Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Your journey begins with a drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, where registration and park formalities are completed. From here, you will continue to the trailhead before starting your trek.
The hike begins through untouched rainforest, filled with dense vegetation, birds, and occasional wildlife sightings. The trail is gentle, allowing for a comfortable start to the climb.
After a few hours of trekking, you will arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the campsite.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
After breakfast, you will continue trekking as the forest gradually opens into heath and moorland. The landscape becomes more expansive, with views of rolling hills and volcanic terrain.
You will cross streams and ascend steadily toward Shira Ridge, where the first clear views of Kibo Peak begin to appear. The scenery becomes more dramatic as you gain altitude.
You will arrive at Shira 1 Camp, where you will rest, enjoy meals, and spend the night.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
Today’s trek crosses the Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in the world. The terrain is relatively gentle, allowing you to enjoy wide panoramic views.
You will leave the main trail and head toward Moir Hut, located at the base of the Lent Hills. This area is quieter and less crowded, offering a more remote experience.
After reaching camp, you may take short acclimatization hikes around the Lent Hills before returning for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Moir Hut – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
The day begins with a steady climb along a ridge before heading toward Lava Tower, a key acclimatization point. The landscape becomes rocky and more rugged as you gain altitude.
After spending time at Lava Tower, you will descend to Barranco Camp, following the “climb high, sleep low” principle. This is important for proper acclimatization.
Barranco Camp is one of the most scenic camps on the mountain, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and unique vegetation. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the camp.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
The day starts with the famous Barranco Wall climb, which looks challenging but is manageable with guidance. The climb rewards you with incredible views at the top.
After crossing ridges and valleys, the trail descends into Karanga Valley before a final short ascent to camp. The terrain includes several ups and downs.
You will arrive at Karanga Camp for lunch, followed by rest and overnight stay to aid acclimatization.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
After breakfast, you will hike through an alpine desert landscape toward Barafu Camp. The trail is steady, with fewer signs of vegetation as you climb higher.
Barafu Camp is the base for the summit attempt and offers stunning views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This is an important preparation point.
After lunch, you will rest, organize your gear, and have an early dinner before sleeping in preparation for the midnight ascent.
Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Your summit attempt begins just after midnight, climbing through cold and dark conditions toward Stella Point. The ascent is challenging but achievable with a steady pace.
Reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise is the highlight of the trek, offering unforgettable panoramic views. After celebrating, you will begin your descent.
You will return to Barafu Camp for lunch before continuing down to Mweka Camp. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the camp.
