TOUR ITINERARY:
Day 0: Pre-trek Briefing
If you've arranged for airport transfers, our team will be ready to pick you up from Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha Airport and transport you to your cozy accommodation in Moshi.
Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and join us for a comprehensive pre-trek briefing. It's essential to arrive at least one day before the trek begins. During this session, we'll go over the itinerary, check your gear, and arrange any necessary equipment rentals.
Day 1: Hotel to Mti Mkubwa Camp
After a hearty breakfast and briefing, we embark on a picturesque drive to Londorossi Park Gate, which takes about three hours. From there, a rugged forest track accessible only by 4WD vehicles leads us to Lemosho Glades. Our trek kicks off as we traverse through enchanting forest trails to reach the Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Following breakfast, we continue our journey, gradually ascending as the trail meanders through the expansive heather moorland zone. Crossing several streams along the way, we traverse the Shira Ridge, passing by Shira 1 camp before reaching the serene Shira 2 camp nestled amidst moorland meadows alongside a babbling stream.
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp
Today's trek takes us from the Shira Plateau towards the east, ascending a ridge with captivating views. As we veer southeastward towards the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth” (elevation 4650m/15,250ft), we pass by the junction leading to the Arrow Glacier. Descending thereafter, we arrive at Barranco Camp. Although our elevation remains relatively constant, this day is crucial for acclimatization, preparing our bodies for the challenges ahead.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp
After a nourishing breakfast, we conquer the Barranco Wall, ascending a steep ridge that leads to the Karanga Valley and eventually intersects with the Mweka Trail. Continuing our ascent, we arrive at Barafu Camp, marking the completion of the South Circuit. Here, amidst the alpine desert, we rest, dine, and prepare ourselves for the summit push.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp
In the wee hours (between midnight and 2 am), we embark on the ultimate ascent to the summit, navigating between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Heading northwest, we ascend through challenging scree terrain towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This segment is undoubtedly the most demanding both mentally and physically. At Stella Point, a brief rest rewards us with an awe-inspiring sunrise. Those swift on their feet may catch the sunrise from the summit.
From Stella Point, snow may accompany us on the final hour-long ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa! Descending from the summit, we proceed directly to Mweka Camp, pausing at Barafu for lunch. Gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for the gravelly descent. As we arrive at Mweka Camp, we cherish our final evening on the mountain.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel
Following breakfast, we commence our descent towards the Mweka Park Gate, where you'll receive well-deserved summit certificates. Lower elevations may bring wet and muddy terrain, so gaiters and trekking poles are handy. At the gate, our vehicle awaits to transport you back to your hotel in Moshi, approximately a 60-minute drive.