Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Lemosho Glades (2,385m) to Big Tree Camp (2,780m)

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the Lemosho Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro. Once registration is complete, your trek begins with a gentle walk through lush rainforest alive with monkeys and birdlife. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Big Tree Camp, where you’ll spend the night.

• Distance covered: 7km / 4.3mi

• Approx. time taken: 4 hours

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Big Tree Camp (2,780m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)

The trail continues across a plateau of grassy moorland and volcanic rock. As you ascend steadily, enjoy wide views of Kibo Peak floating above the clouds. Today involves significant altitude gain with some steep sections before reaching Shira 1 Camp.

• Distance covered: 8.5km / 5.3mi

• Approx. time taken: 7 hours

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp (3,500m) to Shira 2 Camp (3,900m)

A gradual trek across the Shira Plateau with dramatic panoramic views. You’ll see the Northern Icefields and unusual perspectives of Kibo’s summit. After reaching Shira 2 Camp, an afternoon acclimatization hike is recommended before returning to camp for dinner and rest.

• Distance covered: 8km / 5mi

• Approx. time taken: 5 hours

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp (3,900m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)

The day begins with an ascent into the alpine desert zone. You’ll hike beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach, reaching Lava Tower (4,640m) for lunch — the highest point of the day. In the afternoon, descend steeply into the lush Barranco Valley, where camp is set beneath towering cliffs.

• Distance covered: 10km / 6.2mi

• Approx. time taken: 7 hours

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (3,963m)

Start the morning with a scramble up the famous Barranco Wall — steep but non-technical and rewarding at the top with incredible views. The trail then weaves beneath hanging glaciers before descending into the Karanga Valley. A final climb brings you to Karanga Camp, where acclimatization hikes are possible in the afternoon.

• Distance covered: 5.5km / 3.4mi

• Approx. time taken: 5 hours

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Karanga Camp (3,963m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)

A short but steep climb takes you across barren scree slopes with no vegetation. The high altitude makes progress challenging, but you’ll reach Barafu Camp by early afternoon. From here, you can see both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Spend the rest of the day hydrating, resting, and preparing for your midnight summit attempt.

• Distance covered: 3km / 1.9mi

• Approx. time taken: 3 hours

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Barafu Camp (4,640m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & down to Millennium Camp (3,790m)

Summit day begins just after midnight with a slow, steady climb over steep scree towards Stella Point (5,739m), where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise. From here, it’s a final push along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend to Barafu Camp for breakfast and continue down to Millennium Camp for a well-earned rest.

• Distance covered: 13.4km / 8.3mi

• Approx. time taken: 12–15 hours

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Millennium Camp (3,790m) to Mweka Gate (1,630m)

The final day is a gentle descent through the rainforest, rich in birdlife and lush vegetation. At Mweka Gate, you’ll complete park formalities and receive your summit certificate. From here, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel for a hot shower and celebration.

• Distance covered: 12.1km / 7.5mi

• Approx. time taken: 6 hours

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner