Machame Gate to Machame Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - The drive from Moshi to the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate takes approximately 50 minutes. The route passes through the village of Machame, situated on the mountain’s lower slopes. Upon leaving the park gate, the path leads through the rainforest along a winding trail up a ridge. The lower sections of the trail can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. The journey continues for a short distance until reaching Machame Camp.

Machame Camp to Shira Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast, the trek leaves the rainforest glades and follows an ascending path, crossing a small valley and walking along a steep rocky ridge covered with heather until the ridge ends. The route then turns west into a river gorge. Time is set aside for rest, dinner, and an overnight stay at the Shira campsite.

Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - The trek continues east up a ridge and then heads southeast towards the Lava Tower, a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. The descent to Barranco Camp passes through the unique and beautiful Senecio Forest, reaching an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although the day begins and ends at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitudes is excellent for acclimatization.

Barranco Camp To Karanga Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - The day starts with a descent into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. The climb up the nearly 900 ft cliff is non-technical but steep. From the top of the Barranco Wall, the path crosses a series of hills and valleys before descending sharply into Karanga Valley. A final steep climb leads to Karanga Camp. This shorter day is designed for acclimatization.

Karanga Camp To Barafu Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - The trek leaves Karanga and reaches the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. The path continues up to the rocky section leading to Barafu Hut. At this point, the Southern Circuit is completed, offering views of the summit from various angles. Camp is set up here, with time to rest and enjoy an early dinner in preparation for the summit day. The peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are visible from this location.

Barafu Camp To Summit To Mweka Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - In the early morning hours (midnight to 2 am), the ascent to the summit begins between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. The path heads northwest, ascending through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This section is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek. At Stella Point (18,600 ft), a short rest is taken, offering the chance to witness a magnificent sunrise (weather permitting). From Stella Point, snow may be encountered during the 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent is reached. Faster hikers may see the sunrise from the summit. The descent continues straight down to the Mweka Hut campsite, with a stop at Barafu for lunch. Gaiters and trekking poles are advisable for the loose gravel on the descent. Mweka Camp is located in the upper forest, where mist or rain is common in the late afternoon. The evening is spent enjoying the last dinner on the mountain and a well-deserved sleep.

Mweka Camp to Moshi

Mount Kilimanjaro - After breakfast, the descent continues to the Mweka Park Gate to receive summit certificates. At lower elevations, conditions can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. Shorts and t-shirts are likely sufficient (keep rain gear and warmer clothing accessible). From the gate, the journey continues for another hour to Mweka Village, where a vehicle will be waiting to drive back to the hotel in Moshi.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

• Flights
• Visa fee

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.