What To Expect On Kilimanjaro Summit Night
Your Kilimanjaro summit night is undoubtedly the one you’ll anticipate the most on your trip. It’s the night you wake up just before midnight to make the final push to the summit at Uhuru Peak.
It’s always an early start due to the long trek ahead. On this day, you’re typically going to be on the trail for around twelve to fifteen hours. And it’s ideal to start hitting the summit around sunrise.
Although it’s a cold start on summit night, the beautiful night skies and fresh air make this experience worthwhile. Some people time their Kilimanjaro trek with the full moon, which then lights up the way.
Here's what you should expect on the much anticipated night before making your bid for the summit.
What is Kilimanjaro Summit Night?
Summit night is the night you set out for Uhuru Peak to reach 5,895 metres of elevation. It’s the final ascent you’ll make from the high-altitude Kilimanjaro camps. There on after, it’s all downhill as you make your way back down the mountain.
You might see some people call it summit day as well. Either way, it’s the bit of the journey from camp to Uhuru.
Why Leave for the Summit at Night?
Trekking at night at high altitude might seem counterintuitive, but there are good reasons for this approach.
Firstly, it’s absolutely spectacular to be at Uhuru Peak while the sun is rising. It usually starts getting light between Gilman’s and Stella Point. Here you see the first rays of daylight paint the sky orange and pink.
Another reason to leave for the summit at night is to walk on frozen ground. At those heights, the volcanic rock and scree underfoot are usually frozen. This makes the ground more stable to walk on. As soon as the sun is out, the ground can thaw a little, which can make it a bit more slippery.
Finally, there’s also the descent to consider. After savouring the views at Uhuru, you still have to descend to your camp for the night. Most operators will design their itineraries to go halfway down the mountain again. This is to access the freshwater sources and a level where the air isn’t so thin and difficult to breathe.
Temperature at the Summit
Temperatures at the summit hover around -5 to -6°C (23 to 21°F), with the possibility of snow. It remains below freezing point throughout the year.
Recommended reading: Weather on Kilimanjaro
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Typical Summit Night Schedule
Here’s how a typical summit night might pan out on the mountain:
Around 11:00 PM: Your guide will wake you up with a hot drink. This is the time to get dressed, pack, and prepare to leave camp.
Midnight: The trek towards the summit begins.
Sunrise: Arrive at Stella Point (5,739 metres). Take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking sunrise and the emerging panoramic views.
Approximately 30 minutes after sunrise: Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), the highest point on Kilimanjaro, for celebrations and photos.
15 minutes later: Begin the descent back down the mountain.
Breakfast at camp: After an exhilarating trek, you’ll have breakfast at camp before packing up and descending down to Millenium Camp or Horombo Hut (depending on the route).
Afternoon: Arrive at camp. This is your final night on the mountain. It’s time to rest and reflect on your achievements.
Remember, this schedule can vary depending on the specific route, the pace of the group, and weather conditions.
How To Prepare for Kilimanjaro Summit Night
Prep Yourself Mentally
Get your mental game strong. Altitude can mess with your head, literally. Practise deep breathing and meditation techniques to stay calm under pressure. Mental toughness will carry you when your legs want to give up.
Layer Up Your Clothing
When hiking so high at night, you need to have all the necessary Kilimanjaro hiking gear with you.
The temperature at this elevation is freezing. So, we recommend layering with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin.
Over this, add an insulating layer for warmth (a down jacket or fleece works perfectly). Finally, wrap it up with a waterproof and windproof jacket and pants as your protective shell against the elements.
Insulated gloves are essential for protecting your hands from freezing. Consider a thin-liner glove underneath for added warmth. In addition, a balaclava or beanie will keep your head and ears warm, fending off the cold and the winds that can whip across the mountain.
Your boots must also be waterproof, sturdy, and comfortable. Remember to wear warm, moisture-wicking socks.
Get Some Rest
As difficult as it may be with the excitement build-up, it’s critical to get some rest ahead of summit night. You’ll typically eat dinner early and then head to your tent around 7:00 PM. Rest up as much as possible at this point - every little bit of energy counts.
Equipment Required for Summit Night
As you prepare for the night summit on Kilimanjaro, it's crucial to pay special attention to the equipment that will support you on your journey in the darkness. Here’s what to pack and get ready for the trek to Uhuru:
Quality Headlamp and Spare Batteries
A reliable headlamp is crucial when hiking in the dark. It will be your source of light before the sun comes up and help you tread carefully. Ensure your headlamp is fully functional and carry extra batteries. Test it beforehand to avoid surprises.
Trekking Poles
Sturdy trekking poles provide balance and stability, especially on steep and uneven terrain. They help reduce the strain on your knees, especially on the way down, and enhance your overall comfort.
Insulated Water Bottle
If you’ve been using a hydration system up to this point, it might be better to switch it out for your insulated water bottle tonight. The pipes in your hydration system may well freeze at high altitudes, whereas an insulated bottle will make sure you have continued access to drinking water.
Don’t Forget Sunglasses and Your Hat
Once the sun comes up, it’s helpful to have high-quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection. Remember, you’ll be trekking through snow, and these will shield your eyes from the dazzling reflection of snow and ice.
While you’re at it, pack your hat to take with you. We also recommend layering on the sunscreen before you leave the tent.
Final Thoughts
Every moment of your trek is going to push your limits, especially summit night on Kilimanjaro. Now that you know what to expect, you can begin your hike better prepared.
Luckily, you’ll be with a great team who will keep up your spirits and motivation. All that’s left for you to do is to put one foot in front of the other. Good luck!
