Mount Kilimanjaro Hike: 9-Day Trek from Arusha
This 82.7 km route traces the 9-day Mount Kilimanjaro trek starting from Arusha, Tanzania. The path ascends through five distinct climate zones - rainforest, heathland, alpine desert, and arctic glaciers - reaching nearly 20,000 feet at the summit of Africa's tallest freestanding mountain.
- Distance
- 82.7 km
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Mount Kilimanjaro Expedition Begins
- End
- Arusha Arrival and Preparation
- Stops
- 2
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Mount Kilimanjaro Expedition Begins — Africa's highest peak at 5,895 meters, featuring five distinct climate zones from tropical forest to arctic snow across its slopes.
- Arusha Arrival and Preparation — Gateway city in northern Tanzania serving as the primary staging point for Kilimanjaro climbs and safari expeditions to nearby national parks.
Useful for your trip
- Tip
- Book your Mount Kilimanjaro trek with Kili Warriors, which handles all logistics including porters, tents, food supplies, and provides a detailed packing checklist for safe trekking.
- Timing
- Plan for a 9-day trek on Mount Kilimanjaro. Spend one day in Arusha for preparation and market visits before heading to the trailhead.
- Where to stay
- Expect provided camping facilities with tents, mattresses, pillows, bathroom tents with toilets, and hot water showers at night camps during the trek.
- Food
- Kili Warriors provides coffee and hot water at 6:30 AM to wake climbers, plus meals at camps. Bring energy supplements like Clif Bar Blocks for additional fuel.
- Avoid
- Be aware that altitude sickness can occur and affect oxygen levels. Monitor your body closely—one climber had to stop on day 3 due to severe altitude sickness symptoms.
- Tip
- Pack thermal clothing including multiple thermal shirts, heavy and lightweight pants, and a warm jacket. Temperatures are extremely cold at higher elevations, especially at night.
- Tip
- Bring a power bank (portable charger) for electronics. A solar-powered speaker can also serve as a portable charger while providing entertainment during the trek.
- Transport
- Get an eSIM before traveling to Tanzania to avoid expensive roaming charges. Sim Local allows you to purchase a plan electronically before arrival.
- Tip
- The trek passes through five different climate zones: rainforest, heather zone, alpine desert, and snow at the summit near 20,000 ft elevation. Prepare clothing for all climates.
- Food
- Shop at local markets in Arusha before the trek to stock food supplies. The trek includes meals provided at camps.
Video on this route
I Climbed Mount Kilimanjaro (9 Day Hike)