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Hotsun Safaris Ltd. offers climbs of Mt. Kilimanjaro (5,895m / 19,340 ft) Mt. Meru (4,566m / 14,980 ft) and Mt. Kenya (4,985m / 16,355 ft). A Mt. Kilimanjaro climb can be achieved in 5 - 8 days depending on your route choice. Nearby is Mt. Meru, the second highest mountain in Tanzania which is typically climbed in 4 days. Mt. Kenya can be climbed in 3 - 5 days. We also offer other climb and trek options. Please contact us for more details.

Hotsun Safaris Ltd. Mt. Kilimanjaro Treks

Route Itineraries - Click to view

Shira Route Lemosho Route Machame Route Umbwe Route Marangu Route Rongai Route

Marangu Route
Moshi 815m / 2670ft	Booked into your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for overnight and briefing from your guide. You can start your trek any day of the year!
DAY 1 To Mandara Hut 1700m to 2740m 5500ft to 9000ft 7 km, 4-5 hours Montane Forest	After breakfast and briefing, drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (45 minutes), register and commence the climb. Walk through the rainforest to the Mandara encampment located at 9000 ft / 2740 m. A side trip to Maundi Crater is a good way to see the surroundings including Northern Tanzania and Kenya. In the rainforest, look for towering Eucalyptus trees, bird life, and Colobus monkeys.
DAY 2 To Horombo Hut 2700m to 3700m 9000ft to 12,100ft 11 km, 6-8 hours Heath and Moorland	After about 15 minutes, you will leave the glades of the rainforest and follow an ascending path on the open moorlands to Horombo encampment. Views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo are amazing. Look for giant senecio and lobelias. You may start to feel the affects of the altitude.
DAY 3 (optional - 6 day trek) Horombo Hut (acclimatization day) 3700m 12,100ft Heath and Moorland	This day is considered optional since it starts and ends at Horombo Hut but we consider it an important acclimatization day that will increase your chance of reaching the summit. You can choose to do this route as a 5 day trip however. During this day, you can rest at the camp or have a day trek to Zebra Rocks (4200m) and Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4300m), returning to Horombo Hut for overnight.
DAY 3 / DAY 4 (6 day trek) To Kibo Camp 3700m to 4700m 12,100ft to 15,400ft 10 km, 6-8 hours Alpine Desert	Ascending to Kibo, pass the last watering point, walking onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Vegetation begins with upper higher moorland but then disappears into "moonscape". Dinner, rest, and prepare for summit climb at Kibo Hut.
DAY 4 / DAY 5 (6 day trek) To Summit and Horombo 4700m to 5895m (and down to 3700m) 15,400ft to 19,300ft (and down to 12,100ft) 4 km up / 14 km down 10-15 hours Alpine Desert	Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman's point located on the crater rim at 18640 ft / 5861 m (4-5 hours). Continuing, you now ascend to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa: 19340 ft / 5895 m (1-2 hours). Unbelievable views at every turn. Get your picture taken at the summit to show your friends. From here, we now descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing on to Horombo encampment for dinner and overnight (3-4 hours). The beginning of this climb is done in the dark and requires headlamps or flashlights. It will be very cold until you start descending, so you will need all of your warm layers. This is the most difficult part of the trek with many switchbacks. "Pole, pole" and an optimistic attitude will get you there!
DAY 5 / DAY 6 (6 day trek) To Moshi 3700m to 1700m 12,100ft to 5500ft 18km, 5-7 hours	After breakfast, A steady descent takes you down through moorland to Mandara Hut (2700m / 8858 ft), the first stopping place at the Marangu route. Continue descending through lovely lush forest on a good path to the National Park gate at Marangu (1830 m / 6004 ft). 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 transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Don't forget to tip your guides and porters. Its time for celebration!

Shira Route
Moshi 815m / 2670ft	Transfer from airport to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for overnight and briefing by your Professional guide.
DAY 1 Shira Gate to Simba Camp 2300m to 3240m 7550ft to 12,600ft Distance: 18km Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Rain forest /Heather and Moorland	The drive from Moshi or Arusha to Shira trailhead (Morum gate) takes about 4 hours. From Morum we start walk through the heather and moorland zone on Shira plateau, crossing the two big valleys which are seasonal rivers, we keep walking to the beautiful plains to Simba camp for dinner and overnight.
DAY 2 Simba Camp to Shira 2 Camp 3240m to 39500m 12,600ft to 12,700ft Distance: 12 km Walking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Heather and Moorland	From Simba Camp we continue trekking on the plateau to Shira hut, This is very nice day since that we pass to Shira cathedral and Shira needle for acclimatization before we proceed to Shira 2 Camp for hot lunch, dinner and overnight.
DAY 3 Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp 3950m to 4200m 12,700ft to 12,800ft Distance: 16 km Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: alpine desert/moorland	After breakfast we leave Shira 2 Camp and heading to the north east of the mountain, The trail will lead us to Lava tower 4600 m. this is very important day for acclimatization. From Lava tower we descend down to Barranco Camp 3950, The same elevation to Shira hut. Dinner and overnight at Barranco camp.
DAY 4 Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp 3860m to 4600m 12,700ft to 15,100ft Distance: 13km Hiking Time: 8 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert	After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge up the Barranco Wall, through the Karanga Valley (lunch at 4200m / 14,770 ft), and the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Hut. You have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.
DAY 5 Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut 4600m to 5895m (and down to 3100m) 15,100ft to 19,300ft (and down to 10,200ft) Distance: 7km ascent / 23km descent Hiking Time:6- 8 hours ascent / 7-8 hours descent Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit	Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. At Stella Point (5685m / 18,652 ft), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting).From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all they way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the very cold continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise from the summit. It can be at night at these elevations, but it will be quite warm by the end of the hiking day. You will want clothing for both extremes with you. From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
DAY 6 Mweka Camp to Moshi 3100m to 1830m 10,200ft to 6000ft Distance: 15 km Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Forest	After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. 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). From the gate, continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka 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!

Machame Route
DAY 1 Machame Gate to Machame Camp 1830m to 3100m 6000ft to 10,200ft Distance: 18km Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Rain Forest	The drive from Moshi to the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate takes about 50 minutes. The journey passes through the village of Machame which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain. After registration you leave the park gate and walk through the rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge. Lower down, the trail can be muddy and slippery. Gaiters and trekking poles are useful.
DAY 2 Machame Camp to Shira Camp 3100m to 3840m 10,200ft to 12,600ft Distance: 9km Walking Time: 4-6 hours Habitat: Moorland	After breakfast, we leave the glades of the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, crossing the little valley walking along a steep rocky ridge, covered with heather, until the ridge ends. The route now turns west onto a river gorge. Time for rest, dinner, and overnight at the Shira campsite.
DAY 3 Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp 3840m to 4630m to 3860m 12,600ft to 12,700ft Distance: 15 km Walking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Semi-desert	From the Shira Plateau, we continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the "Shark's Tooth." Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 4876m / 15,997 ft. We now continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 3860m / 12,664 ft. Here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.
OPTIONAL DAY 4 (7-day trek) Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp 3860m to 4200m 12,700ft to 13,800ft Distance: 7 km Hiking Time: 4 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert	After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite.
DAY 4 / DAY 5 (7 day trek) Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp 3860m to 4600m 12,700ft to 15,100ft Distance: 13km Hiking Time: 8 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert	After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge up the Barranco Wall, through the Karanga Valley (lunch at 4200m / 13,779 ft), and the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Hut. You have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.
DAY 5 / DAY 6 (7 day trek) Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut 4600m to 5895m (and down to 3100m) 15,100ft to 19,300ft (and down to 10,200ft) Distance: 7km ascent / 23km descent Hiking Time:6- 8 hours ascent / 7-8 hours descent Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit	Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. At Stella Point (5685m / 18,652 ft), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all they way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise from the summit. It can be very cold at night at these elevations, but it will be quite warm by the end of the hiking day. You will want clothing for both extremes with you. From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
DAY 6 / DAY 7 (7 day trek) Mweka Camp to Moshi 3100m to 1830m 10,200ft to 6000ft Distance: 15 km Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Forest	After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive summit certificates. 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). From the gate, continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka 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!

Lemosho Route
Moshi 815m / 2670ft	Transfer from airport to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for overnight. Meet your Guide for Briefing.
Day 1 To Mti Mkubwa Camp 2250m to 2790m 7380ft to 9160ft About 2.5 miles/3-4 hours	After breakfast, drive to Londorosi Park Gate (2250m / 7380ft, 2.5 hours). From here a forest track requiring a 4WD vehicle leads to Lemosho Glades (2390m / 7830ft, 11km, 45 minutes) and a possible campsite (park fees are not paid to camp here). Walk along forest trails to Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite.
Day 2 To Shira 1 Camp 2750m to 3500m 9160ft to 11,500ft About 5.5 miles/5-6 hours	After breakfast, we continue as the trail gradually steepens and enters the giant heather moorland zone. Several streams are crossed then it gains the Shira Ridge at about 3600m / 11,810ft and drops gently down to Shira 1 camp located by a stream on the Shira Plateau.
Day 3 To Shira 2 Camp 3500m to 3850m 11,500ft to 12,600ft About 2 hours	After breakfast, a gentle walk across the plateau leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. A variety of walks are available on the Plateau making this an excellent acclimatization day.
Day 4 To Barranco Hut 3840m to 3860m 12,600ft to 12,700ft About 5-6 hours	From the Shira Plateau, we continue to the east, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the "Shark's Tooth." Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 4876 meters / 15,997 ft. We now continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 3860 meters / 12,664 ft. Here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.
Day 5 To Karanga Hut 3860m to 4200m 12,700ft to 13,800ft About 3-4 hours	After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley (4200m / 13,780 ft) campsite.
Day 6 To Barafu Hut 4200m to 4600m 13,800ft to 15,100ft About 3-4 hours	After breakfast, we start ascending pole pole to Barafu Hut, which is located at an altitude of 4600 meters (15,092 ft). You will have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers the views of the summit from many different angles. Here we rest, get the last briefing and preparation from your professional guide before the summit night. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.
Day 7 To Summit and Mweka Hut 4600m to 5895m (and down to 3100m) 15,100ft to 19,300ft (and down to 10,200ft) About 7-8 hours up / 4-5 hours down	Early morning, we continue our way to the summit of Uhuru Peak at 5985 meters (19,636 ft). This part of the climb takes about 6 hours. It can be very cold at night at these elevations, but it will be quite warm by the end of the hiking day. You will want clothing for both extremes with you. At Uhuru Peak, we have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise from the summit. From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site at 3100 meters (10,171 ft). This part of the descent takes about 5 hours. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep. Beer and soda may be available for purchase at the Mweka Hut - the only place on this route.
Day 8 To Moshi 3100m to 1680m 10,200ft to 5500ft About 4-5 hours	After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate. 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 Mweka gate to drive you back to your hotel. Don't forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!

