Trek 4 Shelter Kilimanjaro 2025

Conquer world-famous Mount Kilimanjaro to enable more support for vulnerable families who are rebuilding their lives after disaster.

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20 - 28 February 2025

Travel Dates

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$390

Registration Fee

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$5,599

Trip Cost

Paid upfront or in instalments

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5/5

Challenge Grade

Give Back to the Community

$3,500

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

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Trekking Kilimanjaro is a bucket list feat of its own. The lunar landscapes make this a physical challenge to remember, but that’s not the best bit—whilst you walk, you’ll be making a profound difference in the lives of families worldwide. 

Your support enables ShelterBox to deliver emergency shelter and vital aid to those affected by disaster and conflict, providing them with the safety, warmth, and dignity they desperately need in their darkest hours.

With each step you take through the African landscapes, you're helping to ensure that families facing unimaginable challenges receive the shelter, tools, and support necessary to rebuild their lives. Your participation directly contributes to the resilience and hope of communities around the globe, offering a beacon of light in times of crisis.

Together, we can make a tangible impact and offer a lifeline to those in need. Join us on this meaningful adventure and be part of something truly extraordinary—because every step forward brings us closer to a world where no one is left without shelter or hope.

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How it works

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FLEXIBLE BOOKINGS

Cancel more than 90 days before departure to receive refund options (excluding deposit & registration fee).
For more details, see our FAQs.
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Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

Teamwork

Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 1, Thursday, 20th February 2025: Arrive in Kilimanjaro 

Day 1, Thursday, 20th February 2025: Arrive in Kilimanjaro 

Upon arrival in Kilimanjaro, you will be met and transferred to Moshi, where you will meet the rest of your team and be met by your guide for the trip. The guide will deliver a full briefing as well as carry out equipment checks and help with hiring additional equipment if needed. Moshi is located in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro and is known as a coffee-producing hub as they boast vast coffee plantations. 

Accommodation: Lodge

Meals: D

Day 2, Friday, 21st February 2025: Moshi - Rongai Gate (1,800m) - Simba (2,600m)

Day 2, Friday, 21st February 2025: Moshi - Rongai Gate (1,800m) - Simba (2,600m)

This morning we will have a 2-3 hour transfer to the Rongai Nale Moru Gate near the Kenyan border. After arrival, we will begin our climb to Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa, hiking through forests where we will see wildlife such as White and Black Colobus Monkeys, and the exotic Hartlaub's Turaco, a large bird with a violet blue tail, red wing tips, a blue-black head, and eyes surrounded by white. This peak has an elevation gain of 800m or 2,500ft.  We will have lunch together on the trail before continuing on to our first campsite of the trek where we will rest for the night. 

Accommodation: Camping

Transfer time: 2-3 hours

Trekking distance: 6km

Elevation gain: 800m

Meals: B L D

Day 3, Saturday, 22nd February 2025: Simba  (2,600m) - Kikelewa (3,600m)

Day 3, Saturday, 22nd February 2025: Simba  (2,600m) - Kikelewa (3,600m)

Today’s trekking will take us through Kilimanjaro’s moorland, where the morning of hiking is steep and you will begin to feel the altitude. You will notice the growing altitude today in your legs and the rhythm of your breathing. Your guide will advise you to go “pole, pole” (“slowly, slowly”) if they think your pace is too fast for the altitude.The total elevation gain for today will be 1000m or 3,400ft. We will stop to rest at a cave and take some time to explore, before resuming our hike and having lunch at Second Cave, a natural cave formed by the cooling of lava. The afternoon of hiking is easier as we cross the moorland and approach our campsite for the night, which is in a sheltered valley at Kikelewa. 

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 15km

Elevation gain: 1,000m

Meals: B L D

Day 4, Sunday, 23rd February 2025: Kikelewa (3,600m) - Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m)

Day 4, Sunday, 23rd February 2025: Kikelewa (3,600m) - Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m)

Today will mainly be an acclimatisation day, where we will hike in the morning then rest in the afternoon and evening. The hike in the morning is rather short, but it is steep, though we will be rewarded with superb all-round views and a tangible sense of wilderness. The elevation gain of today will be 730m or 2,400ft. We then make our way to our campsite at Mawenzi Tarn, which is situated below Mawenzi Peak and offers stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo. 

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 7km

Elevation gain: 730m

Meals: B L D

Day 5, Monday, 24th February 2025: Mawenzi Tarn 

Day 5, Monday, 24th February 2025: Mawenzi Tarn 

This morning we will have a small sleep in and do another acclimatisation walk. We can pick between 2 walks depending on how we are feeling - a steep walk toward the peak of Mawenzi, or a gentle climb to the ridge of the lunar desert and visit the eerie site of a plane crash. After embarking on one of these walks, we will return to Mawenzi Tarn for a hot lunch and restful afternoon. 

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 2km

Meals: B L D

Day 6, Tuesday, 25th February 2025: Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m) - Kibo Huts (4,700m)

Day 6, Tuesday, 25th February 2025: Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m) - Kibo Huts (4,700m)

We depart our camp for the last 2 nights and make our way across the lunar landscape of the saddle between Kibi, the summit cone and Mawnezi. The crossing is exposed and can be very windy, though it is spectacular. The elevation gain for today is 370m or 1,200 ft. Today we are hiking towards Kibo Huts Camp, our home for the night, which is situated directly below the summit, offering amazing views over the Kenyan plains and Mawenzi. After lunch and a full summit briefing, we will spend time resting to prepare for our summit tomorrow. 

