Climb Mt Kilimanjaro

Covering a distance of 6 kilometres or 4 miles, our journey begins at an elevation of 7,742 feet, ascending to 9,498 feet throughout 3 to 4 hours through the lush rainforest habitat. Departing from Moshi, we go to Londorossi Gate, a journey of approximately 4 hours, where official registration and briefings are conducted. Following this, we embark on a drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon reaching the trailhead, our trek leads us through a pristine natural forest, meandering towards our first campsite, Mti Mkubwa. Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the surroundings as we commence this unforgettable adventure.

Covering a distance of 8 kilometres or 5 miles, our journey ascends from an elevation of 9,498 feet to 11,500 feet throughout 5 to 6 hours, traversing through the heath habitat. Continuing along the trail, we transition from the dense rainforest to a savannah characterized by tall grasses, with heather and volcanic rock adorned with lichen beards. Amidst the lush rolling hills and crossing several streams, we eventually reach Shira Ridge, offering a captivating view of Kibo across the plateau, before descending gently to our resting place at Shira 1 Camp. Embrace the beauty of the landscape as we progress on this remarkable trek.

Our journey covers 11 kilometres or 7 miles and begins at 11,500 feet, ascending to 13,800 feet over 5 to 7 hours through the heath habitat. We will spend the day exploring the vast expanse of the Shira Plateau, embarking on a gentle and less demanding walk through moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp. Along the way, we will diverge from the main trail to reach Moir Hut, a seldom-used site at Lent Hills's base. The Lent Hills offer various walking opportunities in their scenic surroundings, providing an ideal chance for climbers to acclimatize to the altitude. Known as the highest plateau on earth, the Shira Plateau boasts unparalleled beauty and a captivating backdrop for our trekking adventure.

Covering a distance of 7 kilometres or 4 miles, our trek commences at an elevation of 13,800 feet and ascends to 15,190 feet throughout 4 to 5 hours through the Alpine Desert habitat. Our path leads us to Lava Tower, a striking volcanic rock formation standing 300 feet before we descend toward Barranco Camp. The route takes us eastward along a ridge and then southeast, offering captivating views as we traverse through the unique and mesmerizing Senecio Forest, ultimately reaching an altitude of 13,000 feet. Although the elevation remains the same at the beginning and end of the day, the time spent at higher altitudes is a valuable opportunity for acclimatization, preparing us for the challenges ahead on our trek.

Covering a distance of 5 kilometres or 3 miles, our day begins with a descent into a ravine leading to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. We then hike up the steep, non-technical cliff, ascending nearly 900 feet. Traversing the Barranco Wall's highest point, we navigate various hills and valleys until we reach Karanga Valley, which is descending sharply. Finally, with a single steep climb, we arrive at Karanga Camp. This day's shorter journey facilitates acclimatization to the altitude, ensuring our readiness for the challenges ahead on our trek.

Covering a distance of 4 kilometres or 2 miles, our journey begins as we depart from Karanga and head towards the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. Ascending through a rocky section, we will eventually reach Barafu Hut. Upon arrival, you will have completed the Southern Circuit, affording breathtaking views of the Kilimanjaro summit from various perspectives. We will set up camp at Barafu Camp, allowing time for rest and an early dinner as we prepare for the upcoming summit day. Positioned at Barafu camp, you'll be treated to a remarkable vista of Mawenzi and Kibo, the two majestic peaks of Kilimanjaro, providing ample inspiration for the summit ascent.

Covering a distance of 5 kilometres or 3 miles, our journey begins as we ascend from an elevation of 15,331 feet to the towering peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, reaching an impressive height of 19,341 feet. Commencing around midnight, this leg of the trek is the most challenging, both mentally and physically, as we navigate extreme wind and cold. Ascending in darkness for several hours, we'll make occasional short breaks. Approaching Stella Point at 18,900 feet, we'll be greeted by the spectacular sight of the sunrise casting its golden glow over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, our efforts will culminate as we reach Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering unparalleled views of Africa's vast plains sprawling below.

After revelling in the magnificence of Uhuru Peak, we'll begin our descent towards the Mweka Hut campsite, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The rocky terrain may challenge the knees, but trekking poles can provide valuable support. Nestled in the upper forest, the Mweka Camp may experience mist or rain in the late afternoon. As dusk settles, we'll gather for our final meal on the mountain, sharing stories and reflecting on our remarkable achievements. With a sense of fulfilment, we'll retire for a well-deserved rest, marking the conclusion of our unforgettable journey on Mount Kilimanjaro.

On the final day, we will travel 10 kilometres or 6 miles, descending from 10,065 feet to 5,380 feet. With 3 to 4 hours of hiking, we'll traverse through the lush rainforest habitat, where the trails may be damp and muddy at this lower elevation. Arriving at Mweka Gate, we'll receive our well-deserved certificates of success for summiting Mount Kilimanjaro. From there, we'll continue for an additional hour to Mweka Village, where vehicles await to transfer us back to our base hotel in Moshi. This marks the conclusion of our memorable adventure on Africa's highest peak.