Day

If you have selected the optional airport transfer, our team will meet you upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. A pre-trek briefing will be conducted at your Moshi hotel. We recommend arriving at least one day before the trek begins. During this time, our guides will provide a detailed trek briefing, review your equipment, and assist you in renting any necessary gear.
AccommodationDay

The drive from Moshi to Machame Gate takes approximately 45 minutes, passing through the village of Machame on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. From the park gate, the trek begins through lush rainforest, following a winding trail along a ridge. At lower elevations, the path can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. After a steady climb, the trail continues to Machame Camp, where you will spend the night. Elevation: 1,830 m (6,000 ft) to 3,050 m (9,950 ft) Distance: 11 km (7 miles) Hiking Time: 5–6 hours Habitat: Montane Forest Meals: Lunch and Dinner
AccommodationDay

After breakfast, we leave the lush rainforest behind and continue along an ascending trail, crossing a valley and climbing a steep, rocky ridge. The route then turns west, following a river gorge, before reaching Shira Camp, where we settle in for the night. Elevation: 3,050 m (9,950 ft) to 3,850 m (12,600 ft) Distance: 5 km (3 miles) Walking Time: 4–5 hours Habitat: Moorland Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
AccommodationDay

From the Shira Plateau, the route continues eastward along a ridge, passing the junction toward the summit of Kibo. The trail then turns southeast toward the Lava Tower, known as the Shark’s Tooth (4,650 m / 15,250 ft). Shortly after passing the tower, we reach a second junction leading to Arrow Glacier. From here, we descend to Barranco Camp for the night. Although the day ends at roughly the same elevation as it begins, this stage is crucial for acclimatization and plays an important role in preparing your body for summit day. Elevation: 3,850 m (12,600 ft) to 4,000 m (13,000 ft) Distance: 10 km (6 miles) Walking Time: 5–6 hours Habitat: Semi-desert Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
AccommodationDay

After breakfast, we depart Barranco Camp and ascend the steep ridge of the Barranco Wall (4,250 m / 13,900 ft). The trail then descends slightly into the Karanga Valley (4,050 m / 13,250 ft) before reaching the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail. From here, we continue uphill to Barafu Camp. At this point, you will have completed the South Circuit, which offers spectacular views of the summit from multiple angles. We set up camp at Barafu, with the summit visible in the distance, and prepare for the final ascent. Elevation: 4,000 m (13,000 ft) to 4,700 m (15,350 ft) Distance: 9 km (6 miles) Hiking Time: 6–8 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
AccommodationDay

Very early in the morning, typically between midnight and 2:00 a.m., we begin the final ascent to the summit, climbing between the Rebmann and Ratzel Glaciers. Heading northwest, the trail ascends steeply through loose scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically demanding section of the trek. At Stella Point, we pause briefly to rest and are rewarded with an unforgettable sunrise over the African plains. Stronger hikers may reach the summit in time to witness the sunrise from the very top. From Stella Point, the final one-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak may involve walking on snow and ice. Upon reaching the summit, you will stand at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet)—the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and in all of Africa. After celebrating at the summit, we begin our descent, retracing our steps down to Barafu Camp for lunch before continuing to Mweka Camp. Trekking poles and gaiters are highly recommended for the loose gravel on the descent. We arrive at Mweka Camp in the afternoon and enjoy our final evening on the mountain. Elevation: 4,700 m (15,350 ft) to 5,895 m (19,340 ft), then down to 3,090 m (10,150 ft) Distance: 5 km (3 miles) ascent / 13 km (8 miles) descent Hiking Time: 5–7 hours up / 5–6 hours down Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
AccommodationDay

After breakfast, we continue the descent to Mweka Park Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, the trail can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. Light clothing such as shorts and t-shirts is usually sufficient, though it’s wise to keep rain gear and warmer layers handy. A Genet Africa Safaris vehicle will be waiting at Mweka Gate to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (approximately 60 minutes). Elevation: 3,090 m (10,150 ft) to 1,680 m (5,500 ft) Distance: 10 km (6 miles) Hiking Time: 3–4 hours Habitat: Forest Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation
10 Days | Private Safari
10 Days | Private Safari
9 Days | Private Safari
8 Days | Private Safari
Eliabu Benjamin
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