Day 1: Moshi – Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation: 2,389m to 2,785m | Gain: +396m
Depart from Moshi and drive to Londorossi Gate, passing through lush, vibrant villages. After obtaining permits, begin your trek into the rainforest. Listen for monkeys and tropical birds as you ascend through the dense greenery to reach Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Start your journey with the assurance of the best Tanzania tour operators for private safaris.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 2,785m to 3,504m | Gain: +719m
After breakfast, emerge from the forest into moorland. The trail rises steadily with expansive views until you reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. Cooler temperatures hint at the altitude gain.
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp
Elevation: 3,504m to 3,895m | Gain: +391m
Cross the vast Shira Plateau, one of Earth’s highest alpine plateaus. Join other trekkers from the Machame route and climb slightly above camp for sweeping sunset views of the Western Breach.
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
Enjoy elevated experiences arranged by the best Tanzania tour operators for private safaris
Day 4: Shira 2 – Lava Tower – Moir Camp
Elevation: 3,895m to 3,986m | Gain: +91m (but climb high to 4,650m)
Trek through rocky terrain towards the towering Lava Tower (4,650m) for a crucial acclimatization hike. After lunch, descend to Moir Camp nestled in a tranquil valley.
Accommodation: Moir Camp
Day 5: Moir – Buffalo Camp
Elevation: 4,155m to 4,033m | Loss: –122m
Climb out of Moir Valley, optionally summiting Little Lent Hill (4,375m). Skirt the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro and take in views stretching toward Kenya. Arrive at Buffalo Camp in time for lunch and rest.
Accommodation: Buffalo Camp
The remote beauty of this route is best experienced through the best Tanzania tour operators for private safaris.
Day 6: Buffalo – Rongai Third Cave
Elevation: 4,033m to 3,936m | Loss: –97m
Trek up Buffalo Ridge and descend into Pofu Camp for lunch before continuing to Third Cave. Today’s hike is shorter, allowing your body to better acclimatize.
Accommodation: Rongai 3rd Cave
Day 7: Rongai Cave – School Hut
Elevation: 3,936m to 4,717m | Gain: +781m
Ascend steadily over the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. Arrive at School Hut, where you’ll eat early and prepare for the summit push. Rest is crucial before the big climb.
Accommodation: School Hut
All logistics handled with precision by the best Tanzania tour operators for private safaris.
Day 8: School Hut – Summit (Uhuru Peak) – Mweka Camp
Elevation Gain: 4,717m to 5,895m | Gain: +1,178m
Descent: to 3,106m | Loss: –2,789m
Begin the summit attempt between midnight and 2:00 AM. Climb through switchbacks and scree to Stella Point. Witness the breathtaking sunrise before the final stretch to Uhuru Peak — Africa’s highest point.
Celebrate briefly before descending sharply to Barafu for lunch and onward to Mweka Camp.
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
Elevation: 3,106m to 1,633m | Loss: –1,473m
After breakfast and a farewell ceremony, descend through misty rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your certificate and return to your hotel in Moshi for a hot shower, dinner, and celebration.
Accommodation: Salinero Hotel (post-climb)
End your trek in comfort — a signature of the best Tanzania tour operators for private safaris.
