Far far off beaten path
FAR FAR OFF THE BEATEN PATH- 8 DAYS
- 8 Days / 7 nights (6 days hiking)
- Kilimanjaro
We walk 7 – 22 kilometers per day on mountain trails between 1400 and 2200 meters elevation. The walking is strenuous on steep trails that can be slippery when wet. The route includes some challenging hiking as there are many ridges and valleys, but your guide will set a slow pace appropriate for your group. Trekking poles strongly recommended. Overnights are spent in our comfortable camp with spacious walk-in tents for 1-2 people or families, and locally-inspired meals served in a dining tent and prepared by our expert mountain cooks.
January to March, July to December
For the avid foothills hiker seeking remote valleys and challenging hiking deep into Chagga communitie
- Discover a part of Tanzania few tourists ever see
- Walk on ancient trails between the national park forest and local villages
- Observe rainforest, waterfalls and rivers, farm plots full of coffee and banana trees
- Pass through the land of the Chagga people
- Lead by a qualified Chagga mountain guide
GALLERY / PHOTOS
Daily Itinerary – Kilimanjaro Hiking Adventure
Itinerary Overview
This 8-day trek takes you through village trails, forests, and valleys around Mount Kilimanjaro, covering 4.3 – 13.6 miles (7 – 22 km) per day. The route includes challenging ascents and descents through diverse landscapes, from coffee plantations to tropical rainforests. Expect a slow and steady hiking pace, with opportunities to explore local culture, wildlife, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Overnights are spent in lodges and comfortable camps, with spacious walk-in tents and locally-inspired meals prepared by expert mountain cooks.
Itinerary Summary
- Day 1: Arrival – Machame (Kaliwa Lodge)
- Day 2: Machame to Kibosho (11.8mi / 19km)
- Day 3: Kibosho to Mweka (9.3mi / 15km)
- Day 4: Mweka to Wondo (4.9mi / 8km)
- Day 5: Wondo to Tema (4.3mi / 7km)
- Day 6: Tema to Kidia (5.6mi / 9km)
- Day 7: Kidia to Marangu (13.6mi / 22km)
- Day 8: Marangu Hotel / Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival – Machame
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to Kaliwa Lodge, located in Machame Village (1,300m). Enjoy a relaxing evening before the adventure begins.
Overnight: Kaliwa Lodge
Meals: L, D
Drive Time: 1 hour
Day 2: Machame to Kibosho
Begin the trek along village trails used by locals. Pass through farms and forests, enjoying views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak. Arrive at Kibosho Camp, surrounded by natural vegetation, birds, and butterflies.
Overnight: Kibosho Camp
Meals: B, L, D
Hiking Distance: 11.8mi / 19km
Day 3: Kibosho to Mweka
Explore steep valleys and ridges above Arabica coffee farms, which rely on centuries-old irrigation channels. Camp at Sungu School, with an opportunity to learn about Tanzania’s education system.
Overnight: Sungu School Camp
Meals: B, L, D
Hiking Distance: 9.3mi / 15km
Day 4: Mweka to Wondo
Hike through villages and forests, crossing rivers on wooden bridges or stepping stones. Follow traditional irrigation channels used for over 100 years. Reach a high waterfall before a final steep ascent to camp.
Overnight: Kilimanjaro View Camp
Meals: B, L, D
Hiking Distance: 4.9mi / 8km
Day 5: Wondo to Tema
Begin the day walking past eucalyptus trees, which naturally border Kilimanjaro National Park. Traverse high ridges and deep valleys in a tropical rainforest. If lucky, spot blue monkeys in the canopy above.
Overnight: Tema School Camp
Meals: B, L, D
Hiking Distance: 4.3mi / 7km
Day 6: Tema to Kidia
Descend through vibrant mountain villages, coffee and maize farms, and crystal-clear rivers. Visit Kidia, the site of Kilimanjaro’s first European settlement. Learn about missionary history and explore Catholic and Lutheran churches.
Overnight: Fumyuhu School Camp
Meals: B, L, D
Hiking Distance: 5.6mi / 9km
Day 7: Kidia to Marangu
The final hiking day offers sweeping views over Moshi and a stunning perspective of Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. Upon arrival in Marangu, enjoy a well-deserved rest at Marangu Hotel.
Overnight: Marangu Hotel
Meals: B, L, D
Hiking Distance: 13.6mi / 22km
Day 8: Marangu Hotel – Departure
After breakfast and relaxation, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or continue to your next Tanzanian adventure.
Meals: B, L
Inclusions
✔️ All accommodations (lodging & camping)
✔️ All meals as indicated (B, L, D)
✔️ Bottled or filtered water, coffee, teas, and cocoa
✔️ Services of an expert hiking guide and camp crew
✔️ Use of all camping equipment (excluding sleeping bag)
✔️ Transfers to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport, Moshi, or Arusha
Exclusions
❌ Tips & gratuities for guides, crew, or staff
❌ Cold drinks & alcohol
❌ Extra accommodations & meals due to airline changes or inability to complete the climb
❌ Pre-trip expenses (immunizations, travel insurance, passports, visas)
❌ International airfare & airport departure taxes
❌ Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
Disclaimer
Trip prices are based on Rocky Africa Experience costs at the time of booking. Rocky Africa Experience reserves the right to adjust trip prices due to:
- Inflation, fuel, labor, or material costs
- Exchange rate fluctuations
- Increased park fees (TANAPA), hotel/lodge rates, airline fares, or other service provider costs
Should these changes occur, additional payment may be required from the client.