Umbwe Route
Moshi 815m / 2670ft	Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for overnight and briefing by your Professional Mountain guide.
DAY 1 Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp 1800m to 2800m 5900ft to 9200ft Hiking Time: 5-6 hours Habitat: Rain Forest	Drive from Moshi to Umbwe Gate. Commence the climb through the rain forest with packed/picnic lunch on route. Dinner and overnight at Umbwe Cave at 2800 meters (9186 ft).
DAY 2 Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp 2800m to 3900m 9200ft to 12,800ft Walking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Heather and Moorland.	After breakfast, we leave the glades of the forest and follow an ascending path on the open moorland to the Barranco Hut located at 3900 meters (12,795 ft). Dinner and overnight at the campsite.
DAY 3 Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp 3860m to 4200m 12,700ft to 13,800ft Distance: 7 km Hiking Time: 4 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert	After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite. Here we will have an evening walk to higher altitude acclitimazation, towards Barafu and come back to Karanga camp for dinner and overnight.
DAY 4 Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp 3860m to 4600m 12,700ft to 15,100ft Distance: 13km Hiking Time: 8 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert	After breakfast, we continue to the Barafu Hut at an altitude of 4600m. You will have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here you will rest and get the last briefing from your professional guide before the summit night also you will have early dinner to give you enough time to rest. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.
DAY 5 -- Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut 4600m to 5895m (and down to 3100m) 15,100ft to 19,300ft (and down to 10,200ft) Distance: 7km ascent / 21km descent Hiking Time:6- 8 hours ascent / 7-8 hours descent Habitat: Highland desert and ice-capped summit	Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), we continue our way to the summit. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. At Stella Point (5685m / 18,652 ft), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). From Stella Point, you will encounter snow all they way on your 2-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, we have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise from the summit. It can be very cold at night at these elevations, but it will be quite warm by the end of the hiking day. You will want clothing for both extremes with you. From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep. Beer and soda may be available for purchase at the Mweka Hut -- the only location on this route.
DAY 6 Mweka Camp to Moshi 3100m to 1830m 10,200ft to 6000ft Distance: 15 km Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Forest	After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. 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). From the gate, continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to hotel in Moshi. Don't forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!

Rongai Route
Moshi 815m / 2670ft	Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for overnight and briefing by your Professional Mountain guide.
DAY 1 Rongai Gate (1950m) - 1st Caves camp (2600m) Hiking time: 5h Distance: Approximately 8 kms Habitat: Forest (Montane)	Register at the Marangu park gate, after which you transfer (approximately 2 1/2 hours) to the Rongai trailhead. Meet your guide and porters before you begin your hike from the Nale Moru village. The small winding path crosses maize fields before entering pine forest, and then climbs gently through a forest. The trail is not at all steep, but is rather a gentle hike through beautiful country. The first night's camp is at First Cave, at about 2,600 metres. There is a toilet and a wooden table with benches, but no hut. Water can be found just down the trail below First Cave.
DAY 2 1st Cave (2600m) - Kikelewa Cave (3600m) Hiking time: 6 - 7h Habitat: Moorlands	The trail continues up towards Kibo, passing Second Cave (3450m) en-route, and reaching Kikelwa Cave at about 3600 metres. The views start to open up and you begin to feel you're on a really big mountain! Water is in the obvious stream below the cave, although you might have to wander downhill a way to find some. Overnight at 3rd Cave camp (Kikelewa Caves).
DAY 3 Kikelewa Cave (3600) - Mawenzi Tarn camp (4330m) Hiking time: 3 - 4h Habitat: Moorlands	A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offers superb views of this wilderness area. The vegetation zone ends shortly before you reach your next camp at Mawenzi Tarn spectacularly situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area.
DAY 4 Mawenzi Tarn camp (4330m) - Kibo hut (4700m) Hiking time: 4 - 5h Habitat: Alpine desert	Continue ascending on the east side of Kibo crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo taking 4 to 5 hours to reach Kibo Hut. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent, which begins around midnight. Overnight at Kibo Camp.
DAY 5 (Summit Attempt) Kibo hut (4700m) - Uhuru Peak (5895m) - Horombo hut (3720m) Hiking time: 8h to Uhuru, 6h to Horombo Habitat: Stone scree / ice-cap summit Distance: Approximately 6 kms ascent, 21 kms descent	You will rise around 23h30, and after some tea and biscuits you shuffle off into the night. This is where the going really gets tough. The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to the Hans Meyer Cave (5150m), also a good resting spot. The path then zigzags up to Gillman&$39;s point (5 681m), which is located on the crater rim. This section is very steep with a lot of stone scree, requiring a great physical and mental effort. This is probably the most demanding section of the entire route. Do the Kili shuffle and move slowly. From Gillman's Point you will normally encounter snow all the way up to Uhuru peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Total exhilaration and satisfaction - you made it. Weather conditions on the summit will determine how long you can spend, taking photographs, before the 3-hour descent back to Kibo hut. After a short rest you gather all your gear for the ascent and head down to Horombo hut (3 hours) where you will overnight. The return to Horombo hut will seem surprisingly fast compared to the ascent. The total time spent walking on this day is around 14 hours, so be prepared for a very tough day. Later in the evening you enjoy your last dinner (with soft drinks and beer for sale at the camp office) on the mountain and well-earned sleep, filled with memories and stirring emotions.
DAY 6 Horombo hut (at 3720m) to Marangu Gate (at 1980m) Hiking time: 6h Distance: Approximately 27 kms	After breakfast you continue your descent (6 hours), passing the Mandara hut, down to the Marangu gate. It is strongly recommended not to pay your porters any tips until you and all your gear have reached the gate safely. View more Mt Kilimanjaro tips. At Marangu gate you sign your name and details in a register. This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Those climbers who reached Gillman's Point (5685m) are issued with green certificates and those who reached Uhuru Peak (5895m) receive gold certificates. You now drive back to Moshi for a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!

