Climb Mt Kilimanjaro

The trek from Machame Gate to Machame Camp spans 11 kilometres or 7 miles, with an elevation gain from 5,380 feet to 9,350 feet. This leg of the journey typically takes 5 to 7 hours to complete and is characterized by a lush rainforest habitat. Departing from Moshi, the group will travel to Machame Gate, a journey lasting less than an hour, passing through quaint Machame villages nestled on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro Mountain. Upon arrival, after completing all necessary registration and briefing procedures, we will exit the park gate and commence our trek through the dense rainforest, following winding trails until reaching our destination at Machame Camp.

The trek from Machame Camp to Shira 2 Camp covers a distance of 5 kilometres or 3 miles, with an elevation gain from 9,350 feet to 12,500 feet. This portion of the hike typically takes 4 to 6 hours and is characterized by a heath habitat. Departing from the rainforest openings, we continue our ascent along a steep, rocky ridge, gradually reaching the expansive Shira Plateau. Along the way, we traverse through heather and open moorlands, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Crossing a substantial river gorge marks the final stretch of our journey before arriving at Shira 2 Camp.

Trekking from Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower spans 7 kilometres or 4 miles, with an elevation gain from 12,500 feet to 15,190 feet. This leg of the journey typically takes between 4 to 5 hours to complete and is characterized by an alpine desert habitat. Beginning our trek, we head east along a ridge before veering southeast towards Lava Tower, an imposing volcanic rock formation at 300 feet. Descending from Lava Tower, we make our way to Barranco Camp through the unique and visually striking Senecio Forest, reaching an altitude of 13,000 feet. Despite starting and ending the day at the same elevation, the time spent at a higher altitude aids in acclimatization, preparing us for the challenges ahead.

The trek from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp covers a distance of 5 kilometres or 3 miles, with a slight elevation gain from 13,044 feet to 13,106 feet. This leg of the journey typically takes between 4 to 5 hours to complete and is characterized by an alpine desert habitat. Our day begins with a descent into a ravine, navigating to the base of the imposing Great Barranco Wall. We then ascend the non-technical but steep cliff, ascending nearly 900 feet to reach the highest point of the Barranco Wall. From here, we traverse several hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. With one final steep climb, we reach Karanga Camp. This shorter day is designed explicitly for acclimatization, allowing us to adjust to the altitude and prepare for the challenges ahead.

The trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp spans 4 kilometres or 2 miles, with an elevation gain from 13,106 feet to 15,331 feet. This portion of the hike typically takes 4 to 5 hours and is characterized by an alpine desert habitat. Setting out from Karanga, we head towards the junction connecting with the Mweka climbing Trail. Continuing our ascent, we navigate through rocky terrain until reaching Barafu Hut later in the day. Upon arrival, you will have completed the Southern Circuit, offering breathtaking views of the Kilimanjaro summit from various perspectives. We prepare for the summit after making camp and enjoying an early dinner. From Barafu camp, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of Mawenzi and Kibo, two prominent Kilimanjaro peaks, inspiring the summit ascent.

Trekking from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak covers a distance of 5 kilometres or 3 miles, with an elevation gain from 15,331 feet to 19,341 feet. This challenging leg of the journey typically takes 7 to 8 hours and is characterized by an arctic habitat. Beginning around midnight, we embark on a slow ascent towards Uhuru Peak, enduring extreme wind and cold at this high elevation. Climbing in darkness, we walk towards Stella Point at 18,900 feet, where we are rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we reach Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where we savour the unparalleled experience of standing atop Africa's highest point.

After reaching Uhuru Peak and taking in the magnificent views, we begin our descent towards Mweka Camp, covering a distance of 12 kilometres or 7 miles. Descending from 19,341 feet to 10,065 feet, this portion of the hike typically takes between 4 to 6 hours and transitions from the arctic habitat to the lush rainforest below. We pause at Barafu for a lunch break along the rocky Trail, reflecting on our triumphant achievements. As we navigate the challenging terrain, trekking poles are invaluable for stability. Arriving at Mweka Camp, nestled in the upper forest, we may encounter mist or rain in the late afternoon. After sharing a final meal on the mountain and exchanging stories of our journey, we settle in for a well-deserved rest, reflecting on the remarkable achievements of our expedition.

Descending from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate spans 10 kilometres or 6 miles, with an elevation drop from 10,065 feet to 5,380 feet. This final leg of the journey typically takes between 3 to 4 hours to complete and is characterized by a lush rainforest habitat. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, we collect our well-deserved success certificates for summiting the mountain. The trails at this lower elevation may be wet and muddy, adding a final challenge to our trek. After departing the gate, we continue for an additional hour until we reach Mweka Village, where vehicles await to transport us back to a base hotel in Moshi, marking the conclusion of our unforgettable Kilimanjaro expedition.