Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by your guide and transferred to Moshi or Arusha. After check-in at your hotel, you’ll have a pre-trek briefing where your guide will go over the itinerary, check your equipment, and answer any last-minute questions. The evening is for relaxation and preparation before the adventure begins.
After breakfast, you drive to Londorosi Gate for registration, followed by a short drive to the Lemosho trailhead. The trek starts through a dense rainforest, where you may spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds. The trail is gentle but steadily ascends to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m), also known as “Big Tree Camp.”
Leaving the rainforest, you ascend into moorland, passing through giant heather and volcanic rock formations. The climb becomes steeper as you cross Shira Ridge, offering the first clear views of Kibo Peak. A short descent leads to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m) on the western plateau of Kilimanjaro.
A gradual hike across the Shira Plateau allows time for acclimatization. This is one of the most scenic days, with stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and Mount Meru in the distance. You arrive at Shira 2 Camp (3,850m) by afternoon, with time to rest or explore nearby viewpoints.
A challenging but rewarding day for acclimatization. You ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m), where you have lunch and experience high-altitude conditions. Afterward, you descend into the Barranco Valley, passing through a beautiful Senecio Forest, before reaching Barranco Camp (3,950m).
The day begins with the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling climb that requires some scrambling but is not technical. At the top, you enjoy breathtaking views before continuing through rolling terrain to Karanga Camp (3,995m).
A gradual but steady ascent takes you to Barafu Camp (4,673m), your base for the summit attempt. The terrain is barren and rocky, with strong winds. After an early dinner, you rest before the midnight ascent.
At midnight, you begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). The climb is steep and physically demanding, passing Stella Point (5,739m) before reaching the highest point in Africa at sunrise.
After celebrating, you descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for your last night on the mountain.
A final descent through the rainforest leads to Mweka Gate (1,640m), where you receive your summit certificate. Afterward, a vehicle transfers you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you can rest, celebrate, and enjoy a well-deserved meal.
