Arusha to Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa

Kilimanjaro National Park - The driver and guide will collect the operator from their accommodation shortly after breakfast and transport them to Lemosho Gate.

On the journey to Londorossi Gate, there is a wonderful chance to pause for lunch in a nearby village and purchase any last-minute supplies. The operator will then meet with the crew and start the hike through the dense rainforest at the base of Kilimanjaro.

During the brief 3 to 4-hour trek to Mti Mkubwa (big tree) Camp, local wildlife such as the Colobus Monkey may be spotted, so keep an eye out for more along the way.

This route is ideal for those seeking a longer trek for acclimatization. It converges with the Machame Route, Shira Route, and Umbwe Route at Barranco Camp.

Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heath
The trail continues out of the rainforest into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock adorned with lichen beards. As the operator ascends through the lush rolling hills and crosses several streams, they reach the Shira Ridge before gently descending to Shira 1 Camp. Here, the first view of Kibo across the plateau is visible.

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 11,500 ft to 13,800 ft
Distance: 11 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Heath
The Shira Plateau is explored for a full day. It is a gentle walk east on moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. The route then diverts from the main trail to Moir Hut, a lesser-used site at the base of Lent Hills. Various walks are available on Lent Hills, making this an excellent opportunity for acclimatization. Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on earth.

Shira 2 to Lava Tower to Barranco

Mount Kilimanjaro - Moir Hut to Lava Tower
Elevation: 13,800 ft to 15,190 ft
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
Distance: 3 km/2 miles
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

The day begins with a climb up a ridge, heading 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 to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although the day starts and ends at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitudes is very beneficial for acclimatization.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

The day starts with a descent into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then, the operator climbs the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall, a series of hills and valleys are crossed until a sharp descent into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb leads to Karanga Camp. This shorter day is designed for acclimatization.

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro - Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km/2 miles
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

The journey continues from Karanga to the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. The operator proceeds up the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, the Southern Circuit is completed, offering views of the summit from various angles. Here, camp is set up, rest is taken, and an early dinner is enjoyed in preparation for the summit day. The peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are visible from this location.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak

Mount Kilimanjaro - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

In the early morning (around midnight), the push to the summit begins. This is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time can be intense. The ascent is made in darkness for several hours with frequent, short breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), the most magnificent sunrise over Mawenzi Peak is witnessed. Finally, Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent, is reached.

From the summit, the descent continues straight down to the Mweka Hut campsite. Mweka Camp is located in the upper forest, where mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha/Moshi

Mount Kilimanjaro - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

On the final day, the descent to Mweka Gate continues, where summit certificates are collected. At lower elevations, conditions can be wet and muddy. From the gate, the journey continues for another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet the operator at Mweka Village to transport them back to the hotel in Moshi.

• Camping gear
• Sleeping bag
• Clean water
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• All fees and taxes

• tips
• travel insuarance
• visas
• flights

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