Hotsun Safaris Ltd. Mt. Meru Treks

The little climbed peak of Mt Meru is a very rewarding and worthwhile achievement. It offers stunning views, and is an ideal short trek on its own, or as a trek either side of a safari, or acclimatisation for a climb of Kilimanjaro. This climb can be accomplished as a 3, 4 or 5 day trek.

Day 1 Soon after breakfast we leave to drive to the start of our route on Mt Meru. This takes approximately 2 hours from Moshi and travels through farmland and small communities on the edge of Arusha National Park. As we travel to the foot of the mountain there is a lot to see - examples of the local way of life, the alkaline lakes which are home to flamingoes and other water birds inside the park, and even giraffe near the road grazing. We arrive at the Momella park gate (1500m) and register while our porters sort their loads. We then enter the park with a National Park ranger who accompanies us throughout our time on the mountain and cross a small plain that is home to game including zebra, giraffe and elephant. Climbing gradually we enter the rainforest and can look out for bushbuck (a small antelope) and colobus monkeys among the large Cedar tress and glades of the forest. The relatively few trekkers on the mountain mean the camps are not over crowded and we will perhaps not even encounter other groups during our trek. After around 4 hours walking, we arrive at Miriakamba Hut, with an elevation of roughly 2500 metres above sealevel. From here, there are views of the lakes in the National Park. While on Mt Meru, we stay in large wooden huts divided into small dormitories that are relatively comfortable.

Day 2 The path through the rainforest is steeper today and we should have views of Kilimanjaro roughly 50km away to the northeast. Hanging vines, many large trees, ferns and streams provide a rich habitat for plants and animals in this part of the National Park where we possibly can see monkeys, birdlife and may even spot leopard. Our camp for tonight is Saddle Hut at 3570 metres. This is in a col between Little Meru and Rhino Point on Mt Meru, reaching this after 4-5 hours walking. From Saddle Hut, we have the option to climb Little Meru, which is a 2 hour return trip, taking us to 3821 metres, and is very useful for further acclimatising. We have time to get our kit ready for the summit tomorrow and have an early dinner, before getting to bed to be ready for the climb's early start tonight.

