Day 1: Arrival and Start of the Trek

You will arrive in Tanzania at Kilimanjaro International Airport and be transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. In the evening, you’ll meet your guide and fellow trekkers for a briefing and equipment check. Overnight stay in a hotel.

Day 2: Shira 2 Camp

After breakfast, you’ll be driven to the starting point of the Shira Route, around 3,500 meters above sea level. The trek begins through the rainforest, gradually ascending to the moorland zone. You’ll hike for approximately 4-5 hours before reaching the Shira 2 Camp, where you’ll spend the night.

Day 3: Lava Tower and Barranco Camp

Today, you’ll ascend to Lava Tower at 4,600 meters, which provides fantastic views of the surrounding landscape. This helps with acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp at 3,950 meters. The trek takes around 6-7 hours, and you’ll pass through diverse terrain and the impressive Barranco Wall.

Day 4: Karanga Camp

From Barranco Camp, you’ll begin the day by climbing the Barranco Wall, which requires some scrambling. The route then traverses the alpine desert, offering spectacular views of the summit. After about 4-5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Karanga Camp, situated at 4,000 meters.

Day 5: Barafu Camp

The trek continues towards Barafu Camp, located at an altitude of 4,600 meters. You’ll ascend through the rocky and barren landscape, known as the lunar desert. This day’s hike takes approximately 3-4 hours, allowing you to rest and prepare for the summit push the next day.

Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak and Mweka Camp

The most challenging day of the trek begins at midnight. You’ll embark on a steep ascent in the darkness, aiming to reach the summit, Uhuru Peak, at 5,895 meters. The trek can take around 6-8 hours and requires strong determination and endurance. Once at the summit, you’ll witness an awe-inspiring sunrise before descending to Mweka Camp, located at 3,100 meters, where you’ll spend the night.

Day 7: Mweka Gate and Departure

The final day involves a descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. You’ll receive your summit certificates and celebrate your accomplishment before being transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. You can rest, reflect on your journey, and prepare for your departure the next day. Please note that the itinerary may vary depending on the tour operator and specific circumstances. It’s crucial to choose a reputable tour company that prioritizes safety, provides experienced guides, and takes proper care of the environment. Additionally, adequate physical fitness and acclimatization are essential for a successful and enjoyable Kilimanjaro expedition.