Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

• Elevation: 1,830m to 3,000m (6,000ft to 10,200ft)

• Distance: 11km

• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

• Vegetation: Montane Forest

After a 45-minute drive from Moshi through the village of Machame, we arrive at Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. The trek begins with a scenic hike through lush rainforest along a winding ridge trail—expect muddy and slippery conditions, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. We’ll settle in at Machame Camp for the night.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp

• Elevation: 3,000m to 3,840m (10,200ft to 12,600ft)

• Distance: 5km

• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

• Vegetation: Moorland

Leaving the rainforest behind, we ascend through rocky ridges covered in heather before crossing a small valley. The trail then leads west into a river gorge, where we’ll camp at Shira Plateau, offering stunning views of the mountain.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

• Elevation: 3,800m → 4,630m → 3,986m (12,600ft → 15,000ft → 13,700ft)

• Distance: 11km

• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

• Vegetation: Semi-desert

We trek eastward toward Lava Tower (the “Shark’s Tooth”) before descending into the Barranco Valley. Though we end at a similar elevation to where we started, this day is crucial for acclimatization. The dramatic landscapes and Barranco Wall preview the adventure ahead.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp

• Elevation: 3,900m to 4,600m (13,007ft to 15,295ft)

• Distance: 9km

• Hiking Time: 8 hours

• Vegetation: Alpine Desert

A steep climb up the Barranco Wall leads us through the Karanga Valley before joining the Mweka Trail. As we reach Barafu Camp, the South Circuit rewards us with panoramic summit views. Rest well—summit night begins soon!

Day 5: Summit Day! Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

• Elevation: 4,600m → 5,895m → 3,100m (15,100ft → 19,341ft → 10,200ft)

• Distance: 5km ascent / 12km descent

• Hiking Time: 6–8 hours ascent / 3 hours descent

• Vegetation: Scree, glaciers, and alpine desert

Midnight start: We ascend steep scree slopes to Stella Point (5,685m) on the crater rim, where sunrise over Africa awaits. A final 2-hour push takes us to Uhuru Peak—the Roof of Africa!

After celebrating, we descend to Barafu for lunch before continuing to Mweka Camp. The terrain is loose and rocky; gaiters and poles are essential. Enjoy your last mountain dinner (and maybe a well-earned beer!).

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Elevation: 3,100m to 1,830m (10,200ft to 6,000ft)

• Distance: 10km

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Vegetation: Forest

A final descent through misty rainforest brings us to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. A vehicle will return you to Moshi—time to celebrate your achievement!