Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp

• Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft
• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours | Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
• Habitat: Rainforest

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to Machame Gate. From there, trek through a lush rainforest teeming with wildlife and vibrant greenery before arriving at Machame Camp.

Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Cave Camp

• Elevation: 9,350 ft to 12,500 ft
• Hiking Time: 4–6 hours | Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
• Habitat: Heath

Leave the rainforest behind as you ascend to the Shira Plateau. Enjoy panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s iconic peaks as you make your way to Shira Cave Camp.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

• Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft (Lava Tower), then descend to 13,044 ft
• Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

This is a critical day for acclimatization. Climb to the dramatic Lava Tower for an unforgettable lunch stop before descending to the lush Barranco Valley, home to giant senecios and lobelias.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Tackle the thrilling Barranco Wall, a challenging but rewarding climb, followed by a trek through rolling valleys to Karanga Camp.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 4 km (2 miles)
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Make your way to Barafu Camp, completing the Southern Circuit. Here, you’ll prepare for the summit push while soaking in the stunning views of the summit and surrounding landscapes.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Barafu Camp

• Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft (Uhuru Peak), then descend to 15,331 ft
• Hiking Time: 10–12 hours | Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
• Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert

Begin your ascent under a blanket of stars, timing your arrival at Stella Point for a magnificent sunrise. After reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, descend back to Barafu Camp for a well-earned rest.

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp

• Elevation: 15,331 ft to 10,000 ft
• Hiking Time: 4 hours | Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Habitat: Heather Zone

Descend through the heather zone to Mweka Camp, celebrating your achievement with the trekking team.

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Elevation: 10,065 ft to 6,000 ft
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Habitat: Rainforest

Conclude your journey with a descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your well-deserved summit certificate before enjoying a celebratory lunch in Mweka Village and returning to Arusha.