Distance: 7 mi / 11 km
Time: 4–5 hrs
Steeper trail with impressive views of Mawenzi Peak. Overnight at Mawenzi Tarn.

Day 6 – Mawenzi Tarn (14,206 ft / 4,330 m) → Kibo Hut (15,500 ft / 4,724 m)

Elevation Gain: 1,294 ft / 394 m
Distance: 5 mi / 8 km
Time: 5 hrs
Cross “The Saddle,” a barren volcanic plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo. Overnight at Kibo Hut.

Day 7 – Summit Day: Kibo Hut (15,500 ft / 4,724 m) → Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft / 5,895 m) → Horombo Hut (12,205 ft / 3,720 m)

Elevation Gain to Summit: 3,841 ft / 1,171 m
Elevation Loss to Horombo: 7,136 ft / 2,175 m
Distance: 18 mi / 29 km total
Time: 11–14 hrs total
Begin summit push at midnight, ascending to Gillman’s Point, then Uhuru Peak. After summit photos, descend to Kibo Hut briefly, then continue to Horombo Hut. Overnight in huts.

Day 8 – Horombo Hut (12,205 ft / 3,720 m) → Marangu Gate (6,004 ft / 1,830 m)

Elevation Loss: 6,201 ft / 1,890 m
Distance: 11 mi / 18 km
Time: 6 hrs
Descend through moorland and forest. At the gate, receive summit certificates before returning to Springlands Hotel for showers and rest. Overnight in hotel.

Safari Extension

Day 9 – Lake Manyara National Park

Drive to Lake Manyara. Afternoon game drive with elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and birdlife. Overnight at Highview Lodge.

Day 10 – Serengeti National Park

Travel into the Serengeti with game drives en route. Overnight at Serengeti Wild Camp in tented cabins with private facilities.

Day 11 – Serengeti Exploration

Full day exploring the Serengeti. Option for cultural visits to nearby villages. Overnight in Serengeti Wild Camp.

Day 12 – Serengeti → Ngorongoro Crater

Drive to Ngorongoro, overnight at Ngorongoro Wild Camp on the crater rim with sweeping views.

Day 13 – Ngorongoro Crater Exploration → Return to Moshi

Descend into the crater for wildlife viewing—possible sightings of lions, elephants, hippos, and the endangered black rhino. Evening return to Springlands Hotel. Overnight in hotel.

Day 14 – Rest & Departure

Rest at Springlands Hotel before afternoon/evening flights to the United States. Optional flights to Zanzibar instead of return home.

Travel Day – Return to the United States

International flights arrive same day.

Optional Zanzibar Extension

• Day 15: Explore Stone Town’s markets, history, and winding streets.

• Day 16: Snorkeling or beach relaxation on the Indian Ocean.

• Day 17: Flight to Dar es Salaam for international connection home.

Why go with SWS Mountain Guides?

SWS has been operating throughout California — in both the Sierra Nevada and Mount Shasta regions — since 1981, under the same experienced management. For over 30 years, we’ve also guided small groups of 6–8 clients on international expeditions across South America, Africa, Asia, Japan, Russia, and Mexico. Our expertise spans mountaineering, rock and ice climbing, ski and snowboard guiding, and trekking.

We maintain long-standing relationships with local operators and friends around the world, some for 20–30 years, ensuring seamless, safe, and authentic experiences. Our staff is knowledgeable, personable, and passionate about the mountains, and there is always an American guide present on every expedition, trek, or adventure to provide guidance, support, and a bit of fun along the way

When will I receive my hotel and flight information?

Your lead guide will contact you about 14–21 days before departure with the hotel name, address, and phone number, along with instructions on how to get there. You’ll also receive your guide’s name(s) and flight details so you can check for delays. Make sure to give the SWS office your confirmed flight information so we can track your arrival. Reservations are made under either your guide’s name or SWS Mountain Guides. If you arrive before your guide or there’s confusion at the hotel, don’t panic — check in and we’ll find you. If you’d prefer an airport pick-up, we can arrange that as long as you don’t arrive in the middle of the night.

When will I receive my hotel and flight information?

Your lead guide will contact you about 14–21 days before departure with the hotel name, address, and phone number, along with instructions on how to get there. You’ll also receive your guide’s name(s) and flight details so you can check for delays. Make sure to give the SWS office your confirmed flight information so we can track your arrival. Reservations are made under either your guide’s name or SWS Mountain Guides. If you arrive before your guide or there’s confusion at the hotel, don’t panic — check in and we’ll find you. If you’d prefer an airport pick-up, we can arrange that as long as you don’t arrive in the middle of the night.

What should I know about altitude?

As you climb higher, there’s less available oxygen in the air. Most people notice the effects starting around 8,000–10,000 feet, with symptoms like shortness of breath, headaches, or fatigue. These usually ease after a couple of days, but higher altitudes can bring more serious challenges. To help your body adjust: arrive well-rested, hydrated, and fueled; avoid alcohol and excess caffeine; drink plenty of water; and pace yourself. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatization in mind, so expect the early days to feel slower. On longer trips, bring a book or journal — downtime at high camps is part of the process.

How much water should I drink?

Plan on at least 4–6 quarts a day while climbing, more in hot weather. Dehydration is one of the biggest contributors to altitude and fatigue issues. Avoid alcohol, and use electrolyte mixes or sports drinks to make hydration easier and more effective.

What about food during the expedition?

SWS provides food while in the field, often purchasing local items in country. You’re welcome to help shop if schedules allow. At altitude, appetites tend to decrease even though calorie demands nearly double — up to 4,000–6,000 calories per day. Bring high-energy snacks you enjoy and will actually eat: trail mix, dried fruit, bars, or even candy. Small, frequent snacks are best. Guides will encourage you to eat regularly, even if you don’t feel hungry.

How do we handle hygiene and sanitation?

Waste disposal varies by country and environment. Follow your guide’s instructions, but always keep waste away from water sources, camps, and trails. In many countries, toilet paper goes in a trash bin rather than down the toilet. In the field, bring soap, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes to keep clean — it’s your best defense against illness.

What’s the best way to take care of my feet?

Blisters can ruin an expedition. Treat hot spots immediately with moleskin or Vaseline. Don’t hesitate to stop — most people will appreciate the break. Bring plenty of blister care supplies, and consider a thin layer of petroleum jelly on problem areas before hiking.

What’s expected regarding environmental impact?

We travel as respectful guests. Pick up trash, burn toilet paper when appropriate, bury waste when necessary, and treat the land with care. Locals may have different practices, but our standard is to minimize our footprint and set a good example.

How should I pack for the expedition?

Pack most of your gear in a large duffel bag (max 50 lbs), and protect sharp items like crampons or ice axes with cardboard and tape. Boots should go in your carry-on — they’re the hardest item to replace. In your small travel bag for the plane, include essentials: extra clothes, toiletries, medications, passport, money/cards, copies of ID, warm jacket, electronics and chargers, and your boots if possible. Airlines sometimes misplace luggage, but with these items you’ll be comfortable and able to continue.

What are the baggage limits for international flights?

Most airlines allow:

• 2 checked bags up to 50 lbs each

• 1 carry-on (under 35 lbs and fits under the seat)

Some airlines measure by kilograms and may charge extra for oversized or overweight bags. Always check with your specific airline before travel.

How important is the descent?

Reaching the summit is only half the climb. The descent requires just as much attention, and it often comes when you’re most tired. Weather can change quickly, so keep energy in reserve for the way down. A climb only counts when you’ve returned safely and can share the story.