Day 1: Lemosho Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp

Distance: 4.8km / 3mi | Time: 3–4 hrs | Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation: 2,389m/7,838ft → 2,785m/9,137ft (↑396m)

After breakfast, you’ll depart Moshi for a scenic 3-hour drive through charming mountain villages to the Lemosho Gate. While permits are arranged, you’ll witness the lively preparation of crews readying for their treks. Once on the trail, immerse yourself in lush rainforest, with your guide pointing out native plants, wildlife, and bird species. Expect muddy and sometimes slippery paths—gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp

Distance: 7.9km / 5mi | Time: 4–6 hrs | Habitat: Moorland
Elevation: 2,785m/9,137ft → 3,504m/11,496ft (↑719m)

After a restful night, continue your trek upward, leaving the rainforest behind. The trail ascends steadily through the heather and moorland zone, revealing sweeping views as you climb. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at the Shira Plateau, one of the world’s highest plateaus. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp – Shira Hut

Distance: 6.9km / 4.3mi | Time: 5–7 hrs | Habitat: Moorland
Elevation: 3,504m/11,496ft → 3,895m/12,779ft (↑391m)

Spend the day exploring the Shira Plateau on a gentle trek eastward toward Kibo’s glaciered peak. Passing through meadows and streams, you’ll reach Shira 2 Camp before continuing to Moir Hut, located at the base of the Lent Hills. The area provides excellent acclimatization hikes with panoramic views, as Shira Plateau is among the highest in the world. Overnight at Shira Hut.

Day 4: Shira Hut – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

Distance: 10.1km / 6.3mi | Time: 4–6 hrs | Habitat: Semi-Desert
Elevation: 3,895m/12,779ft → 3,986m/13,077ft (↑91m)

This key acclimatization day takes you east from the Shira Plateau up to the Lava Tower (4,650m/15,250ft), also known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” Though you end the day at a similar altitude to where you started, the higher climb helps your body adjust. Descend into the Barranco Valley to overnight at Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the imposing Barranco Wall.

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp

Distance: 5.2km / 3mi | Time: 4–5 hrs | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Elevation: 3,986m/13,077ft → 4,034m/13,235ft (↑48m)

Begin the morning with the exhilarating climb up the Barranco Wall, an impressive section requiring both balance and determination. Afterward, descend into the Karanga Valley before reaching Karanga Camp at the junction with the Mweka Trail. Overnight at Karanga Camp.

Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp

Distance: 3.3km / 2mi | Time: 4–5 hrs | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Elevation: 4,034m/13,235ft → 4,662m/15,295ft (↑628m)

Continue climbing toward Barafu Camp, completing the southern circuit of Kilimanjaro, which showcases dramatic summit views from multiple angles. After an early dinner, rest in preparation for the overnight push to the summit. Overnight at Barafu Camp.

Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

Distance: 4.86km / 3mi ascent (5–7 hrs) | 13km / 8mi descent (5–6 hrs)
Habitat: Glaciers & Icefields → Rainforest
Elevation: 4,662m/15,295ft → 5,895m/19,341ft (↑1,233m) → 3,106m/10,190ft (↓2,789m)

Summit day begins just after midnight. With headlamps lighting the way, ascend slowly through switchbacks and scree slopes toward Stella Point (5,739m/18,829ft). Here, pause to witness a breathtaking sunrise before making the final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking in the views, descend carefully back to Barafu for a short rest, then continue to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi

Distance: 9.1km / 6mi | Time: 3–4 hrs | Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation: 3,106m/10,190ft → 1,633m/5,358ft (↓1,473m)

After breakfast and a farewell ceremony with your team, descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. From here, a vehicle will transfer you to Moshi. Celebrate your achievement with a hot shower, hearty dinner, and well-earned rest.