Machame Gate to Machame Camp

At 9,400 feet (~2865 m), a 6.8 mile (11 km) hike taking 5-7 hours begins after breakfast and meeting the guide and crew. The transfer is from the hotel to Machame Gate. The trail ascends through rain forest on a winding ridge path, which can be muddy and slippery at lower elevations. Use of gaiters and trekking poles is recommended. At Machame Camp, tents and personal gear will be prepared, followed by dinner.

240 min

Shira Camp Ascent

Starting at 12,500 feet (~3810 m), the group hikes 2.8 miles (~5 km) in 4-6 hours after breakfast. The route leaves the rain forest glades and climbs a steep rocky ridge through moorland with heather. After the ridge ends, the path turns west into a dry river gorge. The day ends with rest, dinner, and overnight at Shira Camp.

240 min

Lava Tower and Barranco Camp

From 13,000 feet (~3962 m), a 4.3 mile (~7 km) trek takes 4-6 hours. The group makes an acclimatization hike to Lava Tower at 15,000 feet (~4500 m), then proceeds to a second junction leading to Arrow Glacier. After resting at the tower, the descent passes through a Senecio forest and reaches a waterfall before arriving at Barranco Camp. The camp is located at 13,000 feet (~3962 m), 5.6 miles (~10 km) from Shira Camp, reached in 6-8 hours. Dinner and overnight are at Barranco Camp.

360 min

Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp

At 13,100 feet (~3992 m), the trek covers 2.2 miles (~3.2 km) in 4-5 hours. The route crosses the Barranco Valley and ascends the Barranco Wall, entering the arctic zone of Kilimanjaro. The path continues along the South Circuit through Karanga Valley. The group camps overnight at Karanga Camp.

300 min

Karanga to Kosovo Camp

From 16,000 feet (~4876 m), the hike covers 2.6 miles (~3.5 km) in 5-6 hours at a slow pace. The route passes Barafu Camp, offering views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Kosovo Camp is located on an exposed ridge, requiring familiarity with the terrain before dark. This day focuses on acclimatization, rest, and preparation for the summit attempt.

300 min

Summit Day to Uhuru Peak

Starting at 19,340 feet (~5895 m), the group covers 13 miles (~21 km) total, with 5 km ascent and 12 km descent, taking 6-7 hours to ascend and 4-6 hours to descend. The climb begins at midnight on one of the steepest non-technical sections. The ascent leads to Stella Point on the crater rim for sunrise views, then continues northwest through scree to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After summiting, the group descends to Mweka Camp for dinner and celebration.

660 min

Descent to Mweka Gate

At 5,400 feet (~1645 m), the final 6.4 mile (~10.3 km) hike takes 3-4 hours in the morning. The group walks to Mweka Gate reflecting on the climb. A Climb Kili vehicle will meet the group for transfer to the hotel where a shower awaits.

240 min