Overview

This 5-day biking trek offers a rare and thrilling opportunity to cycle on the slopes of Africa’s highest peak. The Kilema Route allows for mountain biking access, with the possibility of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — the roof of Africa. The route passes through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and into the arctic zone near the summit. You’ll experience steep climbs, high-altitude terrain, and epic downhill rides on your descent.

Itinerary

Day 01 :

Moshi – Kilema Gate – Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Distance: ~19 km
Elevation Gain: ~1,770 m
Time: 5–6 hours

You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moshi and transferred to Kilema Gate (1,950m) for registration and a pre-climb briefing. Begin your ride through the lush montane forest, passing waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic views. The path becomes steeper as you approach Horombo Hut, your stop for the night. Most of this day’s trail is ridable, though you may need to push in some steep spots.

Overnight: Horombo Hut Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 02 :

Horombo – Acclimatization Ride to Mawenzi Viewpoint (4,300m)

Distance: ~6–8 km (round trip)
Elevation Gain: ~600 m
Time: 2–3 hours

Today is an acclimatization day, key to preparing your body for high-altitude biking. After breakfast, take a short ride to Mawenzi Viewpoint, which provides dramatic views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding alpine landscape. Return to Horombo for lunch, relax in the afternoon, and prepare for the climb to Kibo the next day.

Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 03 :

Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,700m)

Distance: ~10 km
Elevation Gain: ~1,000 m
Time: 5–6 hours

Ride across the alpine desert zone, a harsh but stunning part of the trail. The terrain is rough and rocky as you cross the vast saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Most of this trail can be cycled with effort. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, rest, hydrate, and prepare your gear for an early summit attempt the next day.

Overnight: Kibo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 04 :

Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Descend to Horombo Hut

Distance: ~19 km round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,195 m up, then descent
Time: 10–14 hours

Begin the summit push around midnight, riding, pushing, or carrying your bike as needed. The trail from Kibo to Gilman’s Point is steep and demanding. From Stella Point to Uhuru Peak, you may be able to ride short sections depending on the weather and trail conditions.

After enjoying sunrise from Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, start your descent to Horombo Hut. The descent is mostly rideable and provides an exhilarating downhill experience.

Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 05 :

Horombo Hut – Kilema Gate – Transfer to Moshi

Distance: ~19 km
Time: 3–4 hours

Enjoy a final ride downhill through the moorland and forest zones to Kilema Gate. Your guides will handle check-out procedures. Once complete, transfer back to Moshi for a hot shower and a well-deserved celebration of your incredible achievement.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Optional: Overnight in Moshi or transfer to the airport