- 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 Shira Camp1
- Elevation (ft/m): 6,000 ft/1,830 m to 9,678 ft/2,950 m
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
- Details: Drive to Londorossi Gate and begin the trek through the rainforest to Shira Camp 1.
Day 2 :
Shira Camp1 to Shira Camp2
- Elevation (ft/m): 9,678 ft/2,950 m to 12,600 ft/3,840 m
- Distance: 12 km
- Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Details: After breakfast, continue trekking through the moorland zone. The trail gradually ascends, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The terrain is characterized by open grasslands and volcanic rock formations. As you approach Shira Camp 2, you will have panoramic views of the Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira Camp 2, where you will set up camp, have dinner, and rest for the night. This campsite is located on the plateau, providing a unique and scenic experience.
Day 3 :
Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
- Elevation (ft/m): 12,600 ft/3,840 m to 15,190 ft/4,630 m (Lava Tower) then down to 12,960 ft/3,950 m (Barranco Camp)
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Habitat: Semi-Desert
- Details: From Shira Camp 2, 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, also known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” This section of the trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. 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. Descend from the junction down to Barranco Camp (12,960 ft/3,950 m). Although you end the day at a lower elevation than when you started, this day is crucial for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day. Set up camp, have dinner, and rest for the night.
Day 4 :
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Elevation (ft/m): 12,960 ft/3,950 m to 13,123 ft/4,000 m
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Details: After breakfast, leave Barranco Camp and continue on a steep ridge, passing the Barranco Wall. The climb up the Barranco Wall is a highlight of the trek, requiring some scrambling and the use of ropes in some sections. The views from the top are spectacular. Continue to Karanga Valley campsite (13,123 ft/4,000 m). This is a short day meant for acclimatization. Set up camp, have dinner, and rest for the night.
Day 5 :
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Elevation (ft/m): 13,123 ft/4,000 m to 15,092 ft/4,600 m
- Distance: 4 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Details: After breakfast, leave Karanga Camp and continue up to the Barafu Hut (15,092 ft/4,600 m). The trail passes through a rocky and barren landscape, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Barafu Camp is located on a ridge with stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Set up camp, have dinner, and prepare for the summit attempt. This campsite is exposed, and the weather can be harsh, so be prepared for cold and windy conditions.
Day 6 :
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Elevation (ft/m): 15,092 ft/4,600 m to 19,341 ft/5,895 m (Uhuru Peak) then down to 10,170 ft/3,100 m (Mweka Camp)
- Distance: 5 km ascent, 12 km descent
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent, 4-6 hours descent
- Habitat: Arctic
- Details: Wake up around midnight and start the ascent to the summit. The trail is steep and the conditions can be harsh. 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). From Stella Point, continue your 1-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft/5,895 m), the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Descend from the summit to Mweka Camp (10,170 ft/3,100 m), stopping at Barafu Camp for lunch. The descent is long and can be tiring, but the views are still spectacular. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest, and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Have dinner and rest for the night.
Day 07 :
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation (ft/m): 10,170 ft/3,100 m to 5,381 ft/1,640 m
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rain Forest
- Details: After breakfast, continue the descent to Mweka Gate (5,381 ft/1,640 m). The trail passes through the rainforest, and it can be muddy and slippery. Arrive at Mweka Gate and receive your summit certificates. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi. Arrive in Moshi in the late afternoon, where you can relax and celebrate your successful trek.
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.
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 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.
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!
