Experience breathtaking views from the world's highest freestanding mountain, take on a personal challenge and help to make a real difference to people's lives. Sound good to you? Well read on...

At 5,895m Mt. Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and one of the largest volcanoes ever to break through the Earth's crust. Your challenge is to reach its summit - all in aid of BEN.

This is an extreme challenge that requires training and a good level of fitness. The trek will be very tough at times, so you will need the determination and perseverance to see it through. It's no mean feat, but when you're standing on the rooftop of Africa surrounded by snowfields at the summit, it will be well worth it!

the trek

This challenge begins in the rainforests of Lemosho Glades and heads upwards as you acclimatise on Shira Plateau. From here you will catch a glimpse of your goal - Kibo, Kilimanjaro's main ice-capped peak. You continue via the beautiful Southern Flank, Barranco Wall and Barafu Route.

During the days you will rise higher, often looking down on a sea of clouds. With plenty of time for acclimatisation, our groups have excellent success rates for trekkers reaching the summit (96%).

day one and two

Depart from the UK to Kenya. In Kenya you will connect with an internal flight to Kilimanjaro airport or transfer overland across Kenya through the border into Tanzania, depending on availability, until you arrive at your hotel in Arusha.

Complete the booking form now to take on the challenge for BEN.

day three, four and five

The trek officially begins on day three at Lemosho Glades. You will start off with a 3-5 hour trek at 1,981m through the rainforest to Big Tree Camp at around 2,800m. The tracks you will follow have been hardly disturbed by man, so they are rich in flora and fauna. Day four is a full day's trek where you will see sights such as Shira Caldera, a high altitude desert plateau and the third of Kilimanjaro's volcanic cones. On day five you'll head east to Shire Two via Shira Cathedral at a height of 3,880m.

day six and seven

You'll see more fabulous views as you cross the Southern flank, passing down the Barranco Valley. The walk to this camp will offer valuable altitude acclimatisation as it will have taken you to at least 4,440m. Day seven's trek will take approx 4-6 hours when you can admire views of Mount Mera and the plains far below. In the afternoon there will be an optional trek up the scree slopes towards the southern ice fields.

day eight and nine - summit day!

Day eight consists of 3-5 hour trek up to Barafu Ridge Camp at 4,600m, and due to the altitude it will be tough. The next day is summit day! You will trek up the scree slopes to Stella Point continuing around the rim to the highest point, Uhuru Point. After reaching Kilimanjaro's summit at 5,895m and enjoying the amazing setting you will descend towards Millennium Camp. This is the toughest day that most trekkers have ever experienced involving 12-15 hours walking. The incredible views will make all that effort worthwhile!

Book now to start this adventure!

day ten and eleven

On day ten you will walk for 5-7 hours down through the beautiful rainforest to Mweka Gate. The pretty, gently sloping track will take you finally down to the farms and plantations near Kidia. When you reach the gate you will be presented with your National Park Certificate. After lunch you will be driven to your hotel in Arusha for a well appreciated shower and a large celebratory dinner! The next afternoon you will transfer back to Nairobi airport (approx 4-6 hours overland or via an internal flight from Kilimanjaro to Nairobi) for your flight to the UK.

departure dates and costs

We have a range of dates available in February, June, July, August and October  2012, and are also taking bookings for 2013.

Prices depend on when you travel, but here is an example:

*If you choose to purchase our comprehensive policy

View more information about dates and costs (PDF).

optional safari extension

After you've finished your momentous climb you may wish to extend your stay by three days and enjoy safaris in Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara. These areas are home to a large variety of mammals, reptiles, birds and different vegetation - perfect for the wildlife enthusiast!

Book now and take on the challenge for BEN!