Your Travel Experience with Shemeji Safari team
Day 1
Transfer from Arusha to Londorossi Gate
At sunrise, your driver will pick you up and take you on a scenic two-and-a-half-hour journey to the Londorossi Gate, situated at an altitude of 2,250 meters.
Londorossi Gate - Mti Mkubwa Camp
After completing your gate registration, you’ll embark on an ascent along a rugged trail that meanders through a lush, unspoiled rainforest. This moderately steep path leads to the starting point of your trek and eventually to Mkubwa Camp, located at an elevation of 2,800 meters.
** Duration: 02:25 h ** Distance: 4.7 km ** Ascent: 400 m
Day 2
Mti Mkubwa Camp - Shira Camp 1
The trail to Shira Camp 1 reveals a dramatic transition from the lush rainforest to the arid heather moorland.
This captivating landscape transforms into a dry terrain dotted with towering lobelias and delicate white flowers that stand out against the dusty sand dunes. As you ascend steep ridges, you’ll reach the vast Shira Plateau, where breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s majesty and the golden sunset behind Mount Meru await.
Along the way, you’ll cross serene streams and traverse Shira Ridge at an elevation of 3,600 meters before descending to the tranquil haven of Shira Camp 1.
** Duration: 06:40 h ** Distance: 6.35 km ** Ascent: 490 m ** Descent: 50 m
Day 3
Shira Camp 1 - Shira Camp 2
Your day begins with a delightful breakfast before embarking on a trek across an open expanse. This serene, less-traveled trail offers a peaceful and pristine experience. As you ascend to the Shira Plateau, breathtaking panoramic views of Uhuru Peak emerge, delivering an awe-inspiring and almost magical glimpse of the summit’s grandeur.
At Shira Camp 2, located at 3,810 meters, a satisfying hot lunch awaits. Afterward, your guide will arrange a short acclimatization break, leaving you free to relax and unwind at your leisure.
** Duration: 03:20 h ** Distance: 7.7 km ** Ascent: 320 m ** Descent: 60 m
Day 4
Shira Camp 2 - Lava Tower - Barranco Camp
The Lemosho Route merges with the Machame Route near the iconic Lava Tower. This gradual ascent, leading to Barranco Camp, is a 6-7 hour journey filled with stunning landscapes and vibrant desert shrubs.
One of the trail’s highlights is Shark’s Tooth, a massive, jagged rock sculpted by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. This natural guidepost marks the start of the southward trek across gentle valleys toward the towering Lava Tower, standing at 4,600 meters. Along the way, delicate snowflakes begin to dust the scenery, creating a magical alpine atmosphere.
As you descend toward Barranco Camp, the frosted views of the Western Breach unfold. Here, the ashen Barranco Wall, known as the ‘Breakfast Wall,’ reveals intricate grooves and patches of olive foliage. Rest well—an exciting day awaits tomorrow!
** Duration: 05:30 h ** Distance: 9.6 km ** Ascent: 700 m ** Descent: 660 m
Day 5
Barranco Camp - Karanga Camp
Today, you’ll take on the exciting challenge of scaling the famous Barranco Wall. While some sections require using your hands for better grip, no technical climbing is involved. Your guide will be by your side, providing assistance and ensuring your safety every step of the way.
The trail’s sequence of ascents and descents offers an excellent opportunity for acclimatization before you reach the mountain ridge. Walking along this ridge reveals stunning contrasts between arid desert terrain and pockets of vegetation, creating a visually striking landscape.
Eventually, you’ll arrive at Karanga Camp, situated at an altitude of 4,035 meters (13,240 feet). Shrouded in mist, the camp offers glimpses of Kibo even through the clouds, while the call of Uhuru Peak continues to inspire your journey.
** Duration: 02:40 h ** Distance: 4.45 km ** Ascent: 350 m ** Descent: 270 m
Day 6
Karanga Camp - Barafu Camp
Another awe-inspiring day begins on the majestic slopes of Kilimanjaro. The acclimatization efforts you’ve carefully followed are proving invaluable. By keeping to a steady pace, you’ll find the summit drawing closer with each step.
Today’s trek takes you through stark desert landscapes, with the towering silhouette of Kibo ever-present on your left. While the distance is relatively short, the increasing altitude will make its presence felt, adding a layer of challenge to the journey.
Take your time, embrace the gradual ascent, and trust the guidance of your experienced guide(s). As the day winds down, excitement mounts for the significant challenge that awaits tomorrow. An early night will prepare you for the adventure ahead.
** Duration: 02:25 h ** Distance: 3.5 km ** Ascent: 570 m
Day 7
Barafu Camp - Uhuru Peak - Mweka Camp
Your summit hike begins shortly after midnight, at approximately 12:30 A.M. The trail twists through steep scree, leading toward Stella Point at the crater rim. This section is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the ascent, but your perseverance will be rewarded.
Upon reaching Stella Point, you’ll take a well-deserved rest, enjoying a warm cup of tea or coffee as the breathtaking sunrise illuminates Mawenzi in the distance. From here, it’s an hour-long climb to Uhuru Peak, Kilimanjaro’s summit and the highest point in Africa. Depending on the season, you may experience a snowstorm along this stretch, adding to the adventure.
After celebrating your achievement at Uhuru Peak, you’ll begin your descent. A lunch break awaits at Barafu Camp, where you can recharge before continuing down to Mweka Camp. Nestled in the forest, Mweka Camp is where you’ll enjoy your final dinner and overnight stay on Kilimanjaro.
** Duration: 10:50 h ** Distance: 16.6 km ** Ascent: 1220 m ** Descent: 2790 m
Day 8
Mweka Camp - Mweka Gate
As you descend, your oxygen intake improves, revitalizing both your body and mind. The realization sinks in—you’ve conquered Kilimanjaro.
Your final trek takes you through the lush rainforest once more, offering another chance to spot playful colobus monkeys along the way. After about 2–3 hours, you’ll arrive at the Mweka Gate.
** Duration: 03:40 h ** Distance: 8.7 km ** Descent: 1420 m
Transfer back to Arusha
A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to our hotel in Arusha.