8-Day Kilimanjaro Western Breach Trek to Uhuru Peak via Crater Camp

We depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, a drive of about 4 hours, where you will complete the entry formalities and have lunch while sorting the things that will go to Kilimanjaro. Then we drive for another hour to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at the starting point, we walk through the undisturbed forest, winding our way to the first campsite, Big Tree Camp (2780m / 9121ft).

Continue on the trail as it leads out of the forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, you may have a hot lunch halfway, depending on the weather that day. Then proceed to the Shira Ridge before gently descending to Shira 1 Camp (3500m / 11483ft). The view of Kibo from across the plateau is amazing.

You will explore the Shira Plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east toward Kibo's glaciated peak, across the plateau, leading to Shira 2 Camp on moorland meadows by a stream. You will have a hot lunch on the way before heading to Moir Hut.

Then we continue to Moir Hut, a little-used site at the base of the Lent Hills. The various Lent Hills offer different walks, making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on Earth. Overnight at Moir Hut (4175m / 13698ft).

From the Shira Plateau and Moir Hut, we continue east up a ridge, passing the junction toward the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the southeast toward the Lava Tower, called the Shark's Tooth. Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction, which brings us up to Lava Tower Camp.

The 1.5- to 2-hour trek up a steep, boulder-strewn path brings us to Arrow Glacier Camp (4830m / 15846ft) at the great foot of the Western Breach. From this campsite rises the steep path up to the crater. The massive headwall of the breach glows a warm red in the afternoon sun while you rest in camp in preparation for the most challenging day ahead.

After a really early hot breakfast, we begin ascending the Western Breach no later than 5 am, a climb that takes approximately 5-6 hours. On this day, we will take our helmets and ropes if needed, as there might be rockfall. Upon reaching the crater rim, we'll have a stunning view of the Northern Icefields and the Furtwangler Glacier.

Then continue for another 1.5 to 2 hours across the crater floor, with an option to hike to the Ash Pit and Reusch Crater. Overnight at Crater Camp (5730m / 18799ft).

We will rise around 04:00, and after some tea and biscuits, you shuffle off into the early morning darkness. From the crater floor, you will probably encounter snow all the way on your 2-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak (5895m / 19340ft). Time spent on the summit should not be much, depending on the weather conditions. If you stay there too long, it will be extremely difficult to start again due to cold and fatigue. Enjoy your accomplishment on a day to remember for the rest of your life.

Walking to Barafu Camp from the summit takes about 3 hours. You will have a well-earned but short rest before heading to Mweka Camp (3080m / 10105ft). The route is not difficult and takes you down the rock and scree path into the moorland and eventually into the forest. The camp is situated in the upper forest, and mist or rain can be expected in the late evening. Dinner and washing water will be provided, as well as drinking water and coffee, while you wait for dinner.

After breakfast, we continue the descent down to Mweka Gate (1630m / 5347ft), where you'll have a hot lunch while your team waits for you. You will be awarded certificates, with gold certificates given to hikers who reach Uhuru Peak, while others receive Stella Point certificates.

Then your team will sing some Kilimanjaro and traditional songs while receiving tips. Our company jeep or transfer car will take you to your hotel for a hot shower. Then enjoy the rest of your day at the hotel, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.