Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a friendly Lucky Moon Adventure representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi, the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro. In the evening, meet your expert mountain guide for a thorough briefing and equipment check before the trek begins.

Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp

Elevation: 1,800 m to 2,850 m (5,906 ft to 9,350 ft)
Distance: 11 km / 7 miles
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

After breakfast, drive to Umbwe Gate, where your adventure officially starts. The trail leads sharply uphill through dense rainforest with moss-covered trees and tangled roots. It’s a steep and challenging ascent, but the peaceful, less-traveled path offers a unique wilderness experience. Arrive at Umbwe Cave Camp for your first night on the mountain.

Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 2,850 m to 3,983 m (9,350 ft to 13,066 ft)
Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Today’s hike continues with a steep climb, moving from lush forest to heath and moorland. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of valleys and ridges as you approach Barranco Camp, nestled below the imposing Breach Wall. From here, enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and the southern glaciers.

Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,983 m to 3,995 m (13,066 ft to 13,106 ft)
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Start the day with a thrilling scramble up the iconic Barranco Wall—a highlight of the Umbwe Route. Though not technical, it’s steep and requires some hands-on climbing. After the wall, the trail undulates across ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp, a key acclimatization stop.

Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu High Camp

Elevation: 3,995 m to 4,673 m (13,106 ft to 15,331 ft)
Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Today’s trek is shorter but steeper as you climb toward Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. Upon arrival, rest, hydrate, and prepare for the challenging push to the top. An early dinner will be served before you retire to your tent to rest ahead of the midnight summit trek.

Day 5: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak & Descent to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,673 m to 5,895 m (15,331 ft to 19,341 ft) then down to 3,100 m (10,170 ft)
Distance: 5 km ascent + 12 km descent (11 miles total)
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours

Around midnight, you’ll begin your final ascent under the stars. The trail winds up through icy switchbacks to Stella Point, and from there, it’s a rewarding trek along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After sunrise and summit photos, descend to Barafu for a rest stop, then continue to Mweka Camp for your last night on the mountain.

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi

Elevation: 3,100 m to 1,640 m (10,170 ft to 5,380 ft)
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Enjoy your final breakfast on the mountain before a gentle descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here, you’ll collect your summit certificate and meet your driver for a transfer back to Moshi. Spend the evening relaxing and celebrating with your team.

Departure Day

After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home. Or extend your adventure with a Tanzania safari or Zanzibar beach holiday—just ask our team for custom planning.