ITINERARY

DAY - 1

Londorossi Gate - Mti Mkubwa Camp  

Reaching Londorossi Gate (2,100 meters) takes about 2 hours from Moshi, and longer from Arusha. At the gate, you'll register with Kilimanjaro National Park authorities before continuing by vehicle to the starting point, 12 km further. During the wet season, vehicles may not reach the start, requiring a walk for the final stretch. Most tour operators provide lunch before the short trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters). Wildlife such as elephants and buffalo may be spotted along the way, often with an armed guide for safety. Dinner will be served at the camp.

DAY - 7

Barafu Hut Camp (4328m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Mweka Hut (3200m)

In the early hours of the morning (midnight to 2 am), we begin our ascent to the summit, passing between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Heading northwesterly, we navigate through steep scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This section of the trek is the most physically and mentally demanding.

At Stella Point (5,670 meters/18,600 ft), we take a short break and are rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise (weather permitting). From there, we continue our 1-hour ascent to the summit, where snow may cover the path. At Uhuru Peak, we will reach the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa. Some faster hikers may reach the summit in time to see the sunrise from the top.

Afterward, we begin our descent to Mweka Hut, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The loose gravel requires the use of gaiters and trekking poles. Mweka Camp, located in the upper forest zone, may experience mist or rain in the late afternoon. In the evening, we enjoy our final dinner on the mountain and rest after a challenging journey.

DAY - 8

Mweka Hut (3200m)  to Mweka Gate 

After breakfast, we begin our descent towards the Mweka Park Gate to collect our summit certificates. As we descend to lower altitudes, the path may become wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. The weather will be milder, and wearing shorts and a t-shirt should be comfortable, but keep rain gear and warmer layers on hand just in case. After reaching the gate, we continue for another hour to Mweka Village. There, a vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, where you can make your own arrangements for the remainder of your trip.

DAY - 6

Karanga Valley Camp (3995m) –  Barafu Hut Camp (4673m)

We leave Karanga and reach the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail. From there, we continue upward to the Barafu Hut. At this point, we have completed the South Circuit, which provides stunning views of the summit from various angles. Once at Barafu Hut, we set up camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the challenging summit day ahead. From this location, both the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are clearly visible.

DAY - 5

Barranco Camp -  Karanga Valley Camp (3995m)

After breakfast, we depart from Barranco and make our way up a steep ridge, passing the Barranco Wall. We then head toward the Karanga Valley campsite. This is a relatively short day designed to aid in acclimatization, allowing the body to adjust to the increasing altitude before continuing the climb.

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DAY - 4

Shira Camp 2 to Barranco Camp  (3900m) 

On this day, we head east along a ridge, passing the junction leading towards Kibo’s peak. Our route then shifts southeast toward the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” After passing the tower, we reach the second junction that takes us up to the Arrow Glacier, situated at 4,877 meters (16,000 ft). Following this, we descend to the Barranco Hut at 3,962 meters (13,000 ft), where we rest for the night. Despite ending the day at the same altitude as we began, this day is vital for acclimatization and helps prepare the body for the summit push.

DAY - 2

Mti Mkubwa - Shira Camp 1 

Day two begins with a gradual hike through the remaining rainforest zone, becoming steeper as you enter the low alpine moorland. The trek is long, with a brief stop for lunch at Shira Camp 1, located on the western edge of the Shira Plateau, just over 8 km from the start. The view of Kibo from across the plateau is breathtaking. After reaching the camp, you will overnight at Shira Camp.

DAY - 3

  Shira Camp 1 - Shira camp 2

On day three, we spend a full day exploring the Shira Plateau, taking a gentle walk east toward Kibo's glaciered peak. The route leads to Shira 2 Camp, located on moorland meadows beside a stream. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills, providing an excellent opportunity for acclimatization. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on Earth, offering stunning views and a unique experience as you continue your climb.