Kilimanjaro Stage Run is a 250km / 5 stages ultra marathon in Moshi, Tanzania. Distance: 250km. Elevation: 6,000m D+. Difficulty: challenging (Challenge Rating 54/100). DNF rate: 15%. Time limit: 120h. Surface: trail. Established 2013.
Kilimanjaro Stage Run
Moshi, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
"250km around the base of Kilimanjaro. Five stages, five climate zones, Africa's highest peak."
Circle Africa's highest mountain in five stages — 250km around Kilimanjaro through rainforest, savanna, and alpine desert.
The Course
A five-stage run around the base of Mount Kilimanjaro through diverse ecosystems — from tropical rainforest to alpine desert. The course does not summit Kilimanjaro but circles its massive base, passing through coffee plantations, Masai villages, and cloud forest.
mountainous
point-to-point
5
Runner Experience
Remote course with widely spaced aid points. Runners should be prepared for long unsupported stretches.
A legendary finish line atmosphere. Kilimanjaro Stage Run is a bucket-list race with celebrations that match its reputation.
Race Day Weather
18°C
8° – 28°
65%
25%
Dry season — warm days, cool nights at altitude. Wide temperature range depending on elevation. Morning cloud common.
Stats & Records
2013
60
4:00:00:00
Entry
USD 2,800
January
months
Lore & Trivia
The Kilimanjaro Stage Run ascends Africa's highest mountain (5,895m) in a multi-stage format, crossing five distinct climate zones: tropical forest, moorland, alpine desert, arctic zone, and the summit glaciers. Unlike traditional Kilimanjaro treks that take 5-7 days, the stage run compresses the ascent into a racing format where altitude acclimatisation is a real concern — some runners summit with splitting headaches, nausea, and the euphoria of standing on the highest point in Africa.
- ▸ Kilimanjaro's base circumference is roughly 250km — the race covers the entire circle.
- ▸ Runners pass through five distinct climate zones, from tropical to alpine desert.
- ▸ Masai warriors greet runners at certain points along the course.
- ▸ The views of Kilimanjaro's snow-capped summit from the course are breathtaking, weather permitting.
- ▸ Established in 2013.
Running to the Roof of Africa, stage by stage, through five climate zones — from tropical forest to arctic summit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Kilimanjaro Stage Run? +
Kilimanjaro Stage Run is a 250km / 5 stages (250km) ultra marathon with 6,000m of elevation gain. The course is point-to-point on trail terrain.
How hard is Kilimanjaro Stage Run? +
Kilimanjaro Stage Run is rated challenging with a Challenge Rating of 54/100 (Challenging). The DNF rate is 15%. Runners have 120 hours to finish.
What is the weather like at Kilimanjaro Stage Run? +
Average temperature is 18°C (range 8°C to 28°C) with 65% humidity and a 25% chance of rain. Dry season — warm days, cool nights at altitude. Wide temperature range depending on elevation. Morning cloud common.
Are crew and pacers allowed at Kilimanjaro Stage Run? +
No crew access is permitted. Pacers are not allowed. Mandatory gear is required.
What is the average finish time for Kilimanjaro Stage Run? +
The average finish time is 4:00:00:00. About 60 runners finish each year. The DNF rate is 15%.
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