Day 1: Lemosho Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)

Distance: 6 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Zone: Rainforest

After breakfast and briefing, you’ll transfer to Lemosho Gate, where you begin your trek through pristine rainforest. The trail is rich in flora and fauna—watch for black-and-white colobus monkeys and colorful birds. Reach Mti Mkubwa Camp (“Big Tree Camp”) by late afternoon.

• Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)

Distance: 8 km | Time: 5–6 hours | Zone: Moorland

Climb steadily through forest and transition into the moorland zone, with heather and volcanic rock fields. Today offers your first views of Kibo Peak, the summit of Kilimanjaro. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, located on the edge of the Shira Plateau.

• Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)

Distance: 7 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Zone: Moorland

Today is an easier day for acclimatization. You’ll cross the vast and scenic Shira Plateau, taking in panoramic views and dramatic landscapes. You may also enjoy an acclimatization hike in the afternoon, which helps prepare for higher altitudes ahead.

• Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp (3,960m) via Lava Tower (4,630m)

Distance: 10 km | Time: 6–8 hours | Zone: Alpine Desert

This is a crucial acclimatization day. Climb to Lava Tower at 4,630 meters for lunch, then descend to Barranco Camp. The “climb high, sleep low” principle helps your body adjust to altitude. Expect stunning views and possibly your first sight of snowfields on Kibo.

• Overnight: Barranco Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)

Distance: 5 km | Time: 4–5 hours | Zone: Alpine Desert

Begin with a challenging climb up Barranco Wall, a non-technical but steep ascent offering rewarding views. Then traverse a series of ridges and valleys to reach Karanga Camp, a critical acclimatization stop before your summit push.

• Overnight: Karanga Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)

Distance: 4 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Zone: Alpine Desert

Climb steadily to Barafu Camp, the final base before the summit attempt. You’ll arrive by early afternoon to rest, hydrate, and prepare. Eat an early dinner and go to bed early—your summit trek begins around midnight.

• Overnight: Barafu Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Barafu to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Distance: 17 km | Time: 12–14 hours | Zone: Arctic to Rainforest

Start your summit bid at midnight, climbing slowly under the stars. Reach Stella Point (5,756m) by sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrations and photos, descend to Barafu, rest briefly, and continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

• Overnight: Mweka Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 (Optional): Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Return to Arusha

Distance: 10 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Zone: Rainforest

Trek down through rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. After celebrating with your team, transfer back to Arusha or Moshi for a hot shower, relaxation, and well-earned rest.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch