December 6 - 15, 2024 
7 Day Climb + 1 Day Safari

Expedition: KILIMANJARO

OVERVIEW

ITINERARY

GUIDES

HIGHLIGHTS

FAQs

This expedition isn’t a vacation. It is a catalyst for real breakthroughs, designed for those that need to unplug, reset, get inspired, and shift their mindset. This is a high-intensity, limit-crushing expedition that pairs traditional guided climb expertise with personal development and coaching.


$7,200 per person

7 day climb + 1 day safari - lodge prior to and following expedition

Summit:

Guide to Climber Ratio:

Difficulty Level:

1:6

19,340 ft.

EXPEDITION Kilimanjaro

THE SUMMIT:

Kilimanjaro, the highest free-standing mountain in the world, stands as the only one of the seven summits (the highest points on each continent) that is truly a nontechnical climb.  Located in Tanzania, this bucket-list ascent, looms over 5 ecosystems and massive game reserves, and is one of the world’s most impressive expeditions.

Duration:

an adventure like no other.

There are dozens of outfitters and guides that will support you to the summit, but this isn’t just that. Matt Walker doesn’t just focus solely on reaching the summit, his approach melds guided climb expertise with personal development and coaching that offers an opportunity to unplug, recharge, and reset: along the way you will shift your perspective, reflect and commit to what matters most, and sharpen skills that will propel you upon your return. 

Cost:

ASCENT OVERVIEW:

TRIP DETAILS:

No prior climbing experience is required. The ideal introduction to high-altitude mountaineering. Climbers must be able to carry an average of 20 lbs.

ITINERARY

TRIP INCLUDES/EXCLUDES

FAQ's

ABOUT YOUR GUIDE: MATT WALKER

***

Matt helps high-achieving individuals create sustainable change, build resilience and live the life they dream of living.

A psychologist, leadership coach and international mountain guide with 26 years of expedition experience, Matt I’ve witnessed the massive transformation offered by outdoor adventure, only to eventually revert back to negative patterns. My mission is to break that cycle!

My real-world experience, systems awareness, and deep understanding of the human experience have propelled me toward facilitating once-in-a-lifetime adventures, coaching individuals to reach their personal and professional goals, and offering professional team development.

"This Climb Couldn't Have come at a better time."

Balancing my life as a medical director, father, less-available husband and slowly weakening outdoor enthusiast was overwhelming to say the least. I was flailing, but I was working harder than ever. This expedition helped me reconnect with my values, prioritize and operationalize my goals and maintain focus only on what’s important - it couldn't have come at a better time. 

Kevin M, || Seattle, WA

Others are saying...

Difficulty Level:

19,340 ft.

Summit:

7 day climb + 1 day safari -  lodge prior to and following expedition

Duration:

1:6

Guide to Climber Ratio:

$6,400 per person

Cost:

TRIP DETAILS:

ASCENT OVERVIEW:

Dates:

December 6 - 15, 2024

No prior climbing experience is required. The ideal introduction to high-altitude mountaineering. Climbers must be able to carry an average of 20 lbs.

There are dozens of outfitters and guides that will support you to the summit, but this isn’t just that. Matt Walker doesn’t just focus solely on reaching the summit, his approach melds guided climb expertise with personal development and coaching that offers an opportunity to unplug, recharge, and reset: along the way you will shift your perspective, reflect and commit to what matters most, and sharpen skills that will propel you upon your return. 

Matt helps high-achieving men create sustainable change, build resilience and live the life they dream of living. 

As a climber, Matt's resume is deep; with first ascents in the Himalaya, the Andes, the Cascades, and Alaska. His expedition experience includes summiting 8000m and 7000m peaks in the Himalaya, trans-range travel in Alaska, WA, WY, and AZ, and ascents on rock throughout North America. 

This expedition marks Matt's 8th Kilimanjaro expedition. 

A psychologist, leadership coach and international mountain guide with 26 years of expedition experience, Matt has witnessed the massive transformation offered by outdoor adventure, only to eventually revert back to habituated and negative patterns. His mission is to break that cycle!

His real-world experience, systems awareness, and deep understanding of the human experience have propelled him toward facilitating once-in-a-lifetime adventures, coaching individuals to reach their personal and professional goals, and offering professional team development.

About Your Guide: Matt Walker

  • Professional Mountain Guide with over 26 years climbing and expedition experience around the world & advanced wilderness medical training
  • 1:6 climber to US guide ratio and 1:2 climber to Tanzania guide on summit day
  • All lodging, airport transfers, and transport in country
  • All meals in country and on expedition, all team and technical equipment
  • Satellite emergency communication



Includes/Excludes

  • Airfare to JRO
  • Personal clothing and camping gear, equipment list provided. Some items may be available for rent, inquire directly. 
  • Personal snacks and drinks in country
  • Gratuity for support staff

Trip Does Not Include:

Trip Includes:

ITINERARY

Depart country of origin for Kilimanjaro International Airport, Tanzania (JRO).

Rongai ROUTE 7 DAY ITINERARY - expedition KILIMANJARO

Day 1

Arrive in Tanzania. Airport pick up and transfer to Arusha Villa Karmu in Arusha, Tanzania.

Day 2

Orientation and gear check. We meet over breakfast at the hotel followed by a detailed group orientation covering all aspects of the climb. After lunch, we have a thorough equipment and gear check followed by poolside relaxation and jet-lag reset or a walking tour (offsite) of Arusha, before a team dinner. Overnight at Arusha Villa Karmu.
Following hotel breakfast and a final guide briefing we drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park for registration, permits, and transfering our gear and duffle bags to our porter team. After registration and lunch, we will be shuttle a further 70 kilometers on forest service roads to the Rongai Start Point at 6,398 feet. Our trek begins from Nale Moru village and follows a gradual and winding trail through maize and potato fields before entering the rainforest After 4-5 hours of ascent we arrive at our first camp, Simba Camp, where we meet our entire porter, cook, and support team. The sounds of Howler monkeys will echo through the evening as the day closes. 

Start: Rongai Gate trailhead 6,398 ft.
End: Simba Camp 9,300 ft.
You will wake to the first morning of your new routine: coffee in bed and waking to the sounds of Kilimanjaro. After breakfast, and packing your daypack and duffle bags for porters to carry, we begin the day ascending uphill through the rainforest towards Kibo. For most of the day you will be walking up slopes flanked with heather with emerging views of the twin peaks of Kilimanjaro – Mawenzi and Kibo. En route we will have our first  glimpse of the ice fields on the Eastern crater rim. On our final approach to camp, Second Cave, our cook will welcome us with a grand feast, the first full team dinner. The evening leaves time for games, relaxation reading, and photography.


Start: Simba Camp 9,300 ft.
End: 2nd Cave Camp 11,300 ft.
Elevation gain: 2,000 ft.
Today is an excellent acclimatization day as we travel and keep a steady elevation about 11,000 ft. From Second Cave the path takes an abrupt south-easterly turn directly towards the jagged peak of Mawenzi. Traversing open moorland you arrive at Kikelewa Camp, situated next to a series of caves by the Kikelewa River; giant groundsels and lobelias flourishing nearby. The views open dramatically and from Kikelewa Camp and we will take in the massive eastern flank of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Start: 2nd Cave Camp 11,300 ft.
End: Kikelewa Camp 11,811 ft.
Elevation gain: 500 ft.
Though this stage to Mawenzi Tarn is relatively short in distance, it is a crucial day in our ascent and our acclimitization. The climb ascends steeply from camp as we steadily gain 2,349 feet toward camp.660m. The Mawenzi Tarn Camp is situated in one of the most spectacular settings on the mountain, a cirque with a lake beneath the jagged teeth of Mawenzi. After an early arrival at camp, we will rest, and then have an evening ascent of the west ridge for further acclimatization. The evening stars open to one of the most amazing dark sky experineces of the summit of Kilimanjaro beneath the Milky Way.


Start: Kikelewa Camp 11,811 ft.
End: Mawenzi Tarn Camp 14,160 ft.
Elevation gain: 2,349 ft.
The day begins with a short backtrack of the previous day before we strike out west-wards, crossing the ridge and dropping down slope to the barren pass at the northern edge. With massive expanding views in all directions, today is hands-down the most striking visually, each scene feels like it is pulled from a nature documentary. Our destination for today will be Kibo Campsite, which offers you again a spectacular view on the Kibo.

We will arrive at the camp with time to rest and prepare for our summit bid. In the afternoon, we will cover the summit day experience and pack our bags for an early departure. Dinner is served early and we are off to bed early. Our summit climb wake time is just around the corner at 11:30pm.
Start: Mawenzi Tarn Camp 14,160 ft.
End: Kibo Camp 15,430 ft.
Elevation gain: 1,300 ft.

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Under starry skies, we begin with an early alpine start with a hot drink and some biscuits to begin our ascent to the summit. Our initial climb begins with headlamps as we make our way up the mountain, passing landmarks to help you track your progress towards the summit: William’s Point at 16,834 ft. and Hans Meyer Cave at 17,254 ft.

At Gilman’s Point, 18,638 ft., we will emerge at the summit crater for an astounding sunrise over the mountain and Tanzania: dawn over the plains of Africa are truly like nothing else. After a rest to hydrate and fuel, we will make our last push along the summit ridge toward the true summit: Uhuru Peak at 19,341 ft. 

Following our summit success we will begin our descent toward high camp to pack our gear and rally onward and downward to warmer temperatures and thicker air at Horombo Camp.
Start: Kibo Camp 15,430 ft.
Summit: Uhuru Peak 19,341 ft.
End: Horombo Camp 12,205 ft.
Elevation gain: 2,300 ft.
Elevation loss: -7,136 ft.

Day 9

We wake to a final morning on the mountain: coffee in bed and a celebratory breakfast. One final duffle bag and camp pack up and we begin our descent toward Marangu Gate. As we exit the trail we are met by our entire team for a final celebration, feast, and an opportunity to share our gratitude to all of the members of the team. We then load our van and head towards the Mt. Meru hotel in Arusha - ready for a shower, a cold beer, and creature comforts. 

Start: Horombo Hut 12,205 ft.
End: Marangu Gate 6,046 ft.
Elevation loss: -6,158 ft.

Day 10

Following a solid night's sleep, we wake to breakfast at the hotel and drive to Tarangerie National Park for a safari drive. Our safari will take us into grasslands for viewing of: elephant, lion, cheetah, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, spotted hyena, leopard, and monkeys. A sunset drive and dinner will conclude our expedition: from here we head to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for our late night departure and travel home.  

Day 11

There are dozens of outfitters and guides that will support you to the summit, but this isn’t just that. Matt Walker doesn’t just solely focus on reaching the summit. He melds guided climb expertise with personal development and coaching that challenges you to dismantle your blocks and finally unlock a new stage on your transformative journey. 

So much more than your traditional EXPEDITION.

Step into your next big adventure

Discover a new mindset new way of being - live with clarity and intention. 

3. start the ascent

Together, you will decide if this climb is right for you and chart a course specific to your needs.

2. chart your course

Connect with Matt and discuss the ins and outs of this once-in-a-lifetime expedition. 

1. schedule a clarity call

ready to climb?

the process

My name is Matt Walker, Psychologist, Leadership Coach & International Mountain Guide

Matt helps high-achieving men create sustainable change, build resilience and live the life they dream of living. 

As a climber, Matt's resume is deep; with first ascents in the Himalaya, the Andes, the Cascades, and Alaska. His expedition experience includes summiting 8000m and 7000m peaks in the Himalaya, trans-range travel in Alaska, WA, WY, and AZ, and ascents on rock throughout North America. 

This expedition marks Matt's 8th Kilimanjaro expedition. 

A psychologist, leadership coach and international mountain guide with 26 years of expedition experience, Matt has witnessed the massive transformation offered by outdoor adventure, only to eventually revert back to habituated and negative patterns. His mission is to break that cycle!

His real-world experience, systems awareness, and deep understanding of the human experience have propelled him toward facilitating once-in-a-lifetime adventures, coaching individuals to reach their personal and professional goals, and offering professional team development.

“Adventure offers direct and unbiased clarity, It is unforgiving. And as such, it is exactly what we need right to step fully into our lives. 

Let the power of adventure transform your life

Itinerary

Rongai ROUTE 7 DAY INTINERARY - expedition KILIMANJARO

Depart country of origin for Kilimanjaro International Airport, Tanzania (JRO).

Day 1

Arrive in Tanzania. Airport pick up and transfer to Arusha Villa Karmu in Arusha, Tanzania.

Day 2

Orientation and gear check. We meet over breakfast at the hotel followed by a detailed group orientation covering all aspects of the climb. After lunch, we have a thorough equipment and gear check followed by poolside relaxation and jet-lag reset or a walking tour (offsite) of Arusha, before a team dinner. Overnight at Arusha Villa Karmu.

Day 3

Following hotel breakfast and a final guide briefing we drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park for registration, permits, and transferring our gear and duffle bags to our porter team. After registration and lunch, we will be shuttle a further 70 kilometers on forest service roads to the Rongai Start Point at 6,398 feet.

Our trek begins from Nale Moru village and follows a gradual and winding trail through maize and potato fields before entering the rainforest After 4-5 hours of ascent we arrive at our first camp, Simba Camp, where we meet our entire porter, cook, and support team. The sounds of Howler monkeys will echo through the evening as the day closes. 

Day 4

Start: Rongai Gate trailhead 6,398 ft.
End: Simba Camp 9,300 ft.
You will wake to the first morning of your new routine: coffee in bed and waking to the sounds of Kilimanjaro. We begin ascending through the rainforest towards Kibo. We ascend up slopes flanked with heather with emerging views of the twin peaks of Kilimanjaro – Mawenzi and Kibo. En route we have our first glimpse of the ice fields on the crater rim. On our final approach to camp, Second Cave, our cook will welcome us with a grand feast, the first full team dinner. The evening leaves time for games, relaxation reading, and photography.

Day 5

Start: Simba Camp 9,300 ft.
End: 2nd Cave Camp 11,300 ft.
Elevation gain: 2,000 ft.

Today is an excellent acclimatization day as we travel and keep a steady elevation about 11,000 ft. From Second Cave the path takes an abrupt south-easterly turn directly towards the jagged peak of Mawenzi.

Traversing open moorland you arrive at Kikelewa Camp, situated next to a series of caves by the Kikelewa River; giant groundsels and lobelias flourishing nearby. The views open dramatically and from Kikelewa Camp and we will take in the massive eastern flank of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Day 6

Start: 2nd Cave Camp 11,300 ft.
End: Kikelewa Camp 11,811 ft.
Elevation gain: 500 ft.

Though this day is relatively short in distance, ihe climb ascends steeply and gains 2,349 feet. Mawenzi Camp is situated in one of the most spectacular settings on the mountain, a cirque with a lake beneath the jagged teeth of Mawenzi. The evening stars open to one of the most amazing dark sky experineces of the summit of Kilimanjaro beneath the Milky Way.

Day 7

Start: Kikelewa Camp 11,811 ft.
End: Mawenzi Tarn Camp 14,160 ft.
Elevation gain: 2,349 ft.

We  heading west, crossing ridges and dropping to a barren pass at the northern edge. With massive expanding views, today is visually striking, each scene feels like it is pulled from a nature documentary. We end the day at Kibo Camp, which offers you again a spectacular view of Kibo.

We will arrive at the camp with time to rest and prepare for our summit bid. In the afternoon, we will cover the summit day experience and pack our bags for an early departure. Dinner is served early and we are off to bed early. Our summit climb wake time is just around the corner at 11:30pm.

Day 8

Start: Mawenzi Tarn Camp 14,160 ft.
End: Kibo Camp 15,430 ft.
Elevation gain: 1,300 ft.
Under starry skies, we begin with an early alpine start with a hot drink and some biscuits to begin our ascent to the summit. Our initial climb begins with headlamps as we make our way up the mountain, passing landmarks to help you track your progress towards the summit: William’s Point at 16,834 ft. and Hans Meyer Cave at 17,254 ft.

At Gilman’s Point, 18,638 ft., we will emerge at the summit crater for an astounding sunrise over the mountain and Tanzania: dawn over the plains of Africa are truly like nothing else. After a rest to hydrate and fuel, we will make our last push along the summit ridge toward the true summit: Uhuru Peak at 19,341 ft. 

Following our summit success we will begin our descent toward high camp to pack our gear and rally onward and downward to warmer temperatures and thicker air at Horombo Camp.

Day 9

Start: Kibo Camp 15,430 ft.
Summit: Uhuru Peak 19,341 ft.
End: Horombo Camp 12,205 ft.
Elevation gain: 2,300 ft.
Elevation loss: -7,136 ft.

Day 10

Start: Horombo Hut 12,205 ft.
End: Marangu Gate 6,046 ft.
Elevation loss: -6,158 ft.
We wake to a final morning on the mountain: coffee in bed and a celebratory breakfast. One final duffle bag and camp pack up and we begin our descent toward Marangu Gate.

As we exit the trail we are met by our entire team for a final celebration, feast, and an opportunity to share our gratitude to all of the members of the team. We then load our van and head towards the Mt. Meru hotel in Arusha - ready for a shower, a cold beer, and creature comforts. 

Day 10

Following a solid night's sleep, we wake to breakfast at the hotel and drive to Tarangerie National Park for a safari drive. Our safari will take us into grasslands for viewing of: elephant, lion, cheetah, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, spotted hyena, leopard, and monkeys. A sunset drive and dinner will conclude our expedition: from here we head to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for our late night departure and travel home.  

