Kilimanjaro Trekking 6-8 days

The drive from Moshi to Machame Gate takes approximately 45 minutes, passing through the village of Machame, located on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Upon arrival at the park gate, we begin our trek through the lush rainforest, following a winding trail up a ridge. The trail at lower elevations can be muddy and slippery, making gaiters and trekking poles highly recommended. We continue for a short distance before reaching Machame Camp.

• Elevation: 1,830m (6,000ft) to 3,050m (9,950ft)
• Distance: 11km (7mi)
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest
• Meal Plan: Dinner

Machame Camp

Situated on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro at an altitude of 2,835m, Machame Camp offers scenic views of the higher terrain to the north. The camp has no facilities, but evenings are spent enjoying conversations and sharing experiences with fellow climbers.

After breakfast, we leave the rainforest and continue on an ascending path. The trail crosses a valley and follows a steep, rocky ridge before turning west toward a river gorge, eventually leading to Shira Camp.

• Elevation: 3,050m (9,950ft) to 3,850m (12,600ft)
• Distance: 5km (3miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Shira 2 Camp

Shira 2 Camp is nestled at 2,650m above sea level, surrounded by towering trees. The camp offers a unique camping experience with breathtaking views of the mountain landscape.

Altitude Gain: 719m

From the Shira Plateau, we ascend eastward along a ridge, passing a junction leading toward the Kibo peak. Our direction then shifts southeast toward Lava Tower, an impressive formation also known as the "Shark’s Tooth" at an elevation of 4,650m (15,250ft). Shortly beyond Lava Tower, we reach another junction leading to the Arrow Glacier. From here, we descend to Barranco Camp. While we finish the day at a similar elevation to where we started, this hike is crucial for acclimatization and preparing for the summit.

• Elevation: 3,850m (12,600ft) to 4,000m (13,000ft)
• Distance: 10km (6miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Semi-desert
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Barranco Camp

At an altitude of 3,983m, Barranco Camp is located above the tree line and offers dramatic views of the surrounding barren landscapes. There are no huts or buildings, only campsites with stunning sunrise views of the summit.

After breakfast, we ascend the steep Barranco Wall before making our way to Karanga Valley, where we reach the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail.

• Elevation: 4,000m (13,000ft) to 4,050m (13,250ft)
• Distance: 5km (3miles)
• Climbing Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Millennium Camp

Situated at 3,995m, Millennium Camp offers a rugged alpine desert environment. The summit is visible from the campsite, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by fellow climbers exchanging stories of their adventure.

We continue toward Barafu Camp, completing the South Circuit, which provides spectacular views of the summit from various angles. Upon arrival, we rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for summit day.

• Elevation: 4,050m (13,250ft) to 4,700m (15,350ft)
• Distance: 4km (2miles)
• Climbing Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Barafu Camp

At 4,681m, Barafu Camp, meaning "ice" in Swahili, is an exposed and barren site with freezing temperatures. Here, climbers gather to prepare for the final ascent to the summit.

Between midnight and 2 AM, we begin our final push to the summit, ascending between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. This challenging trek takes us northwest through a heavy scree to Stella Point on the crater rim. Upon reaching Stella Point, climbers are rewarded with an unforgettable sunrise. Those who ascend quickly may witness the sunrise from the summit.

From Stella Point, an additional hour of climbing through possible snow leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent.

After celebrating at the summit, we begin our descent, stopping at Barafu for lunch before continuing to Mweka Camp. The descent requires careful footing due to loose gravel, making gaiters and trekking poles essential.

• Elevation: 4,700m (15,350ft) to 5,895m (19,340ft) (Summit), then down to 3,090m (10,150ft)
• Distance: 5km (3miles) ascent / 13km (8miles) descent
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
• Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Millennium Camp

A well-earned rest awaits at Millennium Camp, where climbers can enjoy the camaraderie of their fellow adventurers and reflect on their journey.

After breakfast, we complete the final descent to Mweka Park Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. Lower elevations can be muddy and wet, so gaiters and trekking poles are advisable. Light clothing, such as shorts and t-shirts, should be sufficient, but rain gear and warmer layers should be kept handy.

Upon reaching Mweka Gate, a Timba Adventures vehicle will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel in Moshi (approximately a 60-minute drive).

• Elevation: 3,090m (10,150ft) to 1,680m (5,500ft)
• Distance: 10km (6miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Forest
• Meal Plan: Breakfast

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Your stay at Kilimanjaro White House Hotel marks the perfect end to your adventure, offering a comfortable place to relax and reflect on your journey.

Your unforgettable Tanzanian adventure comes to a close, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.