Day 3 We wake up around 1 am, preparing to leave the hut by 2 am. We start walking by the light of our head torches towards Rhino Point and the crater rim. We then follow the crater rim to the 4566 metre summit and enjoy the spectacular silhouetted views of Kilimanjaro as the sun rises over the plains of Africa, including the pyramid shadow cast by Mt Meru behind us. The flag of Tanzania is fixed at the top of Mt Meru, also known as Socialist Peak since the country's independence, and there is a summit register kept in a metal box to sign before leaving. The true, dramatic nature of Mt Meru can be seen on the way down now the sun has risen, the crater rim is shaped like a horseshoe since the opposite wall collapsed leaving cliffs of 1500 metres. These are some of the biggest in Africa and from the top of them on the crater rim we can see the ash cone below, which is a perfectly formed reminder of past volcanic eruptions that is quite spectacular to see. We follow the rim back to Rhino Point with views of Little Meru then back to Saddle Hut for food and to pack before heading down to Miriakamba Hut to stay the night. This is a long day with 1000 metres of ascent, a 2000 metre descent and a total walking time of 12-14 hours.

Day 4 Today we make our way down through the rainforest, able to look back and follow the route we took around the crater rim to the summit above us. It is 3-4 hours to the National Park gate at Momella and we can look down on the plain we soon cross to spot game as we near it. From here it is less than 30 minutes to the gate and our certificates for climbing to the summit. Afterwards, we head back to our hotel for a well deserved hot shower and rest.

Hotsun Safaris Ltd. Mt. Kenya Treks

Sirimon Peak Circumnavigation Sirimon Route Naro Moru Route Chogoria Route

Sirimon Peak Circumnavigation 5 Days

Highly recommended for unseasoned high altitude trekkers as it offers maximum chances of acclimatisation, virtually guaranteeing successful ascent to the summit. From Shipton's, you skirt the high peaks to the east, bypassing Kami and Two-tarn huts as you marvel at the splendid view of the rocky towers, tarns and suspended glaciers of the west face of Batian peak to attempt the summit from Mackinders camp in the Teleki valley and eventually descending through the Sirimon.

Day 1: Transfer from Nairobi to Mountain Rock Lodge for lunch. Then on to Sirimon Park gate (2600m). On completion of park entry formalities, have picnic lunch then begin a 3-4 hour hike through forest. Ascend 700m bypassing the bamboo, rosewood and heather zones to Old Moses camp. The forest and bamboo are home to hundreds of buffaloes, elephants, bushbucks and a plethora of bird species. Dinner and overnight at Old Moses Camp (3300m)

Day 2: After an early breakfast commence a 6-7 hour trek to Shipton's camp. The hike is awesome but a good test on individual endurance on the mountain as you cover a 900m. ascent in 6-7 hours. The moorland walk takes you across hills and valleys in the sprawling moorlands where you see several unique and interesting plants and animals including the Giant groundsels and lobelias and the mountain hyrax. Dinner and overnight at Shipton's Camp (4200m)

Day 3: Departing at 0800hrs ascend the Hausberg col (4700m) then descend steeply to Hausberg valley and Oblong tarns before making a further steep ascent, crossing huge boulders via Two Tarn on the way to Mackinder's camp (4,300m) which is located along the Naromoru route within the Teleki Valley. Dinner and overnight at Mackinder's Camp (4300m)

Day 4: Leaving the camp at 0300hrs you hike up the steep scree slopes and glacier to Point Lenana (4985m), the hikers summit. It is planned that you arrive in time to witness the African Sun rising over the equator, reflect its golden glow on the majestic peaks of Batian and Nelion. Later descend to Shipton's camp (4200m) for breakfast then relax for the rest of the day. Dinner and overnight at Shipton's Camp (4200m)

Day 5: Have early breakfast before your descend to Sirimon roadhead (2600m) in 4-5 hours, from where you connect the vehicle for transfer back to Mountain Rock Lodge for a hot shower and lunch then return to Nairobi.

