Itinerary

1. Day 1: Moshi/Arusha – Umbwe Gate – Umbwe Cave Camp

   • Elevation: 1,200m to 1,700m to 2,850m
   • Distance: 11 km
   • Hiking Time: 6 hours
   • Habitat: Montane Forest
   • Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from your Moshi or Arusha hotel, followed by a scenic drive to Umbwe Gate. After completing registration, begin your trek through lush rainforest, crossing ridges and valleys. Keep an eye out for colobus monkeys and unique vegetation along the way. Reach Umbwe Cave Camp, where your tents will be set up. Enjoy dinner and a restful overnight stay.

2. Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp – Barranco Camp

   • Elevation: 2,850m to 3,950m
   • Distance: 6 km
   • Hiking Time: 4 hours
   • Habitat: Montane Forest & Heather
   • After breakfast, continue through the forest zone, which gradually transitions into moorland and heath. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the Barranco Valley and the ice-capped peak of Kilimanjaro. Arrive at Barranco Camp, where you’ll meet other trekkers on the Machame and Lemosho Routes. Relax with dinner and an overnight stay at camp.

3. Day 3: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp

   • Elevation: 3,950m to 3,900m
   • Distance: 6 km
   • Hiking Time: 4 hours
   • Habitat: Moorland
   • Today’s hike is a short but challenging one. Start by conquering the famous Barranco Wall (4,200m), a thrilling ascent that rewards you with stunning views. The trail then crosses ridges and valleys before leading you to Karanga Camp. After lunch and rest, you have the option for an acclimatization hike to help prepare for the summit. Dinner and overnight stay at Karanga Camp.

4. Day 4: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp

   • Elevation: 3,900m to 4,620m
   • Distance: 4 km
   • Hiking Time: 4 hours
   • Habitat: Alpine Desert
   • The trek to Barafu Camp is short but steep. The alpine desert landscape, marked by strong winds and little vegetation, creates a dramatic environment. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, enjoy lunch, an early dinner, and time to rest before your midnight summit push.

5. Day 5: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

   • Elevation: 4,620m to 5,895m to 3,100m
   • Distance: 15 km
   • Hiking Time: 10–12 hours
   • Habitat: Arctic & Moorland
   • Your summit attempt begins at midnight, after a light meal. Using headlamps, you’ll ascend the steep scree slopes towards Stella Point (5,861m), where you'll be rewarded with the first sunrise views. The final push takes you to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement and taking photos, descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest. The descent continues to Mweka Camp, where you'll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.

6. Day 6: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi/Arusha

   • Elevation: 3,100m to 1,700m
   • Distance: 9 km
   • Hiking Time: 4 hours
   • Habitat: Montane Forest
   • After breakfast, begin your final descent through lush montane forest to Mweka Gate. Once you arrive, sign out and receive your Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Moshi or Arusha, completing your unforgettable journey.