MACHAME GATE – MACHAME CAMP: 10.75km / 7mi | 5-6 hrs | Rainforest

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 1811m/5942ft to 3021m/9911ft
Altitude gained: 1210m

Starting from Moshi, a 45-minute drive leads through the Village of Machame to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Here, permits are issued amidst the lively preparations of many crews for the journey ahead. Enjoy the stunning rainforest scenery and winding trails as the guide shares insights about the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.

MACHAME CAMP – SHIRA CAMP: 5.3km/3mi | 4-5hrs | Moorland

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3021m/9911ft to 3839m/12,595ft
Altitude gained: 818m

After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, the journey continues from the rainforest along an ascending path, crossing a valley and a steep rocky ridge. The route then turns west into a river gorge, leading to the Shira campsite. As the day progresses, temperatures begin to drop.

SHIRA CAMP – LAVA TOWER – BARRANCO CAMP: 10.75km/6mi | 5-6hrs | Semi-Desert

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3839m/12,595ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 147m

Although the day ends at a similar elevation to the start, it is crucial for acclimatization. From Shira Plateau, the path ascends east up a ridge, passing the junction towards Kibo peak, then continues southeast towards the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev. 4650m/15,250ft). After the tower, a second junction leads to the Arrow Glacier, followed by a descent to Barranco Camp for the night.

BARRANCO CAMP – KARANGA CAMP – BARAFU CAMP: 8.5km/5mi | 6-8hrs | Alpine Desert

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft
Altitude gained: 676m

Following breakfast, the trek continues up a steep ridge to the thrilling Barranco Wall, then to the Karanga Valley and the junction with the Mweka Trail. This day showcases the crew’s impressive strength and agility as they navigate the wall with apparent ease. The journey proceeds to Barafu Camp, completing the South Circuit, which offers stunning summit views from various angles. An early dinner and rest prepare for summit night, with an overnight stay at Barafu Camp.

BARAFU CAMP – SUMMIT: 4.86km /3mi up | 5-7hrs | – MWEKA CAMP: 13km /8mi down | 5-6hrs | Glaciers, Snow Capped Summit

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 4662m/15,295ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gained: 1233m | Descent to: 3106m/10,190ft
Altitude lost: 2789m

The most challenging part of the trek begins between midnight and 2 a.m., testing both mental and physical endurance. Climbers ascend between Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, navigating scree in switchbacks to Stella Point. A breathtaking sunrise at the crater rim rewards the effort, with faster climbers possibly witnessing it from the summit. A final hour’s push leads to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.

Celebrate with photos, smiles, and perhaps tears of joy. The descent to Mweka Camp is steep, with a stop at Barafu for lunch and a brief rest. Gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for the loose gravel and volcanic ash. Enjoy the final night on the mountain at Mweka Camp.

MWEKA CAMP – MWEKA GATE – MOSHI: 9.1km/6mi | 3-4hrs | Rainforest

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
Altitude lost: 1473m

After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with the crew, it’s time to bid farewell. The descent continues to the Mweka Park Gate to receive summit certificates. With warmer weather, the terrain is wet, muddy, and steep, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.

From the gate, a vehicle will transport you from Mweka village back to the hotel in Moshi, a journey of about 30 minutes.

• Private transportation
• Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
• Lunch
• All Fees and Taxes
• Dinner
• Portable Private Toilet and Porter
• Breakfast
• Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)

• Flights
• Visa fees
• Travel or Medical Insurance is required and you should ask for Recommendation
• Gamow Bag
• Additional lodge nights if early descent from the mountain

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