Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

• Distance: 6 km
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Elevation Gain: 2,250 m to 2,820 m
• Vegetation Zone: Rainforest

The day begins with a scenic drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Gate for registration. After meeting your mountain crew, you’ll be driven further up to the Lemosho trailhead. The trek starts with a pleasant walk through pristine rainforest, with possible sightings of blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus, and colorful birds. The trail is rich in flora and offers a gentle start to your Kilimanjaro journey.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

• Distance: 8 km
• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
• Elevation Gain: 2,820 m to 3,500 m
• Vegetation Zone: Moorland

Today’s hike begins with a steep climb out of the forest and into moorland, where the trees thin and views expand. The transition in vegetation is remarkable, with heather, wildflowers, and strange high-altitude plants replacing the dense jungle. After ascending the Shira Ridge, the trail levels off onto the expansive Shira Plateau—one of the most breathtaking landscapes on the mountain.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

• Distance: 7 km
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Elevation Gain: 3,500 m to 3,850 m
• Vegetation Zone: Moorland

The trek across the Shira Plateau is relatively short and ideal for acclimatization. It’s a stunning alpine moorland stretch with unobstructed views of Kibo Peak ahead and Mount Meru behind. You’ll cross ancient lava flows and spot large groundsel and lobelias. The afternoon is perfect for rest and light exploration around camp to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

This is a significant day for acclimatization as you climb high and sleep low. You’ll ascend steadily toward Lava Tower (4,640 m), where you’ll stop for lunch and adjust to the thin air. After spending time at this high point, the trail descends into the lush Barranco Valley. Along the way, look for surreal Dendrosenecio plants and waterfalls trickling down the cliffs. Barranco Camp offers one of the most spectacular campsites, nestled beneath the towering Breach Wall.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Distance: 6 km
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 3,960 m to 4,035 m
• Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

Start the day with a hands-on scramble up the famous Barranco Wall, a fun and thrilling ascent with incredible views back over the Shira Plateau. Once at the top, the trail undulates through rocky ridges and valleys. You’ll enjoy a relatively short day of hiking to Karanga Camp, providing the opportunity for rest and further acclimatization before summit night.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Distance: 4 km
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Elevation Gain: 4,035 m to 4,673 m
• Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

You continue ascending through the alpine desert landscape, where the air is thinner and the environment more rugged. The trail becomes steeper as you approach Barafu Camp, your final base before the summit push. Arriving early in the afternoon allows for rest, hydration, and preparation. You’ll sleep early tonight to prepare for your midnight start toward Uhuru Peak.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak – Descend to Mweka Camp

• Distance: 5 km ascent + 12 km descent
• Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
• Elevation: 4,673 m to 5,895 m (summit), then down to 3,100 m
• Vegetation Zones: Arctic to Moorland

The most challenging and rewarding part of your trek begins just after midnight. Under starry skies, you’ll ascend steep switchbacks toward Stella Point (5,739 m) and then onward along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement at the summit, you’ll descend to Barafu for a short rest, then continue your long descent down to Mweka Camp, passing through changing landscapes.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha

• Distance: 10 km
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Elevation Loss: 3,100 m to 1,640 m
• Vegetation Zone: Rainforest

Your final day takes you down a beautiful forest path rich with birdsong, tree ferns, and a moist, earthy aroma. You’ll descend to Mweka Gate, where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. After signing out of the park, you’ll be driven back to your hotel for a well-earned shower, rest, and celebration.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch