Day 1: Arrival in Moshi/Arusha.
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be
warmly welcomed by our friendly team and transferred to your hotel in
Moshi. Take time to settle in and enjoy the serene environment of the
hotel. Relax by the garden or pool and savor a delicious dinner as you
prepare for the adventure ahead. Later in the evening, our guides will
brief you about the trek, covering the route, essential tips, and what
to expect on this thrilling journey to Africa’s highest peak.
Day 2: Moshi to Mkubwa Camp via Londorossi Gate and Lemosho Glades.
After breakfast, leave Moshi and embark on a scenic drive to Londorossi
Gate, where park registration formalities are completed. A 4WD vehicle
takes you through lush forests to Lemosho Glades, the starting point of
your trek. Begin hiking through the enchanting rainforest, with towering
trees and the possibility of spotting colobus monkeys and colorful birds
along the way. Arrive at Mkubwa Camp, nestled in a clearing, where
you'll enjoy dinner and rest for the night.
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Elevation: 915 m to 2,750 m
-
Hours: 3
hours
Day 3: Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1.
Your journey continues as you ascend from the rainforest into the vast
moorlands. The change in scenery is dramatic, with the dense canopy
giving way to heather and shrub-covered terrain. Marvel at the expansive
views as you traverse the Shira Ridge before descending slightly to the
beautiful Shira Plateau. Shira Camp 1, located near a tranquil stream,
provides breathtaking views of Mount Meru in the distance and
Kilimanjaro's glaciers above.
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Elevation: 2,750 m to 3,500 m
-
Hours: Variable
Day 4: Shira Camp 1 to Moir Camp.
Today’s hike takes you across the entire Shira Plateau, a unique
landscape with volcanic rock formations and sweeping vistas. The journey
leads to Moir Camp, a remote and quieter site nestled at the base of a
massive lava flow. This camp is ideal for acclimatization, and you can
choose to take a short hike in the surrounding areas to adjust further
to the altitude while soaking in the incredible panoramic views.
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Elevation: 3,500 m to 4,205 m
-
Hours: 4–5
hours
Day 5: Moir Camp to Buffalo/Pofu Camp.
The adventure continues as you follow a less-traveled path along the
Northern Circuit. This trail provides stunning views of the vast
wilderness, including the rugged Kenyan plains far below. Trek through
the alpine desert, with its stark beauty and unique flora, before
arriving at Buffalo/Pofu Camp. The peaceful surroundings and
awe-inspiring scenery make this an unforgettable spot to rest and
prepare for the next day.
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Elevation: 4,205 m to 4,025 m
-
Hours: 5–7
hours
Day 6: Buffalo/Pofu Camp to Kikelewa/Third Caves Camp.
Today’s trek takes you up and down several ridges and valleys, with
views that stretch across the mountain’s northern slopes. As you descend
toward Kikelewa Camp, the terrain shifts to reveal fascinating rock
formations and patches of alpine vegetation. This camp is located in a
quiet, sheltered area, offering you a chance to relax and reflect on
your progress while acclimatizing further to the altitude.
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Elevation: 4,025 m to 3,600 m
-
Hours: 5–7
hours
Day 7: Kikelewa/Third Caves Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp.
Leaving Kikelewa Camp, you’ll climb steadily toward the striking Mawenzi
Peak. The scenery becomes increasingly rugged, with dramatic ridges and
jagged cliffs. Arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located near a picturesque
alpine lake at the base of the towering Mawenzi Peak. The serene
setting, combined with the stunning views, provides a perfect backdrop
for your acclimatization and preparation for the summit push.
-
Elevation: 3,600 m to 4,315 m
-
Hours: 3–5
hours
Day 8: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Outward Bound Camp.
Cross the famous saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, a vast expanse
of alpine desert offering incredible views of both summits. The trail is
relatively gentle but can be windy and cold due to the exposed terrain.
Arrive at Outward Bound Camp, the highest base camp on the route, where
you’ll rest and prepare for the final ascent. Your guides will brief you
thoroughly for the summit push, ensuring you are ready for the early
morning climb.
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Elevation: 4,315 m to 4,750 m
-
Hours: 5–7
hours
Day 9: Outward Bound Camp to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Millennium Camp.
Begin your ascent well before midnight under the starlit sky. The climb
to Uhuru Peak is challenging but immensely rewarding, as you navigate
rocky trails and steep inclines to reach Stella Point. From there, push
onward to the summit, where you’ll stand at the highest point in Africa
as the sun rises over the continent. After celebrating your achievement,
descend carefully past Barafu Camp to Millennium Camp for a
well-deserved rest and hearty dinner.
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Elevation: 4,750 m to 5,895 m to 3,110 m
-
Hours: 7–8
hours
Day 10: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate and Transfer to Hotel.
On your final day, descend through the lush montane forest to Mweka
Gate, where you’ll receive your well-earned climbing certificate. Enjoy
a celebratory lunch and bid farewell to your guides and porters. You’ll
then be transferred back to Moshi for a refreshing shower, relaxation at
the hotel, or a timely transfer to the airport, depending on your
schedule.
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Elevation: 3,110 m to 1,650 m
-
Hours: 3–4
hours
