Nature Discovery offers non-summit treks on Kilimanjaro. These treks are ideal for those who do not have enough time to summit Africa’s highest peak, want to take their children along, or are unsure about the effects of high altitude.

We offer a 1-day trek on the Shira Plateau in the West or a 1-day trek on the Marangu route in the east. We supply a qualified guide who is Wilderness First Responder trained, lunch packs and water, and you can trek anywhere between 3 and 6 hours depending on fitness levels.

Kilimanjaro Shira Plateau Trek or Mountain Biking (full day)

This trek is for those who wish to experience Kilimanjaro without having to reach the summit. The Shira Plateau offers one of the best views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciered summit. It’s about 2 hours drive from Arusha to Londorossi Gate to complete entry formalities, then continue for another hour up to Morum Barrier Gate. Begin trekking or mountain biking through heather and moorland. Explore the Shira plateau and visit the ancient collapsed Shira cone, the oldest of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanoes. The amount of time for trekking depends on your energy levels and the time you reach the start point. We recommend a very early start for up to 5 hours hiking or staying closer to West Kilimanjaro for a more leisurely 2 to 3-hour hike. Lunch boxes are provided.

Kilimanjaro Marangu Day trek (full day)

On this hike, we explore the lower reaches of Kilimanjaro that early explorers first discovered. After formalities at the gate, you walk through dense and humid forests for up to 4 hours, and if you are lucky, you may spot the black and white Colobus monkeys in the trees. Continue until you reach the Mandara Huts at 2743m. After your picnic lunch – and if time permits – walk to the Maundi Crater for a long view over the plains and Lake Jipe, and in the distance, the Pare and Usambara mountains.

Descend to the gate to meet your driver and the drive back to your hotel.

What to bring on your trek

Good walking shoes or boots are necessary and we recommend walking poles and an extra layer of warm clothing as conditions can change rapidly. Good sun and rain protection is a must, and all guests should carry a daypack to keep drinking water and other necessities.

3-Day Trek

We also offer 3 day and 2 night trips on the mountain, either on the Marangu route where you will overnight in huts or on the Lemosho route where accommodation is in private tents. A qualified mountain guide, porters, a waiter and a chef will accompany you to carry the equipment and food, which is expertly prepared on the mountain.

Book your trek

Please enquire at info@naturediscovery.com about these non-summit treks or our other day trips and treks.

WHAT’S IT REALLY LIKE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?

READ OUR BLOG SERIES
KILIMANJARO TREK DIARY
Join our General Manager at Nature Discovery as he Attempts to Summit Kilimanjaro with a Small Group of Guests.