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 11km

Elevation gain: 370m

Meals: B L D

Day 7, Wednesday, 26th February 2025: Summit Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m) 

Day 7, Wednesday, 26th February 2025: Summit Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m) 

Today is the big summit day, where we will begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. We will begin hiking at around midnight and use the light of our head torches to navigate our way for the next 6 hours. The most challenging part of the entire trek is the ascent to the crater rim. The trail consists mostly of steep switchbacks known as Jamaica Rocks, which we will scramble over as we approach the crater rim at Gilman’s point, which sits at 5,756m. The hike from Gilman’s to Uhuru Peak is a gradual climb and not too difficult, though the altitude makes the hike long and tiring. The sun rises and the plains of Africa are stretched out below us - we did it! After summit celebrations, we will descend to Kibo Huts, where we will eat and replenish our energy before continuing our descent to Horombo Huts, our campsite for the night. The elevation gain is 1,195m or 3,940ft and elevation loss is 2,175m or 7,140ft.

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 16.5km

Elevation gain: 1,195m | Elevation loss: 2,175m

Meals: B L D

Day 8, Thursday, 27th February 2025: Horombo Huts (3,720m) - Marangu Gate (1,830m) - Moshi

Day 8, Thursday, 27th February 2025: Horombo Huts (3,720m) - Marangu Gate (1,830m) - Moshi

After a well deserved sleep, we have breakfast and finish off the trek with a descent to Marangu Gate today. This last hike on Kilimanjaro is a beautiful one as we pass through Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest. The elevation loss for today is 1,890m or 6.200ft. Once we reach the end, we will be transferred back to Moshi. 

Accommodation: Lodge accommodation

Trekking distance: 19km

Elevation loss: 1,890m

Meals: B L D

Day 9, Friday, 28th February 2025: Depart Kilimanjaro

Day 9, Friday, 28th February 2025: Depart Kilimanjaro

Today we say our goodbyes to our team mates and crew as we are transferred back to Kilimanjaro airport to fly back home. 

Meals: B

Inclusions: Transfers as per itinerary • Airport transfers (on days 1 and 9 only) • Accommodation in 3-star lodge and camping based on twin share • Meals as per itinerary • Water on trekking days • English-speaking guides • Park, camping and rescue fees • Tents

Exclusions: International Flights • Airport transfers outside the travel dates • Travel insurance (compulsory) • Visas • Sleeping bag and mat • Personal hiking equipment • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities •

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Why you'll love this adventure

  • Spot unique wildlife like White and Black Colobus Monkeys, and Hartlaub's Turac.
  • Traverse the spectacular exposed saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi, crossing the breathtaking lunar terrain.
  • Conquer Africa's highest point (5,895m), watching the sunrise over the vast African plains.
  • With each step, be guided by a strong sense of purpose – knowing that you’re providing essential tools to help rebuild lives after disaster.

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

The Kilimanjaro trek is ranked 5/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are reasonably fit and willing to train. The Kilimanjaro trek is a physical challenge with long, consecutive days of trekking at high altitudes. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. Reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro does not require mountain climbing skills. The actual climb is more like a very long walk up stairs, however, we cannot stress enough the importance of having the right trekking equipment and proper training. 

You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks. 

How many people will be on my adventure? 

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for? 

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

ShelterBox Australia has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $47 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and ShelterBox Australia, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure? 

It is essential that you prepare for this challenge. We will provide you with a training guide when you register, but. we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a personalised training plan that will prepare you for the challenge. The best physical preparation for a Kilimanjaro climb is any activity that simulates, as far as possible, the demands on your body during your ascent and descent.

You should aim to make walking up and down hills the main part of your training. Take regular and increasingly long walks to develop your muscles. You should be able to walk with a small pack for up to 8 hours a day for a number of consecutive days, and you will be walking for up to 15 hours on summit day.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like? 

While in Moshi, you will be staying in a basic but comfortable lodge which has all the usual facilities you would expect.

You will be camping in twin-share tents for the six nights on the mountain. Sleeping bags and mats are not included but can be hired at an additional cost. All your gear, except that which you’ll carry in your day pack, will be carried for you by the porters, who will run on ahead of you so when you arrive in the late afternoon, the campsite will be set up for you already.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. 

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for ShelterBox Australia are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Payments, cancellations and refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure? 

The total cost to participate in this adventure is $5,989 (inclusive of a $390 non-refundable registration fee and $950 non-refundable travel deposit).

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,500 (per person) for ShelterBox Australia.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

  • Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund (less payment fees).
  • Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus your registration fee and a $950 deposit.
  • Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is required for international travel to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained. Our guides carry satellite phones to be used if further assistance is required.

Do I need a visa to travel to Tanzania?

It is a requirement that Australian and New Zealand passport holders have a valid visa to enter Tanzania. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.

 

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Testimonial

“Everything was great and well organised. Being prepared for summit night was a must. I wouldn’t have made it without all prior information and preparation from Inspired.”

– Helena, Cherish Women's Cancer Foundation 2023

Find Out More

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