Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp

• Altitude: From 1,800 meters to 2,900 meters
• Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours
• Overview: Your journey begins at the Umbwe Gate where you’ll meet your guides and porters. The trail starts steeply through dense rainforest, offering glimpses of Kilimanjaro’s rich biodiversity. You’ll trek along a narrow path, ascending steadily to reach Umbwe Camp nestled in the forest.

Day 2: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp

• Altitude: From 2,900 meters to 3,960 meters (via Lava Tower at 4,630 meters)
• Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours
• Overview: Today’s hike takes you through a dramatic change in scenery as you leave the rainforest behind and enter the heath and moorland zone. You’ll climb steadily, passing the striking Lava Tower en route, where you’ll have the opportunity to acclimatize. Descend to Barranco Camp located in a picturesque valley beneath the imposing Barranco Wall.

Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Altitude: From 3,960 meters to 3,995 meters (up Barranco Wall)
• Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours
• Overview: Start the day by tackling the iconic Barranco Wall, a challenging yet exhilarating climb that rewards you with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Traverse along the undulating terrain towards Karanga Camp, where you’ll spend the night. This shorter day aids in acclimatization and allows for rest.

Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Altitude: From 3,995 meters to 4,673 meters
• Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
• Overview: Ascend further through alpine desert terrain towards Barafu Camp, your final base camp before the summit push. The trail becomes steeper and more rugged as you approach the campsite situated on a rocky ridge. Spend the remainder of the day resting and preparing for the challenging ascent ahead.

Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (via Stella Point) and descent to Mweka Camp

• Altitude: From 4,673 meters to 5,895 meters (Uhuru Peak) and descent to 3,100 meters (Mweka Camp)
• Duration: Approximately 12-16 hours
• Overview: Begin your summit attempt in the early hours of the morning, navigating by headlamp through the darkness. The trail ascends steeply towards Stella Point on the crater rim, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise. Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp for the night.

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Altitude: From 3,100 meters to 1,640 meters
• Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
• Overview: Descend through lush rainforest, enjoying the sights and sounds of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes. The trail becomes increasingly gentle as you make your way towards Mweka Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your summit certificates. Say farewell to your guides and porters before transferring back to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.