Distance: 7 km | Time: 3-4 hours After breakfast and a briefing, drive from Arusha to Londorossi Gate, where registration and entry formalities take place. Begin the trek in the lush rainforest, with sightings of colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and a variety of birds. The trail winds through thick vegetation with cool, humid air and beautiful greenery. The day concludes at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, where you'll have dinner and rest for the night.
Distance: 8 km | Time: 5-6 hours Today’s hike starts with a gradual ascent out of the rainforest and into the heather and moorland zone. The landscape changes dramatically as you trek across rolling hills and grassy slopes, revealing expansive views of the Shira Plateau. After navigating rocky paths, arrive at Shira 1 Camp, set on the open plateau with sweeping views of the Western Breach. This day serves as an introduction to higher elevations and is crucial for acclimatization. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.
Distance: 8 km | Time: 3-4 hours Today’s trek is shorter and less strenuous, allowing time for further acclimatization. Follow a gentle path across the plateau, with the landscape transitioning to rocky terrain dotted with lobelias and giant groundsel. Enjoy incredible views of Mount Meru and the Shira Ridge. Reach Shira 2 Camp by midday, giving you time to explore the surrounding area or relax. Spend the night at Shira 2 Camp, where temperatures drop, reminding you of the changing altitude.
Elevation: 3,850m to 4,600m (Lava Tower), then down to 3,950m
Distance: 10 km | Time: 6-8 hours This is an essential acclimatization day. Start with a gradual ascent to the Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation at 4,600 meters. After reaching Lava Tower, spend some time acclimatizing, then descend into the Barranco Valley, where you’ll feel the benefits of the climb-high, sleep-low principle. The descent brings you to Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the Great Barranco Wall and surrounded by impressive views. This is one of the most scenic areas on Kilimanjaro, where you can see the dramatic contrast between the harsh alpine desert and lush valleys below. Overnight at Barranco Camp.
Distance: 5 km | Time: 4-5 hours The day begins with an adventurous climb up the Great Barranco Wall, a non-technical but exciting scramble with stunning views of the surrounding valleys. Once at the top, the trail follows a series of ridges with intermittent descents and ascents across the alpine desert. Arrive at Karanga Camp in the early afternoon, where you can rest and enjoy the breathtaking vistas of Kibo Peak and the nearby valleys. This shorter day allows you to rest and acclimatize before the final ascent. Overnight at Karanga Camp.
Distance: 4 km | Time: 4-5 hours Today’s hike is a steady uphill climb toward Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. The landscape becomes barren and rocky, with few signs of vegetation as you approach the harsh alpine desert. Arrive at Barafu in the afternoon, where you’ll have an early dinner and prepare for the challenging summit ahead. Get a few hours of sleep before the midnight departure. Overnight at Barafu Camp.
Elevation: 4,680m to 5,895m (summit), then down to 3,068m
Distance: 17 km | Time: 12-15 hours Begin the ascent to the summit around midnight. The trail is steep and challenging, passing through heavy scree and rocky terrain. Reach Stella Point (5,739m) at sunrise, offering magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. From there, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. After a brief celebration and photos, begin the descent to Mweka Camp, where you’ll have dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Inclusives
Park fees and permits
Mountain guide, porters, and cook
Three meals a day, drinking water
Accommodation in huts or tents (depending on the route)