Sirimon Route 5 Days

This route is much more scenic than Naromoru and it is on the drier side of the mountain which offers some of the finest walking. The route starts on the northwest side of the mountain near Nanyuki. This hike is usually rated as the easiest among the short trips and is quite popular with persons attempting to reach an altitude exceeding 4000m for the first time. A more gradual trek to the summit, traversing areas of rich forest cover before emerging into the sprawling moorlands. It is a good choice for large trekking groups as it follows the same trail up and down, making it convenient for those who are unable to reach the summit to stay behind at lower camps to wait for the rest of the group to complete the trip then descend together. Unless preferred, camping is not necessary as accommodation is available in a lodge and mountain huts throughout the trip.

Day 1: Morning transfer from Nairobi, arriving at Mountain Rock Lodge for lunch. In the afternoon is a nature walk (3-4 hours) through the forest to the MauMau caves, the former hideouts for Kenya's pre-independence guerrilla fighters who fought against the British colonial masters. The escort naturalist guide for the trek talks about their history and the flora and fauna of the forest. Dinner and overnight at Mountain Rock Lodge.

Day 2: Depart at 1000hrs to be transferred to Sirimon Park gate. From here, hike through montane forest, bamboo and rosewood up to the Old Moses Hut, gaining an elevation range of 700m in 3-4 hours. Dinner and Overnight at Old Moses Hut (3300m)

Day 3: Leaving early, we traverse the expansive moorlands carpeted with tussock grasses and dotted with the unique Giant lobelia and Senecio plants, crossing streams and valleys. This day's trek is largely through the Mackinder Valley, with good views of the main peaks and a brief stopover for picnic lunch. Total walking time is approx. 7 hours gaining 900m in altitude. Dinner and Overnight at Shipton's Hut (4200m)

Day 4: Pre-dawn attempt of the summit starts at 0300hrs, taking 3-4 hours to reach Pt. Lenana 4985m (the hikers summit) in time to watch the sunrise. On a clear day you can see the snow capped summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro miles away to the south. Descend back to Shipton's camp for breakfast. The rest of the day at leisure. Overnight Shipton's Camp

Day 5: Descend to Sirimon gate, pick up and transfer back to Nairobi.

Naro Moru Route 4 Days

This is the most popular route although not the most scenic. It is also the fastest route to point Lenana. Take this classic route up Mount Kenya though the notoriously treacherous vertical bog and into the wide Teleki Valley beneath the Tryndall, The Lewis Glacier. Though the summit can be reached in 4 days as listed below itinerary, we strongly recommend an overnight acclimatization at the base, Naromoru River Lodge.

Day 1: Nairobi/Meteorological Station 3-4 hrs, 10km, 400m ascent
Transfer to Naromoru Park Gate for registration and where the hike starts, 2600m From the gate, keep to the park track, which follows the crest of a board ridge between the Northern and Southern Naromoru valleys. The going is easy and it's a pleasant walking through the forest. About two thirds of the way up after the bridge there are good views to the left north down into the Northern Naromoru valley. The trek ends at Met station 3,000m where we stay for our dinner and overnight.

Day 2: Met Station/Mackinders Camp 5-6 hrs, 10km, 1200m ascent
Head uphill on the track to pass the radio must on your right after about half an hour. The trek runs into a path and after another 30 minutes, you will reach the end of the forest belt and enter the moorland. This is the vertical bog conditions range from damp to glutinous depending on when it last rained. Continue through until the going improves and you reach a fork overlooking Teleki Valley to reach Mackinders Camp, 4,200m. Dinner and overnight at Mackinders Camp

Day 3: Mackinders Camp/Point Lenana/Met Station 8-10 hrs, 11km, 785m ascent
The normal approach is to start at 2 am in order to reach point Lenana (4985m, the hikers summit) taking about 4 hr walk by sunrise at 6:30am. After sunrise, descend down to Mackinders Camp for breakfast, 2hrs and walk further 4hrs, way back to Met Station for dinner and overnight.

Day 4: Met Station/Naromoru/Nairobi 3hrs, 9km, 400m
After breakfast, descend through the rainforest which is 9km to Naromoru Park Gate at 2,600m where you will connect with your transport back to Nairobi.

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