After breakfast, transfer to Machame Gate to complete park registration. Begin your trek through lush montane rainforest, home to unique vegetation and birdlife, before reaching Machame Camp.

Distance: 10–11 km | Hiking time: 5–7 hours
Elevation: 1,800 m → 2,835 m
Overnight: Machame Camp

Continue climbing through heathland and moorland towards the Shira Plateau. Enjoy panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape as you reach Shira Camp.

Distance: 5–6 km | Hiking time: 4–6 hours
Elevation: 2,835 m → 3,750 m
Overnight: Shira Camp

After breakfast, you will trek across the spectacular alpine landscape towards Lava Tower at approximately 4,630 metres. After lunch, the trail descends to Barranco Camp at 3,960 metres, following the important acclimatization principle of “climb high, sleep low.” Along the way, enjoy dramatic mountain scenery and unique high-altitude vegetation, including giant groundsels. Upon arrival at Barranco Camp, you can rest and prepare for the next day’s ascent of the famous Barranco Wall.

Distance: 9–11 km | Hiking time: 6–8 hours
Overnight: Barranco Camp (3,960 m)

Climb the spectacular Barranco Wall, enjoying impressive views of the mountain and surrounding valleys. Continue across ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp.

Distance: Approximately 5 km | Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Elevation: 3,960 m → 3,995 m
Overnight: Karanga Camp

Ascend through rocky alpine terrain to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. After an early dinner, rest and prepare your equipment for the midnight ascent.

Distance: Approximately 4 km | Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Elevation: 3,995 m → 4,673 m
Overnight: Barafu Camp

Begin the final ascent shortly after midnight, climbing towards Stella Point on the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend via Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp.

Distance: Approximately 14–17 km | Hiking and descent: 10–15 hours or longer
Elevation: 4,673 m → 5,895 m → 3,068 m
Overnight: Mweka Camp

Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you complete the park formalities and receive your summit certificate, subject to the applicable park requirements. Your driver will then transfer you back to Moshi.

Distance: 9–10 km | Hiking time: 3–5 hours
Elevation: 3,068 m → approximately 1,640 m
Accommodation: Camp Kimanganu Safari Lodge, if included in your booking