- Transfer from arusha and Kilimanjaro
- Camping
- 1,830 m/6,000 ft-5,895 m/19,341 ft
- Arusha/Kilimanjaro/Moshi
- Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
- Eco-Tour, Hiking
- All meals during the trek
- English
- Moderate
- 1-30
- 8
- 70
Overview
- Start Time: Depart from Arusha or Kilimanjaro at 8:00 AM.
- End Time: Return to Mweka Gate by 3:00 PM
- Accommodation: Two nights in Moshi included. Guests can arrive one day early and depart one day later.
- Additional Costs: Guests who descend early (whether successful or not) will be responsible for any additional accommodation costs.
- Duration: 6-7 days
- Highlights: Starts at Shira Gate on the western side. It passes through the Shira Plateau and offers good acclimatization opportunities.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Advantages: Shorter duration compared to Lemosho and Northern Circuit. Well-maintained trail.
- Disadvantages: Crowded during peak seasons. Less scenic compared to Machame and Lemosho.
Highlights
- One-Person Minimum: Book and go! No need to wait for a group.
- Free Transfers: Complimentary pick-up and drop-off in Arusha and Kilimanjaro.
- Scenic Beauty: Passes through diverse landscapes, including the Shira Plateau.
- Acclimatization: Offers good acclimatization opportunities with a gradual ascent.
- Less Crowded: Generally quieter than the popular Machame Route, providing a more serene experience.
- Direct Access: Begins at a higher altitude, allowing more time for acclimatization on the mountain.
- Versatile: Suitable for both experienced hikers and those seeking a challenging yet manageable adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Londorossi Gate to Forest Camp
- Elevation (ft/m): 7,800 ft/2,377 m to 9,500 ft/2,896 m
- Distance: 6 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rain Forest
- Details: Depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead (another hour to reach the trailhead). Upon arrival at the trailhead, have lunch, then commence through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site.
Day 2 :
Forest Camp to Shira Camp 1
- Elevation (ft/m): 9,500 ft/2,896 m to 11,500 ft/3,505 m
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Details: Continue on the trail leading out of the forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As you ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, you reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 camp. The view of Kibo from across the plateau is amazing.
Day 3 :
Shira Camp 1 to Shira 2 to Moir Hut
- Elevation (ft/m): 11,500 ft/3,505 m to 13,800 ft/4,206 m
- Distance: 14 km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Details: Explore the Shira plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak, across the plateau which leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. Then continue to Moir Hut, a little-used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills, making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth.
Day 4 :
Moir Hut to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
- Elevation (ft/m): 13,800 ft/4,206 m to 15,200 ft/4,630 m (Lava Tower) then down to 13,000 ft/3,962 m (Barranco Camp)
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Semi-Desert
- Details: From the Shira Plateau, continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As you continue, your direction changes to the southeast towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth.” Shortly after the tower, you come to the second junction which brings you up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000 ft/4,877 m. Continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 13,000 ft/3,962 m. Here you rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.
Day 5 :
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Elevation (ft/m): 13,000 ft/3,962 m to 15,300 ft/4,660 m
- Distance: 9 km
- Hiking Time: 8-10 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Details: After breakfast, leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite. Then, leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. Continue up to the Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here you make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.
Day 6 :
Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp
- Elevation (ft/m): 15,300 ft/4,660 m to 19,340 ft/5,895 m (Summit) then down to 10,000 ft/3,048 m (Mweka Camp)
- Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent
- Habitat: Arctic
- Details: Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), continue the ascent to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. At Stella Point (18,600 ft/5,667 m), stop for a short rest and enjoy the sunrise (weather permitting). Continue the 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Descend to Mweka Camp for the night.
Day 07 :
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi
- Elevation (ft/m): 10,000 ft/3,048 m to 5,400 ft/1,646 m
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rain Forest
- Details: After breakfast, continue the descent to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificates at the gate. Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Transportation: Round-trip transportation from/to Arusha or Kilimanjaro to the trailhead.
- Accommodation: 6 nights of camping on the mountain (tents, sleeping bag and mattresses provided). 2-Night Pre- and Post-Climb Hotel Stays
- Meals: All meals from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 7.
- Park Fees: All national park entrance fees and camping fees.
- Guides and Porters: Professional guides, assistant guides, and porters.
- Equipment: Group camping equipment (tents, dining tent, kitchen tent, and toilet tent).
- Summit Certificates: Official Kilimanjaro summit certificates.
- Emergency Support: Comprehensive emergency support and first aid kit.
The Cost Excludes
- Personal Gear: Personal camping gear- trekking poles, headlamp, hiking boots, and warm clothing.
- Flights: International and domestic flights.
- Insurance: Travel and medical insurance.
- Visas: Tanzanian visa fees.
- Tips: Tips for guides, porters, and camp staff.
- Additional Nights: Accommodation in Arusha or Moshi before or after the trek.
- Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and phone calls.
- Early Descent: Any additional costs incurred due to early descent (e.g., extra accommodation).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Mount Kilimanjaro suitable for beginners?
Yes, Kilimanjaro is accessible to beginners — no technical climbing skills are required! The climb is a non-technical trek, meaning you walk like on a long, challenging hike. However, it’s physically demanding due to high altitude and multi-day effort.
✅ What you need: Good physical fitness, proper preparation, and a positive mindset.
We recommend regular cardio and hiking training 2–3 months before departure.
How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?
Most climbers take 7 to 8 days for a full ascent and descent.
- Shorter routes (5–6 days) have lower success rates due to less time for acclimatization.
- Longer routes (7–9 days) — such as the Lemosho, Northern Circuit, or Machame — offer better altitude adaptation and success rates above 85%.
We only operate 7-day and longer routes to maximize your chance of reaching the summit safely.
What is the success rate of reaching the summit?
Summit success depends on route length, fitness level, and acclimatization.
- On our 7–8 day treks, the success rate is over 90%.
- Factors like hydration, pace, and listening to your guide are key.
Our experienced guides are trained in altitude monitoring and will support you every step of the way.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes, altitude sickness (AMS) is common on Kilimanjaro, as the summit is 5,895 meters (19,341 ft).
✅ How we help you adapt:
- We choose longer routes with gradual ascent profiles.
- Our guides perform daily health checks (pulse, oxygen levels).
- We carry portable oxygen and first-aid kits on every climb.
- We follow the principle: “Pole, pole” (Swahili for “slowly, slowly”) — a steady pace increases your chances.
What kind of accommodation and food is provided?
- On most routes, you’ll stay in dome tents (we provide high-quality 4-season tents).
- For the Marangu Route, hut accommodation is available (basic but unique).
- All meals are prepared by our professional mountain chefs:
▶️ Hot breakfast, packed lunch, and full-course dinner
▶️ Menu includes local and international dishes (vegetarian options available)
▶️ Clean drinking water is boiled and treated daily
What should I pack for the climb?
Key items include:
- Warm layers: Fleece jacket, thermal base layers, down jacket (for summit night)
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Sturdy hiking boots (broken in before the trip)
- Gloves, beanie, and balaclava (it can be below freezing at the summit)
- Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C / 14°F — we can rent one if needed)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses (UV is intense at high altitude)
We’ll send you a detailed packing list after booking.
How fit do I need to be?
You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be in good physical condition.
✅ Recommended preparation:
- Hike 1–2 times per week with a daypack
- Build endurance with running, cycling, or stair climbing
- Practice walking for 5–7 hours continuously (like a long day hike)
The final summit push starts around midnight and lasts 6–8 hours — mental and physical stamina are essential.
When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The best months are:
- January to March – Warm, clear skies, great visibility
- June to October – Dry season, cooler temperatures, ideal for trekking
Avoid April and May (long rains) and November (short rains), when trails can be muddy and cold.
Our climbs are scheduled during the optimal weather windows for safety and comfort.
Can I climb Kilimanjaro solo with your group tour?
Yes! You can join our scheduled group departures even if you’re traveling alone.
- We handle all logistics: permits, gear, meals, guides, and porters.
- Solo climbers are paired with a tent buddy (same gender), or can pay a small supplement for a private tent.
You’ll be supported by a full team: lead guide, assistant guides, cook, and porters.
Are the porters treated fairly?
Absolutely. We operate ethically and responsibly:
All porters are hired through licensed agencies and paid fair wages
They carry a maximum of 20kg (as per Kilimanjaro National Park rules)
We provide them with proper gear, food, and insurance
We follow Leave No Trace principles and ensure porter welfare is a top priority
✅ Final Tip: Climbing Kilimanjaro is a life-changing experience — not just a physical challenge, but a journey through five climate zones, from rainforest to arctic summit. With the right preparation and support, you can do it!
