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."
Score Breakdown
Based on distance, vertical gain per km, terrain difficulty, weather extremes, historical DNF rate, and race format.
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.
Experience ratings are based on runner reports, race reviews, community feedback, and editorial assessment. Scenery reflects the visual quality of the course. Organization covers aid stations, logistics, and communication. Community measures the atmosphere, inclusivity, and camaraderie among runners.
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
30%
20
90%
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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