Day 1: Lemosho Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp

• Elevation: 2,100 m (6,890 ft) to 2,820 m (9,250 ft)
• Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
• Time: 3-4 hours

After registration at Lemosho Gate, the trek begins through the rainforest zone, where you may spot Colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and various birds. The hike is relatively short but can be muddy. You’ll arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp) for your first overnight stay in tents, surrounded by dense jungle.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp

• Elevation: 2,820 m (9,250 ft) to 3,500 m (11,500 ft)
• Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
• Time: 4-5 hours

Today’s trek takes you from the rainforest into the moorland zone, where the vegetation becomes more sparse. You will ascend through rocky terrain, enjoying stunning views of Shira Plateau. By afternoon, you’ll reach Shira 1 Camp, where you can relax and acclimatize.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp

• Elevation: 3,500 m (11,500 ft) to 3,840 m (12,600 ft)
• Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles
• Time: 3-4 hours

This is a relatively short and easy trekking day designed for acclimatization. The hike across the Shira Plateau offers breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding valleys. After a few hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Shira 2 Camp, where you will spend the night under the stars.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

• Elevation: 3,840 m (12,600 ft) to 4,630 m (15,190 ft) to 3,950 m (12,960 ft)
• Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
• Time: 6-8 hours

This day is crucial for acclimatization. After breakfast, hike to Lava Tower (4,630 m), where you’ll have lunch and experience high-altitude conditions. Then, descend into the Great Barranco Valley, where you will notice how your body adjusts to the altitude. The descent helps with acclimatization, making the summit easier. Overnight at Barranco Camp, surrounded by spectacular scenery.

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp

• Elevation: 3,950 m (12,960 ft) to 4,035 m (13,250 ft)
• Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles
• Time: 4-5 hours

Start the day by tackling the Barranco Wall, a challenging but exciting scramble that rewards climbers with stunning panoramic views. After reaching the top, the trail becomes easier as you walk through rolling hills and valleys towards Karanga Camp. This is a short day designed for acclimatization, helping your body adjust before the final ascent.

Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp

• Elevation: 4,035 m (13,250 ft) to 4,640 m (15,220 ft)
• Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles
• Time: 4-5 hours

Today, you’ll hike through alpine desert terrain to reach Barafu Camp, the final stop before the summit attempt. Upon arrival, eat an early dinner and rest before midnight, as you prepare for the final push to the summit.

Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

• Elevation: 4,640 m (15,220 ft) to 5,895 m (19,341 ft) to 3,100 m (10,170 ft)
• Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles
• Time: 12-14 hours

Summit Night
At midnight, begin the most challenging part of the climb. The steep ascent to Stella Point (5,756 m) takes about 6-7 hours. After a short rest at Stella Point, continue for another 45 minutes to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa!

After celebrating and taking photos, descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp (3,100 m) for a well-deserved meal and overnight stay.

Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Departure

• Elevation: 3,100 m (10,170 ft) to 1,640 m (5,380 ft)
• Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
• Time: 3-4 hours

After breakfast, take a gentle descent through the rainforest zone to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, you’ll receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate before being transferred back to Arusha or Moshi for relaxation or your departure.