Day 1: Arrival at KIA & Machame Gate to Machame Camp (approx. 5-7 hours hiking)
Upon arrival at KIA, you'll be greeted by your trekking team and transferred to the Machame Gate. After completing park formalities, your adventure begins! The trek today winds through lush rainforest, alive with the sounds of exotic birds and monkeys. The trail gradually ascends, providing a gentle introduction to the altitude. Your destination is Machame Camp, nestled at 3,000 meters (9,840 feet), where you'll enjoy a hearty dinner and settle in for the night.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (approx. 4-6 hours hiking)
Today's hike takes you out of the rainforest and into the heathland zone. As you ascend, the landscape transforms, revealing stunning views of Kilimanjaro's snow-capped peak. The trail is steeper than the previous day, but the scenery is well worth the effort. You'll reach Shira Camp, located on the Shira Plateau at 3,840 meters (12,600 feet). This afternoon, relax and acclimatize while enjoying panoramic views.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp (approx. 6-8 hours hiking)
This day is crucial for acclimatization. You'll trek east across the Shira Plateau towards the Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation at 4,600 meters (15,100 feet). This ascent to a higher altitude helps your body adjust to the thinner air. After lunch near the Lava Tower, you'll descend into the Barranco Valley, a beautiful and dramatic landscape. Barranco Camp, situated at 3,950 meters (12,960 feet), offers incredible views of the Barranco Wall.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (approx. 4-5 hours hiking)
Today begins with the iconic Barranco Wall climb. While it may look daunting, it's a relatively short scramble with plenty of support from your guides. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views. The trail then undulates, traversing ridges and valleys until you reach Karanga Camp at 4,035 meters (13,235 feet). This shorter day allows for further acclimatization and rest before the summit push.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (approx. 3-4 hours hiking) & Summit Attempt
Today's hike is short but important. You'll ascend to Barafu Camp, a rocky and exposed camp at 4,640 meters (15,220 feet). This is your base camp for the summit attempt. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the climb ahead. After an early dinner, you'll try to get some sleep before being awakened around midnight to begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak. The summit climb (approx. 6-8 hours) is challenging, traversing steep scree slopes in the darkness. Reaching the summit at sunrise is an unforgettable experience. After taking photos and celebrating your achievement, you'll descend back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp (approx. 4-6 hours hiking) & Departure
After a well-deserved rest at Barafu Camp, you'll descend to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters (10,170 feet). This is a long descent, but the feeling of accomplishment will keep you going. At Mweka Camp, you'll celebrate with your team and enjoy a final night on the mountain. In the morning, you'll descend to Mweka Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificates. From there, you'll be transferred back to KIA for your departure, filled with memories of your incredible Kilimanjaro adventure.