Elevation: 5,400 ft to 9,400 ft
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

The drive from Moshi to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park Gate takes about 50 minutes, passing through Machame village on the lower slopes of the mountain. After registration, the trek begins through dense rainforest along a winding trail up a ridge. The trail can be muddy and slippery, making trekking poles and gaiters useful. We continue until reaching Machame Camp for dinner and overnight.

Elevation: 9,400 ft to 12,500 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

After breakfast, we leave the rainforest and follow an ascending path crossing a small valley. The trail climbs a steep rocky ridge covered with heather before turning west into a river gorge. The day ends at Shira Camp for rest, dinner, and overnight.

Elevation: 12,500 ft to 13,000 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Semi-Desert

From the Shira Plateau, we trek east toward Kibo before turning southeast to the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” After reaching higher altitude, we descend to Barranco Camp at 13,000 ft. This day is crucial for acclimatization and helps prepare the body for summit day.

Elevation: 13,000 ft to 15,000 ft
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 8–10 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

After breakfast, we climb the Barranco Wall and continue through the Karanga Valley. From Karanga Camp, we join the Mweka Trail and ascend to Barafu Camp. This completes the Southern Circuit and offers outstanding views of the summit. Dinner and overnight at Barafu Camp in preparation for summit night.

Elevation: 15,300 ft to 19,345 ft, down to 10,000 ft
Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours ascent / 4–6 hours descent
Habitat: Arctic

Around midnight, we begin the summit ascent between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, climbing through scree to Stella Point on the crater rim. After a short rest, we continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, we descend to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch.

Elevation: 10,000 ft to 5,400 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

After breakfast, we descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate where summit certificates are issued. From Mweka Village, a vehicle transfers you back to your hotel in Moshi.