Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be met by our friendly representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi—the gateway town to Mount Kilimanjaro. In the evening, meet your expert mountain guide for a detailed trek briefing and gear check, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead.

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation: 2,900 m / 9,500 ft
Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

After breakfast, we drive for several hours through rural landscapes to reach Londorossi Gate, the starting point of the trek. After completing park formalities, your adventure begins with a gentle hike through lush rainforest, home to exotic birds and black-and-white Colobus monkeys. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp for your first night under the stars.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 3,875 m / 12,715 ft
Distance: 16 km / 9 miles
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours

Today’s trek begins with a steep ascent out of the rainforest into a high moorland zone. You’ll pass giant heathers and wildflowers en route to Shira Ridge, with sweeping views of the plateau below. After a rest at Shira 1 Camp, continue across the vast Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp. On clear days, you’ll enjoy dramatic views of the Western Breach. This long day aids acclimatization for the higher altitudes to come.

Day 3: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Elevation: 3,983 m / 13,066 ft
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 5–8 hours

Your trail today heads upward into alpine desert as you approach the striking Lava Tower (4,600 m). Though you ascend high, you’ll descend again to sleep at Barranco Camp, a vital acclimatization strategy. Before reaching camp, pass through the stunning “Garden of the Senecios”, filled with towering giant groundsels and lobelias.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,983 m / 13,066 ft
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Today’s highlight is the Barranco Wall—a challenging but fun scramble that offers panoramic views from the top. The path then descends into the Karanga Valley, followed by a short climb to Karanga Camp, where you’ll rest and acclimatize.

Day 5: Karanga to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,645 m / 15,239 ft
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

A steady uphill climb leads you to Barafu Camp, your final base before the summit attempt. You’ll arrive in time for lunch, followed by an early dinner and rest. Make sure your gear is ready for the midnight ascent to the summit.

Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak & Descend to Mweka Camp

Summit Elevation: 5,895 m / 19,341 ft
Camp Elevation: 3,068 m / 10,065 ft
Distance: 17 km / 10 miles (5 km ascent + 12 km descent)
Hiking Time: 10–16 hours

You’ll begin the final push to the summit just after midnight. The trail is steep and physically demanding, with switchbacks guiding you up to Stella Point just in time for sunrise. From here, it’s a gentle walk along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement, then descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing to Mweka Camp for the night.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi

Elevation: 3,068 m / 10,065 ft
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Enjoy a final breakfast on the mountain before descending through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. A vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Moshi. In the evening, celebrate your climb with a farewell dinner and reflect on your journey to the Roof of Africa.

Day 8: Departure Day

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home or onward adventure. If you’d like to extend your stay with a safari or Zanzibar beach escape, we’d be happy to assist with planning.