We’ve got this covered

  • Pre-adventure guide
  • Fitness prep
  • Meals itinerary
  • Gear planning
  • Guides + porters 
  • Professionally documented photography

PLUS:

  • Meditation Experiences
  • Breath Work
  • Journaling
  • Reflection
  • Guided Discussion
  • Personal Development
  • Group Coaching and Feedback
  • Individual Private Coaching Sessions Prior to and Following Expedition
  • 1:1 Access to Matt

What’s Included?

Still have questions?

We are always happy to talk with you! Let's set up a time to get on the line and decide if this climb is right for you and chart a course specific to your needs.



Hit reset and spark adventure in your life

Ready for the Ascent?

How Difficult is this climb?

This trip is the perfect introduction to mountaineering. You don’t need to have any previous experience, though any experience with backpacking, camping, or climbing will help - the more comfortable and relaxed you are in the environment, the more enjoyable it will be. 

Matt will work with you, and your trainer is appropriate, to make sure your training and fitness sets you up for success. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Come Alone or Can I bring Another?

Yes. And yes! Climbers join MWA programs each for their own unique reasons: a personal challenge, a desire to take a retreat and dive deep, connect and share an experience with a solo, with a sibling, parent/child, or close friend. Join by yourself, with another, all are welcome. 

What is Included in the Expedition?

  • Professional Mountain Guide with over 26 years climbing and expedition experience around the world & advanced wilderness medical training
  • 1:6 climber to US guide ratio and 1:2 climber to Tanzania guide on summit day
  • All lodging, airport transfers, and transport in country
  • All meals in country and on expedition, all team and technical equipment
  • Satellite emergency communication



What is Not Included in the Expedition?

  • Airfare to JRO
  • Personal clothing and camping gear, equipment list provided. Some items may be available for rent, inquire directly. 
  • Personal snacks and drinks in country
  • Gratuity for support staff

What is the payment schedule and cancellation policy?

A $750 USD non-refundable deposit is made at registration, this payment is required to reserve your place in the program and initiate the permit and logistics process. The remaining balances are divided and due 30 days following registration and 120 days prior to departure. In the event the balance is not received 90 days prior to departure, your reservation will be cancelled and no refunds will be issued.

MWA highly recommends trip and rescue insurance, our go-to is Global Rescue


  • Within 24 hours of booking – full refund
  • Cancellations made 120 days prior to the expedition start: t50% refunds, less the nonrefundable deposit
  • No refunds pro­vid­ed 120 days or less before depar­ture date

What happens If I, or another team member, gets sick or has to turn around early on summit day?

As a team, we always plan to go to Uhuru, the true summit of Kilimanjaro, together. However, in the event of a medical emergency that would require the lead guide’s attention, rather than an African guide, would be the only reason that your lead guide would not join the team on the summit ascent. 

In the event of a scenario that leads to your personal departure from the expedition, MWA highly recommends trip and rescue insurance, our go-to is Global Rescue.

Also, we will be joined by a team of African guides, for a total of five guides, on a typical summit attempt. In the event you, or another climber needs to turn around for any reason during the summit ascent, they will be guided down under excellent care and supervision. This support allows all team members to move and ascent at their own pace without impacting the success or well-being of another. 

Am I Fit enough for Kilimanjaro?

Likely yes, and if not at the moment, you can be fairly quickly with some dedication and focused time.

The trekk involves 5 – 8 hours per day with large ele­va­tion gains of 1,000 – 2,000+ feet per day. Mul­ti­ple days of this lev­el of trekking will occur through­out the trip. You should be in great phys­i­cal shape and par­tic­i­pat­ing in 4, 1‑hour work­outs per week before the trek. At least 1 to 2 days should include hik­ing with a small pack, lead­ing up to sev­er­al walks of 5 – 7 hours, with alti­tude gain if possible.

Connect directly with us to discuss your training plan.  

Still have questions?

We are always happy to talk with you! Let's set up a time to get on the line and decide if this climb is right for you and chart a course specific to your needs.



With both 1:1 access to Matt and the power of group coaching and feedback, you will meet your growth edges both physically and mentally with every kind of support. Through the use of breathwork, dialogues, journaling, and group conversations you will leave the mountain forever and fundamentally changed for the better. 

1:1 and Group Coaching: This excursion includes a personal development element not offered in any other traditional guided climbs.