Arusha (1400m) – Londorossi Gate (2100m) – Mti Mkubwa camp (2750m)
Following a delightful breakfast at our Arusha hotel, we embark on an approximately two-hour scenic drive through the picturesque rural countryside to reach the Londrossi Gate. Here, we complete the essential park registration formalities amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Londorossi National Park. Our journey continues through diverse farmland, offering panoramic vistas of the expansive plains, until we arrive at the starting point of the Lemosho route. As we commence our ascent along the enchanting forest trail, we eventually reach our first campsite nestled amidst the grandeur of nature: the Lemosho Mti Mkubwa Camp. This leg of our journey, from Londrossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp at 2,650 meters, involves a leisurely hike lasting approximately 3-4 hours, promising unforgettable experiences along the way.
- Main Destination:
- West Kilimanjaro (Area)
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Mti Mkubwa Camp (2750m) – Shira 2 Camp (3840m
As we bid farewell to the lush forest, our path ascends steadily, offering expansive vistas as we approach the rim of the majestic Shira Plateau. Embark on a full day of trekking, maintaining a deliberate and measured pace as we make our way to Shira Camp. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, the journey from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp spans approximately 6-7 hours of invigorating walking, immersing you in the breathtaking beauty of the landscape.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Shira 2 (3840m) – Lava Tower (4630m) – Barranco Camp (3950m)
Embark on a leisurely ascent today, offering sweeping panoramic vistas along the way. Our journey takes us along the southwest flank of Kilimanjaro, where we'll pass beneath the majestic Lava Tower and the concluding stretch of the Western Breach. After a satisfying hot lunch at the foot of the Lava Tower, situated at an elevation of 4,600 meters, we begin our descent to the base of the magnificent Great Barranco valley, nestled at 3,900 meters. The trek from Shira Camp to Barranco Camp spans approximately 5 to 7 hours, promising an enriching and invigorating experience amidst nature's grandeur.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Barranco Camp (3950m) – Karanga Camp (3950m)
Today marks a brief yet vital day for acclimatization. Following an energizing breakfast, the challenge awaits: scaling the imposing Great Barranco Wall! Despite its initial daunting appearance, hikers often find this Class 2 ascent more manageable than expected. Reaching the summit rewards you with panoramic vistas, including the majestic Heim Glacier soaring above the clouds. The trail then meanders through the picturesque Karanga Valley, offering a captivating journey of ups and downs. As dusk falls, you'll settle in at Karanga Camp (3,950m), where a satisfying dinner and refreshing washing facilities await amidst the mountain's embrace.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Karanga Camp (3959m) – Barafu Hut (4600)
Following breakfast, your journey upward commences. The trail intersects with the Mweka Route, which is typically used for descent during the final two days of the trek. Continuing your hike for about an hour leads you to Barafu Hut, marking the last available water point for porters as there's no accessible water at Barafu Camp (4,550m). Translating to "ice" in Swahili, Barafu Camp is situated on a rocky, exposed ridge, making tents vulnerable to wind and rocks. It's crucial for hikers to acquaint themselves with the campsite layout before nightfall. An early dinner will be provided, allowing hikers ample time to rest before embarking on the summit attempt later that night. Your guide will provide a detailed briefing on summit night preparations. Aim to retire for the night by 7:00 PM for adequate rest.
Summit attempt at Barafu Camp (4600m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Mweka (3100m)
Hiking Duration: It takes approximately 8 hours to reach Uhuru Peak and around 7–8 hours to descend to Mweka.
Distance Covered: Ascending covers roughly 7 kilometers
Terrain: The path consists of stone scree and the summit is capped with ice.
Around 11:30 pm, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in tea and biscuits before embarking on your summit endeavor. The route leads northwestward, guiding you across stone scree. Many climbers find this part of the ascent to be mentally and physically demanding. After about six hours, you'll reach Stella Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. From there, it's another two hours of ascending on a snow-covered trail to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). You'll have a brief window to capture photographs, tea before commencing the descent to Barafu. The hike down to Barafu Camp typically takes about three hours. Upon arrival, you'll rest and relish a hot lunch under the sun. Following your meal, the descent continues towards Mweka Hut (3,100m).
- Main Destination:
- Uhuru Peak (Mt Kilimanjaro)
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Mweka Camp (3100m) – Mweka Gate (1980m)
A leisurely stroll leads us through the lush rainforest to the Mweka gate, where triumphant climbers will be awarded their summit certificates. Following a satisfying lunch, we journey back to Arusha, where we reunite with our team to share feedback on our trekking experience. The trek from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate typically takes 3-5 hours on foot, offering a picturesque conclusion to our adventure.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks: